10 Minnesota Makers for Your Geeky Mask Needs

Note: This article was published in December 2020. While some people may still wear cloth masks as an outer layer in order to more easily express themselves through fabric and pattern choices, and they may be appropriate for contexts other than COVID-19, the COVID protection they provide for the wearer and those around them is minimal. N95s and similar masks are now best practice; see our COVID resources page for more information.

There’s light at the end of the tunnel, with COVID-19 vaccines gradually rolling out around the country, but it will be a while before everyone has access. That means we’ll all be wearing masks for a bit longer to reduce the spread of the virus—and even after the pandemic ends, they’re still a great way to reduce the chances of passing on a cold when you’re actively sick. Here in Minnesota, wearing a mask is currently required in all indoor businesses and public indoor spaces (including gyms, as of December 18, 2020).

Since this whole thing started, lots of us have been using masks to express ourselves. And why not? If we’re wearing something on our faces every day, it might as well be fun. If you want to add some variety to your mask rotation, you might find what you’re looking for at these 10 Minnesota sellers offering masks in patterns perfect for gamers, math and science lovers, comics readers, Trekkies, Whovians, and many other kinds of geeks.

1. STEMBySeraglyn

The tagline of this Etsy shop is “Geeky, Nerdy, Unique Fabric Face Masks,” so you know you’re in the right place. As you might expect from the name, it has all kinds of science-themed masks—including physics, computing, math, medicine, geology, and more. But you can also find geeky fandom prints like Star Wars, Star Trek, and Doctor Who. Masks are available with several different tie and ear-loop options and both with and without filter pockets and nose wires. They are double layered by default, but you can request extra layers and other add-ons. One child and multiple adult size options.

Pattern options for STEMBySeraglyn’s Calculus & Gardening masks.

2. CheekyJoe

This shop runs the gamut of geekdom, featuring masks for fans of Star Wars, Star Trek, The Lord of the Rings, Rocky Horror, video gaming, tabletop gaming, and more—with multiple patterns to choose from for most of those. They are double layered and come with adjustable ear loops and in styles with and without filter pockets. Four size options.

One of several D&D-themed masks available from CheekyJoe.

3. Lakestone Jewelry

Pattern themes for these masks include Doctor Who, Star Wars, Harry Potter, space, chemistry, and more. They are double layered and feature adjustable ear loops and nose wires but no filter pocket. Child or adult size.

Some of the fabric options at Lakestone Jewelry.

4. Stef’s Corner Shop

Geeky options from this shop include Pokémon, Star Wars, superheroes, space, and more. Masks are double layered and feature nose wires and multiple closure options. Child or adult size.

Superhero mask bundle from Stef’s Corner Shop.

5. Bumbelou

Mantako-based children’s clothing store Bumbelou has several geek-friendly patterns in child, youth, and adult small and large sizes, including space, gaming, and Harry Potter. Masks are double layered and have ties or elastic ear loops. This store donates 10 percent of its profits to support sponsoring children in need through Compassion International.

Space-themed mask from Bumbelou.

6. Scoundrelle’s Keep

Neo-Victorian clothing maker Scoundrelle’s Keep is in the mask business. There are two styles, and fabric options are posted to the shop’s Facebook page—patterns have included dice, game controllers, books, and more. There’s also the option to add your pronouns to your mask. All masks are double layered and feature filter pockets and nose wires; you have the option of either elastic ear loops or ties. Get a discount if you buy a three-pack ($10 for one or $25 for three). One size.

Scoundrelle’s Keep fitted masks with optional pronoun labels.

7. Raden Studios

In addition to other fantasy and sci-fi creations, Raden Studios has masks in fabric themes that include Star Wars, Harry Potter, Doctor Who, Zelda, comics, gaming, space, and fantasy. In addition to the simple pleated masks shown below, there is a contoured style available (but labeled as “last chance”) that includes a curved shape, filter pocket, and removable nose wire. Both styles are double layered.

Some of the options from Raden Studios.

8. ShandaiMade

This creator has multiple mask styles and ear-loop options (see the custom order option) as well as optional headband “ear savers” and neck straps. There is a whole section in the gallery of available fabrics dedicated to geeky patterns, which include Marvel and DC, Harry Potter, Star Wars, Doctor Who, Firefly, Minecraft, and more. In addition, the “fun” patterns section features NASA and steampunk clock fabrics.

Some of ShandaiMade’s geeky pattern options.

9. Happy Heart Tees

This shop offers lots of fun patterns for Star Wars fans in particular, plus some Harry Potter and the Avengers. Masks are double layered with elastic ear loops. The listings are “adult one size fits most” by default, but children’s sizing is available by request.

One of the Star Wars options from Happy Heart Tees.

10. The Faded Flower

This shop offers a wide variety of patterns for geeks and muggles alike. You might be interested in Pokémon, Harry Potter, Hamilton, Little Women, science, horror movies, books, dragons, space cats, tabletop gaming, or one of the more than 200 other options. Masks are triple layered with nose wires and filter pockets (filter included), and you have the option of ties or elastic loops. Child or adult size.

Some of the fabrics from the Faded Flower.

This list is not intended to be exhaustive, and there are other great sellers out there to discover. If you have a favorite local mask maker that we didn’t include, give them a shout-out in the comments!

And, as always, make sure you’re following best practices when putting on, wearing, and removing masks to maximize protection for those around you.

Twin Cities Geek has partnered with Hallie Q. Brown Community Center and Ramsey County to spread the word about COVID-19 best practices and resources available to Minnesotans. Get answers to questions and find information about financial, medical, and mental health help on Ramsey County’s COVID-19 resource page.