CRAFTER SEWS TO HELP OUT OTHERS
MAKING facemasks for local health workers and community groups is a way to give back, says Rachael Byrne of Ashgate Crafts.
She is among the many in the Arklow community who are using their sewing skills to help others during the Covid-19 situation.
‘I’ve made 70 so far for community groups and healthcare professionals. I’ve also had requests from local nursing homes and individuals who are immuno-compromised,’ Rachael said.
After receiving a big response to her post online, Rachael got to work producing the masks from spare cotton fabric in her workspace. She is volunteering her time and will donate all the masks to local community groups in the Arklow area.
‘ They’re not as good as medical grade masks, but it might offer some extra comfort to someone if they are going out to the supermarket.’
The HSE advise if an individual does need to wear a face mask that they ensure to use it correctly.
Many local quilters and stitchers have been busy at their sewing machines making masks for the community. Rachael said friends have donated fabric to be used for marks.
‘I had some extra time at home so I thought I may as well do what I can to help out. I have family and friends who are nurses and everyone is trying to do their little bit.’
Rachael runs an online sewing business, Ashgate Crafts, handmaking baby bibs, reusable cloths and other items.
She is also using her sewing skills to make a ‘Covid Quilt’. For every day at home, Rachael is adding an extra square to the quilt.
‘It’s 26 squares at the moment so it’s going to be a very big quilt. It’ll be something to look back on in a few years to remind me of this time.’