How to Make Fabric Masks

Sleep better while traveling using a sleep mask.

Everyone needs sleep to function properly. Many things happen during sleep: growth hormones are released, the brain recharges and certain body chemicals are restored. Without sleep we don't function well. Among the many things that cause sleeping problems is light sensitivity. Make a soft, no-sew, fabric sleep mask to block out all light sources and help you sleep better.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Paper
• Marker
• Scissors
• Fleece fabric
• Paper-backed, iron-on fabric adhesive
• Iron
• Pressing cloth
• Elastic headband

Instructions

1. Measure the length and width of the area of your face you want to cover with the sleep mask.

2. Draw a rectangle on your paper that matches those measurements. Round the corners of the rectangle, and draw a notch for your nose. Cut out the mask shape.

3. Place the paper sleep mask pattern on your face to be sure you cut it to the right size and shape. Adjust as necessary.

4. Lay the fleece flat on your work surface. Trace around the shape on the fleece. Then trace the pattern again. Cut out the two sleep mask shapes from the fabric.

5. Lay the iron-on adhesive on your work surface, paper side up. Trace around your mask pattern, and cut out the shape.

6. Position the iron-on adhesive shape, paper side up, on one of the fleece mask shapes. Iron the paper-backed adhesive to the fabric mask to adhere them together. Let the paper cool before removing it.

7. Peel the paper off the ironed piece, and lay the other fleece mask piece on it, aligning the edges. Cover with the pressing cloth, and press in the center of the mask, adhering the two pieces of fleece together. Press the center but not the sides.

8. Cut the headband in half. Tuck one end of the headband in the center of one side edge of the sleep mask. Cover that edge with the pressing cloth, and iron to secure the headband between the layers of fleece.

9. Tuck the other end of the headband into the opposite side of the mask. Be sure the elastic isn't twisted, or the mask will be uncomfortable to wear. Cover that edge with the pressing cloth and iron to secure the headband between the layers of fleece.

10. Flip the fleece mask over, move the headband out of the way, and completely iron the surface of the mask to secure all edges.

Tips & Warnings

• Make a quick and easy Halloween mask the same way; just cut a couple of eyeholes.

References

• The Sleep Guide: Facts Sbout Sleep and Sleep Disorders
• "99 Ways to Cut, Sew & Deck Out Your Denim"; Faith Blakeney, et al.; 2007
• Prudent Baby: Minkee Eye Mask Pattern