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The point is actually to have it feel like the lead vests that they use at the dentist. The weight helps calm the muscles and helps the user feel comforted (obviously not everyone). They are often used for people with Autism but are often helpful for people with Restless Leg Syndrome, sensory issues, depression, etc. It's a fairly unknown concept but I've heard it done wonders (I'm trying to make one of my own).
Originally Posted by Holice
I know that these do work. I know a few people that use these for their kids. I tried to look for it in bulk and I had a hard time finding it also. It can be so pricey for them if you can't get them in bulk.
I would not put anything in it that is not washable. I have seen the pattern online about sewing channels in them and rolling sheets up and sticking them inside. My friend tried it on her son and he didn't like it as much as the weighted blanket that she bought him. I told her that if she can find the beads, I'd make his next one for him. They do also make smaller ones that just go on your shoulders(used for reading, school time, playing). I don't know if that would be an option for you to make instead. Good luck on your search!!! If I find a good price on them, I will be sure to let you know.
enjoy your life...it's the only one you have!!!
Heather
Actually feeling like you have a dentist Xray protector on, is what helps with children with sensory integration disorder many times..Every child has their own things that help...But your point is right..exactly what is the comforting elements for this child, and then look for ways to match them
I found them in bulk but they are costly.
http://www.batt-mart.com/site/490194/page/90969
Could you find some way to use pennys? I was thinking of sewing them into channel pockets of a liner that you could insert much as the sheets are described as being inserted. 20 or 30 lbs of pennys would not be expensive.
After reading all the posts, the one thing that kept running through my mind is to use something that would not harm the child if swallowed. I keep picturing pockets that you could insert weights into perhaps with a velcro closure. I do not have autism, but I enjoy heavy blankets in the winter. Another possibility are large washers sewn into the quilt. I'm not sure about the cost, check at a hardware store. I keep picturing a well loved quilt letting the pellets fall out all over the bed.
Sue
I was looking at doing this for my youngest with autism myself. Being a guy, I may have a different take on this but after seeing the cost of polyfill beads I thought I may be able to use some of my shot that I reload shotgun shells with for the weight. They are very tiny (much smaller than BBs) and since they are lead they cna be very heavy. If I sewed them the same way into pockets inside his blanket I thought they may stay in place, lead being nonferrous doesn't rust and should be able to be washed. Has anybody tried that?
Tom
"Words mean things" - Yodar
I make Teddy Bears and have poly beads that I use with poly fill to fill them. I have a 10 pound bag and I bought it about 3 years ago, but I didn't pay very much for it. I don't remember where I bought it. I know I "Googled" it and I think I bought it from an Amazon person. Not the Amazon site itself, but the people who sell on Amazon.
I usually buy most everything, except fabric, from Amazon sites. They are the least expensive so far. So try that. I know I wouldn't pay very much for the bag. I know myself and I know I wouldn't spend too much for it. I think that is your safest bet.
Jeanne from the foothills of NE Oregon
"Remember that your instincts are more important than rules"
"The Constitution only guarantees the American people the right to pursue happiness - You have to catch it yourself" Benjamin Franklin
Don't Use LEAD!!!! its POISON a Child can Could eat it! All Fishing, Gun Pells Ete.... All Lead.
Autistic Children sometimes Chew on the Blankets!
May Your Life Be Full of Charity and Love.
think that to be very practical you should consider 3 things. Considering the weight to mass of the lead pellets, you need much stronger, more finely woven fabric than cotton to make the pockets. You should double stitch or use a serger for the stitching. I would also construct it so that the pockets are removable and you don't beat the inside of your washer to death with the lead pellets, even though they will be cushioned by the quilt. If you follow these construction quidelines I think you have a definite 5 star winner! Let us know what you decide and how it goes. We wish you all the best.
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