(NON-MEDICAL) Face Masks (on a Victorian sewing machine, of course)

[@Worldbuilder]

“I wish it need not have happened in my time," said Frodo. "So do I," said Gandalf, "and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.”

[@parkersnowe]

Exactly!

[@TorchwoodPandP]

Netop,

[@lunymoon2839]

I'm tearing up now. Thank you for sharing that quote.

[@pipmitchell7059]

So apt. Tolkien used to deny that LOTR was an allegory of the Second World War, but it really was, and now we're in a war against covid-19. Bravo Bernadette, and the more everybody pitches in to do what they can, the sooner we'll have this thing beaten.

[@ayermish]

Pip Mitchell Tolkien said that LOTR was not about WWII, but about WWI. “By the time I was a young adult, everyone I knew was dead.” (I don’t have the exact quote, but “everyone I knew was dead” I remember very clearly from his biography.

[@211Shinobu]

I sewed two masks by hand, muttering to myself "and then I secured it with tiny felling stitches..." I don't even know what a felling stitch is, but I said it because it reminded me of Bernadette. The first mask took me 4 hours and looked like a 5-year old made it. The second took 3 hours and looked like a 7-year old made it. So I bought a cheap sewing machine and taught myself to sew. Now I've made 11 more. They look like a 10 year old made them, but they're secure. Thanks for inspiring me to try, Bernadette!

[@EffulgentlyDani]

I felt this comment deep in my soul. 🤣🤣 I channel Bernadette as well...and hand sewing these suckers is no joke! 🤣🤣 We bought a new house two years ago, and my old hand-me-down sewing machine just wasn't up to the move. I've been lusting over a rather costly machine with computer and embroidery functionality 🤤...but (especially now!) just haven't been able to justify the expense. I hand sew repairs and quick projects, and live vicariously through dear Bernadette for the rest. I'm on hand sewn mask five now and each has gotten progressively better looking and more efficiently completed. But I also broke down and bought a super cheap machine on Amazon that'll be here in a couple weeks. 🤣🤣🤣

[@missl1775]

You bought a sewing machine just to make masks... I salute you. Thank you

[@EffulgentlyDani]

@@missl1775 I obviously don't speak for 211Shinobu, but I personally don't deserve that salute...but thank you. The virus was definitely the impetus to get a cheap machine now, but I'd planned to get one anyways. I wake up everyday to good health. I have a job that pays well, was already fully remote, and likely won't be affected. I have plenty of what I need to keep my family afloat. I'm sure I'm not alone in the need to feel like I'm at least doing something, however small, to help the effort and share my abundant blessings with others. We're all in this together.

[@missl1775]

@@EffulgentlyDani I love sewing and I have so much scrap fabric because I'm bad at it. Hopefully, by the time my class finishes for the semester, there won't be a demand for masks (my city hasn't requested them) but I am warming to the idea that this might be something I actually start, finish, and don't fail at in the middle. Y'all are inspiring me.

[@211Shinobu]

@@missl1775 As EffulgentlyDani said, thank you for your kindness, but I'm not doing anything truly deserving of it. I'm realizing how lucky/privileged I am that I can work from home, continue to afford things beyond food and shelter, and be healthy enough to spend time learning a new skill. I was thinking I should learn to sew anyway, and this is really helping me get over my feelings of worry and helplessness. It's really the doctors and nurses, hospital janitors, grocery store employees, postal workers, pharmacists, bus drivers, first responders, EMTs and other people who are literally risking their lives to serve others who deserve thanks.

[@TheJennBrown]

Your attention to detail will probably ensure that these masks last longer and hold up to more washings. Bravo!

[@Anna-fw7lm]

:) for a man is Bravo, for men is Bravi, for a woman is Brava, for women is Brave. Love from Italy.

[@giulioprince1610]

Anna È strano ma nei paesi non Italiani si dice Bravo! Per tutti i generi e numeri, non so ancora perché...

[@asgdhfjezsrfd578]

giulio prince when languages borrow foreign words, they don’t typically conjugate them as the original language would, it would be strange. Same with foreign words in Italian

[@katerinahikesalot1644]

@@Anna-fw7lm In Greek, bravo is for everyone.

[@elimaheu3788]

@@katerinahikesalot1644 In French too!

[@rabbit__]

"... A vet here in merry New York," *cute Guinea Pig noises* "Not your vet, sir." Lol!

[@bugeyedmonster2]

It's all Bernadette's fault- she said the dreaded "v" word! It's been that way with my cats too- it's like they know the word "vet" or "veterinarian" means, and they hurry to hide when they hear it.

[@lizthedisjointedzebra692]

Dude, Cesario cameos are the best.

[@ravenstone9322]

This has a strange semblance of WWII with home seamstresses helping make bandages and such for those who were in military hospitals.

[@linphillips8331]

We'll be knitting socks next.

[@MeLeisure]

@@linphillips8331 I just ordered a book on knitting for just that

[@thejasminedragonmerchant6843]

@@linphillips8331 If you'd like to try, there's actually some online sources for wartime knitting that can still be quite useful! www.gwpda.org/1917/khakiknitting_opt.pdf

[@merindymorgenson3184]

Helena Volckaert thanks for sharing that! I just took a look at it. Fascinating!

[@scarletpimpernelagain9124]

Helena Volckaert Thank you so much for sharing that link ❤️

[@bpora01]

I have to think that some of these home made masks will end up in museums as relics of this time period.

[@FreakyFreakyBaby]

Wow. Did not think of that. The photo of the hospital ship coming into New York will be in the history books too, for sure.

[@rosalynnelson2254]

I've thought of that too, I definitely want to keep the one I've made so I can show my children and grandchildren someday.

[@ashleyhaugh9716]

I'm going to make sure to keep at least one I made for my family, along with pictures. I've told my son (he's 12) that his kids will be learning about this in school, and he thinks that's crazy!

[@feena9241]

This comment reminded me of learning about the medival plague masks in history class, back in middle school. damn

[@TheClari25]

We are living in a historic moment. It's likely that this will drastically change the way we do some things forever and you are right. Some of the things we're making right now are going to be in museums when this passes. 100 years from now, yellowed, fading and in slight disrepair there is a possibility that somebody will see my mask in a museum next to a small plaque and think WOW. Its humbling and definitely puts things in perspective.

[@desireemorganlefay]

For those who have one nearby, Joann’s fabrics is giving free kits away for those who want to sew face masks and you bring them back to the store when completed and they take them to places that need them.

[@somethinggood9267]

What?!?!?! Wow im so glad you mentioned this!! Thank you!

[@laurarose8481]

At this point i am pretty sure nearly all mask kits are gone, but yes we are accepting donations. Also if you can avoid it, do not go into the store to shop, it has been an extremely busy and tiring time for all of us. Just stay home and use up some cabbage

[@lyreparadox]

Just adding a link to the program www.joann.com/make-to-give-response/?icn=search&ici=make-to-give-response

[@unepommeverte17]

the Joann social medias and emails have been saying that a lot (because it's their only justification for staying fully open) but I'm friends with a few Joann employees, and have seen posts and comments from others, that they don't have that many, they aren't being given enough materials or time to cut them, and none of these posts from corporate are mentioning the fact that they're really only giving out the fabric, because a lot of the stores are completely out of elastic (and even if they aren't i've heard you might still have to buy that). if at all possible, it's best to just stay home and use your stash

[@marillaz4582]

If you are low on cabbage (like I am), Joann’s website says that you can order fabric and have it shipped to you. And Tieks has a #sewTOGETHER campaign giving gift cards to anyone who sews certain numbers of masks, and you can ship your masks to them to distribute to medical facilities for you.

