Glad I found this. I work on making these quilts for veterans that are coping with PTSD and having that kind of item that's mindful of having a mature and respectful look while also engaging and soothing is very important. Thank you!
I used to work in a nursing home, my grandma is there now with severe dementia. Think I will have to make a few lap blankets in different colors to donate. Love it, thank you!
Thank you for this tutorial! I made one for my grandfather and gave it to him today. He clenches his hands together so tightly he gives himself bruises. We got him to unclench and instead hold on to strings of beads on the quilt. He visibly relaxed and started gently running his fingers over them. Thank you! I am going to make more for the other patients in his memory care home.
My grandfather has late stage progressing dementia. I'm bawling through this video. I am hoping that I can find enough fun things to make this for him. Thank You SO MUCH!
This is great! I really like the emphasis on safety such as top stitching or the reinforcement you get in the quilting. If you think about all the trouble a two year old could get into and translate that to an Alzheimer's patient or, in my case, a mentally challenged daughter, you realize quickly how important each consideration is in building this quilt. Thanks so much!
I agree, Dianne. It is especially important to make sure you are keeping in mind the person you are making this quilt for, and ensure that safety is a top priority.
Rob, Thank you for presenting this quilt. Not only is it a great project but it raises awareness of the needs of some of our special friends and family.
Between my son being autistic, my husband being a doctor, knowing several therapists and special teachers, and my neighbor being a nursing home nurse- I can and should make tons of these. Love the idea of the paracord tie. Rob, you hit a home run with this! Thank you!
Hi Ann! Glad you enjoyed the tutorial. It sounds like there are lots of people who will benefit from your fidget quilts! I'm happy to hear you will be spreading comfort to those in need :)
Wow!!! Thank you sew much for this awesome tutorial. I am not a quilter (but might become one). But I wanted to make one of these quilts for my 93 year old Mom who has sort of lost her zest for life. As I observe her day to day, behaviors, I notice she likes to pick things up and examine them. Hence, the beauty of a fidget quilt. I can’t even begin to tell you what I’ve learned (about piecing together quilt pieces-it doesn’t all come naturally), for both fidget quilts and weighted quilts. Please keep them coming. I’m a new qroupie!!!❤️💘
Thank you for getting this info out to people. As a nurse, I have seen just how wonderful these little quilts are for the residents of care facilities. thank you to any one who will make some and send to their local residential care facilities.
Love your ideas for your grandpa and sharing with us. I'll "borrow" some for mine. My daughter works for a non-profit that helps the elderly live at home longer with knowledge of tools and resources to do it. Plus free stuff, which is either gently re-useable items or new packaged hygiene items (bandages & you-name-it) . . . whatever is donated. )
Rob....this is an AWESOME idea! You are one of the best quilters that not only loves to quilt but thinks about the welfare of others as you continue to sew & quilt. The city that I live in has 3 small nursing homes within just a few miles of each other, and I recently contacted all three nursing homes to ask if I could donate a lap quilt and a pillowcase for each person in each of the three nursing homes. Now, I am going to find out if making these "Fidget" Quilts will be something to gift to some ( not all of course ) of the residents......I can see these quilts being made up in different colors for men and women both. Again, thanks so much Rob...!
Another good thought of something to add might be old photos belonging to the recipient, copied and printed onto fabric. It could obviously be pictures of friends and family members, but also old pets, old homes or places of work, or favorite hangout spots to help them recall details about their own lives. These printed fabric photos would blend very well with the idea of making extra flaps on top of the fidget layers. Each photo could be one side of the flap, and opening and closing each flap will be like turning the pages of an old photo album or scrapbook. Maybe there could even be a memory connection game there, where the outside of the flap is a picture of a place, and the inside of the flap is a picture of who lived there. And still you have the fidgeting element of fastening and unfastening each flap to get to whatever's underneath.
You break things down is an easy, un- intimidating way. I’ve been sewing blankets and quilting for years but am always on the look out for inventive ways to mainstream my process. Am learning so much- thanks!!
Excellent video Rob!!!! I have tons of ideas and a new motivational project. This would be great for an Alzheimers patient, I wish I would have thought of it when I was caring for my dad. He had Alzheimers and prior to that he was always busy working with his hands. I'm so motivated to make some and take them to the closest care unit. Thank you again for the video and planting the seed!
This is something I have been wanting to make my 95 year old mum thankyou so much for a fantastic tutorial. Now to go to my stash and get some fabric out to start .
I had to teach myself from scratch, so nice to get some tips from Rob. Very nicely put together vid. I reckon I will put some of my "African Alzheimer Fidget Products" fidget quilt kits together myself to sell. African fabric is very colourful and totally different.
Great video and best part is that it’s something you can make for the guys. I was asked to make one for someone who loves cars and this is a very cool quilt. also loved the toggle cord idea. So neat to fold it and carry it. Keep it coming .
What a great video. Thanks for all the great ideas. I retired in January and have dedicated my time to making fidget blankets (both female and male oriented) for my local nursing homes and Hospice, as well as a dozen or so for individuals who asked for them. I have made and donated 85 so far. I got some new ideas from you today, so thank you again. Another item I have made over 50 of, and donated, I call a flower garden board. I used an artists canvas board, painted a blue sky with clouds, grass with small flowers, and flower stems. I made felt flowers, put Velcro on the backs of them, and hot glued the other side of the Velcro on the board. The residents love these. They take the flowers off and create their own flower garden with the felt flowers. My hope is to provide some distraction and quality time for those that need it.
