How to Make a Gel Sleep Mask

You can make a gel sleep mask using your sewing machine.

A gel sleep mask can be an excellent way to relax and wind down after a stressful day. You can wear a gel sleep mask during a nap or a soothing bubble bath. Instead of purchasing one at a specialty store, though, consider making one by hand using just a few materials. You can use ice and rubbing alcohol to make the gel part of the mask and vinyl fabric to keep the ice from soaking out through the material as it melts. Keep the mask in the freezer in between uses and it will always freeze back into shape.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Vinyl fabric
• Scissors
• Sewing machine
• Thread
• Ice
• Rubbing alcohol
• Velcro
• Hot glue gun

Instructions

1. Measure the diameter of your head using a measuring tape.

2. Cut two rectangles of fabric from vinyl material. Make the rectangles the length of the diameter of your head, plus 2 inches, and 4 inches wide.

3. Place the rectangles on top of each other and sew a line along three of the edges, using a sewing machine. One short end should be open.

4. FIll the tube of fabric with crushed ice using the open end.

5. Pour three tablespoons of rubbing alcohol over the ice in the tube of fabric. Squish the ice around until it begins to melt from the alcohol, making it a gel.

6. Sew the open end of the fabric closed.

7. Cut two squares of Velcro to about 2 inches by 2 inches each. Glue to either end of the mask so you can secure the mask around your head.

8. Store the mask in the freezer until you're ready to use it.

References

• Smockity Frocks: How to Make Your Own Cold Gel Pack