A.B. Mask - for a nurse by a nurse
A.B. Mask Pattern
fabric mask and N95 cover
designed by a nurse for a nurse
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A.B. Mask This pattern is designed to fit in two ways. First, directly over the face, similar to a surgical mask. Second, the pleats expand, allowing the mask to fit over many models of N-95 to provide a protective barrier, in the hope of extending the lifetime of the respirator. The mask can and should be washed after your shift, just like your scrubs.
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Many of us front line health care workers are experiencing a range of emotions in the wake of the current pandemic. To add to the confusion and uncertainty, healthcare professionals are being told by hospital administration to use disposable equipment in unprecedented fashion with next to no acknowledgement of the compromised they are making to personal safety. PPE is extremely limited. Nurses across the nation report they are working without access to any type of mask.
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In my family, sewing is an act of love. This pattern could be how seamstresses in our communities communicate their solidarity. This mask says, I see you. I worry about your safety and I want to contribute in the way I know how.
Finally, I believe these mask may demonstrate our protest and passive disobedience. We will make a statement when all across the country, medical professionals start showing up to work in fabric masks, sewed by members of their community, from of a hodgepodge of fabrics in every color. The act of wearing this mask could become an visual representation of the sacrifices we are making and our unwavering dedication to care for others in their time of need - regardless of the most recent constraints of the terribly broken system we work within.
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I started this project from a place of love for my fellow frontline healthcare workers. It will remain an act service to the community. However, not everyone sews or knows someone who can.
Many of you have generously expressed a desire to provide financial support to our cause. Any funds raised will be used to purchase more fabric and supplies as our stashes are already running thin. I have continued brainstorming improvements to the current design and have several ideas on how make modifications to include more effective filtration material. A portion of funds will help support this mini R&D effort.
Sew On! Be Safe!
love,
Jessica
