Let's all start making homemade masks...

There were lots of people wearing masks when I went shopping too.

Then I watched a man and a woman who met in the street remove their masks, have a hug and stand and chat .

More people did seem to be wearing a mask when I went shopping last.

Maybe those on the waiting lists could be making masks instead.

I’ve just checked out our two nearest For the Love of Scrubs groups and they’ve each had so many volunteer sewers in the last 2 days that anybody else interested now has to go on a waiting list.

I wonder if Matt Hancock or Boris Johnson will ask the general public to start making masks in the same way they asked the public to help volunteer to help with the NHS a few weeks back.

I've just had a text from a young former colleague who is now teaching in Dubai.

They have been in serious indoor lockdown, but will now be allowed outside, with masks and social distancing.

I'm sending her the information!?

Thanks Granmarie... please keep this thread alive with others and let us know how you get on...

Please read the link I posted and don't use open fabrics, like linen or silk.

Goldenlady1, thanks for this interesting thread.?

I have a collection of pretty, long scarves.

When I have to go to the supermarket, once every 7- 10 days, I double wrap one tightly over my nose and mouth, a bit claustrophobic but better than nothing.

Then throw it in the washing machine as soon as I get home.

I think I'll try making masks from some thick cotton tea towels, never used, holiday souvenirs!

I have been wearing masks from day 1. Some home made and some disposable bought ones. But today my mask and filters arrived from wherever. Ordered them online and they took two weeks. They fit well with a bit to go under the chin and have a pocket inside to put the filter. I shall carry on wearing mine when ever I go out and not wait for this government to make a decision on whether to wear one or not. It makes sense to wear one.

Lovely idea, Maggiemaybe. ?

I do have some Pooh Bear curtains that were heading for the charity shop that I thought might make masks for children’s carers, if these are needed near us.

It'd be nice to see some cheery ones

Just been trying to read up on the best filter if you are going to insert one.

It does say be careful what you use as some filters have fibreglass in them.

What we all need to do is to spread the message as much as possible... rather than relying on politicians...

sussexborn - yes, you said it!!! What's the problem with EVERYONE wearing a mask: if everyone wears a mask which actually protects everyone else, doesn't that give us the result we want? I can't see it's so complicated. One more small thing to help keep us safe.

The whole point of masks is that you protect me and I protect you so win win for both parties.

A few people wear them covering their mouth but not their nose which is odd. A mask might also be a reminder not to touch your face which can be done unconsciously.

Here's a prediction: next shortages will be hepa filters, coffee filters and pipe cleaners.

I'd like to see the people who are currently wearing masks wear them properly. I keep seeing mouths covered and noses out - what is the good of that?

In Germany - it varies from state to state.

According to BBC yesterday:

Mask use will be compulsory on public transport throughout Germany, and nearly all states will also make face coverings mandatory when shopping.

In Poland - they are compulsory in public places.

Interesting. Look as though everyone's headed that way then.

In Austria - you have to wear them in shops or on public transport.

In Slovakia - the wearing of face masks is compulsory once you leave home.