Mask Makers: A Folk Group

          When the first quarantine ordinance hit the United States, many were frustrated at the thought of being isolated from their friends and family. As the situation became more dire and PPE supply lines were interrupted, many kind souls took it upon themselves to provide protection for themselves and others. Organized through existing sewing circles, or joined together through social media, people banded together to ensure those less fortunate in their communities were safe. 

          These groups can consist of any number of people, with any level of textile knowledge who simply want to do something. The most prominent example is the group "Sew the Curve Flat" out of the Northeast of the United States, who are dedicated to providing free masks for homeless and low-income individuals who have no access to PPE. Girl Scout groups, individual students and community resource enthusiasts have all banded together to distribute face masks to anyone who is in need. There are also groups who do not have access to the materials, yet still share and circulate free sewing patterns for masks for both adults and children. Anyone can be in this folk group, as long as you have the motivation for making or learning how to make face masks, and want to give back to your community.

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          The project FreeLittleLibrary has long been providing books for anyone to borrow, yet they've also begun including free face masks in these libraries for anyone who may need them. Below are visual examples of many different people, from all over the world ensuring others are protected from the virus.