[@wickedpissa25]

As Fred Rogers' mom used to say to him, "Look for the helpers." You are a helper. Blessings be upon you.

[@tonyk421]

😥

[@Call-me-Al]

And also, when you feel impotent and fearful, it is really psychologically helpful to find any safe way to help. As in not only look for them, but see if there is anything you can do to feel like you have more agency instead of only feeling trapped on a train without breaks.

[@erinmalone2669]

He was the best. That's why I have a tattoo of the "neighborhood trolley" and am a foster parent. Look for the helpers and be one of them as Mr. Rogers was.

[@medicwebber3037]

[Paramedic comment. Please like so Bernadette sees it!!] First, I wanted to tell you that I am very new to your channel. You came up as a KZbin suggestion, and though I usually ignore those, it was regarding your lady Sherlock Holmes. I love Sherlock Holmes so I gave it a try. I fell in love with what you were doing, immediately! Ms. Banner, I can’t honestly say I’m ever going to get into any kind of clothes making at all, (I just don’t have the time), but I find your videos extremely interesting, very well put together, artistic in their editing, and so relaxing and pleasant to watch that I have started looking for people to watch them with me so that we can sit together with strong cups of Ceylon and discussing them! Thank you so much for putting your content on KZbin! ❤️ Second, what a class act you are! You have no idea how upsetting it was for myself and my fellow healthcare workers to learn that people had literally been stealing N-95 HEPA masks from hospitals, doctors offices, and anywhere else they could find them. The only people out there who could take care of them with the people they left in the lurch. Healthcare workers have since died from this virus and some are near death. All because they caught a virus they should have been able to protect themselves from, but no longer had the ability to do so. For you to take the time to make these masks when you have financial obligations, bills, and projects ongoing at all times, and for you to ask your community to do the same in a very respectful way, says a lot about your character. It says a lot about the character of the peers you associate with. I’ve been seeing the pattern for these masks on Facebook for a few weeks, but not everyone has the materials, and as you said the stores are shut. For the folks who have the materials to make please, I beg of you to do so. People who actually have N-95 masks have been trying to get them to medical personnel who are taking care of patients, but they have nothing to replace them with. You are giving them the opportunity to make those donations by giving them these masks. I also want you to keep your ambulance personnel in mind. We have no way to keep our distance for patients. We are stuck in a 10‘ x 6‘ rolling box that is not well ventilated, and we cannot be any further than about 8 feet from the patient at all times in an enclosed space. Transports can take a long time, and we are constantly being exposed. Sadly, we too are running out of proper protection because no one can order any masks-the were ordered up by the panicking public. The truth is, the N-95 mask is a mask that has to be FITTED your face. This is a process that can take up to 17 minutes and involves either a computer program or an aerosolized mist and a hood. So the people who have stolen the masks, or ordered them up so that there is no supply for the healthcare workers, very likely have masks that DO NOT FIT them and absolutely WILL NOT PROTECT THEM. Feeling safe, these people are out and about wearing their ill fitting masks and exposing themselves to a virus that could kill them, or their loved ones, (or complete strangers), but don’t realize this because they have a false sense of security from their mask. It’s utterly tragic and absolutely frustrating for us. So, I just want to say, again, THANK YOU for doing this. Thank you to everyone who is willing to take the time to do this. This is a lovely thing that we can do for each other, and I can tell you from first-hand experience, helping random strangers when they are desperate will, for the rest of your life, make you feel like you mattered and did something important with your life. That is a rare feeling to have. Embrace it!! ❤️❤️ Stay safe, wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, (and get under your nails), stay at least 6 feet apart, and don’t cross-contaminate everything with your gloves!

[@angelmaden1559]

Medic Webber Another healthcare worker here (not on the front lines) but wanted to re-emphasize the point that N-95 masks must be professionally fitted to be effective! We have to refit each year. Changes in your glasses, weight, & hair styles can change the fit. You are wasting them when they are so desperately needed in the correct locations!

[@penname8441]

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[@lyreparadox]

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[@myahackeberg9755]

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[@samanthabloggins1775]

I hope she reads your very important comment!!!

[@kmedrano1]

I work in the Operating Room. I cannot express how important masks and other PPE(personal protective equipment) is to our wellbeing. Having these items stockpiled by other businesses or by civilians in their home not only exposes us to toxins but also our patients are exposed to us while in a very compromised state. Please give these companies other options and encourage them to donate their surgical grade masks to the nearest hospital. Thank you Bernadette.

[@TrappedinSLC]

Lisa Swetz Facebook and Apple and other companies in that area of the country (state? I’m not sure at what level the rules were made) were required to have a stockpile of certain emergency items in case of fire after all the bad wild fires they’ve been having out there. Something to do with number of people working on campus/in the buildings, so with the vast majority of people working from home they were able to free up supplies for people with immediate need. I thought it was really weird, too, but apparently that’s why.

[@maleahlock]

Thank you for this! I've been making masks for the childrens ward at my local hospital in Australia and trying to make them exciting to wear (vampire teeth, darth vader, fun patterns). The staff said they were struggling to get the kids to keep them on when transporting between wards because they're itchy and boring. I've unfortunately had to take a break because I invoked a spell of inflammation in my shoulder from pushing too hard. Thankfully, my ten year old son is quickly becoming an adept stitcher and is helping out. I hope you stay well and enjoy the forced introvert haven as best you may.

[@ragnkja]

M L I assume your ten-year-old also serves as quality control for both fabric softness and mask coolness. 😁

[@johnixon7726]

❤😍💋 I am an Australian mum (even though my son is not sick) I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Its times like these that little Angels appear .

[@katherinemorelle7115]

That is amazing! From what I’ve read, medical advice is that while these homemade masks aren’t as good for preventing one from catching the disease, they are pretty good at preventing g one from transmitting the disease- and so, they are quite good for patients. The fact you thought to make the masks fun for the kids is just lovely!

[@jcaylalove8713]

Wow what a cool idea to make the masks fun for children. As an adult I would so rock one of those too! You are awesome! ☺️✌️🌻

[@MeowMeowKapow]

M L this is wonderful, well wishings and love to your entire household.

[@amandaromaneck6374]

As a veterinarian who took an oath to not only promote animal health and welfare but also public health, I want to say thank you. Our role may be small as we donate our PPE and ventilators to our MD counterparts, but I think it is an important one. I appreciate you shedding light on us still needing some form of PPE while we uphold our oath. So, thank you ❤

[@lucashuseth9097]

Stay safe, Bernadette! Here in Norway most of us have been self-isolating for nearly three weeks, but not much has changed with regards to the virus. It is all so very surreal. Living through a major historical event isn't nearly as fun as I envisioned... Oh well, stay safe and take care!

[@LuxicCardinal]

same in sweden xd

[@sabrinaprior6874]

Same in Canada. Anicent Chinese Curse: May you live in interesting times. 😎😷😎

[@basstrammel1322]

Dear Lucas, fun or not, the important thing is that you stay safe during any kind of "historical events". Take care! Jonas Tønsberg, Norge.

[@jcaylalove8713]

If people weren't in isolation the spread of Covid-19 would be much much worse!

[@jcaylalove8713]

@@MissMaria1988 Covid-19 can and has killed the young and supposed health.

