Watch Strap for People With Charcot-Marie-Tooth

Our journey started when we met John, a student with Charcot-Marie-Tooth. We were asking him questions about the different clothes he wears when one of our team members Charlie asked if he wore a watch. He said he would love to wear a watch. In the past he had tried a magnetic band, but it interfered with him wheelchair as he pushed the wheels. The reason he can't wear most watches is because he is unable to pinch with his fingers. That led us to the process of creating an accessible watch band for people with limited hand pinching mobility We tried to limit the use of velcro to create a more chic look, which is why hooks are used to clasp the band.

Step 1: Gather Materials & Tools

Materials

1.A Watch

2. Hook & Eye Closure

2. Black Elastic Spool

3. Black Thread

Tools

1. Sewing Machine

2. Scissors

3. Ruler

Step 2: Detach the Original Watch Strap From the Watch

The watch we were working with came with straps attached. We had to cut them off in order to detach the metal bars from the straps. This bars will allow you to attach your new band onto the watch.

Step 3: Measure the Length of the Elastic Spool

The length of our elastic spool that we used was 20.5 inches. We folded this in half to create a band of 10.25 inches. This can be adjusted based on the wrist size you are working with.

Step 4: Cut the Width of the Elastic Spool Based on the Width of the Watch

We had to decrease the original width that the spool came in because it fit too tightly into the watch.

Step 5: Sew the Loose Ends Together

The band should be folded now, so sew the side opposite of the loop together

Step 6: Fold the End That Was Sewn Together a Little Bit and Sow It Together

This loop is what you'll put the watch bar in to connect the strap to the watch

Step 7: Sew a Little Below the Loop to Create Where the Finger Will Be Placed to Put on the Strap

Step 8: Sew the Two Vertical Ends Together So You Have One Strap

Step 9: Attach the Not Loop Side to the Watch by Putting the Bar Through It

Step 10: Cut the Hooks to Fit the Watch Width and Keep Adjustable Options If Wanted

Step 11: Sew the Hooks Onto the Watch Band

Step 12: Sew the Hooks Right on Top of the Loop

Step 13: Sew Velcro Onto the Loop

This will be used after the watch is put on to then stick the loop back onto the watch band.

Step 14: Check If the Watch Fits and Is Wearable :)