Twiddles items come in may shapes and sizes. They don’t have to be attached to mats, cuffs and blankets. There are lots on our website and on photos in the Gallery. On the internet you might find them called fidget toys or sensory toys. Whatever they are called, these stand alone twiddle items play an important role in helping people of all ages to reduce anxiety at any particular moment. Here are some of my favourites.
Twiddle Octopals
Twiddle octopals make wonderful standalone twiddle items for all ages and varying needs. Sometimes it is very comforting to have an octopal in your hand as you mull over problems or ideas. Wander over to the octopus story to find out more: The Octopus Story
Pocket Heart Hugs
Have you heard of pocket heart hugs? These are ideal to attach to twiddle mats, muffs and cuffs. They are also ideal as a standalone twiddle item for anyone with dementia, anxiety issues, or for someone who needs a hug. They make the perfect small gift when you want to let someone know you care. These are perfect for pre schoolers who are learning routines like sitting on the floor to listen to a story. The pocket heart hug becomes a focus for them, calming them and helping them to settle to listen to the story. Over at Pocket Heart Hugs you can read more.
Twiddle Maze
A longterm twiddles maker, Maia, found this great idea on Ravelry at
https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/silent-fidget-marble-maze
These are Maia’s examples. The creator calls it a ‘ Silent Fidget Marble Maze’. In Maia’s examples you can see how the user can move the beads around the maze. There is no risk to the user as the beads are securely encased.
These could be attached to a small mat as a standalone twiddle mat or part of other twiddle items on a twiddle mat. Have fun dreaming up how you can corporate the twiddle maze into your creations.
Twiddle Creepy Crawly
The twiddle creepy crawly is a similar idea to Maia’s twiddle maze. Attached to a small mat (roughly 10 inches / 25 cm square) small balls inside the creepy crawly can be moved around. The creepy crawly mat can easily fit in a pocket or bag. More details are found at: Creepy Crawlies
Worry Worms
Worry worms can be attached to small mats too. They are like twiddle twirls but only one length is needed to make the worry worm.
A worry worm with a flat head slightly stuffed. Fun to make.
Chain 30, turn and put 4 stitches into 2nd chain from hook. Continue back up chain until you reach the first chain. Into this chain put 10 double crochet stitches. Finish off by slip stitching into chain. Weave in the ends
Make 2 eyes and a mouth.
Inspiration for worry worms at https://www.hookedbyrobin.com/blog/crochet-worry-worm
I like to hide any stitching from restless fingers by attaching a backing to the head. Chain 3, put 12 double crochet stitches into the first chain stitch. Fasten off.
Sew 2 pieces of head together. You could join 2 pieces with a simple edging by chaining 2, slip into next stitch, chain 2. Continue right around.Before you finish off, put in some stuffing to soften the head. Finish.
Sometimes I will make the worry worm with a small round head. I only use buttons if I am gifting it to someone I know and I am confident they won’t tug or bite at the buttons. Buttons can be a safety hazard. Otherwise I embroider the eyes and maybe add a mouth too.
If you have a few moments to play with yarn and the idea of stand-alone twiddle, have a look at Pocket Hugs in the Gallery.
I’m sure you can come up with lots of ideas that fit in a hand, stored in a pocket, drawer or bag that provide a way for people, young and old to have moments of calm. Share with us on our Project Twiddles Crafters Group on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/projecttwiddles/
Happy creating everyone
Sandra @ Project Twiddles
