mommafank

Has anyone ever made a carry bag for a portable defibrillator? I am thinking it needs to be quilted and sort of look like a purse. My SIL has to wear one and I would love to make something for her to make it look less like a machine. It has a carry strap that goes over the shoulder like a purse. It is not very big but needs to made so the buttons are accessible. I have looked on line without success.

I hope someone knows of a pattern or can help me a bit with this.

PaperPrincess

Looks like there are several makes and models, all slightly different. I guess I would measure her unit and make an open tote. Here's a video on measuring and making a sewing machine cover. You can use this cover upside down for a basic bag, then add handles, and a ribbon to tie the top. As far as openings for the buttons, you have several options. You can just cut a hole in the appropriate place and bind the opening, or use an oversize curtain grommet. They come in different sizes and colors. Here's an example:
http://www.joann.com/dritz-home-curt...rd1002400.html

RST

I've made bags for lots of different medical equipment, but not a defibrillator. My general approach is to keep it very simple, and basically use a standard bag or purse pattern, only customizing what needs to be changed. I never use complicated fastenings or ties as they can be downright dangerous when time is of the essence for access -- that's where velcro is a good thing. And in my experience, make one out of cheap muslin or prequilted fabric first to work out the kinks before using good fabrics.

sewingitalltogether

Measure the piece of equipment adding a few inches so you can get it into the bag easily. You would most likely need to make the straps longer. I'd use batting and an inner lining. They're a few free patterns out there with a bottom on the bag, so it could sit upright. Use your specific measurements when adjusting the side of the bag. Hope some of that helped.

mommafank

Thanks for the help. I told my brother-in-law that the best I could do is to make a tote bag with very long strap that could be carried cross body as that is how hers is and recommended that he just take her shopping for a cross body bag so she could pick one she likes. I would have to shop for the materials and then make it and mail it so figure she will get it quicker this way.