Cloth Masks

As the worldwide public health crisis continues, the public health direction is changing on wearing masks.

I am offering no medical advice here. But in Ontario, as of July 6, 2020, by public health order, non medical masks will be required in indoors public settings. For your reference then, here are some Ottawa and regional resources that could help you get a cloth mask into your possession.

Free Cloth Masks for the Ottawa Public

This is a facebook group that is a grassroots space where Ottawa residents connect to obtain / share homemade cloth masks to reduce the spread of the covid-19. No monetary contributions are accepted (but charitable donations elsewhere are appreciated in lieu).

According to the description on fb, the aim of the group is:

“To allow people in and around Ottawa to coordinate and respond to needs and requests quickly and efficiently, by creating a network that:
*Provides the best, most up to date, science-based information on the use of masks to reduce community transmission of the coronavirus
* Helps residents of Ottawa obtain cloth masks for personal use
* Provides a space where crafters and members of the public who want to wear masks can access each other efficiently.”

Ned Madison

Ned Madison is a Canadian retailer that focuses on music inspired fashion but have reoriented at this time to the production of face masks. $10/mask no delivery charge for Ottawans.

Thawrih

Thawrih have a goal of creating unity through fitness and hire newcomers to Canada to produce sports hijabs and turbans. Since late March, they have been in the “sports mask”-making business as well. $20 for a package of two. You can order here.

Dovetail Ottawa

Pre-covid, Dovetail Ottawa made fashionable masks for estheticians for work but have since pivoted to producing face masks for the public. You pay for the mask (about $40) and for Canada Post delivery rates. Contactless delivery to the door may be possible in the Ottawa downtown core as well. Find them on instagram.

Annie 50

One of my fav go-to’s for local vintage inspired workwear, Montreal based Annie 50 is producing masks. Find them here for $20 each plus Canada Post shipping.

No Sew DIY Option

Here is a video of a DIY mask that requires no sewing skills (and no elastic, which is helpful given the current shortage in many stores). Thanks to D Bastien for this.