How to request free face mask sewing supplies
Update 4/24/20: We are planning to continue sending out supplies once we finish processing all of the claims from the standby list in our Facebook group. If you would like to be notified when we open up claims again please join our email newsletter or watch for a post in our Facebook group. Thank you for your patience.[vc_column_text text_larger=”no”]Olga’s Closet is sending out face mask supplies (cotton fabric and 1/4” elastic) to anyone who is willing to sew masks. You can claim these supplies free of charge in our Facebook Group (while supplies last), we only ask that you donate the masks you make to people who are in need of masks such as local hospitals, first responders, post office employees, etc. So far we have contributed $8,000 in supplies and postage and we are continuing to raise funds through donations to restock supplies and continue sending them out to as many people as possible.
If you have a sewing machine, thread and 15 minutes of time you can make a much needed face mask which may help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Please note that homemade masks are not meant to protect against COVID-19. There is a shortage in masks and in a situation where you must choose between a fabric mask or nothing, a fabric mask may be the better choice.
Calling for donations
Sewing Patterns & Instructions
Below are some popular face mask instructions provided by our friends in the sewing community. Please check with the facility you are working with to ensure that you use appropriate patterns and materials.
WASHING NOTICE: We have been told that it is advised not to wash fabric or masks using fabric softener or dryer sheets:
“If you do choose to launder, do NOT use fabric softeners or dryer sheets as they impart a positive charge to fabrics which will be a virus attractant for the outermost surface.”
- A.B. Mask – for a Nurse by a Nurse – Instructables
- How to Sew a Surgical Face Mask – Sweet Red Poppy
- 10 Minute Face Mask – The Sewing Room (YouTube Video)
- Face Mask Sewing Pattern – Craft Passion (from Joann Fabric)
- Facemask: A picture tutorial – Button Counter (from Joann Fabric)
- Olson Mask – Unity Point Health (from Uniting with Homemade Mask FB Group)
- How to make a Face Mask – Deaconess Clinic
- Lots of valuable mask info and downloadable children size patterns – HKMask
- 3-minute quick mask tutorial (YouTube Video)
DISCLAIMER: The effectiveness of preventing COVID-19 by wearing a home-made mask is unknown. Please communicate to mask recipients that according to the CDC, homemade masks are not considered PPE [personal protective equipment], since their capability to protect HCP [healthcare personnel] is unknown. Caution should be exercised when considering this option. Homemade masks should ideally be used in combination with a face shield that covers the entire front (that extends to the chin or below) and sides of the face.
Making masks for the community, working with the group uniting with home made masks on face book.
I need fabric, elastic and flannel for atleast 15 masks. I already have threads n machine.
Hemali, thank you for your willingness to sew masks. You can request free supplies through our Facebook Group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/shopolgascloset/
Trying to fight this helpless feeling and help others in anyway I can. I’ve already handed out 50 masks but I’m out of material. Please send whatever you can and I will continue until I’m out again. Thank you for your kindness
Hi Erin, thank you for all that you are doing! If you are on Facebook please put your request for supplies in our Facebook Group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/shopolgascloset/
Or you can email us using the contact info at the bottom of our website.
Hi there! I’ve gotten an order from you previously but I’ve used it all up! I would love more supplies if you have them. I can pay shipping and cost.
So far I’ve made 305 masks!!! Thank you for all that you’re doing! ❤