Sewing Techniques

Volunteer sewing a mask

People sewing masks come from a broad range of sewing backgrounds. Sewing a mask may involve using techniques that are new to you. We asked the Windsor Essex Force to share sewing tips they collected while sewing and donating more than 55,000 masks during the first three waves of the COVID- 19 pandemic.

We do not endorse any brand of sewing machine/serger shown in these videos/blogs. We strongly recommend following the directions in your sewing machine owner’s instruction manual for regular cleaning, maintenance and repair. Never do anything that is not recommended by your instruction manual.

A clean machine that is in good order and has both the top thread and the bobbin threaded correctly is usually needed for a good sewing result.

Sewing Topics

Click Here to access a helpful blog that covers a wide range of topics including those below:

Top 10 Tips for:

  • Top 10 Tips for Common Problems :

    • Sewing machine tension

    • Thread keeps breaking

    • Needle keeps breaking

  • How to clean a machine

  • Skipping Stitches-What to do? (needles, thread quality, cleaning)

  • How to thread a sewing machine correctly

  • How to start and stop a line of seam stitching

  • How to wind a bobbin correctly

  • Seam finishes to prevent fraying when not using a serger

  • Pressing vs Ironing

How to Make Pleats Without Marking

Many cloth masks use a design that incorporates pleats. This video was shared with clothmasks.org from the Windsor Essex Sewing Force demonstrates an easy method for making pleats using an iron. Please note: this method cannot be used for masks with polypropylene as it cannot be ironed.

How to Stitch over Thick Layers

Many mask styles involve multiple layers of fabric. Laura Coia is a sewing expert who shares her tips on YouTube. In this video she demonstrates how to sew over thick layers using items around your house. You can also search on her channel for other topics.