With the new order to wear face covers due to the coronavirus, I was motivated to try making my own. I found a pretty photo that led me to a very easy DIY pattern and I gave it a go — by hand, that is. I don’t know what it is about the sewing machine. Just the thought of threading it exhausts me. So, I figured sewing with thread and needle would be easier – and it was. It took me about two days to finish my first mask, with a little work here and there and it turned out all right.

But then, I wanted to make a few more for everyone in the house, and I knew that if I kept sewing them by hand I would soon be sick of the project and my hands would be very achy.

I couldn’t remember how long it had been since I had plugged in my sewing machine. I’ve had this machine since before Sarah was born, so I guess it’s at least 16 years old. I haven’t used it much and it still looks brand new. I like it.

But things didn’t go so well. The stitches on the top of my work looked great, but the bottom was a total mess! If it weren’t for all the trouble I had with the machine, I would have made 20 masks by now. I might even be in business. But no, the machine decides to be temperamental. So, I have finished four – no, I take that back – five masks. One I want to send as a gift. I wish it were easier. It looks so easy.

My Facebook friends that know how to sew suggested my problem could have to do with my machine’s tension. I had no clue what they meant, but I watched a bunch of videos on YouTube and after about four videos, I started fussing with the thingy that hides under the needle. It worked better, but it isn’t perfect yet.

So, I tried. The good thing is, I pulled out the machine; I used up a bunch of fabric I’ve had stored in an old chest in my house for almost 16 years, and we now have something to wear to protect us from the virus when we go to the grocery store.

Here’s a photo of the masks I’ve made so far.

Tomorrow is Mother’s Day. I just want to go on a hike in the morning and enjoy a good breakfast. Normally we’d go out to breakfast, but in corona times, we eat in. Happy Mother’s Day to all!