Face Mask with Pocket

This mask is designed with 3 layers, an outside mask, a lining layer and a pocket where a filter or additional fabric can be inserted. Cut 2 mask squares 7 x 8 ½”. Cut 2 pocket squares 4 ½ x 5 ½”.(The 5 ½” is used as the height of mask nose to chin). 2 – 7 ¼” pieces of elastic or ties aprox. 14 to 16”. One piece of wire aprox. 3 1/3”. (I used florist wire 7 ¼” folded in half and twisted to make it thicker.) A size 14 or jeans needle is a good size for this. All Seams are 1/4 Inch

Sew 2 pocket squares right sides together leaving an opening in the center to insert a filter. Press seam open. This unit should be 5 ½” x 8 ½”. Topstitch 1/8” each side of seam to hold raw edges down.

Center pocket on top of one mask square, both right sides up.

Layer the second mask square on top right sides together.

Stitch all four sides of square leaving a couple of inches free for turning. Turn right side out and press.

Sew both pieces of elastic to each short side as shown. Your sewing the elastic just to the outside edges of pocket.

Fold the long edges over the raw edges of the pocket. Insert the wire in the center of one of the sides before you start sewing. Sew close to the inside edge making sure you are covering the pocket raw edges.

Create 2 or 3 pleats on the short sides of the mask. Make sure pleats are going the same direction on both sides.

Stitch down short sides securing pleats and elastic. Stitch over first stitching for extra strength.

If you need to use ties instead of elastic cut your fabric 1 1/2" wide by the length you desire. I make mine aprox 16". With wrong side up press each long edge to center.

Press in half and sew close to edge. Your done!