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    "Do-it-Yourself Prosthesis" Pattern

    The pattern below makes an inexpensive prosthesis (approximately B- or C-sized, depending on stuffing and seams) that can be sewn in a snap if your $400 one just went into surprise retirement, or you want something lightweight for a change.

    Materials needed:

  • Cotton jersey in any color or pattern (see: "Notes on Jersey," below)
  • Stuffing--but not the kind you put in a turkey*
  • Thread
  • Sewing machine (or a nice friend who likes to sew)
  • Weighted object(s) (optional)

    • Print the pattern pieces (clicking the link will open a new window with the pattern ready for printing).

    Cut three of A and one of B in cotton jersey, stretch of fabric along the length of the pattern piece.

    Right sides together, sew all A pieces together using a 1/4" seam allowance, sewing each one to the other on one of the curved edges (the straight edges are sewn to piece B later). Jersey stretches, and stitches may break as a result. It helps to sew all seams twice.

    Using a 1/4" seam allowance, sew B piece to the A unit (right sides together), making a triangle shape (each point on piece B should be at a corner where the A pieces meet). Leave a small portion unsewn for turning. Turn the entire piece so that all right sides are facing out.

    Stuff pieces as desired. You can experiment with different stuffing materials. Sew small hole left for turning shut.

    That's all there is to it--it only takes a few moments. Because it's made of fabric, it can even be tacked into a bra without hurting it.

    Notes on Jersey

    Surprisingly, quality jersey can be a difficult fabric to find in fabric stores! But don't despair--many clothes are made of cotton jersey, and this pattern doesn't take much. You may have found a use for all those unused T-shirts!

    The "caucasian skintone" prosthesis in the photo at the top of the page was made using white cotton jersey, dyed with RIT (other fabric dyes will work, too--cotton is a natural fabric that takes color well). Take one small spoonful of Tan to one small spoonful Sunshine Orange in a large bucket filled with tap-hot water. Dip quickly and wash in a washing machine to set color.

    * You can experiment with types of stuffing. Polyester fiberfill is usually the easiest to find, but it is not generally very breathable, if you're going for that. Gail Wilson Designs (a doll/miniatures company) offers cotton stuffing (cotton is generally a cooler material). There are other things you can try, as well, like styrofoam microbeads--it's all up to you! The one caution is that wool (wool stuffing, roving, etc.) can get smelly when wet.

    Testimonials

    If you have used the pattern and prosthesis, please be sure to share what you think, and any helpful tips you may have for others.

    This pattern was created/copyrighted 2006, by Flattops at www.geocities.com/muffychloe. Please do not redistribute, but it's encouraged to print out the instructions for use or to link to the page. Prostheses from this pattern can be made if given away to friends or made for your own use, but not for profit. Be sure to check with your doctor before using this prosthesis.

    Hosted by www.Geocities.ws

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