Fidget Mats — North Florida Sewing Center

In 2023, the North Florida Sewing Center received a request from two different local hospice organizations for fidget mats, also known as busy blankets. These are small blankets or pillows that adults with dementia use on their laps that have all sorts of items attached to them. This gives the patient something to do and explore with restless hands and helps them to relax, practice motor skills, and reduce memory loss.

Some of the fidget items used on mats include: zippers, buttons, little curtains to lift, buckles, snaps, pockets with attached items inside, beads, seashells, keys, fishing tackle (without hooks), and items with various textures to touch.

We held our first Fidget Mat Making Service Day on February 3, 2024. It was so successful we are offering “Fidget Friday” events in the evening once a month or so. The next one will be on March 1 (6:30-9:00 pm). There is no charge but space is limited so you need to sign up for this at https://nfsewingcenter.company.site/ .

Here are the items we need to be donated to produce these mats:

   Placemats of Heavy Fabrics (used as a base – stains or damage are OK)

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   Buttons 
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   Zippers
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   Seashells that have holes in them to string

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   Beads (larger sizes)
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   Buckles
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   Velcro
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   Stuff Animals  or Toys (very small – to put into pockets)

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   Ribbons
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   Pockets
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   Keys
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   Bolts and Nuts (no sharp points)
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   Fishing Tackle (no hooks)
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Marbles and Tulle are used to make simple mazes where the marble can’t get lost as it is held in place with tulle.

These mazes can be used independently or attached to a fidget mat.