A set of guidelines for crafters

My idea is to set up a group to write a set of guidelines for the benefit of crafters who are contributing hand crafted items for NHS and care workers

Why the contribution is important

There are literally hundreds, if not thousands, of crafters using their own time and money to make things such as scrubs, masks, ear protectors etc to help make things easier for frontline workers.

As far as I know there are no guidelines and this can cause problems. It would be helpful to know things such as:
A. What is required at any given time
B. Which fabrics/elastic/threads are acceptable to use for hospital/care home workers
C. Which filters should be in masks and how often should they be changed
D. Safety issues ie children using masks
E. Who would you contact to offer help
F. Are there distribution centres

I feel this is important because there are so many conflicting tutorials online.

In the past week I have been informed that -
A lady was asked to make scrub bags, only to be told they are no longer required
B synthetic thread melts at the wash temperature required in hospitals
C crochet ear protectors were the wrong size

Can I add that many of the people making these items are not experienced crafters, but just want to contribute in these difficult times. There are countless stories online of people saying “I haven’t sewn for years, but got my machine out again”. I know of three people who have learned to crochet just so they can make some ear protectors which makes wearing masks for long hours more bearable.

I am a very experienced multi media craft teacher and, would be happy to help with this if required
www.gillcolthart.com

by GillColthart on May 11, 2020 at 05:44PM

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Based on: 6 votes

Comments

  • Posted by Mibbies May 11, 2020 at 18:20

    Absolutely, I've been making cloth masks for a few weeks for my family and neighbours. There has been a lot of trial and error, would have loved simple instructions on best material size etc.
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