Wow, Peggy! That is amazing how much you have helped those around you with your creativity. I'm sure those who have received a fidget blanket or a flower garden board from you have benefited greatly from your thoughtfulness and kindness. Thank you for watching and keep up the great work!
Peggy Walden This is a fantastic idea. Just thought I'd mention that felt doesn't need velcro to stick to itself. Maybe try one with felt as the background. It's so simple to work with.
I use artists canvas panel boards, paint a background of blue sky, white clouds. Then I paint flower stems onto the board. And last I paint green grass over the bottom of the board, covering up the bottom of the stems. I buy felt flower forms off Amazon, plus I make felt flowers myself from felt strips. I put the flower forms together with tacky glue, and hot glue a square of velcro to the back of each flower. Then I glue a square of the other side of the velcro to the board, creating a "garden" look. I add small flowers, bugs, ete. that I hot glue to the board. Each board has 12 flowers that are removable, so the patient can take them off and create their own "picture." They've been very popular at the nursing facilities that I've made them for. They often use them as a reward for the patients after they've worked hard in therapy. You can see a picture of one, and also pictures of fidget blankets I've created this year on my Facebook page. Feel free to look, and thank you for your inquiry.
What a sweet idea and a neat quilt. You could take your stash that matches and make this! Love it. Us older people would love this and it would be great for homebound people too. And all the things you could add to it! LOVE IT! Thanks Rob, you are a good person!
I think a fun addition to this type of quilt would be to put some sort of flap over each square, possibly requiring an opening fidget such as a button, a tie, or a snap. Then, they would have two layers of fidgeting to play with! And by covering and uncovering the bottom layers, it keeps the game of fidgeting a bit fresher, since you don't see it all, all of the time. Plus, obviously, the flaps could have two or more extra fabrics to incorporate different textures or colors into the mix.
I'm autistic and I fidget a lot. I think I'll be making one of these for myself and maybe some for autistic friends. I'm also thinking about having three or so strands of paracord that can be braided over and over again.
WOW, Rob! I really love this! My mother had Alzheimer's so I know how important something like this is. I'm so inspired I think I'll make several to take to a local nursing home! THANK YOU!!!
Hi Ginger, I am so happy to hear you are inspired to make Fidget Quilts and spread the quilting love to those in need, like your mother. Keep me posted on how your quilts turn out! :)
Some fantastic ideas. The separating velcro is good, may I suggest the 'softer, non scratchy side is the piece which is stitched down to avoid any 'ouchy' moments. I just loved the last item when the elastic becomes the fastener to hold the rolled up blanket for storage. Brill! Can't wait to make one for my bro. Thanks 😊 👌👍
What a great video. This is the best tutorial I have seen for fidget quilts. You have really inspired me to make one for my mother-in-law and many more for charity. Thank you so much.
Rob, this is the best fidget quilt that I have seen. Really well thought out. I'm going to make a version of it for my mum for Christmas. It is nice to think that I am doung something to help her as I can't visit due to Covid 19. Thanks for the inspiration.
WOW!!! that is an amazing quilt!!!! My son is autistic and ADHD this would have been great for him when he was younger and more saverly Autistic. Now i'm proud to say that he is 17 and high functioning and graduating this year. Great video thank you so much.
Dear wonderful Rob, this is a new idea for me, but I'm soooo excited as I plan a Skill Quilt for my sister who has MS. She is losing the use of her hands and needs to use them more. Her quilt will have many of your ideas, but I can co pncentrate mostly on tasks...buttoning, zipping, moving medium sized beads along a piece of paracord under ribbons, through loops, oh and Kam snaps with little cute fabric flowers or stars she can move around and snap off and on. My mind is racing. It's hard to give her anything special and we will both have joyful tears when she unwraps this at Christmas. Your Grandpa and family are very blessed (as are all of us viewers)! A sincere thanks!!!!
Hello Janet! Thank you so much for your kind words. I am thrilled you enjoyed the tutorial and are going to make a special project for your sister. I think the fidget ideas you have listed are all fantastic! I'm sure your sister will love it, and I hope you enjoy creating such a thoughtful and loving project. :)
I've been enjoying your tutorials while I stitch up a lap quilt top. Now that the end is in sight for this project, I've been thinking about making a fidget quilt for a friend's mother in law. I love how you've integrated so many different activities in one quilt; I'll probably add more textures in the background mix, but this is awesome. Thank you!
I love the idea of a fidget quilt. They would even make great nursing home donations so that everyone could benefit from them or even change the quilt they use from time to time to keep things fresh. Another thing that could be made that is along the same lines is a busy book. My children have loved playing with the various pages their great grandma has made. It also gives the user one activity to focus on at time. Anyway that could be a great video to add to your collection.
Hi Brenda! Thank you for the suggestion. I'm glad you enjoyed the tutorial, and hope you enjoy creating fidget quilts for those who can benefit from them. Happy sewing!
Hi Rob, So thrilled to watch this and see our Quilt Guilds project here in Prescott Valley, AZ made a hit with you, thank you so much for the new tips to use on our quilts. Also for getting the need out to your fans to help with the cause. Love your ideas!
Thank you Rob. Thank you so much for your wonderful ideas to help people in our communities that have a disability. I wish I had thought of this when my grandmother had her stroke. It would have been perfect for her.
I agree Margot. I just lost my Dad and he had several strokes over the last few years. I think he would have enjoyed something like this. I may try to make some to donate to a local nursing home....
