We are committed to supplying our frontline healthcare workers with the protective gear they need to safeguard our community during the COVID-19 crisis. Bag share in coalition with Berkshire Mutual Aid has launched a local brigade of crafters responding in real time to this urgent need.
We are looking for:
Email us or complete the contact form, using the heading “Sew Masks“ or “Mask Team”. In the message, please let us know what your interest or skill set is and where you live.
If you need material we can help you with supply kits (show in the photo to the left) once you sign up with the team.
From the Center of Disease Control Coronavirus Healthcare Strategies section:
When No Facemasks Are Available, Options Include:
“Healthcare personnel (HCP) use of homemade masks:
In settings where facemasks are not available, HCP might use homemade masks (e.g., bandana, scarf) for care of patients with COVID-19 as a last resort. However, homemade masks are not considered PPE, since their capability to protect HCP 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.”
Contact our organizers through the Official Berkshire Mutual Aid Community Page on Facebook.
Slack is a communication app. We encourage the community to join our Slack space! The link directly to the Mask Sewing channel for Berkshire Mutual Aid is below.
The Berkshire Mutual Aid Sewing Team efforts would not be possible without the generous financial support of Allen Harris, CEO of Berkshire Money Management, LLC.
Here are some things to know before you sew.
It is important to have an easily identifiable front and back to the mask. Use patterned fabric on the front and solid color on the inside.
A mask covering for an N95 mask does not need nose wire.
Elastic bands for these masks should go over the back of the head and neck.
If you run out of elastic, you can try using stretch fabrics for the bands instead
When fashioning elastic replacement from lycra (some cut up rowing wear, for instance), one factor is essential:
On zigzag, setting the longest stitch setting possible and stretch it from front and back while sewing.
Important points to remember for health and hygeine
The Mass Make Maks medical consultant says that ties are NOT a good option.
For people lying in bed a pattern with ear loop elastic may stay on better than one with elastic around the back of the head.
Please join up with the Official Berkshire Mutual Aid Sewing Team effort to join our community effort!
Business locations selling masks. For Individual connections to local stitchers, please sure the form to the right. Please Contact Berkshire Mutual Aid if you are a business or individual that would like to be added to this public list. This is a collaborative community effort. Thank you.
Homebound and in need of a mask delivery? Have a special need, disability or condition that requires a custom made mask? Are you an organization looking for help sourcing masks?
Copyright © 2020 Berkshire Mutual Aid - All Rights Reserved.
The Berkshire Mutual Aid Vaccine Support Helpline is
413-591-0611
Local volunteers are available to assist you by phone
or you can email: helpingberkshiresvaccinate@gmail.com