Look for the Helpers

One of my favorite quotes is from Fred Rogers.  “When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’”  That quote seems so appropriate now, with all that the world is going through.  As a member of the staff of Always In Stitches I couldn’t be more proud of the work being done. Always In Stitches has created mask kits that makes 20 masks. The mask kits are available for order on the web page and a pattern has been posted on the Always In Stitches web page (www.alwaysinstitches1.com). Customers and staff members are busy sewing masks to donate to those in need. People who can’t sew are buying the mask kits so others can make them up. These kits can be delivered to your porch anywhere in Hamilton County or you can pick them up from the safe area in the vestibule at the shop even though the shop is closed. There is also an area in the vestibule to drop off completed masks.  All that we ask is that no more than one person at a time is in the safe area.  The completed masks will be delivered safely to places in need. We will get through this if everyone follows a few simple safety precautions.  A friend had a quote on her Facebook page that also rang true to me.  The way you say things makes such a difference.  “You’re not stuck at home, you’re safe at home.  One word can change your attitude.”  Stay safe everyone and remember look for the helpers.

From the Always In Stitches Website

We have communicated with state government officials and medical personnel in an effort to bring you the most accurate information as of March 23, 2020 regarding the sewing of masks. 

In the interest of being effective in our efforts please read the following:

• Use ONLY good quality cotton fabric such as quilting cottons or dense woven cotton - we suggest a layer of cotton and a layer of flannel in each mask.
• Wash all fabric BEFORE making the mask - these need to withstand repeated washings and must be pre-washed prior to making the mask.
• This pattern includes the use of a wire across the nose which we do not recommend - this may limit the potential use of a mask, as wire does not hold up to the repeated washing/sterilization.
• They prefer masks without elastic - if you use elastic it does not hold up to repeated washing/sterilization.
• If you are sick or someone in your home is sick, please do not spread those germs by making/delivering masks to any location.

We have a secure area open to one person walking in at a time at our shop location 1808 East Conner Street. You may leave finished masks and if someone wants to take masks from this area to deliver that is ok too.  We are just creating a central point for drop off and collection.

Please watch our Facebook page for the latest information about this ongoing situation. Together we will manage to get through this health crisis and come out better for it in the end.  Stay safe and keep washing your hands.