SCRUBS FOR EPSOM & ST. HELIER
Ann Lott
I learnt to sew at school and have sewn on and off over the years as a hobby. Sewing helps me to relax whilst creating something.
When my daughter was born I made lots of clothes for her in bright fabrics; I was sorry when she grew out of them and couldn't wear them any longer. Life got busy when I returned to work full time and the sewing machine sat unused for many years. Apart from a jumpsuit and a pair of trousers for my now grown-up daughter, I hadn't made anything for over 20 years.
Then a friend told me about 'For the Love of Scrubs’ and I thought why not ? My daughter found our local group, ‘Scrubs for Epsom and St Helier’, via Facebook and I was put in touch with Maxine who had a spare pattern and Kim who provided me with some fabric.
My first pair took me ages and I struggled with a couple of tricky bits. But this is a lovely, supportive group and I found plenty of advice and tips in the numerous posts on the group's Facebook page. I followed the advice about making up the scrubs in batches and that is definitely the way to go - you soon get into a rhythm with the repetition of each stage, so by the end of the next five sets I was feeling a lot more confident.
It's been great seeing what others have been doing - from scrubs and gowns to headbands, bags, caps and ear protectors. There are some very talented and imaginative people out there ! I've learnt a lot of new techniques which I will continue to use beyond the making of scrubs. Whilst obviously we will all be relieved when this virus is no longer a threat, I shall feel a bit sad when I make my last set of scrubs. It's a privilege to be part of this nationwide effort.