[@scmeagol5955]

oh, the early days of quarantine. we were so young, then. so full of light and hope

[@SJELSYxYMAS]

I adore how your first reaction was "I have cotton laying around, I can do something to help". You are truely such kind hearted person.

[@edavis7740]

Bernadette: I love the Edwardian era! The Victorians! The Progressives! The aesthetics, the manners, the way of life- Worldwide pandemic event: *happens* Bernadette: Maybe not that, though.

[@ragnkja]

E Davis Modern medicine is definitely the one aspect of modern life I am unwilling to part with.

[@stoutyyyy]

Ideal way of life: the 1700s, but with medical technology and gay rights

[@luciliascarcass]

And other forms of equality (for obvious reasons) and the Internet. I mean, nearly instantaneous access to information? That would be great to keep

[@tagz5186]

So, basically keep historical fashion. Everything else can go.

[@MarthadelPilarMoreno]

I saw on Sewstine instagram page that people were arguing her the making on the masks, just because. At first I thought that on their part was an bit of an overkill, considering she that she made her due research. But now knowing that she actually is a medical professional and people still argued agains her initiative is truly infuriating.

[@medicwebber3037]

Martha del Pilar Moreno It is sad that parents have not been teaching their children how to research, tell fact from fiction, or how to control their emotions and be rational, REASONABLE human beings. We now have a country full of adults that seem to have a hard time with this. If they had taken the time to understand what she was saying and doing, they would have got it. It’s shameful, sometimes, how people behave. We rational folk will have to make up the difference!

[@momosaku16]

@@teresamorgan4529 it doesn`t really matter what parents tell their kids, because children don`t learn by listening, but by observing and copying. So if the parents behave like this, kids will too. Obviously nobody behaves like an ass on purpose, so this is all unconscious.

[@clffliese26]

@@momosaku16 I have no desire to start a political discussion on this forum with this statement, but I'm going to say this, anyway: Having observed some of the politicians in Washington, I think I can, legitimately, argue with your assertion that people don't act like asses on purpose. Filling the bill to fight the virus with a lot of crap that will not fight the virus was done on purpose and was, most assuredly, the work of total asses. I hope any reasonable person would agree with that.

[@AnHeC]

Acalades mean nothing. Information is either right or wrong. Logic is either sound or faulty. I wouldn't care if she was a stripper. Appeal to authority is the most idiotic thing on the planet.

[@ragnkja]

AnHeC The informal fallacy called “appeal to authority” is about using someone’s qualifications in an irrelevant field as an attempt to make them sound like they’re someone who should know better than the average person. In this case, the only authorities that are worth referencing are those in medicine/epidemiology.

[@ellieisbusy]

A huge shoutout to all delivery people, supermarket stockists and workers, and restaurant cooks, who all make sure we get to stay home and be safe. Our healthcare professionals are getting much deserved love and attention but I feel the other professions are often forgotten... And how wonderful that you’re making masks to help those who work with animals! I’ve been searching to see if anyone here in Scotland needs them but so far no luck. If anyone in the UK reads this and has any resources I’d welcome it. Thank you!

[@sborrink]

Where I'm at, several hospitals are taking donations of surgical style masks (like the ones you made), as these can be used in parts of the hospitals where hospital staff are less likely to come in contact with the virus. My coworker and I are working diligently with our cotton stashes to make as many masks as we can to help those in our areas (she lives a couple towns over from me). As the styles of fabric I chose are more whimsical/childish (ie.Harry Potter and Minnie Mouse), mine will be donated to local children's hospitals. As terrifying as theses times are for adults, it's also frightening for children.

[@mariannemurray6787]

Without trying to sound.... thrilled? Teaming up to sew needed masks reminds me of women knitting socks and preparing bandages during war times. It's heart warming. 💕

[@dotcorbeil6266]

In a historical sense, The history of the surgical masks can be divided into three separate eras, the first being the development and testing of the mask from 1905 to 1920, and the second being the period when the importance of the surgical mask was stressed and new masks were developed, 1920-1940. So in essence they have roots in the Edwardian period. This is also the period where medicine expanded into what we know today so it's not all that surprising.

[@ragnkja]

Dot Corbeil And now Christine (the anaesthesiologist mentioned in the video) is involved in a study testing if handmade masks (of a different material) fit closely enough around the face to be used as N95 mask substitutes, and if so, what the maker has to pay attention to when constructing them.

[@dotcorbeil6266]

Historically, they can be if the proper precautions are taken such as a wax lining, or being subjected to regular periods of boiling with white vinegar. Both these methods actually helped with the discovery of the modern surgical mask as they showed that fine fibers and less maintenance were more what people wanted.

[@seanc3362]

Can’t wait till we can say “remember the Corona Virus pandemic? “ I’m making making masks too. I work for three hospitals and supporting the front line on this. Thanks for sharing this video Bernadette.

[@theroadtocosplayandcomicco5840]

Same and I have a ton of cotton fabric

[@lizthedisjointedzebra692]

Ooo, what do you do? Do you work for like, a hospital network in your area? I know some techs here in radiology are floaters, and might go to another hospital in the area in our network.

[@Chibihugs]

Thanks for this helpful video. As someone who has a mother who works in a hospital laboratory and a childcare teacher of the children of medical staff, I thank you. They are working so hard to keep everyone safe, and by making these masks you are helping to keep them safer. Perhaps in the near future this event will encourage school to teach kids to sew again.

[@bernadettebanner]

Oh goodness I hope so!!

[@merindymorgenson3184]

Even though my mother is a good seamstress (she thinks she isn’t, but she does lovely work), she said, “I don’t have the patience to teach you.” I wasn’t a quick student, it’s only fair to admit. I learned hand sewing from my grandmother and from the lovely ladies at our church’s quilting circle (we still had one!) when I was just a young girl, and I learned machine sewing as a teenager in Home Ec. Thankfully my Home Ec teacher had great quantities of patience and a sense of humor, both of which must have been needed to teach me machine sewing. I felt very sad when I learned that many (most?) schools had cut out their Home Ec programs. If I can think of any one class that prepared me for actual life skills, it would be Home Ec. I have used those lessons nearly daily for the last 2 1/2 decades. I learned home budgeting, how to find good quality ingredients for less, home design, sewing, baking, cooking, balancing a checkbook (which my parents had already taught me). Some skills I already had a good basis in, as my mother is an excellent cook and baker. Between that and my dad’s skills at teaching basic car mechanics and maintenance, and basic home repairs (toilet unclogging, faucet seal replacement, etc), I have saved so much money over the years. I think of so many things that I studied that I’ve never ever even thought of again, let alone used, but they still keep teaching. But they let a class that truly helps people live successfully day to day go. 🤦‍♀️

[@MNkno]

@@merindymorgenson3184 I saw the displacement of Home Ec.. My mother thought it was vital and insisted that I take it... but an invasion of corporate "sponsors" was on the move, offering contributions of goods and advice, and the vital program you describe and my mother insisted on was almost entirely useless - instead of making tomato soup from tomatoes, we were advised on safe ways to open a can of tomato soup. It was ALL "How to use our products", information that could be obtained by reading the labels... and a few years after I graduated, the classes were being rotated out. I hope they bring Home Ec back, as it was, or under the guise of "Adulting 101 & 201"

[@elizabethrobbins8580]

@@MNkno We had the same class way back in the 70's. To be fair, we also had a required class in home budgeting that taught everyone how to run a home, budget wise. You just had to put both classes together in your brain (hard for a 13year old). Our drivers ed teacher made sure we could do very basic car maintence like changing a tire or checking the oil. Children these days are not prepared for adulthood by the school systems. It would behoove us to remember that and realise that that burden falls to the parents. We must prepare our children for the future. We must teach our girls to build homes and repair engines. We must teach our sons to cook, sew, and knit. Gender roles must be ignored and children taught to survive alone if necessary or as a functioning pair.

