This was the first video I had ever watched by Melanie. Thanks to her, I learned to sew. So much so, that I purchased a Juki sewing machine like her since all her sewing crafts were always so perfect and she loved Juki herself. Over time, I made many of her crafts to gift, decorate my home, or for my son and his many stuffed animals. My prayers are with her family. She was clearly a beautiful soul and an extraordinary woman. May she rest in peace. Her crafting legacy will forever live on.
@@AG-xf4esthere is the most beautiful documentary about her here on RU-vid created by her husband. If you watch I will warn ku- I got through almost a whole box of tissues. God bless her and her lively family 🙏
I miss you Melanie. I cry everytime one of your videos comes up in my suggestions. Wish you were still here and healthy. To Melanie's family... thanks for leaving her videos up. Prayers for all of you
I know that you have passed, but I still love your videos and hopefully watching them helps your family in some way or another. ❤️ Rest easy and pain free now
I donated masks to my local hospital today and they were so happy to get them. I believe everyone should consider wearing masks when out in the public, along with washing hands, keeping distance. Tomorrow I will begin making more for friends and neighbors. Dr Oz also believes wearing them too and he said that diy fabric masks are better than not wearing any.
Great job! I wish i hadnt given my fabric away and my machine is out of time. I am angry that the people and experts in control do not realize the public is the front line. We are the ones exposed to the invisible enemy and 2nd is the medical. Eye protection also. I just can't believe how they all failed to lock everything down in January. How they fumbled the whole dont/Do wear a mask thing. Today I think they are still flip flopping.
Thanks for sharing this easy to follow tutorial! I’ve just made my first mask and will make a few more. A good tip: when you finish the mask, try it on. If you find the mask is too loose under your chin and has gaps, fold the fabric over in a pleat under your chin until it is snug (no gaps), then take the mask off while holding the pleat and quickly stitch the pleat fold. That way the mask will now fit snugly under your chin with no gaps!
Omg I love this soooo much. I am 12 years old and was taught by my grandma to quilt and sew, and I loveeeee it sooooooo much. This is will be a WONDERFUL project for me to do during my quarantine!!! I am sooooo gonna do this!!
My sister made a bunch for our family and her kiddos, she is also making a bunch and selling them for $1 each! It's really helpful and shes has a bunch of different prints of fabric.
I've been "eyeballing" my pleats like your second demonstration but I'll be using the seam ripper trick from now on! That's AMAZING! Thanks for sharing! 🙂
Most RU-vidrs: How to do something in three minutes *26 minute video * Her: How to do something in ten minutes *7 minute video * Don’t know who you are but for that mere fact alone I give you much respect
If you don’t have elastic you can use wide headbands: cut it into thin strips, then attach it to the mask. It’s softer than hair ties. You can also use bedsheets or pillowcases. Hand sewing works well too if you don’t have a machine.
Since it’s now apparent that elastic and interfacing have now joined the ranks of things impossible to procure (right up there with TP and disinfectant wipes), I had to skip the interfacing. I’m not a seamstress and I *just* gave myself a sewing machine as a birthday present. So, after some brainstorming, I realized I’d just bought a bunch of grosgrain ribbon. Let’s cheer for improvisation! So far I’ve made 3 masks. More to come! Thank you for your tutorial, Melanie!!
Melanie....I've been making the masks and have given them to several different hospitals. One way to differentiate the sides of the mask is to put in an extra pinch pleat on the top middle of the mask where it will fit tighter around the nose. Worked for me
Thank you for this tutorial! My husband does grocery shopping/delivering, and we both worry about him catching the virus. He's always been a constant hand washer, but now does more hand sanitizer. Now he'll have an extra layer of protection. I also plan on making them for anyone else in my family and neighborhood who wants one.
@TomTheTrain I told my husband the same thing, but he still wants one. I guess if it makes people feel like they're doing something proactive, that's fine, but it's not going to stop much of anything. I worry that people will think they're safe because they're wearing these fabric masks, though.
