How to Make A DIY Face Mask with Handkerchiefs (No Sewing Required)

This easy to follow tutorial will teach you how to make a DIY Face Mask out of handkerchiefs and hair ties without any sewing required.

This DIY no-sew face mask can be made in under 5 minutes, requires no skill and only needs a couple of hair ties and the ability to fold some fabric. In turn, this no-sew face mask will help keep you and your loved ones safe and healthy.

The CDC recently suggested that wearing a cloth face mask or fabric face covering is helpful against the spread of the Coronavirus (Covid-19) into the community.

It’s been suggested that everyone should wear a face mask or a similar face covering when out in public where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (examples being grocery shopping, picking up essential materials, etc).

These cloth masks are not medical grade and can be made from products found in your home. They should be used instead of surgical masks or N-95 respirators, which should be saved for healthcare workers and first responders.

It is still critical to emphasize that maintaining a 6 feet social distance is still important in slowing down the spread of the virus. Even the best fabric mask isn’t foolproof, but it’s much better than being unprotected!

This does not mean that you can now go out and socialize while wearing a face mask. You still need to “shelter in place” and only go out when absolutely necessary. Yes, a no-sew face mask will provide additional levels of protection to you and to those around you, but it’s even better to stay socially distant.

Given these recommendations, I have typed up simple instructions on how to make your own no sew DIY face mask using a simple mens handkerchief and some hair ties. Conversely, you can also create a face mask using a bandana or similarly shaped cloth, though a bandana mask is about as effective as one made from a hankie.

Once complete, this DIY face mask can be worn by both men and women. However a smaller handkerchief between 12-14″ can be used for women, teens and children. A smaller bandana mask will also work appropriately.

Hankies are perfect as they are 100% cotton, washable and allow for good breathability. This simple tutorial requires no cutting or sewing. Remember, a cloth face mask can make a big difference, but only if you wear it properly – hang it from your ears and make sure the fabric covers your nose and your mouth at all times!

This tutorial is inspired by the many viral no sew face mask tutorials out there.

However, these instructions show how to fold the mask with a pleat which allows for the DIY face mask to have a tighter fit over your nose and mouth.