OWENSBORO, Ky. (WEHT) — Those who wish to help with the nationwide shortage of medical supplies can do so by sewing surgical masks at home. Owensboro Health Regional Hospital says the supply of manufactured surgical masks are at critically low levels and fabric masks are a great alternative as they can be re-used after washing.

According to a post on the hospital’s website, non-matching fabrics, thread and binding strips are fine. but a well sewn mask with no frayed edges or missed seams is most important. Hospital staff will need to change their masks multiple times a day as the mask becomes soiled or damp, for maximum protection.

In order to ensure the masks are safe and effective, the post asks sewers to consider the follow the following points:

  • It is most helpful to use a standard pattern to ensure proper fit and function.
  • Please use the following patterns. They are most similar to our current products.
  • Recommended fabric for the outer portion of the mask includes heaver, non-stretch fabric such as denim, duck cloth, canvas, twill, or other tight woven fabric.
  • Recommended fabric for the inner lining and filter pocket can be other cotton, cotton-blend non-stretch fabric. It can be thinner and softer, but again recommended minimal or non-stretch.
    • Must be laundered in HOT water prior to sewing to prevent future shrinkage.
  • Polyester or other less breathable fabric will not work as well, due to moisture produced when breathing.
  • If using denim or other fabric that is being “recycled”, please be sure it is clean and in good shape. Worn or dirty fabric will not be protective.
  • Elastic should be in good shape, with plenty of stretch and of an appropriate size to fit over the ears. 1/16 inch round cord or 1/8 inch braided work best.
  • If elastic is not available, fabric ties can be sewn on the mask. There will need to be 4 ties (one tie on each of the 4 corners). Ties should be approx. ¼ inch in width, sewn in such a way that there are no frayed edges, and long enough to be tied into a bow on the top of the head (for the top corner and behind the head for the bottom corner).

Completed Masks

Completed masks should be sealed in a plastic bag or plastic box for drop-off. The location for drop-offs will be posted sometime early this week on this page. Owensboro Health Regional Hospital will wash the masks prior to use so you don’t need to clean them before dropping them off.

For more information, please email Debbie Zuerner Johnson at Debbie.Johnson@OwensboroHealth.org.

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(This story was originally published on March 22, 2020)