I'm sorry for your loss Trish. I lost my dad 5 years ago and I know it's not something that is easy to come to terms with. That's a great idea to make some and donate to a local nursing home. I think I'll do the same.
I saw you video earlier this week.. made one over and over in my sleep that night. I made one the next day and sent it to an Alzheimer's patient. She loves it. Her daughters loved it and now I look at everything with "will that work in a quilt?" in mind. you have created a monster
I lost my dad in January and I'm sure he could have used one of these quilts. He had Alzheimer's and had busy hands. I plan to make some fidget quilts to donate to the nursing facility that took such wonderful care of him. Thanks Rob, terrific tutorial.
Hi Peggy, I am so sorry to hear that you lost your dad. I think it is wonderful that you plan to make some of these to help those who can benefit from them. Thank you for spreading some quilting love and kindness to those in need. :)
I have been researching fidget quilts for a while now and looking at tutorials and one of my big concerns is that some of them do not take washability into consideration. This is hands down the best fidget quilt tutorial I have seen. Excellent! Thank you!
Hey Rob......GREAT PROJECT!!! You've dropped the sledge hammer and RANG the bell on this one. I use to be a licensed Orderly in a nursing home facility....then later on licensed Activities Director. This project here is one of the VERY BEST ways to keep many of our residents busy in an activity that will broaden their "abilities" base and also mind recall not to mention dexterity skills. Makes for a great "personal" GIFT OF LOVE that keeps on giving. As you were demonstrating your design, my mind went meandering about with many possibilities for additional textures, feels and fidget mechanisms to add to the challenge of endless ideas which will allow and enable folks to enjoy their own personal fidget quilt to the fullest!! Love this project......way to go buddy, you've done it again!!! Ken Orlando, Fl.
thank you for putting this up . my hubby had Alzheimer's and I made one for him many years ago . he passed 9 years ago but he used it a lot & I would help him look for some of the things I put on it
An awesome project Rob. Wish I'd seen this before I made one for a friend. Thought I could use strong fishing line to put some buttons on - well, in about 10 minutes our friend had pulled the fishing line out of the seams. Very quickly the buttons were removed and in my pocket. He loved the zippers, the velcro, the ribbons. Your ideas are great. Thanks so very much for sharing a much needed tutorial.
Thanks Rob!! My mom has Alzheimers and lives in a nursing home. I will be making one of these very soon for her. What a great tutorial and the best part is I can watch it over and over so I don't miss any of it!!
Hi Kate! I'm sure your mom will love her fidget quilt. Hopefully the tutorial and the free PDF are helpful when you create yours. Feel free to let me know if you have any questions!
Love this idea. I have so many ideas to add! My grandmother made a book of ideas like this when I was a kid. I ended up with the patterns after she died. I love the idea of making a quilt for nonmobile kids. I think I might make some for our school to put in the free play corner.
Great Rob. I also thought of folding or getting the fidget quilt to fold up. Will copy u. I had an old denim and cut it out. Pockets and zips and button etc. Stay well.
I'm sure that so many of the activities that are in "quiet books" could be implemented in a quilt for "fidgeters". Ohhh my mind is rolling! Thanks Rob-fabulous idea!
I love the designs in this project! Every time you showed something new, it made me think of a hack, to change it up. Using some fussy cut images to find under the zipper could be lots of fun and could really be aimed at a certain age group. I'm trying to think of what I could use to add some weight to this project to make a soothing weighted blanket. A tube of fabric filled with buttons or beads and sewn into one of the squares... Thank you Rob, for the inspiring project.
Thanks so much for this great video! We'll be making one for my brother-in-law who suffered a very serious stroke and now has dementia. This will also benefit his wife who is often exhausted from caring for him. Thanks again!
I live in a nursing home and I sew aprons from old jeans. I make a maze, doll or teddy bear, braiding ribbons, and other things for dementia victims they love them.😍
What a great idea and can't wait to make this fidget quilt. This will be a great project to get my granddaughter started into, Something she can give to others. Thank you Rob ! 😊
Thanks or this tutorial Rob. I work in aged care and have been wanting to make one of these for a while. I have plenty of ideas of what to put into the quilt but wasn't sure on how to put it all together. I think I have the confidence to start one now.
Thanks Rob. I would love to make some of these to donate. My father had Alzheimers and I'm sure it would have kept him challenged. I love your enthusiasm, keep up the good work.
This is perfect! I'm just ready to start a sports-themed quilt for my grandson and was trying to think of how to put in a couple of "fidgety" aspects. Also, my mother-in-law has dementia and I think many of these ideas would work well for her. I'm imagining 3-D flowers, a trunk that opens.... Thank you so very much, Rob!
I'm glad you enjoyed the tutorial, Dotty! It sounds like you have some wonderful and personalized ideas for the recipients of your fidget quilts. Thanks for spreading some quilting love. :)
I have seen larger fidget quilts and aprons and have been too intimidated to make one. I really like the smaller format using a charm pack adding dimension with pockets and prairie points. The paracord closure is brilliant. The large button demonstration was great too. I have been looking for a project to repurpose hand towels; adding another soft washable texture. Thank you so much for your inspiration!
Rob, I want to remind you that many people who would benefit from the fidgets also have issues of seeing colors without contrast. I'm 67 but struggled see the button or zigzag and some others because everything was so close in color. I have worked with kids and different ages of adults and they would love your quilt.
