We’re so proud of Venture Connectors Board President and 2012 Venture Sharks pitch competition winner, Alli Truttmann! The Wicked Sheets CEO has begun making protective masks to fill a critical need for personal protective equipment (PPE).
With all available PPE going to healthcare workers on the front lines (and rightfully so), others who may be at risk are having to get creative to protect themselves. Alli recognized that her company’s materials and expertise could be put to a new use during the COVID-19 crisis.
The washable, hypoallergenic protective face masks have doubled layers of Wicked Sheets’ fabric, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control. Just like the company’s bedding, the masks are certified asthma and allergy friendly as well as moisture-wicking, giving wearers added protection, while still allowing them to breathe comfortably and easily.
Alli quickly pivoted to adapt her Louisville-based manufacturing operations and began sewing masks less than 10 days ago. Wicked Sheets has already filled orders for thousands of masks, with more orders pouring in every day.
Masks are $10 each and can be ordered online here. Please be patient with shipping. Wicked Sheets is experiencing incredible demand and is putting healthcare workers and vulnerable populations first as it ramps up production.
“Just like most people I know, I’m doing everything I can to keep myself, my friends, family and our community safe,” says Alli. “I just happen to be able to do a little more than most. Wicked Sheets’ operations are set up to sew fabric for our sleep products. Now, we’re simply turning some of our attention toward filling a gap in the supply chain and doing our part to flatten the curve. It’s what any entrepreneur in my position would do.”
Founded in 2008, Wicked Sheets has grown from operating out of a one-bedroom apartment to an international sleep brand. The company was recently featured on QVC and participated in the Global Startup Grind in 2019.
“We are a small, female-owned Kentucky company that was able to transform itself in order to help during a national crisis. We feel very fortunate that we’re able to make such an impact during this unprecedented time in history,” Alli adds. “We are welcoming remote makers and volunteers to help cut and sew to supplement our own manufacturing. Many recently unemployed folks have already stepped up to cut, sew and help us, help others. It’s unreal.”
If you’d like to get involved, contact Alli at alli@wickedsheets.com.
Thank you, Alli, for your creativity and hard work to keep our community safe during these challenging times!
