BRIGHT SPOT

Local businesses are bringing vibrant and unique fabrics to the world of masks

Three months ago very few people would have included face masks in their inventory of fashionable accessories.

Initially, as the pandemic hit communities across the country, it was believed non-medical grade face masks did very little to help battle the virus. However, in early April, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released a statement saying simple, homemade cloth face coverings and masks could help slow the spread of the coronavirus.

Many people are asymptomatic and unknowingly spread their germs but a mask can help prevent passing along the virus.

Additionally, starting May 16, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham began requiring New Mexicans to wear a mask while in public. Several people, following the advice of the CDC, had already began wearing masks while shopping or running other errands. This naturally led to an increased

demand for face masks.

That’s also when people started to put some thought into something they might have to wear every day. Fashionable, trendy and stylish face masks with pictures, designs, favorite characters and sports teams have emerged along with the demand.

Locally, hobby and professional seamstresses and sewists have been working their needles overtime to create unique and custom masks. Businesses have also shifted their focus to include mask making with a unique flare. Both the National Institute of Flamenco and Opera Southwest are using material they would have used for costumes to make masks.