This is Excellent Rob!! I am going to make one for my mom who has dementia and one for each of my new twin grandchildren a boy and a girl they are 7 months. I will make sure there are no choking hazards. LOL
Hello Ruthellen! I'm happy to hear you enjoyed the tutorial. It sounds like you will be busy creating fidget quilts! Keep me posted on how they turn out! :)
I had never heard of a fidget quilt. I watched your video and then the very next day I heard of my girlfriends father who is in the hospital with a very serious head injury from a car accident. When his hands are not restrained he fidgets like he's trying to fix something, so my girlfriend and I got together and made him a fidget quilt. Thank you so much for the inspiration
absolutely love!! this idea and tutorial. I have just started quilting and didn't know what to do with the finished projects.. this way I dont have to pay a fortune to have professionally quilted, I can finish it myself and donate to my local nursing home..thank you so much for your ideas !!! keep up the good work
Your grandpa is lucky to have you. I wish I would have thought of this after my Mom had her stroke. She's gone now but it would be great for the patients in our local nursing home in the Alzheimer's unit. When I was working as a nurse we would have the ladies "fold our washcloths" for us but I'm sure that got to be boring after a while and the guys would have rather been busy with tools and guy things. I'm sure there are safe things that guys would find interesting like putting stuff in "pants or wallet" type pockets. I like your zippers, elastic strips, and big buttons. Pony tail elastic band cut to size and sewn into a seam would make for easy close button holes. These type of pockets could hold a guy or gal's "important" papers or cards or pictures or any other treasures they might have that day. Keep up your fun and informative videos. We love them! Gale
Thank you for an awesome video and tutorial. I've been looking at fidget blankets for a couple of months but was lost at how to begin. Thank you for breaking this down so that it is do-able!
Glad I found this. I work on making these quilts for veterans that are coping with PTSD and having that kind of item that's mindful of having a mature and respectful look while also engaging and soothing is very important. Thank you!
My colleague and I were just speaking about the need for more male-themed and colored fidget and lap quilts - thank you for this!
I used to work in a nursing home, my grandma is there now with severe dementia. Think I will have to make a few lap blankets in different colors to donate. Love it, thank you!
Thank you for this tutorial! I made one for my grandfather and gave it to him today. He clenches his hands together so tightly he gives himself bruises. We got him to unclench and instead hold on to strings of beads on the quilt. He visibly relaxed and started gently running his fingers over them. Thank you! I am going to make more for the other patients in his memory care home.
My son is Autistic and has a Sensory disorder, this quilt has given me so many ideas to out something fun together for him. You're awesome Rob!
I'm glad you enjoyed the tutorial, Kathy. I'm sure your son will enjoy his fidget quilt. I look forward to hearing how your project turns out! :)
My grandfather has late stage progressing dementia. I'm bawling through this video. I am hoping that I can find enough fun things to make this for him. Thank You SO MUCH!
These would be great for toddlers as well. Very stimulating and soothing in the same time.
Great job as always !!!
This is great! I really like the emphasis on safety such as top stitching or the reinforcement you get in the quilting. If you think about all the trouble a two year old could get into and translate that to an Alzheimer's patient or, in my case, a mentally challenged daughter, you realize quickly how important each consideration is in building this quilt. Thanks so much!
I agree, Dianne. It is especially important to make sure you are keeping in mind the person you are making this quilt for, and ensure that safety is a top priority.
Rob, Thank you for presenting this quilt. Not only is it a great project but it raises awareness of the needs of some of our special friends and family.
Between my son being autistic, my husband being a doctor, knowing several therapists and special teachers, and my neighbor being a nursing home nurse- I can and should make tons of these. Love the idea of the paracord tie. Rob, you hit a home run with this! Thank you!
Hi Ann! Glad you enjoyed the tutorial. It sounds like there are lots of people who will benefit from your fidget quilts! I'm happy to hear you will be spreading comfort to those in need :)
Ann Witten
. .
--------
Ann Witten
Wow!!! Thank you sew much for this awesome tutorial. I am not a quilter (but might become one). But I wanted to make one of these quilts for my 93 year old Mom who has sort of lost her zest for life. As I observe her day to day, behaviors, I notice she likes to pick things up and examine them. Hence, the beauty of a fidget quilt. I can’t even begin to tell you what I’ve learned (about piecing together quilt pieces-it doesn’t all come naturally), for both fidget quilts and weighted quilts. Please keep them coming. I’m a new qroupie!!!❤️💘
@@MrsMarybiz ditto 💖
I work in a hospital and these would be awesome for our volunteers to put together and give to our Alzheimer's patients! Thank you Rob for caring.
I think that is a wonderful idea, Kendra. Thank you for tuning in!
Thank you for getting this info out to people. As a nurse, I have seen just how wonderful these little quilts are for the residents of care facilities. thank you to any one who will make some and send to their local residential care facilities.
Love your ideas for your grandpa and sharing with us. I'll "borrow" some for mine. My daughter works for a non-profit that helps the elderly live at home longer with knowledge of tools and resources to do it. Plus free stuff, which is either gently re-useable items or new packaged hygiene items (bandages & you-name-it) . . . whatever is donated. )
Rob....this is an AWESOME idea! You are one of the best quilters that not only loves to quilt but thinks about the welfare of others as you continue to sew & quilt.
The city that I live in has 3 small nursing homes within just a few miles of each other, and I recently contacted all three nursing homes to ask if I could donate a lap quilt and a pillowcase for each person in each of the three nursing homes.
Now, I am going to find out if making these "Fidget" Quilts will be something to gift to some ( not all of course ) of the residents......I can see these quilts being made up in different colors for men and women both.
