Leather Wrist Splint/Brace : 5 Steps (with Pictures)

I have recently been forced to address my wrist pain and been diagnosed with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, this in itself isn't that serious but I have to wear a brace most of the time. However, the brace I have been given is fugly and boring so I decided to make a better one.
I have a nurse friend and she says as long as the metal part of the brace is held in the correct place firmly but not tightly then you can use anything you want to hold it on.
Also, taking the metal part out of the original brace doesn't damage either part.

As always, feel free to message me or comment if you have any questions.

Step 1:

Step 2:

I did my best to trace accurately around the edge of the brace on to the back of a piece of upholstery leather. For my arm size, a sample piece from a furniture manufacturer was big enough.

Cut this shape out.

Step 3:

1) Sew a strip of velcro to the left part of the brace.
2) Glue (I used PVA) a strip of pleather to the top of the velcro and trim both down to round off the edges.
3) Use a small blanket stitch to secure the pleather to the velcro.
4) I also used an eyelet to secure it further and I like the look of studs and stuff.

Do this three times, making sure you align them to your wrist as you go. This was quite difficult one handed (esp with cts) so I would recommend acquiring a lackey to help you.

Step 4:

I cut a leather patch a bit bigger than the metal brace and stitched it to the main leather brace part.

The diagram on the left is a leather copy of the long (most important) strap. I used a thin belt buckle (minus its tang) and a strip of leather that I had to create using two pieces connected with eyelets. (I didn't have a piece long enough)

This strap needs to be attached correctly so pin it in place and try it on.

Step 5:

Once the structural stuff is out of the way, I started added frilly bits. This is the part that goes around my hand. It is simply a thong threaded through holes and PVA'd in place at each end.