Can someone help me with making masks please?

[SewClueless]

Hi everyone.

I got a sewing machine just after Christmas with the intention of taking classes etc but obviously that hasn't been possible. I've got some fabric here and my machine is gathering dust and it's about time I made something! I was thinking of making some face coverings? I like the Pleated ones with the tie sides (I find them more comfy than elastic). Anyway I'm totally clueless but I was hoping someone might have a favourite tutorial they could link? I've made the mistake before of looking at tutorials for different projects and then abandoning half way when it became to hard to follow. Also wondering how much fabric you need per mask etc? Thanks in advance I'm actually lost and determined to learn how to sew!

I use this pattern. Try not to be intimidated by it, initially it looks complicated but once you get the hang of it, it’s not too bad. I make it without the extra pocket for a filter but with the nose strip. Watch the video tutorial, it’s really helpful. Good luck!
pin.it/4mEVkRS

I used this site. www.bigcommunitysew.co.uk/
It’s got everything you need, patterns to print, instructions, and videos of various styles if you like videos.

I found that most of the initial sewing was easy on machine, but the last bit where I was turning over the sides to make the channels for elastic I had to do by hand. My machine won’t take that thickness of material. I double sewed it too for strength.

They make good little projects. I’m not fast so I only make one a day or you can set up a “production line” and do 5 or 7 a week.

I like this one

It uses elastic instead of ties, but you could just swap that out. It's nice and easy and quick.

Variety of video tutorials and pattern here

www.bigcommunitysew.co.uk

Lots of videos on YouTube but some seem excessively long. Key thing is noting down the size you need to cut the fabric. So pause the video to note that and write it down. I don't bother with all the ironing either.

You need 2 x 7"pieces of 4mm elastic as well.

This was the shortest video I liked.

But you'll start to work out what works best after you've made a few.

Shaped ones are actually easier than pleated ones - best tutorial and pattern I found was here

www.sewcanshe.com/blog/simple-step-by-step-tutorial-for-the-olson-mask-pattern