Again, thanks so much Rob...!
Wow! That is amazing that you are blessing so many people with your quilting gifts! I'm glad you enjoyed the tutorial. :)
Another good thought of something to add might be old photos belonging to the recipient, copied and printed onto fabric. It could obviously be pictures of friends and family members, but also old pets, old homes or places of work, or favorite hangout spots to help them recall details about their own lives. These printed fabric photos would blend very well with the idea of making extra flaps on top of the fidget layers. Each photo could be one side of the flap, and opening and closing each flap will be like turning the pages of an old photo album or scrapbook. Maybe there could even be a memory connection game there, where the outside of the flap is a picture of a place, and the inside of the flap is a picture of who lived there. And still you have the fidgeting element of fastening and unfastening each flap to get to whatever's underneath.
You break things down is an easy, un- intimidating way. I’ve been sewing blankets and quilting for years but am always on the look out for inventive ways to mainstream my process. Am learning so much- thanks!!
Thank you for tuning in, Carrie! We're happy to hear that you are enjoying the tutorials!
So much thought went into this quilt; it's given me so many ideas. I don't need one quite yet, but know I'll have to sew one soon. Thank you.
I'm glad you enjoyed the tutorial, Linda! Thank you for tuning in.
Excellent video Rob!!!! I have tons of ideas and a new motivational project. This would be great for an Alzheimers patient, I wish I would have thought of it when I was caring for my dad. He had Alzheimers and prior to that he was always busy working with his hands. I'm so motivated to make some and take them to the closest care unit. Thank you again for the video and planting the seed!
Thank you for tuning in, Dianne! It sounds like you will be spreading some quilting love to those who can benefit from your kindness.
This is something I have been wanting to make my 95 year old mum thankyou so much for a fantastic tutorial.
Now to go to my stash and get some fabric out to start .
I'm sure your mum will enjoy her fidget quilt, Maxine. Thanks for tuning in!
I had to teach myself from scratch, so nice to get some tips from Rob. Very nicely put together vid. I reckon I will put some of my "African Alzheimer Fidget Products" fidget quilt kits together myself to sell. African fabric is very colourful and totally different.
Great video and best part is that it’s something you can make for the guys. I was asked to make one for someone who loves cars and this is a very cool quilt. also loved the toggle cord idea. So neat to fold it and carry it. Keep it coming .
What a great video. Thanks for all the great ideas. I retired in January and have dedicated my time to making fidget blankets (both female and male oriented) for my local nursing homes and Hospice, as well as a dozen or so for individuals who asked for them. I have made and donated 85 so far. I got some new ideas from you today, so thank you again. Another item I have made over 50 of, and donated, I call a flower garden board. I used an artists canvas board, painted a blue sky with clouds, grass with small flowers, and flower stems. I made felt flowers, put Velcro on the backs of them, and hot glued the other side of the Velcro on the board. The residents love these. They take the flowers off and create their own flower garden with the felt flowers. My hope is to provide some distraction and quality time for those that need it.
Wow, Peggy! That is amazing how much you have helped those around you with your creativity. I'm sure those who have received a fidget blanket or a flower garden board from you have benefited greatly from your thoughtfulness and kindness. Thank you for watching and keep up the great work!
Peggy Walden This is a fantastic idea. Just thought I'd mention that felt doesn't need velcro to stick to itself. Maybe try one with felt as the background. It's so simple to work with.
Wonderful ! these are awesome!
How do you make a flower garden board?
I use artists canvas panel boards, paint a background of blue sky, white clouds. Then I paint flower stems onto the board. And last I paint green grass over the bottom of the board, covering up the bottom of the stems. I buy felt flower forms off Amazon, plus I make felt flowers myself from felt strips. I put the flower forms together with tacky glue, and hot glue a square of velcro to the back of each flower. Then I glue a square of the other side of the velcro to the board, creating a "garden" look. I add small flowers, bugs, ete. that I hot glue to the board. Each board has 12 flowers that are removable, so the patient can take them off and create their own "picture." They've been very popular at the nursing facilities that I've made them for. They often use them as a reward for the patients after they've worked hard in therapy. You can see a picture of one, and also pictures of fidget blankets I've created this year on my Facebook page. Feel free to look, and thank you for your inquiry.
What a sweet idea and a neat quilt. You could take your stash that matches and make this! Love it. Us older people would love this and it would be great for homebound people too. And all the things you could add to it! LOVE IT! Thanks Rob, you are a good person!
Thank you for your kind words, Sheila! My hope is for this quilt to help those who can benefit from them.
I think a fun addition to this type of quilt would be to put some sort of flap over each square, possibly requiring an opening fidget such as a button, a tie, or a snap. Then, they would have two layers of fidgeting to play with! And by covering and uncovering the bottom layers, it keeps the game of fidgeting a bit fresher, since you don't see it all, all of the time. Plus, obviously, the flaps could have two or more extra fabrics to incorporate different textures or colors into the mix.
Marialla you have some great ideas there!😃
I'm autistic and I fidget a lot. I think I'll be making one of these for myself and maybe some for autistic friends. I'm also thinking about having three or so strands of paracord that can be braided over and over again.
WOW, Rob! I really love this! My mother had Alzheimer's so I know how important something like this is. I'm so inspired I think I'll make several to take to a local nursing home! THANK YOU!!!
Hi Ginger, I am so happy to hear you are inspired to make Fidget Quilts and spread the quilting love to those in need, like your mother. Keep me posted on how your quilts turn out! :)
TOO COOL! I used to be a therapist/teacher for kids with autism and I wish I'd have known about this back then! Rock on, Rob!
