Edit: As of April 9, 2020, NOLA Beaux Ties LLC has donated 1,000 masks to local healthcare facilities.
NOLA Beaux Ties, a local company that produces hand-crafted bow ties and cotton squares, has halted production to respond to the demand for surgical masks. They are providing these masks to local healthcare workers, nursing home residents and other seniors free of charge. The company has extended its level of detail and precision to their current pursuit – these masks follow CDC protocol, are made with double material and have an extra wire on the top to pinch around the nose and upper cheek for an adequate seal around the mouth.
The demand for these masks stands at unprecedented levels, and their supply is small. Employees are working extremely quickly to produce quality products. The company has already distributed 400 masks to hospitals and nursing homes. The magnitude of need has taken the company by surprise, but they continue to rise to the challenge to keep our local frontline heroes safe. The community has gathered to donate plenty of fabric and thread – these materials are largely sold out or back ordered until May so it is because of the generosity of New Orleans residents that NOLA Beaux Ties are currently able to produce masks. They are still in need of cotton fabric, white thread, ¼” and ⅛” elastic. Elastic is extremely hard to find right now.
Although they are not charging for masks, they are gratefully accepting donations. If you feel inclined to support their efforts, the company has an amazon wish list for materials. Here is their wishlist.
They are also taking requests for medical masks. If you are or know a health care worker in need of surgical-grade masks, reach out to them on their website at https://nolabeauxties.com/contact or email dave@nolabeauxties.com.