[@rm9308]

@@bernadettebanner Have you thought about soaking them in saltwater, or sewing a slit in the front ply to insert a dried out sheet of saltwater-soaked fabric. Salt crystals actually pierce virus' outer membrane, and also dehydrate any tiny droplets passing through. So a salt layer would not only block large droplets like any other mask, it would be actively disinfecting the area by killing viruses. Shouldn't be too hard to implement or maintain by the user either. www.google.com/search?q=salt+mask+alberta

[@fayette4733]

I have been making masks. I have been giving them out to friends, neighbors, even the postman/delivery drivers (with a nice bar of homemade soap). It's keeping me busy and helping people (I knew there was a reason why I was holding onto all my quilting fabric for a reason).

[@francescafrancesca3554]

Thank you.

[@aurat.3138]

I am in a state where the virus is spreading quite rapidly, and I work in a nursing home with very elderly and immunocompromised residents. It's been incredibly difficult and scary to be totally quarantined so I can keep going to work, and to hear about our community running out of supplies. People like you who are helping replenish what we can right now are so important and needed!

[@SamanthaRichardsonWP]

Coming back to this video many months later reminds me how critical "women's work" (aka patriarchal idea that sewing and nurturing is for women to do) is so utterly critical for holding society together and it could not be more evident than in times of crisis.

[@kachnickau]

Hi from Prague, we entered third week on lock down. And actually, we got the fabric stores opened as part of essentials, to sew the masks.. It is great and outraging at the same time. Stay safe!

[@kristacoyle8628]

The day you published this video, my dad died from COVID-19 complications. By pure coincidence, I’m seeing this video for the first time exactly 9 months from the day he died. It is strangely comforting to see it now, knowing that on that day, instead spending time on your usual (amazing) projects, you were doing something to help save others from meeting the same horrible, shattering fate. I imagine my dad now being present in the sunlight, and the sunlight in this video is so warm and golden - just a perfect reminder now of him. Thanks for all the loving care you take with everything you do on your channel - this 6-min video is a tribute to that in such a huge way for me and, according to the comments, many others.

[@WilliamWallace14051]

At this point we should all be conducting ourselves as if we are infectious. Anything which traps outbound droplets from sneezing, coughing and breathing is helping to slow the infection rate.

[@Patrick3183]

William Wallace tell that to the crooked WHO which is owned by china

[@lachimiste1]

William Wallace We all have, in essence, Schroedinger’s Virus. We must behave around others both as though we are infected (and must therefore take care not to give it to anyone) and as though we have not been infected (and must therefore exercise caution about bringing contagion to ourselves and our domiciles). We are simultaneously infected and not infected, which makes this wretched plague Schroedinger’s Virus.

[@MissMeganBeckett]

lachimiste1 I think your comment deserves to be pinned to the top and shared as a meme!

[@plague_victim532]

Bernadette: *Mentions the word vet* Cisario: *Guinea pig squeaks of protest* I tried on spelling his name I swear

[@cynoglav9665]

it's Cesario :)

[@Ninjozata]

I work in a fabric store, in our last weeks we saw plenty of people comming into get fabric to make masks. It was worrying, as it was obvious a lot of people didn’t know what a mask was for, or how or why it could be useful; but only that as they see more and more people wearing them, the heard mentality seems to set in. Customers would ask us what fabrics are “best at filtering the virus” and it just became exhausting to arguing with people, it made many of us quite cynical. I’m very glad that now people are spreading this information, and I now realize the role cloth masks can play in conserving the proper PPE for those who can make best use of it and dissolving my cynicism. Thank you so much for being part of that.

[@MtnNerd]

I read an article by a Chinese doctor saying a layer of nonwoven fabric is best at filtering out the virus so I've been using interfacing in all my masks.

[@Patrick3183]

Ninjozata so basically you’re a total moron

[@wayneessar7489]

If no really filter fabric is available a product like Arbotex is a polyester, polypropylene felted tree and shrub wrap made by the Texel company, they make stuff for many uses but I think the stuff with imperfections is sent for gardening. If you hold it up to the light you can easily see and voids. It is white and washable and a common size is two yards.

[@211Shinobu]

Two-ply cotton stops somewhere between 3-50% of aerosolized virus particles from getting in (depends on the reference, and not tested on this particular virus). For comparison a surgical mask stops twice as much and a N95 respirator stops 95% of particles >3nm in diameter (coronavirus is about 70 nm). It falls under the category of "better than nothing." The main use of cotton masks is to stop coughs and sneezes from getting OUT because a significant amount of spread is happening from asymptomatic shedders who are contaminating everything around them. Just let your customers know that masks should not give them a false sense of security but work in conjunction with social distancing and hand washing to decrease spread. www.sciencealert.com/here-s-what-we-know-so-far-about-those-who-can-pass-corona-without-symptoms

[@rasilverstorm]

From a Dutchie that likes sewing: I made masks through a fabricsupplier who sends frabrics through mail. They actually made bundles for people who want to do this and an address where the finished masks could be send to so they could be distributed to the companies and other places in need of masks. So epic! While I always am stuck at home, I can notice that some of the families are getting a bit cabin feverish from being stuck inside for week three. My wife however has an essential job in the food industry and thus still has to work, though she does as much as she can from home. Hope you are holding on, and stay healthy!

[@elisabetfinlayson8539]

Thank you, Bernadette! Not only have you taught us all how to make masks, but you’ve also figured out a way to use to cabbage, which is always nice. I’ll be checking out the list (and others) just to be sure and making a few for the dedicated members of not only various medical professionals/doctors/nurses etc, but also bin-men and shop cashiers who can’t stay at home. They are the heroes in this rather odd turn of events. Unfortunately my area still won’t allow testing for the virus, so my island has no idea if any of us have it. We’re all self quarantining, and yes, I am slowly loosing my marbles. There’s only so much Netflix and sewing that I can do before I want to go off and wander around a graveyard or look at ancient human remains or civilisations. I suppose that’s what audiobooks are for. Alas no skulls as my university is officially closed. And so begins the tormented few months of an archaeology student. 😂 All jokes aside, I hope you (and everyone else) are doing well. My ramblings are over. 😂

[@sborrink]

I don't know what era you're studying, but historian Dan Jones has a series available on KZbin called Secrets of Great British Castles. While it may not be in line with your course of study, the videos can kill a few hours. I found them to be quite interesting.

[@lyreparadox]

You might enjoy the Modern History TV and Nicola White Mudlark channels here on KZbin. Or check out AfricanFossils.org for some 3D scans of early hominid fossil skulls. They have downloads for making your own cardboard cut-out 3D models of some of the skulls. Stay sane out there!

[@SD-bf6hk]

Ooooooohhhhhh mudlarking channels are amazing!!!! So much history from so many different eras. Depending on where you are from .... just make a mask, put it on and take a quick walk around the block or a drive in the car. Helps a little sometimes. If not hopefully you can find something great to jumpstart your imagination. We might need it. This could take a while 😋

[@elisabetfinlayson8539]

sarah borrink oooh I miss my castles too! But yes, currently studying from Mesolithic/Early people’s to around about now depending on what the subject is. So the entire history of humanity- brain kind of explodes! But thank you, I’ll be checking that out while sewing!

