The Ultimate Guide to Face Mask Fit Adjustments

You’ve been doing your part in the battle against COVID-19 by wearing a mask because you care about reducing the spread, but you’ve noticed that masks aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Whether you’re making your own or making them for others, fitting issues will occur, as every face shape varies from one person to the next. In this post, we’re going to cover common fit adjustments so that your masks fit perfectly.

A well-fitting mask will reach the bridge of the nose to the bottom of the chin, and it’ll be snug without being too tight that it pulls at the ears. Below are some fit adjustments to help create your perfect fit. Use Mood’s mask template or DIY Pleated Mask Tutorial and use 100% cotton fabric for the best results. 

Changing Elastic Size 

1. Put face mask on and pull elastic behind the ear to make it fit properly 
2. Measure the needed sides to make the elastic tight enough
3. Stitch the elastic in place, backstitch to secure the stitch, then cut off excess elastic

Notes:

• Consider making a casing for your elastic which allows for adjustments. 
• If the elastic is too tight, stretch it around a larger object for a few hours and if it’s still too tight, detach the elastic and add a longer amount.

Changing Distance from Nose to Chin

1. Slice pattern horizontally in half from the center to cheek (stop slicing at seam allowance if you don’t want to change the side of the ear measurement 
2. Spread or overlap the pattern as needed 
3. Add paper to the gap if it was spread and true lines
4. Make a new pattern piece with the new adjustments

Adding Height For The Nose (to better cover the nose)

1. Slice the pattern horizontally near the nose stopping at the seam allowance
2. Repeat steps 2-4 from above

 Adding Height For The Nose (to better cover the nose)

1. Slice the pattern horizontally near the nose stopping at the seam allowance
2. Repeat steps 2-4 from above

Changing the Width of the Mask 

1. Cut from bottom to top of cheek vertically to change the width of the mask 
2. Repeat steps 2-4 from above

Changing Distance from Nose to Chin

1. Add an inch to the pattern to make it taller
2. Make Adjustments to your fabric pieces (rectangular in shape)
3. Cut out new pieces by incorporating the adjustments 

Notes: If the mask is still significantly too short, add another pleat

Changing the Width of the Mask 

1. Extend the width of the mask if your mask is gapping on the sides 
2. Repeat steps 2&3

Nose Gapping

1. Add a nose wire so that the area near your nose fits closely to your face 
2. Repeat steps 2&3

Chin Gapping 

1. Add a chin dart at the bottom edge of the mask and adjust as needed 
2. Repeat steps 2&3

We’re all in this fight to slow the spread of the virus together, and now you’re one step closer to nailing the fit of your face mask. Choose the style that suits you best, find a pattern, and make adjustments where they’re needed. Members of the community are still in need of masks, so continue your mask-making efforts and lend a hand when and where you can.

 Leave a comment below to share any other face mask alteration tips that you’re loving.

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