With the wearing of face masks and coverings continuing to become mandatory, we’re sharing this sewing tutorial for a DIY face mask with nose wire. As I continue to sew more reusable face masks, I’ve started to add an insert along the top edge of the mask for a nose wire. Helping to keep the mask in place, the nose wire makes for a more comfortable fit while also achieving a closer fit to the face for more protection. Adding a nose wire, requires a few extra steps. See below for the sewing instructions to add a nose wire for both mask styles (pleated face mask and fitted face mask with filter pocket). There are nose wire options you can find online or even use wire you have around the house such as, floral wire or pipe cleaners. If using floral wire or a pipe cleaner, fold the sharp ends of the wire over making a small loop to prevent sharp edges. The simplest way to add a nose wire to a finished pleated face mask is to attach a piece of fabric along the top edge for the nose wire to insert into. Using a binding tape with folded edges is the quickest way to do so. Alternatively, you can cut a strip of fabric and make you own binding tape.
nose wire
nose bridge wire
metal nose wire