@@SmittenKitten. I know this is nowhere near the protection that an N95 mask would give him. But it will help somewhat. After seeing a few other videos, I'm going to see if I have something I can put in as an extra layer.
@@TheBookNerd11 It's one of those situations where we all feel kind of impotent. I believe I read that cloth face masks are helpful in keeping others from getting anything you might have. I could be wrong, but if that's true, they're definitely beneficial in that way.
Thanks, this was one of the better tutorials that I've seen. And it just goes to show. That everyone should own a sewing machine. Even a basic model. And be able to use it. It's no big deal folks, you can learn.
Before you sew the opening closed, wait and sew a horizontal line across the mask about 1/2 inch away from and parallel to your closing seam. Insert a (folded in half) pipe cleaner into this space and then close the mask up. Two quick seams running perpindicular to the pipecleaner on both ends will keep it in place. Very easy and they work amazing at making them way more snug.
If you use pipe cleaner it needs to be zig zagged over the top really well otherwise they didn't hold up in the wash for me. My video with ties shows how to do this... And yes! much more snug, thank you for mentioning that!
I am somewhat of a beginner at sewing. I can do small projects but have never attempted clothing. I have to say Melanie, your video tutorials are the best I have ever watched. Your style of teaching is excellent. You make it very simple to follow along and pause the video as needed. Your explanations are down to earth and very easy to understand. I tried to use another tutorial for making this type of mask and the person was horrible and I almost just completely gave up. But then I remembered your other videos and was thankful to find that you had a mask Video. I did have some craft wire and I was able to sew a little channel at the top and put that in there and it works perfect. So, once again thank you Melanie!
Always my go to RU-vidr when I have a question about sewing. Love your tutorials. The way you teach is very approachable and makes me believe I can do it. Now, to go find my sewing machine and some 100% cotton yarn and elastic ❤️~Marly
Great idea to make double sided and even more cheerful if coloured elastic used. For anyone who loves sewing and who has piles of fabric scraps a lovely idea!
Hi Melanie, I have to wear mask daily and my ears started getting sore. I sewed buttons on a headband and now I attach the elastic to the buttons instead of my ears. Lifesaver for me. Please share this with you fans. Hope it saves someone’s ears. I love your channel.
That seam ripper hack to help make the pleats is gold! I've been sewing masks and it takes so much extra time to pin the pleats. Thank you for a great tutorial!
This was a really great video. I've watched several others and it looks like they overcomplicate it. But not yours. You made it simple very little measuring and the seam ripper was a really great idea. I'll be watching more of your videos in the future thank you
Glad to find your video Melanie, I will be working on these today. I love your instructions better. Some of the others just chatter, chatter, chatter. You always get to the point. I love it! Now my little one wants me to make them for her. Thanks so much gal!
I have used pipe cleaners with great success. The secret is to fold the pipe cleaner in half and then twist the two pieces together. Then I fold the end pieces back toward the length so it doesn’t have any sharp edges. I think be doubling and twisting, it gives more stability. Hope this helps.
Hi from Scotland in lockdown. I have been experimenting with 2 or 3 designs. Your mask deals nicely with the elastic attachment, so here I go. Thanks so much.
This is easy to follow. I added a small dart in the center of the top and the bottom, and it holds the mask closer to my face, which helps keep my glasses from fogging up so badly.
I add a 3-4 inch piece of wire, round the ends with pliers. I out that inside and sew in place. This can be bent around your nose. I make masks with pocket to insert additional filter.
@@Lizz033torres Fold the mask in half and stitch a long triangle down the center (about two inches) with the point at the bottom and about half an inch on each side at the top. Clip it open. Do the same on the bottom. This is much softer than wire, and works much better than pipe cleaners.