[@elisabetfinlayson8539]

Lyre Paradox thank you thank you thank you!

[@merindymorgenson3184]

I’ve been slowly making masks for a couple weeks now. Even in “mass production” mode it takes me about 3 days to make 16 masks. And it took me longer to get started, so the first masks took me over an hour each, and now it’s taking me approximately 20 min per mask. So, I’ve only made about 40 masks so far. I had just laid in a great quantity (12 yards) of mock up fabric and had a fair amount leftover from making fitted sheets (super hard to find here in Bangladesh, oddly, only flat sheets) so no need to go out searching for more fabric. And my kids had a lesson in number recognition, drawing straight lines with a ruler, paper and fabric cutting, and putting together seams, mask construction, and introduction to sewing machine skills, which they really enjoyed. As did I. So, it’s been a fun family effort. I guess if you count the ones I helped them make, we’ve made 44. Anyway, I had watched Angela Clayton’s video and was in awe of her mass production skills. I was wondering how many of the other online CosTubers were going to be joining in, so it’s been fun to see. You, too, appear to have turned out a massive number of masks in a short period of time. It’s nice to be able to do something at least marginally helpful instead of sitting around feeling useless. It feels very much like the camaraderie of the war efforts during the World War years. The seamstresses and the knitters and crocheters had much to offer then too.

[@roxywillemse]

I made ten yesterday and donated them to an old age home this morning. Places in need really are thankful, and I plan on making a few more. Thank you for posting this video, it really has helped keep my spirits up!

[@frazzledrobin5175]

I've been sewing for longer than you've been on this earth (and my hand sewing is no where in your class) but I did set out to make masks, for family, friends and neighbors. I went the easy way of using elastic for the ties, but not having said elastic and it being impossible to buy or order, I sent my dear husband off to the Dollar Tree to buy headbands and elastic hair ties. He said the look on the cashiers face was priceless as he dumped them on the counter. And of coarse being a man he never gave her a hint as to why he was buying a bag full. Ciscerio, not only the cutest lil fellow has also impeccable timing!

[@sugarcoatedgoggles]

This is awesome! I'm part of a group here in Western WA and as a bank teller, I'm still going to work. I was very upset that I couldn't commit to assembly, but they just asked me to be a drop off and pickup point. I'm so excited to help!

[@neya2965]

I know this is a while after you posted, but as someone who was working in one of those overrun NYC hospitals, I am very thankful that you did this. We were so short on masks but weren't allowed to say so to the administration.

[@Art_of_Delphi]

You're amazing. I just recovered from Covid-19 and don't wish this on anyone. Thank you for being such a light in darkness ❤️

[@vintagelife5195]

Whats it like? Theres hardly any info out there on how serious this is.

[@lavozdealma]

Congratulations on your recovery. I hope life returns to normal for you soon.

[@BlitzsieLDiscoLSnow]

​@@vintagelife5195 It really depends on how it hits you, and what group you are in (risk-wise). For most young people it is like a bad kind of flu, with fever, throatache, coughing and headaches. For risk groups (above 65 or pre-existing health conditions such as being overweight, diabetes, HIV/AIDS, other immunocompromised things) you can expect a very severe flu, with a good possibility of getting pneumonia or other breathing troubles. But then again, even for the younger population, there is a chance of dying. In the Netherlands we see a (morbidly interesting) trend of young people dying when the symptoms are severe enough to land you on the intensive care. So as a young adult I either have nothing to worry about and just get a flu, or I go to the IC and have a higher chance of dying than my grandpa. My grandpa does have a higher chance overall to die from this though, because he is 80+ and has heart problems. So it really depends. But if the US does not react soon with very severe restritions, then the death toll in the US alone is estimated between 1 and 2 million deaths. (www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2020/03/how-will-coronavirus-end/608719/). So I really, really hope for you guys that Trump either dies and someone competent will take over, or that his meager excuse of a brain boots up and actually does something non-egocentric. Here in Euope some countries are already over one month of social distancing, and in the Netherlands we're currently in week 3. Our hospitals can barely handle it, and we have more beds and ventilators per capita than in the US. Stay safe, stay sane, stay inside.

[@Art_of_Delphi]

Vintage Life and all others: I had about 5 days of stomach flu first, then 2 days of gasping, thankfully very dry cough where I couldn’t breathe and my hands were shaking. I’m a single mom so I had to care for my daughter quickly and then return to bed, as standing was almost impossible. After those two days, using lots of Tylenol, humid showers, and steaming and drinking drops of Oil of Oregano in a strong herbal tea, not using caffeine (it exacerbated my symptoms greatly) I had 5 days of stomach flu and chest pain, similar to Pneumonia but without wet coughing (thankfully) if you smoke, you will likely be in the hospital with this disease. I’m a healthy 36 year old and I normally do 5 sets of 20 pushups, squats, and jumping jacks a day, and I could barely walk across my house for 14 days. I’m now able to breathe but I have moments of deep chest pain, which goes away if I take Tylenol. I’m taking a lot of immune boosters, including sacred seven mushrooms like Reishi and Lion’s Mane, which seems to help a lot with reducing the pain, but of course if you have asthma, a preexisting condition, or any sort of health issue at all, you MUST call your care center, do NOT listen just to anecdotal evidence and seek treatment immediately. I’ve published a few videos where I discuss it. I actually deem this time as my crucible, a time of really purifying my state of mind, choosing if I gave in or if I stayed. I knew i had to stay for my daughter. I TRULY do not wish this on anyone. I hope you all stay safe. In all of this, my fever never was above 99 degrees, but that’s how I am if my daughter is super sick with a normal sinus infection or flu, she may run a fever a few hours but I’ll show no sign. I have to say it has been and continues to be the most bizarre illness of my life, and I’ve survived bronchitis 4 times, pneumonia 2 times, and strepp and sinus infections countless times before I was 18. I have not gotten seriously ill at all in the last 8 years, as I quit smoking and made a lot of health and lifestyle changes, cut out a lot of milk products for the most part, which helped the sinus/upper respiratory issues. so this was a big shock to my life.

[@Art_of_Delphi]

Also, no, I could not get tested. Nearest test center was 1 hour away. During my worst symptoms they would not admit me for a test because my fever was not 102 and I had not traveled to any hot spot, I was part of community spread. There was no way I could have driven there by myself anyways, and no one to care for my daughter if I had to be admitted and quarantined. So I stayed. When I could breathe again without gasping, I called and talked to many nurses in my area who said I had the symptoms, to stay at home, quarantine. I also called Rockefeller University to see if I could be tested for the antibody to Covid-19, so that I could donate. That info is in my latest video as well. They gave me a detailed interview and also confirmed verbally that my symptoms matched and that they would use my information in their study on community spread. I am READY to donate my blood to see if I can help those suffering with my antibodies. I call my representatives daily to see what progress they are making to this end. Thus far, no one has a test center set up in my area, just in NYC. If you want info on how to contact Rockefeller for the study, it’s in the description of the videos I’m doing now. I really, really hope you guys all take this seriously and stay safe.

[@lauracollado924]

I'm in Madrid and some people are donating scuba diving masks as well because they can be used as ventilators quite easily! I'm on day 24 of confinement, and even though things are not going as well as planned, it is always nice to see how people share kindness for those who need it most

[@lizcademy4809]

I've been making masks too, according to my local med center's pattern. However, when I tell friends and family that I'm making them, they ask for masks, so I have few to donate. Non-medical face masks are also "good enough" protection for running necessary errands, such as supermarket runs for perishables. It really does make a difference! As citizens, our duty is to "flatten the curve" by being introverts and avoiding people. As an introvert myself, this is no hardship, but I feel for those extroverts who crave company.

