A new design, a local crafter, and a passion for fabric come together for a new mask in town, and all for a good cause.
For a suggested donation of just $5, folks can purchase a handmade face mask this Saturday – and support Stepping Stones of Dunn County. At 11 a.m., Shari Hainstock Johnson will be displaying and selling a selection of 300 masks in adult and children’s sizes in front of Menomonie’s Mabel Tainter Center for the Arts (203 Main St.) until they’re gone.
A former volunteer at Winter Haven, Shari sees the fundraiser as a way to help house those in need since COVID-19 restrictions forced the closure of Stepping Stones’ overnight shelter for homeless individuals for the 2020-21 winter season.
Her unique double layer 3-D style mask with ear loops fits nicely over the nose without a wire insert. In addition to the added comfort, the design helps reduce the fogging effect that plagues those who wear glasses.
“I made and gave away (with donations) about 5,100 masks earlier this spring and summer,” Shari said, noting that she undertook the project with support from the Mabel Tainter and from The Duke & Dagger. “I didn’t have the heart to throw out the smaller fabric remnants from that, which is great, because this new design allows me to use them!”