Melanie thank you for showing how to make the masks and please know you are in my heart and in my prayers for you and your family to be safe during these scary times and sending love and hugs to all of you. ❤Maria
Thank you for your video. Love the seam ripper suggestion. May I suggest...use a little elastic in the nose area. Stretch and stich to the upper center area or both top & bottom. The elastic is visible on mine, but doesn't irritate. It shapes over the nose and chin area( if you choose). This also allows my mask to poof out off my mouth. Giving me breathing room. Mostly I just do elastic in the nose area.
I have used paper clips foe the wire over the nose, unbend it so the wire is straight, use a needle nose plier to bend the ends over and round them off. Works great!
Thank you. You had the easiest tutorial for these masks. I started making them last April, and now I’m back making a few more. I can’t thank you enough. Everyone is happy with the masks I made them....that’s over 50 family and friends. Happy and healthy holidays to you, and Happy New year! 🎄🎁❤️
On the inside of the mask, sew two vertical strips of cloth on both ends of the mask. Alternatively, use an elastic band. Then purchase some vacuum filters and cut them out into rectangles that can be held in place by the straps. The filter will give you much higher protection than just the cotton material alone. You can also remove the filter and insert a new one periodically. Instead of straps, you can also use hair clips to keep the filters attached to the mask. And one other thing. If you don't like those elastic straps that keep the mask attached to your head because they feel uncomfortable, use normal cloth straps but attach velcro at the ends so that you can adjust the length.
I've seen on other threads that vacuum bags (HEPA filters) have fiberglass particles in them and should NOT be used near the face as a filter! Please be careful. Using it could cause lung damage!
@@carolgibson1053 I worked at a manufacturing facility as a software developer testing HEPA filters. These filters are used extensively in medical facilities including isolation chambers, bunkers, chip manufacturing and anywhere you need protection from nuclear, biological and chemical agents. These filters are in fact more efficient than N95 masks. A HEPA filter typically filters out 99% of particles while an N95 only filters out 99%. The code I wrote for these machines could detect one particle in a million, so I know what I am talking about. Nice try, but you should do some research before posting false information.
Thank you for taking the time to share your directions. I looked at several and yours was by far the simplest and most easy to follow. I just finished three masks in a short time, and am confident I can make many more if needed. I appreciate your video and instructions so much! Thank you!!
Thank you!!!! I’ve been struggling with the pleats. The seam ripper method! Genius!!! I knew you’d have the answer! I understand your hesitation in making the tutorial, but I’m glad you decided to. Thanks again!
Excellent video! I've made approx. 180 masks the same way you make them with the exception of using a seam ripper for the pleats. What a genius idea! I've been ironing mine so I don't have to pin them :). I'm definitely going to try the seam ripper!
This will save lives all over the world.As it will prevent the spread by infected people that are unaware of their condition. this is significant in saving lives and getting people back to work sooner rather later. I do have RU-vid posting explaining the mechanics of why it works. I am glad the mayor has mentioned. We just need the rest of the leaders doing the same.
Thank you for this! My work just required us to wear masks when we come in and there are none available to buy, good thing I can sew 😁. There is no elastic anywhere near me so what I came up with (I hate tie masks) is I use shoestrings from the dollar store. They are soft enough not to hurt the ears and have just enough elasticity to them to get them on comfortably and stay put
They are less effective that n95 masks and the jury is still out but as medical masks are going into shortage the most recent verdict from officials and the CDC is that its better than nothing and may help cut back on the demand on medical equipment and may help asymptomatic ppl from spreading. You can also use one in conjunction with a surgical mask!
@@fico3102 Yes, these masks do help stem droplets....especially if the person wearing them coughs or sneezes. Sweetie, if the government is saying use anything--like bandanas or scarfs to cover our mouth, these masks are certainly as effective, if not more. What is wrong with you naysayers?
@Sharon Diehl . These masks still let your water droplets from speech and breathing get out and into the open. From the sides. There is no seal around the mouth. If it lets water droplets out, it also has to let them in. So if someone breaths next to you, you could inhale the infected persons breath and get infected. The scarves and bandanas cover the entire mouth and have a lesser chance of breathing in other peoples air
So glad I found your site You make it look so easy. I will be making these soon. Thank you so much for posting this video. I am 75 years old but it's never to late to learn.