[@Emily-ce7hd]

I feel ya. I initially just thought I'd try to make one for myself and my bf, but suddenly my sister and her husband and my roommate and his gf all want one to have around in case.

[@d.oridenne2227]

I am an extrovert and I'm deeply suffering.

[@kme]

I'm an introvert too, with a few bolts of cotton to spare, as well as bolt ends and offcuts and other bits. And an extrovert hubby (who is a very basic sewer himself) who is going stir crazy. I will suggest to him to try and do this too. He has his own fabric stash to draw from. I don't know if there is anywhere here in our area of Germany that needs/wants them, but we can try anyway. (I don't speak German so idk how to find out 😕 We only know the hospital where our daughter was born, which is in the city an hr bus ride (when the bus is running) away. I'm sure there are other places or people who might need them, but no way to ask. *frustrated*)

[@pandoraelysium]

According to here smartairfilters.com/en/blog/best-materials-make-diy-face-mask-virus/ cotton fabric bedsheets and tshirts make an excellent material that provide a lot protection, but also are very breathable, too. In my local community people ask for bedsheet donations which can be dropped in front of the house, so people with sewing machines can make masks out of them. :)

[@ambergregory2546]

@@d.oridenne2227 me too, so much Expecaly as a 2020 grad extrovert

[@stephanieruggles7783]

I am watching this video now in mid August 2020 in Germany. We have been successful to lessen the numbers of new infections. But now they are rising again. Nobody knows for sure why this happens but I personally cannot fight off the impression that this is due to the travellers for holidays despite of the worldwide corona pandemic. School has just begun after the summer holidays and only time will tell what we will be facing. I cancelled my travel to Scotland due to Corona and bought some music instruments instead. I am stemming from a singers family and music as well as singing have always carried my through challenging times like these. Unfortunately I have two left hands when it comes to sewing - be it by hand or machine. Please stay safe and take care you all - be it at the frontline or in quarantine.

[@texaspoontappa2088]

It's so lovely seeing the sewing community get together for such a good cause. Definitely one of the best communities to be a part of.

[@Dashi90]

Respiratory therapist here, thanking you and other home seamstresses for donating your time, effort, and materials to animal hospitals and the general public! We need all the masks that can be spared, and you need to be recognized and honored for stepping up and your efforts to help just as much as healthcare workers do!

[@laurenwilder1715]

Bernadette Banner and Angela Clayton!!!! Two of my favorite you tubers ever!!!! Stay safe and thank you!

[@nicolakunz231]

Dearest Bernadette, a true superhero using your powers for Good. As a South African we are on lockdown now and I wish you and your fellow citizens of your great city strength and luck over this time.

[@elizabethanne9692]

Thank you for acknowledging the frontline workers - as one of those workers (acute rehabilitation). I appreciate you!

[@SquirrelGirrl]

When "May you live in interesting times" actually happens. This is not what I envisioned by adventurous times. Looking forward to your next video. I watch your videos while working on my chain maille.

[@Natalieogriffin]

I'm a dog groomer, and since I can't work now because of everything, I have a ridiculous amount of adorable doggy print Easter material (originally for bandanas) that would be PERFECT for vets! Going to have to see it any around here want some.

[@lizthedisjointedzebra692]

As a medical professional (radiology at one of the two largest hospitals in my city), this just warms my heart. We have been running so low on surgical masks, and especially n95's, I can't tell you how much I appreciate you making masks, even though I wasn't one of the lucky people to receive one you made(luckily our hospital did make nice cloth masks that we just got today👍). I just appreciate you, and people like you, doing what you can to help. And it just absolutely tickled me how much care you put into these. I know they will last a long time, and really help those that received one. We have been relying on donated masks for patients(they are sterilized nightly, after each use, of course), so you guys donating are helping not just us healthcare workers, but patients as well. And I am so incredibly thankful💕

[@themurrrr]

Thank you. Anyone helping to stop further spread of this virus in ANY WAY, by sewing masks, or simply by self-isolating, is helping the world get through this nightmare. Not everyone can be on the front lines of this war, but really: EVERY LINE MATTERS. stay safe, everyone. Sending love from Curaçao ❤️

[@russells3444]

Bernadette, thank you for this. I am an ICU nurse and I appreciate you taking the time to research this matter and sharing the information. So many beautifully intentioned individuals are wanting to help alleviate the burden on healthcare workers but they do not know how. We had someone, in a allied specialty, bring in masks they had sewn from fabric they had at home but we could not accept them. I thanked them for the effort, but we couldn’t use them because their efficacy could not be substantiated. This individual earnestly desired to help and I felt awful declining their gift. The information you have provided here will properly equip those who wish to help to construct masks that will provide some measure of real protection. At this time we would not be able to wear these masks in a clinical setting, but I would certainly wear them in settings outside the hospital. I enjoy your channel very much and I am learning a great deal. I am still at the level of making pot holders, but I certainly hope to do more in the future. In the meantime, I have your videos to serve as inspiration. Thank you again. I think this video may fall into the category of public service. Our prayers are with you and your community.

[@MrVampireKitteh]

You are an inspiration! In last two weeks I have made and gave away for friends and family and donated to hospitals over 150 masks. And hope to make much more of them. Here in Lithuania we have also quite bad situation with protection stuff at hospitals! I hope you will stay safe and healthy! ❤️❤️❤️

[@angelwebber6026]

As a janitor who cleans the hospitals that test for the virus I’m so very grateful for the hospitals that we have cleaned to have donated two masks per employee at our cleaning service to better protect ourselves from the virus (sadly we have had two people contract the virus from a lack of ability to wear a mask) I have since crocheted form fitting masks for each person at our work place using a single stitch technique and using coffee filters and puffs lotion tissues as a sort of filler to better aid in the protection and filter out more bad air all while keeping the face cool to keep it on longer. They gave away their own supplies to protect the ones who have to prevent the spread of the virus by killing it on contact and those are the souls who deserve the most recognition for their actions. (We have people with heart problems and auto immune disorders and lung disorders working to keep these buildings clean and these hospitals are protecting us with all they have) we love them they deserve more

[@211Shinobu]

Thank you for keeping everyone in the hospital safe. If you google "suay shop towel mask" you will find articles that say that 2 layers of blue shop towels are better at filtering than most other materials if you have any in your garage.

[@tudorlady348]

Hi Bernadette, I’m in the UK but I’ve also been watching how things are in New York, very much with you in mind. So I was thrilled to see your video pop up this evening so I knew you were ok. Keep well and keep sewing!

[@timmyangeltlc4888]

I made over 250 masks for family and friends. I am still making for those who ask but have slowed down. Loved the video.

[@katherinemorelle7115]

I have seen some very interesting patterns for masks lately. There’s one I’ve seen that is only a two or three ply cotton, but contains a removable wire at the top, and also a pocket to insert a bit of filtration (like for a vacuum cleaner). Those ones, or so I’ve seen, are going to hospitals, because they have the ability to form to the fact, and have good filtration. I’ve also seen some hospitals asking for regular two or three ply cotton surgical masks (like the ones Angela is making), and they’re using them to put over the top of their N95s, to extend the life of those proper masks. Because the cotton “over masks” can be cleaned and sanitised and reused, where the N95s cannot. Though from what I’ve seen, no people in Australia are requesting cotton masks at the moment. Not that I have the skill at this point to make any. But from the medical advice I’ve heard, masks (normal surgical or the homemade cotton) aren’t great for preventing you from catching coronavirus, but they are quite good at preventing you from transmitting it, as they do catch whatever droplets come out when you cough or sneeze.

