Author Archives: Melanie (Melly) Testa

Designing a Life (and a Flamingo)

These last few months have been challenging. I first lost my job and income, then I lost my Mom. My father passed away a few years ago and my sibling is no contact. This part of my life is coming to a close and a profound shift is occurring. I feel as if a reorderingContinue reading “Designing a Life (and a Flamingo)”

Emerging after a long silence

It has literally been years since I have utilized this space. The last time I used it, I lived in New York City. It was during Covid 19 lockdown. I was making some really comfortable masks, where all of my supplies were donated by my community. I had a two for one deal, where everyContinue reading “Emerging after a long silence”

Batwing Mask w Jersey Knit ear loops and Toggle Bead cinch (FREE PDF Pattern)

Jersey Knit Batwing<——-download this  I have been kinda bonkers for the GoodNotes app for iPad with pencil! Here is a FREE PDF #MellyMasks pattern, made using the GoodNotes app. This is a six page, full color pdf pattern with artistic illustrations. The PDF is indexed, has thumbnails and bookmarked pages for easy reference. Please, ifContinue reading “Batwing Mask w Jersey Knit ear loops and Toggle Bead cinch (FREE PDF Pattern)”

Grace, Running Stitch and the ten years between.

I recently listened my Quilters Save Our Stories (QSOS) interview from 2010, where I heard my own voice, an echo of my past, discussing quilt making and hard times. I did this in preparation for a new podcast interview called Running Stitch, also a Quilt Alliance offering, that seeks to highlight and expand upon their rich backlogContinue reading “Grace, Running Stitch and the ten years between.”

Gentleman Doll

Gentleman Doll is a mask makers YouTube channel of note! I suggest you check it out and subscribe! Gentleman Doll (PDF)wear glasses sAvailable in multiple sizes DIY Mask Making  Gentleman Doll sometimes provides PDFs for print out, and in the case of the mask you see here, the PDF can be found in the descriptionContinue reading “Gentleman Doll”

To ask is thrilling. To receive…

None of us could have known what it would mean to experience a pandemic, to be asked to ‘shelter in place’, or to wear a mask when leaving home. So many of us have lost our work and income. Some of us are able to work from home, an awesome benefit, if it is possible.Continue reading “To ask is thrilling. To receive…”

#MellyMasks-Buy One, Give one.

#MellyMasks are made using the Nurse Made pattern, with the benefit being that it can be worn over the N95 mask, extending its use. They are made using two layers of quality quilter’s cotton and can be washed and dried.  There are several ways to purchase or donate masks.  I am offering masks for sale through myContinue reading “#MellyMasks-Buy One, Give one.”

Gratitude, Donations, More Masks

This mask making endeavor is enabling me to remain centered in gratitude, giving, and appreciation for the labor of ‘Essential Workers’. Please check out my Go Fund Me. I get to do this work, while also navigating my response to living in Brooklyn, New York during a pandemic, in a hot spot. Making and givingContinue reading “Gratitude, Donations, More Masks”