Thank you Melanie, this is a nice easy video and I have just finished my first one by hand. Your instructions are clear and really easy to follow. We all need to be able to make our own masks now!
Thank you for great instructions. I always make a casing (using the top layer), to insert the elastic band with open ends. That way each person can adjust it to their own size. When sewing the elastic in it is very often not the right length; we all have different head sizes, men or women.
I just want to say thank you for posting this tutorial. I hope you don't pay any attention to the trolls making unnecessary comments. I have been making masks for my family and friends and was just looking for some tweaks for what I've been doing already. I really love your seam ripper tip and can't wait to try it on my next masks. The pleats are the most frustrating part for me and I think this will help for sure!!
i made these and it took me three hours for one mask it’s harder than it looks lol. But i really enjoy the masks. During the process my sewing machine jammed 5 times and the needle broke and flew at my face. It was a rough process but at least i will feel safer now
You maybe better be sure your needle is the right size for the fabric and also that it is not too dull. That is why they break and if the machine is making too much noise, the wrong size needle is being used.
hahaha I've created some DIY face mask ideas that will really make you feel accomplished (be warned it's a parody video) just a little comic relief during these troubled times 😷
When my machine jams, I take out the bobbin and re-thread the needle. That fixes jams on my New Home. Sometimes poor quality thread (with bumps) can cause problems.
I needed some new comfy masks so I just found your tutorial with a search. I used it to make some masks this afternoon. Thank you! This was very easy to follow. The masks are very customizable for size and were super comfortable.
I've been using thin copper wire folded over once and sewn into the top because it can easily move around and the ends can pop out otherwise. then the mask is turned right side out. it adds a few minutes, but it's good for gripping the nose! Also, since it's summer and I used some thinner fabrics I cut some thicker stuff and insert that into the center to cover the nose and mouth zone. Stitch around that on the outside and it's very comfortable too. Thanks!! I like the seam ripper pleat alot!!
Thanks so much Melanie, I’m going to use this pattern, but will just be eyeballing the pleats for quicker production! This craziness is prompting me to break my sewing machine out of storage...been gettin the itch to do some quilting for a while now, so this is the fire under my ass to get my sewing space set up & also do my part in the midst of all this mayhem!!! Thank U for posting/sharing this & Many Blessings to U Ms. Melanie! 👍👍❤️❤️❌💋🙏🙏🌞❗️❗️
Perfect! Even for a non-sewer like myself. Had an appointment earlier and finished it just in time. Thanks so much for making this video short and efficient!
On goodness thank you for the tip on pleating. This was a game changer for the masks I’ve been making for family!!! The pleating/ironing etc has made me regret making masks. This tip spead up my process!!!
phyllis grant You can wash it before you cut it out as well. When it’s STILL one big piece, off the bolt. But then you have to iron it before you cut it.
I have been wasting a lot of time trying to make even pleats and it has been so frustrating.........I can't thank you enough for your clever way of making perfect matched pleats with a seam ripper! I love your fabric and can't understand why the fabric stores aren't open......they are now a necessity! Thank you so much:-)
Thank you so much. We can't find face masks for sale anywhere, and we have high risk members in our household. They are sold out of those and gloves in stores by us.
@@donnanorris2939 Which is why I'm using fresh shoelaces. I read a recomendation for shoelaces for ties, and the warning about elastic unable to be bleached, on another site before I found this video. Shoelaces are also fairly cheap, as well. Just a bit harder to stitch in place because they are thicker.
They say it doesn’t help but I believe these are awesome because it keeps people more aware not to touch your face and keep germs that are possibly on your hand from touching your skin applaud your efforts
Has anyone else had an issue with 7" elastic being to short for male masks after washing of course. I love this video. This video was extremely helpful from taking me never using a sewing machine but only once in my life at Joann's sewing class in 2013 to now sewing over a 100 masks which I have sold and donated a large lot to healthcare office staff.
