Diy Padded Crutch Covers Tutorial – Frugal And Fun!
Crutches are a necessary evil for anyone recovering from an injury or surgery. They support and aid in mobility, but they can also cause discomfort and pain. However, with the help of this DIY padded crutch covers tutorial, you can turn your crutches into a comfortable and stylish accessory.
Written by Lisa Nelsen-Woods, this tutorial provides step-by-step instructions on how to make your own padded crutch covers. It’s a fun and frugal way to add a personal touch to your crutches while also saving money.
The article includes a list of materials needed, measurements to take, and sewing techniques to follow. It also offers optional decoration ideas and tips on how to keep the covers in place. As an advocate for DIY and frugal living, the author encourages readers to try making their own crutch covers instead of buying pre-made ones.
With this tutorial, you can transform your crutches from a burden to a fashion statement.
Key Takeaways
- The tutorial provides materials needed such as crutches, padding, fabric, scissors, sewing needle, ribbon, fray check, coordinating thread, and sewing machine.
- The steps include measuring, cutting, sewing, and adding ties to the covers. Padding step is also included for those who need it.
- The tutorial includes both sewing machine and hand sewing options and optional use of iron on hemming tape.
- The author encourages DIY and frugal living, and provides an option to buy pre-made crutch pads and subscribe to their RSS feed or email updates.
Materials Needed
The necessary materials for creating these frugal and fun DIY padded crutch covers, as outlined in Lisa Nelsen-Woods’ tutorial, are not difficult to acquire.
Firstly, crutches are required, which can be purchased or rented from a medical supply store or hospital. The padding can be found at the same store, or can be repurposed from an old mattress or cushion. Fabric can be chosen according to personal preference and can be bought from a fabric store or repurposed from old clothes or curtains. Scissors, a sewing needle, coordinating thread, and a sewing machine are also necessary for the project. Finally, ribbon and fray check will be needed to add the final touches to the covers.
By using these materials, crutch users can create comfortable and personalized covers that will help them during their recovery process. The tutorial also includes an optional decoration step, where Glitter Duck Tape and a heart paper punch can be used to add a touch of kitsch to the covers.
This tutorial encourages frugal living as an alternative to buying pre-made crutch pads, and empowers users to create their own unique covers.
Steps and Instructions
To make the padded covers, one must first gather the necessary materials including crutches, padding, fabric, scissors, sewing needle, ribbon, fray check, coordinating thread, and a sewing machine.
The first step to creating the covers is to measure the crutches and cut the padding and fabric to the appropriate size.
Next, there are two options for sewing the covers together: by hand or with a sewing machine. For those who prefer using a sewing machine, the covers are sewn inside out and then turned right side out before adding the ties. For those who prefer hand sewing, the covers are sewn together with a whip stitch and then the ties are added.
The tutorial also includes the option to use iron-on hemming tape for the hems.
Overall, the instructions are clear and easy to follow, making this a fun and frugal DIY project for anyone in need of crutch covers.
Optional Decorations and Tips
Optional decoration and customization can add a personal touch to the crutch covers, making them stand out and reflect the user’s personality. In this tutorial, the author suggests decorating the covers with Glitter Duck Tape and a heart paper punch. These options are not only fun and creative, but they are also easy to execute.
The author has also been featured in This Old House Magazine twice, which lends credibility to her advice and tips. It is worth noting that the author encourages frugal living, so using items that are already available at home or can be purchased at a low cost is recommended.
Additionally, the author emphasizes the importance of the double bow tie to keep the covers in place, which is especially useful for those who will be using the crutches for an extended period. With these tips and suggestions, users can make their crutch covers both functional and stylish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find crutches to make the padded covers for?
Crutches can be found at medical supply stores, pharmacies, or online retailers. They may also be available for rental from hospitals or healthcare providers. It is important to ensure the crutches are the correct size and weight capacity for the user before beginning to make padded covers.
Are there any specific types of padding or fabric that work best for crutch covers?
Padding with a thickness of at least 1 inch and fabric that is soft, durable, and easily washable work best for crutch covers. The type of padding and fabric can vary based on personal preference and needs.
How long does it typically take to make a pair of crutch covers?
The amount of time it takes to make a pair of crutch covers depends on the individual’s sewing abilities and whether they choose to use a sewing machine or hand sew. The tutorial provides step-by-step instructions for both methods.
Can the covers be washed and how should they be cared for?
The covers can be washed in cold water and should be air-dried. To maintain their shape, avoid using the dryer or iron. Use a stain remover if needed and store them in a dry place.
Are there any safety concerns or precautions to keep in mind when using padded crutch covers?
When using padded crutch covers, it is important to ensure they do not interfere with the crutch’s stability or function. Regularly check the covers for wear and tear, and avoid using them if they become loose or damaged. Proper care and maintenance, including washing and drying according to instructions, can also help prevent safety concerns.