How I made my first Twiddle Muff and how You can too!
In my last blog post on Love Charlie: Crochet, I discussed how many organisations are in need of donations of Twiddle Muffs. Over the last week I decided that I would make my own pattern as I only crochet and don't knit. There are patterns available to crochet Twiddle Muffs, but I wanted my pattern to be very flexible so I can make every one differently. These are great to make using odd bits of wool and the end of skeins. You don;t need to especially go out and buy new wool for this project as all colours and textures can be incorporated.
Step 1
I started with the outside layer (a muff is made two layers thick to keep patient's hands warm.) I made a chain 60 stitches long, then I added two stitches before turning around and doing a row of treble crochet as my first row( 3rd stitch from the hook). This can be done in any stitch though, I just alternated my stitches to create texture and holes for the patient to touch. After all, this is a sensory alternative therapy. If you do your first row in double crochet only add one chain after your initial 60 and start in the 2nd chain from the hook.
Step 2
Carry on back and two in various different stitches. I created cluster stitches, bullion stitches, puff stitches, double crochets double trebles, and trebles. I wanted to create as much texture as possible. I also varied my colours regularly to keep the muff eye catching and interesting for the patient. Carry on until the height of your crocheted material is between 10 and 11" than fasten off and tuck in your ends.
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| Outer Layer of Twiddle Muff |
Step 3
Repeat the same process as step 1 and step 2 until you have a piece of material the same size. Note: The sitictches don't have to mirror that of your first piece, neither do your colours. For example, I only used one ball of wool for the inside layer of my muff, although I chose an extra soft yarn so that it would be warm and cosy for the patient's delicate hands, I presume baby wool would maybe be a good idea.
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| Inside Layer of Twiddle Muff |
As you can see, I have created a lot more textured stitches on the inside layer as there are going to be less accessories added on the inside than on the outside. I created the texture randomly so that it leaves the patient's hands to explore creating increased brain simulation.
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| Close up of the textures I created on the inside layer. |
Step 4
Next, you have to gether accessories and bits and bobs to attach to your Twiddle Muff. I made a few of my decorations. I made a Crochet button flower using this tutorial: Button Flower Tutorial
I also double crocheted around some curtain rings to give a solid but soft item for patients to play with. For example, in the picture below, I did two rounds of single crochet then created a 3-chain loop in eaach stitch to give it it's pliable, medallion shape. I then added some large pearl beads.
I then created a hanging decoration from beads and buttons, and another decoration made from ribbon.
Step 5
After collecting jingle bells, ribbon and extra buttons, I lay out what I had and arranged it so items were equally spread over each surface. When I had decided about positions, I started sewing. Remember to sew onto the top surface. The next step will be to sew the backs of each layer together.
Note: Sew everything on well!
Step 6
Next, you want to put the back of each panel together and double crochet along the top stitches, making sure to get the front and back loops of every stitch (the length not the height) At the end of the row, fasten off and tuck your end in.
Then turn your material upside down and repeat joining the opposite edge.
Next, you want to bring your material into a loop making sure your inside layer is on the inside. Nest you want to double crochet the edges of the inside layers together creating the inside loop of the muff. When you have done this your last step is to double crochet the outside edges together neatly leaving just one seam visible and raised. As you crocheted the inside layers on the outside of the muff first, they will not be either visible or raised. Your outside seam will look similar to mine below.
Good Luck! And get Creative!
Here are the completed photos of my first TwiddleMuff to be donated to Leighton Hospital.
Love Charlie, Xx
