An army of volunteers has been making facemasks to ensure people stay safe during the coronavirus pandemic.
And they have been extremely busy in recent days as wearing face coverings in shops became mandatory.
Sarah Stevenson from Castle Douglas is one of the sewers and has used it as a chance to raise money for charity.
She said: “I had been doing the One Million Step Challenge for Diabetes UK as my mum is diabetic but was struggling for sponsorship.
“When I started making the masks I asked people if they were able to donate and have raised £450.
“I’ve also asked people to make donations to their local foodbank or Unicef’s make a mask campaign so three different charities are benefiting.
“I’d made a few earlier for people at work and friends and family but when it was announced they were going to be made mandatory I had 80 orders over Facebook.
“I dusted off my 25-year-old sewing machine that I probably hadn’t used for 15 years and I think my other half has been getting fed up as I’ve been spending all my time sewing.”
Charlene Saunderson from Crossmichael has found herself in the unusual position of being behind a sewing machine, having never sewed before.
She said: “It’s been quite easy. I watched a video on Youtube.
“I only started when it was announced they were becoming mandatory. I’ve made 40 so far and have another 40 to do. I’ve even posted them to Glasgow.
“The medical ones aren’t very attractive and I think if people have something nice they’re more likely to wear them.
“It’s become a bit of a fashion statement. I’ve also been making matching mother and daughter ones which have become quite popular.”
Although she is not charging for the masks, Charlene has been asking for donations to charity.
But if you have not got your order in yet you are too late. This week saw her return to her job as a hairdresser.
