Sew On and Sew Forth!

Monday March 23, 2020 7 PM

Face masks in healthcare are in short supply.  While we at JAA currently have face masks available for internal use, we need to ensure we have a stockpile supply of back-up masks when supplies begin to run low.

We are asking our friends, neighbors, families, and colleagues to put your foot to the pedal — “Sew On & Sew Forth!” 

Make a  face mask!  It does  take  some technique but don’t be discouraged.  It’s easy once you get the hang of it.

Here is a quick HOW TO and a link to a helpful video produced by the experts, JoAnn Fabrics.  While you won’t be able to go to any of the craft stores for supplies, you can get creative.  The basics are well, pretty basic:

What you need:  100% cotton or a cotton/poly blend; 1/4″ elastic (for the ear pieces); interfacing if you have it; pins; needle; thread; sewing machine; scissors; ruler; pencil; paper to make a pattern.

How to make a facemask: Follow these easy directions and then “Sew On & Sew Forth” 

SPECIAL REQUEST: At JAA, we will do our part to add filters inside each mask we receive so we ask that you LEAVE A TWO-INCH OPENING in any  mask  you donate. We’ll take care of the rest.

All masks should be washed and ironed prior to donation.  We will also launder them for extra TLC. 

Take a photo of your face mask and send it to us at infojaa@jaapgh.org.  We’ll pick some colorful examples to put on our website and facebook page.

If you are struggling and need some advice from a seasoned sewing veteran, check in with JAA’s own Jen McCay at jmccay@jaapgh.org.  Email Jen  your phone number if you’d like to chat about mask making.

Face mask donations can be shipped to JAA, 200 JHF Drive, Pittsburgh, PA  15217   attn: Jen McCay.

Or you can drop them off at our main entrance off Browns Hill Road on the JAA campus (up the hill at the Wintergarden entrance). Sorry you can’t come in but we are happy to meet you at the door!

Our staff and our seniors can’t wait to see your creations. We know they will be both enjoyable and beneficial.

Thank you for all you do to help seniors at JAA.