Glad you enjoyed the tutorial, Darryl!
Some fantastic ideas. The separating velcro is good, may I suggest the 'softer, non scratchy side is the piece which is stitched down to avoid any 'ouchy' moments.
I just loved the last item when the elastic becomes the fastener to hold the rolled up blanket for storage. Brill! Can't wait to make one for my bro. Thanks 😊 👌👍
What a great video. This is the best tutorial I have seen for fidget quilts. You have really inspired me to make one for my mother-in-law and many more for charity. Thank you so much.
Outstanding video tutorial, and as you said..."super cool" fidget quilt. Your speed was perfection and it kept my interest the entire time.
Rob, this is the best fidget quilt that I have seen. Really well thought out. I'm going to make a version of it for my mum for Christmas. It is nice to think that I am doung something to help her as I can't visit due to Covid 19. Thanks for the inspiration.
WOW!!! that is an amazing quilt!!!! My son is autistic and ADHD this would have been great for him when he was younger and more saverly Autistic. Now i'm proud to say that he is 17 and high functioning and graduating this year. Great video thank you so much.
Robin, I'm glad you enjoyed the tutorial, and a big congratulations on your son's accomplishments! You must be very proud! :)
Dear wonderful Rob, this is a new idea for me, but I'm soooo excited as I plan a Skill Quilt for my sister who has MS. She is losing the use of her hands and needs to use them more. Her quilt will have many of your ideas, but I can co pncentrate mostly on tasks...buttoning, zipping, moving medium sized beads along a piece of paracord under ribbons, through loops, oh and Kam snaps with little cute fabric flowers or stars she can move around and snap off and on. My mind is racing. It's hard to give her anything special and we will both have joyful tears when she unwraps this at Christmas. Your Grandpa and family are very blessed (as are all of us viewers)! A sincere thanks!!!!
Hello Janet! Thank you so much for your kind words. I am thrilled you enjoyed the tutorial and are going to make a special project for your sister. I think the fidget ideas you have listed are all fantastic! I'm sure your sister will love it, and I hope you enjoy creating such a thoughtful and loving project. :)
I have an Autistic grandson that would enjoy this. Thanks Rob
Glad you enjoyed the tutorial, Pamela. I hope your grandson enjoys his quilt! :)
Thank you for this tutorial. My church group is making these for Alzheimer’s patients and you have given me so many ideas. God bless you.
I've been enjoying your tutorials while I stitch up a lap quilt top. Now that the end is in sight for this project, I've been thinking about making a fidget quilt for a friend's mother in law. I love how you've integrated so many different activities in one quilt; I'll probably add more textures in the background mix, but this is awesome. Thank you!
A lot of LOVE and thought was put into this. Your grandfather is blessed to have you as a grandson. Thanks for this project
Thank you for your kind words, Sheri! Hope you are able to make a fidget quilt for someone in need of one. :)
What a wonderful gift for your grandfather. Very well thought out as well. Love your tutorials.
I love the idea of a fidget quilt. They would even make great nursing home donations so that everyone could benefit from them or even change the quilt they use from time to time to keep things fresh. Another thing that could be made that is along the same lines is a busy book. My children have loved playing with the various pages their great grandma has made. It also gives the user one activity to focus on at time. Anyway that could be a great video to add to your collection.
Hi Brenda! Thank you for the suggestion. I'm glad you enjoyed the tutorial, and hope you enjoy creating fidget quilts for those who can benefit from them. Happy sewing!
Hi Rob,
So thrilled to watch this and see our Quilt Guilds project here in Prescott Valley, AZ made a hit with you, thank you so much for the new tips to use on our quilts. Also for getting the need out to your fans to help with the cause. Love your ideas!
Hi Erin! It certainly did! You all are doing fantastic work, and helping so many people! Thanks for tuning in!
Wow! Such a selfless, thoughtful quilt. Well done, Rob.
What an excellent idea
Fabric recommended for pineapple quilt
Thank you Rob. Thank you so much for your wonderful ideas to help people in our communities that have a disability. I wish I had thought of this when my grandmother had her stroke. It would have been perfect for her.
I'm sorry to hear about your grandmother, Margot. I hope fidget quilts will be made to soothe those who can benefit from them.
I agree Margot. I just lost my Dad and he had several strokes over the last few years. I think he would have enjoyed something like this. I may try to make some to donate to a local nursing home....
I'm sorry for your loss Trish. I lost my dad 5 years ago and I know it's not something that is easy to come to terms with. That's a great idea to make some and donate to a local nursing home. I think I'll do the same.
I saw you video earlier this week.. made one over and over in my sleep that night. I made one the next day and sent it to an Alzheimer's patient. She loves it. Her daughters loved it and now I look at everything with "will that work in a quilt?" in mind. you have created a monster
Thank you for this handsome fidget quilt. lots of inspiration.
I lost my dad in January and I'm sure he could have used one of these quilts. He had Alzheimer's and had busy hands. I plan to make some fidget quilts to donate to the nursing facility that took such wonderful care of him. Thanks Rob, terrific tutorial.
Hi Peggy, I am so sorry to hear that you lost your dad. I think it is wonderful that you plan to make some of these to help those who can benefit from them. Thank you for spreading some quilting love and kindness to those in need. :)
I have been researching fidget quilts for a while now and looking at tutorials and one of my big concerns is that some of them do not take washability into consideration. This is hands down the best fidget quilt tutorial I have seen. Excellent! Thank you!
