Skip to main content
Donate
What We DoOur ImpactSocial JusticeContact UsCommunity PartnersFAQsVideos
site background
site background

Mask Making Campaign

Currently, the CDC is recommending that people wear homemade masks while out in public. Learn how you can make masks for your family and people in your community.

Why is it important?

While homemade masks don’t fully protect you from getting coronavirus, they can help slow the spread by preventing people who don’t have symptoms from transmitting the disease to others. The CDC recommends that people wear these masks in places where it is difficult to maintain social distancing, such as the grocery store. By making your own mask instead of buying one, you leave medical masks for the medical professionals that need them.

What supplies do you need?

To make a sewn mask, you’ll need: 

  • A face mask pattern, like this one 
  • Two 10”x6” rectangles of cotton fabric
  • Two 6” pieces of elastic (or rubber bands, string, cloth strips, or hair ties)
  • Needle and thread (or bobby pin)
  • Scissors
  • Sewing machine (If you don’t have one, check out the no-sew mask option below.)

To make a no-sew mask, you’ll need:

  • A face mask pattern, like this one 
  • Bandana (or square cotton cloth approximately 20”x20”)
  • Coffee filter
  • Rubber bands (or hair ties)
  • Scissors (if you are cutting your own fabric)

What steps do you need to take?

  1. Gather materials. Look around your house to find materials and fabric for this project. If you don’t have fabric, consider cutting up an old t-shirt. 
  2. Make your masks. Follow the patterns above to assemble your masks. Have a parent do the sewing if you’re making a sewn mask. 
  3. Make more masks! If you have the material, consider making multiple masks and giving them to neighbors or friends who are in need. You can also donate sewn masks to JoAnn’s.

How did it go?

  • How did you feel doing this project? 
  • Do you think this project made a difference? 
  • What else can you do to help members of your community?

Want to learn more?

Check out the CDC recommendations for cloth face masks

logo image
Calendar of EventsVolunteer OpportunitiesDonateEducator Resource Center
Contact Us!