Using fashion for good
Hi there! I've always been a long believer that fashion can be used to help others; especially now more than ever, it seems like my sewing skills can do more than just making clothes. With the current coronavirus crisis, many hospitals are facing a mask shortage; as a result, many are now also accepting homemade masks.
In particular, a local Facebook group in my city called "Sew Masks 4 Cincy" has organized a group of volunteers that works with the local healthcare community "to ensure everyone’s safety during these uncertain times." They've made the donation process super easy to follow and are currently reaching out to sewers in the tri-state area to help make masks for local hospitals.
***if you're not from Cincinnati, I recommend first checking in with your local hospital for specific mask quality requirements and whether or not there is a need.
If you're a fellow sewer from Cincinnati and would like to join me in helping the cause, first fill out their inquiry form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc1A3S8medKRs2PKvceswIxRSvfgaNgZqABkUcyijmYXlQzvg/viewform
Then, time to start sewing! Their site contains many resources but I've also broken down their basics below:
Mask Pattern: (either style works)
1. N95 Cover (preferred style for now)
2. Filter Cover (easier than N95 but requires elastic)
**They ask that volunteers "Follow the tutorial, we have modified directions from the video to accommodate a removal nose wire. This was specifically requested by our area hospitals. The video may be helpful for visualizing certain techniques, but please do not insert a wire."
Materials:
- 100% cotton (fabric from your stash, sheets, pillow covers are great options).
- Filter covers need to have elastic (easier to sew)
- NO METAL PLEASE
What to do once you're finished:
- stay up to date with their site or join the Facebook group to receive notifications of when the next dropoff is.
Other ways to help:
- volunteer to pick up masks from homes and/or drive masks to hospitals.
- donate materials
- lend a sewing machine
Staying Sanitary:
- The hospitals will sanitize the masks.
- Prewash the materials before you sew.
- Make sure you are washing your hands throughout the sewing process.
- Wipe down your Ziploc bag with a disinfectant wipe before donating.
I hope you all are staying healthy and practicing social distancing!
XOXO,
grace
photo courtesy of Sew Masks 4 Cincy