Great tutorial! I especially liked how you did the pleats with the seam ripper, what a fantastic idea! Will make some of these for my family. Thank you!!
I'm planning on making them for my coworkers and customers, I don't see to many children wearing them so I'm going to try to make a few kids ones and give them away
Excellent video ! So many “ easy simple “ masks instructions assume we are all well versed in sewing . Your was refreshingly -To The Point - Clear- and best of all Works ! kudos !
Hey Melanie... Thank you so much for sharing this 🙏💕 Just wanted to know if you could please share the dimensions of the fabric & length of the elastic... Thanks in advance
808k views and only 12k thumbs up... Oh well at least your video is being viewed. MELANIE, I WANT TO THANK YOU AND ALL THE OTHER MASK MAKERS FOR WHAT YOU ARE DOING! YOU ARE ALL AWESOME FOR HELPING OUT...THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU❤️💛💚💙💜
I really enjoyed this video and learned to make a mask. 😷 It seems to be surprisingly easy. I won’t know until I try but you’ve answered all of my un-asked questions. Thanks so much for sharing this with us all. Blessings! 🌸
There are an increasing number of mask how to videos being posted on this subject and I'm happy to have chosen YOUR video to watch and learn from. It's visually appealing to begin with. You have a great teaching style and your voice is pleasant to listen to. I also like how you fast fwd'd when necessary as it makes it easier to remember things. That may sound trivial or not even make sense to alot of people what I just said but for someone with a little bit of a challenged memory and/or ADHD it actually does help. Thank you for this tutorial, I'm going to follow your instructions. I subscribed ! Thank you !
Thank you for this. I’m making a ton for my sister in law who is a home health nurse, she’s having a hell of a time trying to get supplies so I’m hoping these help. I’m going to try and make a slit so she can put some filters in it.
My daughter is a nurse and she is using a straightened out paperclip for the nose wire. Great tip with the seam ripper! :) Can you leave the opening so that a filter can be inserted?
A virus is a virus and the way it is transmitted is the very thing that makes it a virus. Your falling for a social engineering project, facts don't change or lie, politicians and media do . I shouldn't need to point this out.
politechjunky Masks are effective at preventing the spread of the virus from the wearer, not so much at preventing the wearing from catching it. Corona virus isn't airborne, so the mask don't need to filter the air completely, just catch the saliva particles from when you cough. It isn't 100% effective but it is still very effective. The WHO still recommends surgical masks, and the CDC even recommends you make your own cloth masks to lessen the demand of surgical masks. www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public/when-and-how-to-use-masks www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover.html
All these people commenting how they don't work. I'd rather test my luck at a face mask with a filter insert than take the medical-grade masks away from the healthcare workers who actually need them.
She stated specifically, these won’t prevent us from getting the virus, but will keep germs away & lessen the touching of hands on faces, hence spreading germs...we love must remember, it’s cold & flu season, aside from all the pandemic issues! Look at it as assisting your immune systems!!!😊👍🙏🌞❗️❗️
Taylor Becker some medical facilities are in shortage of them as well, and want to make sure the medical-grade masks are used only for those directly dealing with the virus. I’m making some to donate to my local nursing home.
Taylor Becker - I agree about the negative comments. The masks we are supposed to wear are to protect others from our sneezes and coughs, in case we are carriers. They don't keep us from getting sick but are a plus if someone sneezes on us also.
Amen to all the comments below...let the professionals have the medical masks while we make our own...who knows how many people would not have got covid19 if they had been using masks. my motto has always been ...If you can't be part of the solution....don't become part of the problem...this is a good simple mask and will do the job.xx Christian love to all from Norfolk UK Gilly wife of Mark.
LOL I KNOW ! and It is getting warm so I like the face shield I made one that is function & fashion - check it out here ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-cGblHmpvXyA.html is my video