[@Groovygoats]

ICU RN here. THANK YOU!!!! But remember it’s not just doctors...nurses, respiratory therapist, health techs.....we ALL NEED these masks! Again, THANK YOU!!!

[@AlishN7]

Stay safe, Bernadette. Thank you for doing what you can to help. I hope by the time the ball in May goes around we will be past the point of danger, but we'll just have to see.

[@bernadettebanner]

Alas the ball has been postponed to next May, but this is probably for the best; New York at least seems to be in this for the long haul!

[@AlishN7]

Bernadette Banner that is very sad to hear, but probably a wise decision. But that also means you’ll have so much more time to prepare!

[@SharkGirlDano]

This is actually my introduction to sewing. I'm an essential worker and myself and my coworkers needed masks. I bought some cotton and joined one of the Facebook groups for my area for patterns and instructions and began sewing. I ended up not being too bad at the task once I got the hang of it and now have a new skill to hone.

[@alexreywils]

Very kind of you to reach out! If my Singer was up and running, I'd have a way to sew some masks. Unfortunately, all non-essential businesses in my state are closed as of Monday. I applaud everyone who is taking the time to make these masks for our medical professionals.

[@Eowyn3Pride]

I just so proud of you! Gold, your absolute gold!!! "I wish none of this had happened..." "So do all who live to see such times, but that is not for them to decide. All you have to decide is what to do with the time that's been given to you. "-Gandalf 😁❤❤❤

[@nikalee9265]

So much love and gratitude for you, Bernadette, and all the care that you put into every one of your videos, especially this one and those your producing during this epidemic. What you're doing is really helping to get me and others through this in a sane and calm manner. Thanks so much for being one of the measured and calm voices out there right now. It means so much ❤️ xxN

[@shilohstore6086]

My sister works in a hospital and I can't tell you how happy this made me, thank you for doing what you can do, it's that light in humanity that will see us through the dark!

[@theostheories6548]

I’ve made 50 of these to donate! I’m so glad I’m seeing bigger platforms do these to inspire people!!! I’m still making more (and following the hospital guidelines)! Thank you!!!

[@Sarah-Legacy]

I am now on my third week of isolation. We started isolation before anyone else in the us due to the nature of my parents' job. They knew how fast it was spreading and how dangerous it was going to be and made our whole house isolate before the government even ordered it. It has been hard, but it's been getting better. Your videos, as well as many others, here on youtube has made it much more bearable. I am thankful for all the people working in the front lines right now, risking getting sick, for the betterment of the world. Stay safe everyone.

[@ziasanchez6766]

We have been making many masks as well and given them to family, friends, hospice centers, and pediatrics facilities. I love seeing everyone do their part and help during this trying time.

[@fitbmx7744]

I have a friend in NYC that just finished making her 300th mask! Most all of them are going to homeless or areas in deep poverty, she is an angel. 💕

[@lavozdealma]

Thank you for doing this Bernadette! I'm a grocer and the last month has been nightmarish. To alleviate my anxiety with something productive, I have been making the pocket-style masks for my coworkers. I was originally inspired by your "cabbage patch" from the sewing room remodel, and thought, "I have a lot of cabbage, too..."

[@ragnkja]

Amanda Kirby Masks are recommended if you are infected, or suspect you are infected, and if you are in contact with a person who is confirmed or suspected to be infected with the coronavirus. In your line of work, it’s almost certainly only a matter of time before at least one of those is true.

[@maddisonsmith2748]

As someone who works at an animal hospital in Australia, we are so appreciative of anyone willing to give up their time and earnings towards donating these masks to us. What wonderful hearts you have ❤️

[@surabhiagrawal9936]

Thank you, Bernadette, for your time and labor in the fight against the scary thing ❤️ I hope you're taking care of yourself and staying sane :)

[@spellbound_1]

I work for a grocery store here in So-Cal, and I can honestly say my community has never been lovlier and more appreciative to us.

[@katieemccrary]

Me and my grandmother did the same thing! I'm so glad that you are helping out in New York. With a Victorian sewing machine, of course!

[@jencasey316]

My wife is a vet and they have had clients make them some at their office. They have all been very thankful.

[@rburns8083]

Once again you are a useful source of sound information and good advice. We can use some more of that kind of thing right now, so thank you.

[@wwaxwork]

Our local hospital & industrial sewing college have worked together to find the best materials to make the masks out of. A lot of the problem comes down to modern fibres & threads can't handle being autoclaved and melt, which makes more work & makes a lot of the stuff people are sewing with blended threads & materials unusable in a medical setting, they also need to be sewn very precisely to fit properly. The hospital & sewing group are working on finding supplies & supplying the correct materials to interested sewers who can sew to that standard. Now as Bernadette has said her masks are being used in not as strict a medical setting so as to free up more masks for hospitals and that is great and probably the level most home sewers that want to help could manage with the supplies they already have.

[@pandoraelysium]

Have you guys tried kzbin.info/www/bejne/kJ-5nGRoqKuFobs ? Theys suggest a combination of wiring at the nose area and double sided tape to quickly create custom fitting for the wearer. In terms of materials a lot of places locally are using pure cotton exclusively, as quality cotton can be autoclaved. Some hospitals are cutting up their surgery covering cloths to make masks out of them.

[@EVEspinosa79]

God bless you and everyone doing their best effort in this situation. Stay safe Bernadette.

[@pinkcupcake4717]

I hope the folks at this animal hospital learned that their masks are sewn on such an incredible and special machine! I know I'd be thrilled to have that little extra touch of coolness.

[@kanashiiookami6537]

And here was me wondering on how to go about making masks like this. I am currently hand stitching a mask contoured to my own face, many seams, many different pieces because I wanted a different fit, and every time I pick it up I wonder if I should make up a standard mask as well. Then comes your video as I am too bored to sit through those of people I don't know who end up saying that I need to print out their pattern to make it...(so I watched a few videos, hence getting fed up with those youtubers and drafting my own pattern for a contoured mask) So thank you for your video that simplified it in such a beautiful way (antique sewing machine glamour shots vs bad angle of modern singer/brother machine= you win everytime😊) Stay safe, and thank you for your videos.

[@thriftedpassion]

I’m an ICU nurse that works in an inner city hospital in Detroit and my unit is definitely a war zone. 😢 Thank you for making masks. I’m glad you recognize veterinary medical professionals, along with all medical workers, including nurses, techs, EMT’s, nurse aids, commissary personnel, PT/ OT, environmental workers and so many more people it takes to keep a hospital running. 🙏🏻 keep safe.

[@jessicaduarte3199]

As a nurse on the front lines, I thank you.

[@mouse-o5z]

Thank you for using fabric already in your stash! I work at Joanns and they refused to close in many areas, even shelter in place areas, claiming that they are “essential.” They do not have enough employees or cleaning products to keep the store safe and decontaminated, and the only option for workers is to take an unpaid leave of absence which means we can’t get unemployment. A lot of people are saying we should stay open because they need fabric for masks, and the company is peddling staying open as a good deed because of this when really it’s just about making more money. Anyway the point is @everyone: please do not go to fabric stores and endanger yourself and employees who have no choice but to be there, please use fabric from your stash.

