At Moray Reach Out Yarns & Crafts, we love putting our skills to good use, especially when it means making a difference in our community. Recently, our team of staff, volunteers, and trainees came together to create a special batch of twiddle muffs for children with Additional Support Needs at The Bothy, based at Millbank School in Buckie. This fantastic team effort resulted in the donation of 20 beautifully crafted twiddle muffs, which we handed over to Fiona from The Bothy when she visited with two of the children last week. We hope these twiddle muffs bring comfort and joy to those who receive them! ❤️😊
What is a Twiddle Muff?
A twiddle muff is a knitted hand mitt designed to provide sensory stimulation and comfort for individuals who experience restless hands. Originally created for people with dementia, twiddle muffs have also proven beneficial for individuals with learning disabilities and other conditions where sensory engagement can help reduce distress and agitation.
How Twiddle Muffs Work
Twiddle muffs are crafted using different textures of wool and adorned with buttons, beads, ribbons, and other tactile elements. Their design serves multiple purposes:
- They keep hands warm while offering comfort.
- They provide sensory stimulation, which can be soothing and engaging.
- They help to reduce feelings of distress and agitation by keeping hands occupied.
Who Benefits from Twiddle Muffs?
Twiddle muffs are a wonderful resource for various individuals, including:
- Individuals with learning disabilities, who can find comfort in the textures and features of the muffs.
- Patients with dementia, who may experience restlessness and benefit from the sensory stimulation.
- Patients undergoing chemotherapy, who may find warmth and distraction in their use.
How Twiddle Muffs Are Made
Creating a twiddle muff is a great way to use up odds and ends of wool, yarn, ribbons, and other materials. Here are some key elements in their design:
- Different textures of wool are used to create a variety of sensory experiences.
- Buttons, beads, and ribbons are securely attached to provide interactive elements.
- The inside of the muff can be lined with fleece or another soft material for added warmth and comfort.
Get Involved
At Moray Reach Out, we are proud to support our community through creative initiatives like this, and we look forward to making more twiddle muffs in the future!
Would you like to get involved or learn more about our work? Visit our website or pop into Moray Reach Out Yarns & Crafts in Buckie – we’d love to hear from you!