Knitting Aid
This project provides a flexible support for knitting for a client with limited mobility in one arm. The device is designed to be fully useable with one hand, ridged enough to work against but flexible enough to be easily adjustable.
The Challenge
The Client is a keen knitter and, since having a stroke, has no grip in her left hand. She uses a powerchair and would like a solution that can support one of the knitting needles steadily.
Key considerations were that the solution be able to be fully operated single handedly, be flexible so that it can be posed in a comfortable position, and also to be rigid enough that, when posed, it will provide enough resistance to knit against.
The solution must also release in case of over pressure, accidental contact etc.
The solution
The main components of this solution were a sprung needle holder and a mounting clamp, which in this case mounts to a chair and a flexible modular plastic conduit. The needle holder was a 3D printed assembly incorporating some small springs and grip pads tuned to provide flexibility for needle size and also to provide finger pressure grip for safety and easy single handed adjustment. The client’s chair was 3D scanned and a custom sleeve clamp was 3D printed to fit the armrest.
For future proofing and application for other users, a generic clamp was produced to allow fitting to any chair or table if desired.
The benefit
The Client can now knit comfortably and enjoy her hobby with much less frustration. She was working at an impressive speed in testing.
In Joan’s own words: “The knitting aid is perfect, when I get used to handling it, I should be able to make more ambitious articles. I’ve knitted two rows in the time it usually takes me to knit half a dozen stitches”
Clare, Joan’s friend who made the referral to REMAP said: “ I saw the knitting aid in action yesterday and Joan was flying with her knitting. It’s amazing!”
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