Mask Variation – Add a Filter

If you have access to filter fabric, you can add a layer to your mask to increase its effectiveness in removing virus particles from the air breathed through it.

Materials

In addition to the materials listed in the mask tutorial , you’ll need one rectangle of your filter fabric, slightly smaller than the 6 1/2″x8

Method

The method is almost identical to the standard instructions; follow steps 1-6 of the instructions as normal.

At step 7, you need to insert your filter fabric between the two layers of fabric you’ve just sewn together.

With your filter fabric in the middle, you can now continue to follow the instructions as they are.

Things to remember when working with filter fabric

• Don’t pin through the filter – by creating holes in the filter fabric, you’ll undermine its effectiveness.
• Sew through your filter fabric as little as possible – stitching creates holes, so you want to minimise the number of stitches you’re putting through the fabric. You’ll need to stitch it to secure the fabric to the masks, but stitch carefully and keep those stitches on the edge.
• Turn the iron down – most effective filter fabrics are synthetic, so they’ll melt at high heats, transforming your mask to a lump of plastic.