Thank you so much, Elaine. I am glad to hear you enjoyed the tutorial.
Hey Rob......GREAT PROJECT!!! You've dropped the sledge hammer and RANG the bell on this one. I use to be a licensed Orderly in a nursing home facility....then later on licensed Activities Director. This project here is one of the VERY BEST ways to keep many of our residents busy in an activity that will broaden their "abilities" base and also mind recall not to mention dexterity skills. Makes for a great "personal" GIFT OF LOVE that keeps on giving. As you were demonstrating your design, my mind went meandering about with many possibilities for additional textures, feels and fidget mechanisms to add to the challenge of endless ideas which will allow and enable folks to enjoy their own personal fidget quilt to the fullest!!
Love this project......way to go buddy, you've done it again!!!
Ken
Orlando, Fl.
Hello Ken! I am so happy to hear that you enjoyed this tutorial, and that you will be helping those who can benefit from these fidget quilts. :)
thank you for putting this up . my hubby had Alzheimer's and I made one for him many years ago . he passed 9 years ago but he used it a lot & I would help him look for some of the things I put on it
I love this manly looking fidget quilt. Thank you for sharing your awesome ideas! Blessings to you as you continue to bless so many.
Thank you for watching! I appreciate your kind words, Christine!
God Bless You And Your Family For sharing your Talent .
Thank you for your kind words, Teresa!
Awesome. I'm a child therapist and this would b great for kiddos and teens with ADHD, Autism spectrum disorders, Anxiety and trauma history.
I just adore you! You are refreshingly joyful and bright! Your sunny disposition just captures me completely!
An awesome project Rob. Wish I'd seen this before I made one for a friend. Thought I could use strong fishing line to put some buttons on - well, in about 10 minutes our friend had pulled the fishing line out of the seams. Very quickly the buttons were removed and in my pocket. He loved the zippers, the velcro, the ribbons. Your ideas are great. Thanks so very much for sharing a much needed tutorial.
I'm glad you enjoyed the tutorial, Mary. That is so wonderful that you made a fidget quilt for someone in need. :)
Thanks Rob!! My mom has Alzheimers and lives in a nursing home. I will be making one of these very soon for her. What a great tutorial and the best part is I can watch it over and over so I don't miss any of it!!
Hi Kate! I'm sure your mom will love her fidget quilt. Hopefully the tutorial and the free PDF are helpful when you create yours. Feel free to let me know if you have any questions!
Would it be okay to share this with my guild to make several of them for our local nursing homes?
That would be awesome, Kate! I would love to see the quilts you and your guild create! Thanks for spreading the quilting love! :)
Thank you for encouraging others to support others in their communities.
Love this idea. I have so many ideas to add! My grandmother made a book of ideas like this when I was a kid. I ended up with the patterns after she died. I love the idea of making a quilt for nonmobile kids. I think I might make some for our school to put in the free play corner.
That sounds like a great idea, Erin! Thank you for watching the video!
Great Rob. I also thought of folding or getting the fidget quilt to fold up. Will copy u. I had an old denim and cut it out. Pockets and zips and button etc. Stay well.
This is AWESOME I plan to put this on my to do list to make for local nursurng homes as well as adult bibs and wheelchair and walkerbags ....THANKYOU
I'm sure that so many of the activities that are in "quiet books" could be implemented in a quilt for "fidgeters". Ohhh my mind is rolling! Thanks Rob-fabulous idea!
Glad you enjoyed the tutorial! Can't wait to see what you create!
This is one of the Very best quilts ever. Thank you for presenting such a wonderful idea a lot of us would never have come in contact with.
Thank you, Anita! I hope you are able to make some fidget quilts for those who can benefit from them!
I love the designs in this project! Every time you showed something new, it made me think of a hack, to change it up. Using some fussy cut images to find under the zipper could be lots of fun and could really be aimed at a certain age group. I'm trying to think of what I could use to add some weight to this project to make a soothing weighted blanket. A tube of fabric filled with buttons or beads and sewn into one of the squares... Thank you Rob, for the inspiring project.
Glad you enjoyed the tutorial, Christy! It sounds like you have some fun ideas to add to your fidget quilt. Have fun sewing!
I'm going to share this with my quilt guild. We routinely do charity projects, and this would be a great topic for a Saturday sewing day.
That sounds like a great idea, Dottie! I hope you and your quilt guild enjoy this project.
Brilliant, thank you Rob. My daughter is a teacher here in England and wants them for her pupils who have ADHD and Autism. Blessings
Thanks so much for this great video! We'll be making one for my brother-in-law who suffered a very serious stroke and now has dementia. This will also benefit his wife who is often exhausted from caring for him. Thanks again!
I love this fidget quilt. I know a lot of people who would benefit with one of these quilts.
I live in a nursing home and I sew aprons from old jeans. I make a maze, doll or teddy bear, braiding ribbons, and other things for dementia victims they love them.😍
I'm making 1 for a man. It has a fly in the top middle with a secret pocket,keys,coin pocket,hammer hold,but don't worry just toys.😇
What a great idea and can't wait to make this fidget quilt. This will be a great project to get my granddaughter started into,
Something she can give to others. Thank you Rob ! 😊
Great tutorial. Thanks so much. I'm an LPN at a long term care facility. I've been wanting to make something like this for some of my residents!
What a great fidget quilt. So thoughtful and beautiful ideas. Thank you.
