Face Mask Filter Insert Tutorial Video

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For my fabric mask customers, here’s a tutorial (see below) on how to re-insert a face mask filter piece after washing.

For a little background on how I started sewing fabric masks and created a whole new part-time job without even knowing it, read on!

millaTuelle

I started my accessories business, millaTuelle (handmade purses, coin pockets, funky jewelry), in 2007. It was a time of discovery, taking risks and fulfilling a dream to finish out my 20s with a bang. It gave me the opportunity to use my Fashion Design degree, not in the grandiose way I had always dreamed about, but in a smaller way that allowed me to stay home with my new baby- my ultimate goal. The business offered flexibility, extra income and a creative outlet for many years until unexpected circumstances proved it was time to shut it down and move on.

While the timing of closing it was right (on paper), I struggled with a sense of failure. Why did I even go to school if I’m not using my degrees? Am I not passionate enough to keep my dream alive? After much time, I accepted that it’s okay to allow my dreams to change and grow along with my life. It doesn’t mean I failed. I had placed a lot of rules, limitations and expectations on my career that didn’t fit the life I was living at that moment and change was inevitable. I loved being at home with my kids, keeping house and having dinner ready (or kind of ready…) when my husband got home every day. But it was time to start working toward new dreams and getting out of my box to find what those may be.

Stitch Fix

A few years later when the opportunity to work for Stitch Fix was realized, it fit right into place with my personal priorities- flexibility, being at home for my husband and kids, my love for fashion, using my experience in retail and also helping others. It was a dream job that found me at the right moment and it was worth the wait!

Handmade Face Masks

Fast forward to the CoVid19 crisis and my neighbor asked if I would sew her some fabric face masks. I hesitated but said yes because it would keep my mind and hands busy at home. Word spread that I was dusting off my sewing machine and now, with 207 fabric masks (and counting!) already made and new orders coming in every day, I’m unexpectedly back to having a sewing business with a totally different vibe. My joy of sewing and creating in this way has been rediscovered! My kids have even gotten involved which is a fun extracurricular activity past their at-distance online learning.

While this crisis has created a lot of unexpected circumstances for so many people, I never dreamed it would bring me to this place and I am grateful. I am thankful for not only be working a flexible schedule with Stitch Fix at home but to also be using my sewing skills and education to help others during an uncertain time. Even though I’m busier than ever working two-part time jobs and helping with school, I’m reminded to keep your eyes open even when life feels hopeless because your next dream may just show up and you don’t want to miss it!