deanna.r

Hopeful Threads http://hopefulthreads.blogspot.ca

G-tube Button Pads
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zcNcMY8WWx.../s640/gtp1.png

I haven't learned how to post pictures, so you could go to the original Hopeful Threads above, or click on the URL links
I inserted after each step.

Some kids have medical problems that prevent them from being able to take adequate nutrition by mouth. A gastrostomy tube (also called a G-tube) is a tube inserted through the abdomen that delivers nutrition directly to the stomach. It's one of the ways doctors can make sure kids with trouble eating get the fluid and calories they need to grow. My 2 1/2 year old granddaughter has a g-tube. Usually people with g-tubes use gauze around the port into their stomach which can irritate the skin. I saw this tutorial to make the little wrap around pads that help absorb any moisture or leakage where they connect.

Supplies Needed:
Flannel - Cut to approximately 2 3/4 - 3" Circles (2 for each pad)
Terry Cloth or other absorbent fabric (cotton fleece, hemp, bamboo) - Cut to the same measurement as your flannel (1 for each pad)
Snaps or velcro for closure

I've sewn these in several sizes now, with the last ones I made for a little guy, so I cut 2 3/4" circles.
2 circles of flannel, 1 of absorbent fabric.
Lay your flannel circles right sides facing and place the absorbent circle on top.
Cut a slit through all 3 layers, straight up the middle of the circle about 2". (This may vary based on the size you are making. You'll want to stop your cut about 1' from the top.)
Stitch the 3 layers together around the slit you just made.
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vWPpwII2Ni.../s400/gtp2.png

**BE SURE to snip the corners of your stitching here so the pad will lay flat when turned.

Now, it's time to turn your pad right sides out. This can be a little fiddly, so just take your time with it and you'll have a nice smooth result. I also suggest carefully pinning as shown below.
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g3rJddrNna.../s400/gtp3.png

You're ready to top-stitch your layers together, starting along the center opening.
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v5o842KcGn.../s400/gtp4.png

Then you will either serge or zig zag the outer edge all the way around.
I found that I liked my 3 step zig zag stitch best for this, even more than the serged ones. They seemed smoother, and more neatly finished.
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8lY50Q9f3z...s/s400/gt5.png

Apply your closure and you're done!
I personally prefer using snaps on these since velcro can be scratchy and irritate this sensitive area if it gets flipped.
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4erV4VdHtB...tp+Collage.jpg

Before you know it you'll have a pile of these little pads and make some people very happy...What a treat that is!
And this is a PERFECT way to use up fabric scraps! All of these were made from trimmings of other projects...bibs, lounge pants, pillowcases...that would never have been useful otherwise. LOVE THAT! I can assure you I will now have a use for these small fabric pieces!
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oHoYCs55Tt.../s640/gtp5.png


Update with photo of one of the pads in use.
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JDbkghv8Ds...s/s400/Eli.jpg

mom-6

Thank you for sharing this additional way to both use up scraps and help someone with problems!
I'm guessing that those who live near hospitals with NICU or pediatric units could donate these as well. And might also be useful for elder care too.

carolaug

What a good idea! for those of you that want to see what it does its on her last link http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JDbkghv8Ds...s/s400/Eli.jpg

SueDor

Great idea!!!!!

MaryAnnMc

We have a new children's hospital being built now in our area. This will go on my list of projects for them! Thanks. Now if I can figure out how to find this thread again...

Grammahunt

I have lots of flannel scraps but no Children's Hospital. Is there a place I can send about a dozen of these little items?

cherrio

there has to be a use for these in ANY hospital. I make these circle pads (without the hole in the middle) for nursing mothers also. make 6 pair for each mom so they can be kept clean. G and thanks for the instructions
Grammahunt, please just call a hospital or two and I am sure they will be able to tell you what they can use. Start with their pediatric unit. all hospitals have one. Great idea!

MothrNatr

Is there a way that I can find the full directions and pictures in one location? I clicked on the first link and I found her blog, but there was no tutorial or info (that I could find) there. I would like to share but the people that I want to share it with are not on this board. Thank you!

katesnanna

What a wonderful idea and how simple to make.

carolaug

This is such a great idea....I was just about to donate a bunch of flannel scraps and remembered this. Adults would love these too....could make so many different ones and put smiles on faces. If anyone has scraps of flannel over 3 inches and do not feel like many any..I will and donate them to the Hospitals in the area. I have a circle die so it would be easy.