Thanks or this tutorial Rob. I work in aged care and have been wanting to make one of these for a while. I have plenty of ideas of what to put into the quilt but wasn't sure on how to put it all together. I think I have the confidence to start one now.
You deserve an award for CARING!!!
Thanks Rob. I would love to make some of these to donate. My father had Alzheimers and I'm sure it would have kept him challenged. I love your enthusiasm, keep up the good work.
Glad you enjoyed the tutorial, Joy. I'm glad to hear you plan on creating fidget quilts to help those who could benefit from them. :)
This is a REALLY good project, and an excellent way to keep someone busy. Thank you
This is life. My son and I will do well with these
This is perfect! I'm just ready to start a sports-themed quilt for my grandson and was trying to think of how to put in a couple of "fidgety" aspects. Also, my mother-in-law has dementia and I think many of these ideas would work well for her. I'm imagining 3-D flowers, a trunk that opens.... Thank you so very much, Rob!
I'm glad you enjoyed the tutorial, Dotty! It sounds like you have some wonderful and personalized ideas for the recipients of your fidget quilts. Thanks for spreading some quilting love. :)
I have seen larger fidget quilts and aprons and have been too intimidated to make one. I really like the smaller format using a charm pack adding dimension with pockets and prairie points. The paracord closure is brilliant. The large button demonstration was great too. I have been looking for a project to repurpose hand towels; adding another soft washable texture. Thank you so much for your inspiration!
I'm glad you enjoyed the tutorial, Carol! I like your idea of adding the terry cloth for added texture!
Great concept Rob! Enjoy watching and learning from your videos. :-)
This is an awesome idea. Gonna be making my daughter's and nephews and my niece one of these quilts .
Rob, I want to remind you that many people who would benefit from the fidgets also have issues of seeing colors without contrast. I'm 67 but struggled see the button or zigzag and some others because everything was so close in color. I have worked with kids and different ages of adults and they would love your quilt.
This is Excellent Rob!! I am going to make one for my mom who has dementia and one for each of my new twin grandchildren a boy and a girl they are 7 months. I will make sure there are no choking hazards. LOL
Hello Ruthellen! I'm happy to hear you enjoyed the tutorial. It sounds like you will be busy creating fidget quilts! Keep me posted on how they turn out! :)
This is brilliant Rob. Great ideas for the guys in our lives, who I find more challenging to sew for.
I have quilted for years and only recently heard of these and what a wonderful idea. So many possibilities. Thanks.
absolutely love the para cord to wrap it up. so smart!
I had never heard of a fidget quilt. I watched your video and then the very next day I heard of my girlfriends father who is in the hospital with a very serious head injury from a car accident. When his hands are not restrained he fidgets like he's trying to fix something, so my girlfriend and I got together and made him a fidget quilt. Thank you so much for the inspiration
Hi Denise, I hope your friend's father has a speedy recovery. I am sure he thoroughly enjoys the love you put into his fidget quilt.
absolutely love!! this idea and tutorial. I have just started quilting and didn't know what to do with the finished projects.. this way I dont have to pay a fortune to have professionally quilted, I can finish it myself and donate to my local nursing home..thank you so much for your ideas !!! keep up the good work
That's a great idea, Pamela! Thanks for tuning in to the Man Sewing tutorials!
I absolutely love this quilt idea!! My Mom has Alzheimer's and I'm going to make one for her. Thanks sooooo much Rob!!
I hope your mom enjoys her Fidget Quilt. Let me know if you have any questions!
Rob, what a wonderful idea. I also could see making them for little ones with different fidgets, Thanks for the great idea.
What a wonderful idea. Thank you so much for sharing a way to help others.
Wonderful video and pubished on my birthday. Yippee!
Happy birthday, Gladys!
I so enjoy your videos. Please keep them coming!
Thank you! I have a friend I want to make a fidget quilt for. This will make it so easy.
Your grandpa is lucky to have you. I wish I would have thought of this after my Mom had her stroke. She's gone now but it would be great for the patients in our local nursing home in the Alzheimer's unit. When I was working as a nurse we would have the ladies "fold our washcloths" for us but I'm sure that got to be boring after a while and the guys would have rather been busy with tools and guy things. I'm sure there are safe things that guys would find interesting like putting stuff in "pants or wallet" type pockets. I like your zippers, elastic strips, and big buttons. Pony tail elastic band cut to size and sewn into a seam would make for easy close button holes. These type of pockets could hold a guy or gal's "important" papers or cards or pictures or any other treasures they might have that day. Keep up your fun and informative videos. We love them! Gale
Hello Gale! I am so happy you enjoyed the tutorial. It sounds like you have some fantastic ideas for potential fidgets. Thank you for tuning in!
What an amazing quilt for our loved one that are in need Of! God bless you Rob! 💚
Sweet idea for elderly or toddlers! Thanks, Rob!
Wow, Rob. An inspiring idea! My Grandmother who had dementia would have loved this!
Thank you, Rob ... what a thoughtful quilt!
. You out did yourself on this project.Keep up the great work.
Thank you for an awesome video and tutorial. I've been looking at fidget blankets for a couple of months but was lost at how to begin. Thank you for breaking this down so that it is do-able!
Glad you enjoyed it, Sherrie!
Going to make several of these to keep kids busy on the school bus, what a great idea, thank you
I'm sure the kids will enjoy them, Penny!
Awesome, you gave me lots of ideas, thank You for Sharing! I’ve been making these for a Nursing Home where my Aunt lives! Have A great Day🌈☀️🌈Vicki