Amelia Wisner

What motivated you to start sewing masks? The motivation began as I came to the harsh realization that covid-19 was real. The lack of PPE was real and the need was real. Often times when there is a need for something or I think I should be more involved, I pray about it and see where it goes. This not always but usually leads to that "gut feeling" which in turns means I jump in and do what I can. Bottom line, the Holy Spirit motivated me.

How did you learn to sew? The only sewing class I ever had was in Home Economics class in high school. I had never taken on a project nor cut out a pattern since then. A beautiful lady in my church mentored me in t-shirt quilt making a few years ago. It was my excuse to get to know her better. 

How long have you been sewing? I am a novice to sewing. I learned in high school. I would occasionally see certain patterns or styles while in college and would drag out my grandmother's treadle Singer sewing machine and insert extra material in my bell bottoms or make a patchwork skirt.

What other sewing projects did you do prior to the March 21 call for hand made masks? I inherited the sewing machine I now own. It sat in a tote for years. I decided I wanted to give my children a special Christmas gift of their t-shirts made into a quilt. I finished hemming them on Christmas Eve. They were very appreciated but I decided to leave projects to others more qualified until our mask project.

What is your favorite sewing tip or piece of equipment? Describe the area where you sew? My tips would all surround the safety of using a sewing machine and have a very comfortable adjustable chair. I had my machine set up on my dining room table with great lighting.

What part of the mask project has been most meaningful to you? Everyone that has received a mask has been genuinely grateful. I truly am the least talented seamstress on our team, but those receiving a mask appreciated the effort. Just knowing that the possibility of protecting someone from the virus has layers of meaning. 

What has been your biggest frustration? Elastic. 

When members in the future look back on our work, what would you want them to say? I hope when our future members look back at this project they applaud our teamwork. The mask project was successful for many reasons. The Lexington Chapter is not a “I, me, my chapter.” It is a “we, our” chapter. This project was not only about meeting a community need, it was about ladies who were willing to help in any capacity. Yes, sewing masks was the focus, but the before and after of making each mask therein shows the heart of The Lexington Chapter. This project truly encompassed the love and respect we as The Lexington Chapter share with our sisters, our community, our state, and our nation.