[@TrappedinSLC]

In case anyone is still coming across this and making masks for themselves or others - please note that she used PRE WASHED fabric. It’s an annoying extra step but it’s really important as these masks need to be able to be well laundered and if you don’t pre-wash they may shrink when washed and that can distort the fit so the mask is no longer effective or potentially can’t even be used, depending on how much it shrinks and the design you used and so on. Since we want these masks to be able to be really quite aggressively washed if needed, I do my pre-wash on the sanitize setting on my machine, then dry on hot, then hot iron, also. If they manage to keep shrinking after that, they win.

[@xinalorreen2031]

I hope you came to terms with the fact that cotton sheets over breathing holes is not the way to keep people healthy. These "facial decorations", as reported by CNN, don't do anything to prevent a virus from entering or exiting your lungs. That's like expecting a chain link fence to stop the mosquitoes from getting into your yard. Trust the science! say people who've never learned that one can't see a virus with any normal microscope, they're so incredibly tiny. Also, their being the cause of disease has never been proven either. Terrain theory is worth a gander; germ theory isn't the only one addressing the origins of illness.

[@TrappedinSLC]

@@xinalorreen2031 n95 masks are of course significantly better, however at the time of this video there was a shortage and all n95 and similar were being directed to healthcare workers in most places. And a double layer cloth mask does limit the distance the air you exhale travels, which does help to manage spread in spaces with good ventilation, so are better than nothing at all.

[@melanievarela4048]

I'm a sewing mail carrier (thought not both at the same time). I have received many masks (and bottles of hand sanitizer and gloves) from my customers. So much so, that I donate it to my local Docs office (who asked me to make masks for them). You are doing a very good deed Miss Banner. Thank you.

[@aerolb]

It's nice to hear from you and, though I'm busy working, it is always nice to have a video from you. It's something to relax to. Take care of yourself, Bernadette, and everyone else in New York!

[@amandangelonix]

My mother work for a nursing home , i did a handfull of mask for her because the supply of medical one is low. I do them in two layers with an opening for her to put a filter in. I don’t have enough material for a 4layer one . Hope everyone is secure home and don’t forget your mental health. Love from belgium

[@strayiggytv]

My local vet clinic is taking in home made masks from the quilting club and donating their medical masks to Austin hospitals. It's wonderful to see them turning their craft to the common good.

[@sadmac356]

I'll probably end up setting up my sewing machine and joining this effort

[@eileenmarie1652]

This makes me so happy. My mom works at a hospital and is currently an emergency operations officer, so she is on the frontlines. She is currently working 24/7 as opposed to her normal 40 hour work week. My father, likewise, is a power plant manager, and is working his normal hours (7 days a week) to supply power as the last power plant open in a bi-state area, controlling millions of people’s power. All the others have had people with COVID19 and are now on quarantine. It is scary, as someone living at home and used to being here, to now see my parents rarely, not see anyone at all, just me and occasionally my brother coming down from his room. I would sew masks, but I live too far out to actually get in touch and send them off. Mail hasn’t come by in a week either. Praying for everyone, and again, Bernadette, I am so very grateful that you made masks.

[@troman7735]

As someone who works in health care, I can’t thank you enough. The hospital system I work for is running out of masks and we are all in a panic over it.

[@MsHEADbanging]

I am a cardiologist. My region and hospital have not been hit that badly but it's just the calm before the storm we all know it. You can feel the tension on the ward. We're preparing, we're talking protocols and procedures and options. We are waiting for the hit. Waiting is nerve-racking. I found your channel and since then I watched many videos. I fall asleep watching them because following you on your journey to create these items is one of the few things that can take my mind off all the "what ifs". Your channel is one of the few places I can find peace. When I heard New York was severely affected I thought of you. Stay safe!

[@nearlypeanuts4726]

- Ms. Banner, One is very glad that you are safe in this trying time! Having only found your KZbin channel within this decade, I may be rather behind on your lore, but what I am not behind on is concern for all who are affected by this present pandemic (see: everybody). I am living in the county of Hampshire, England; the hardest hit county in the country. As such, I feel a pang of solidarity and fraternity - or some other gender-neutral synonym - with you across the pond in (less than) Merry New York. I do have a point to my spiel though. My mum has a business making cards. They are beautifully sewn together from recycled and donated fabric. She has a very strong reputation in small shops around the Test Valley. She started making masks, and I, fooishly, tried to convince her not to. I did not realise that there was an international shortage of medical masks, and I did not realise how my actions could have been damaging. Thank goodness then, that her will is so strong! I will be helping her make the masks from now on. It only seems fair. Stay healthy, Ms. Banner. The world depends upon it! Edit: How on earth do your videos produce such an air of eloquence? I don't usually type like this, I promise, it just seems that you generate a pure Edwardian zeitgeist!

[@lifereachintl702]

Thanks for encouraging folks to sew masks. They can be hard to find! I am a midwife but also care for elderly folks in their homes. We are not a huge hospital/big business, but are considered essentials workers. I'm often using scarves/handkerchiefs with rubber bands as needed! I'm a seamstress but out caring for others with no time to sew. I am praying for your "war zone" and your contribution to the calm!

[@mistyhurley6555]

Thank you for taking the time to make the mask, also for showing how it's done. I'm a CNA at a retirement/nursing home.. We are also running low on mask. By doing this, you are making a difference, for that Thank You from the bottom of my heart.

[@Kaylawiththedachshunds]

As a veterinary technician I thank you for donating to a animal clinic. It has been a hard and strange time. I'm so glad you mentioned that there a place where we as a veterinary hospital can request masks

[@dymphygoossens]

Thank you for putting out this video. I really enjoy this slighty humerous take on the pandemic.

[@kieraoona]

It's strange to think that this was posted 1 year ago today. I have been binge watching your channel while doing my own hand sewing projects. I hope you stay safe!

[@GingerAstronaut]

It’s both sad and cool to see how many people are making masks and doing their part, even clubs and sports teams, (including one I’m in)in my town are making masks since they can’t meet or practice. We’ve been holding little sewing parties online and on FaceTime to make it more fun and less monotonous, but it feels good to be doing something that is at least somewhat helpful even though the masks can’t replace the real deal.

[@Aleahasummer]

Thank you so much for this video. I really appreciate the time and effort you have gone to here. My little sister is an ER nurse with you in NY who has unfortunately contracted COVID in the line of duty. Fortuntately she has been doing well and is okay. But she is very worried by the lack of proper PPE the hospitals currently have. That you have taken the time to highlight that home-made masks are to go to other locations, so the proper PPE as it becomes available can go to the front line, and that not everywhere can accept them is really important information to be spread. That needs and supply need to be matched also is important info so talking about the groups you are using to do so is also really important information. I am an emergency veterinarian who also needs these PPE equipment. Everything we have is going to human hospitals meaning my patients (your pets) are not getting the usual standards. I was literally screaming 'Yes, finally Yes!' at the screen while my poor husband tried to calm me. I swore if I am ever in NYC I will try to meet you if only to say thank you.

[@cle3763]

You posted this just as I finished my first mask! Talk about timing!

[@DogandaTopHat]

My mother-in-law has been cutting the fabric and I've been sewing them so that we can donate them. It's tough because everyone wants one, but we have a wait list that we are working through. Local hospitals are taking them and giving them to the patients, which I think is a good idea. We are also making some for law enforcement. What a wild time--but I'm so glad I learned how to sew (very basically, I might add) years ago through KZbin. I hope the masks are of use. And to God be the glory. ❤️