Tutorial- Making masks with HEPA vacuum bag filters

I'd like to show how I make my masks, especially how I work with the HEPA filters, in case any one else would like to make a mask like mine. The filters are incredibly fragile and difficult to work with, and I've found a few tricks to make the sturdiest, most effective filter.

Firstly, why am I cutting up a vacuum bag at all?  HEPA vacuum bags perform far better and filter more particles than regular cotton face masks.  This is shown by the research done by The University of Cambridge, Missouri University Science & Technology,  Linsey Marr (Virginia Tech aerosol scientist) as well as various other doctors working on the front line of the coronavirus epidemic.

That said- masks made with HEPA are NOT MEDICAL DEVICES and should not replace social distancing, hand washing, and all other CDC recommendations.  This is all about using HEPA filters in cloth masks versus cloth masks alone. Cloth masks of any kind cannot replace real PPE such as an N95 Respirator or surgical mask.

That said, here's how they are made.

You will need HEPA vacuum cleaner bags, iron on fusible interfacing, an iron, and two different lightweight press cloths.

1. Start with a vacuum cleaner bag that states it is HEPA certified. The brand EnviroCare was recommended by one of the doctors I saw in a YouTube video, but at any rate, make sure they have HEPA and mention 'micro filtration.'  Your bag should look something like this.

2. Cut off the cardboard top and open the bag at the natural seam. This is difficult, parts of it will tear. Lay it flat.

3. You'll notice there are two layers to your bag, the paper and a thin filter. Remove the paper (the one with the writing on it) very carefully from the filter.

4. Place press cloth on top of your ironing board and pin it down into place. Place filter layer on top.  Cut a piece of fusible about the same size as the filter layer. Carefully place another press cloth on top of all three layers.

5. Press using the lowest possible setting, picking up and placing your iron down, as you would as if you were doing an applique or any other type of fusible. The two press cloths are not only protecting the iron and board, but as keeping the filter sandwiched into place.  It is very easy to tear the filter at this point.

6. Let everything cool. Carefully peel away first pre cloth and test to see if fusible is adhered to filter. If not, repeat process. Cut excess fusible off underneath press cloth instead of pulling it away.

7. Your filter is ready to cut and use! Sew together with lining or separately 'sandwiched' in between.

The pattern I use is from the CDC, which you can download here.

Stay safe! Stay healthy!