From superhero movies to books, from everyday dress-up to Halloween, kids want to be the one to save the day! In her newest tutorial, Maker Team member Kaitlin of @itsbearscorner designed a simple felt mask that can be embellished to suit the little hero in your life. Start with the base template, choose your felt and a sewing method, then let your imagination take over!
This tutorial is inspired by my own child jumping off the couch into a pile of cushions and running around keeping the house "safe." Sometimes the situation calls for a disguise! In this tutorial, I will demonstrate two different masks and assembly methods. Pick which suits you best!
Skill Level: Beginner
Time: 40 minutes for base
Additional Supplies:
Felt Mask Template (click to download)
Sewing Machine - optional
Directions:
This tutorial has lots of room for customization! Use the embellishment patterns given or create your own to mimic a favorite character. The colors can be changed, but I recommend Bellwether wool felt since this will be worn on the face and handled frequently.
1. Download and print Felt Mask Template. Select and cut out desired embellishments from template or draw your own!
2. Use heat erasable Frixion pen to trace mask pattern onto on piece of felt. You can also pick two felt colors for a reversable mask!
3. Trace embellishments onto felt and cut out. For a symmetrical design, trace the icon, flip over and trace again, so it will be mirrored on the mask.
4. Place and pin icons. Whip stitch to drawn mask with coordinating floss.
Alternately, draw and backstitch your own embellishments with coordinating floss.
To assemble mask by SEWING MACHINE, follow Steps 5-8.
5. Take second piece of felt (backing layer) and align with front embellished mask, right sides facing out. Pin.
6. Cut two lengths of ribbon, at least 15-20" long. Measure recipient's head, if possible, to ensure ribbon will reach around head and tie easily. Sandwich ribbons on either side of mask with end inside of traced line.
7. Use coordinating thread and sew along traced perimeter and eye outlines. Knot and cut thread.
8. Cut around mask, through both layers of felt, leaving an 1/8" border. Use extra caution and separate layers when cutting near ribbon so it is not severed.
To assemble mask by HAND, follow Steps 9-12.
9. Trace and cut mask template from second piece of felt (backing layer.) Align with front embellished mask, right sides facing out. Pin.
10. Blanket stitch with two strands of coordinating (or contrasting) floss around perimeter and eye outlines.
11. Using the template as a guide, mark placement of ribbon hole. Cut out using sharp precision scissors or a hole punch. Blanket stitch around hole for stability.
12. Cut two lengths of ribbon, at least 15-20" long. Measure recipient's head, if possible, to ensure ribbon will reach around head and tie easily. Insert ribbon through hole and fold over about 1". Pin. Stitch in place with machine or by hand. This method allows ribbon to be replaced if worn out or outgrown.
Send out the bat signal! Your masks are ready - just in time for Halloween or daily dramatic play!
Thank you for sewing these felt masks with me. Try or combine mask assembly methods. Be creative and take your time for a mask that will last as long as your hero's imagination!
Thanks to Kaitlin for designing and writing this tutorial! You can see more of her work on Instagram @itsbearscorner and on her website. Stay tuned for more tutorials from the Benzie Design Maker Team!
