How to Make an Arm Sling From Bed Sheets
Making an arm sling out of a bed sheet is extremely simple. Whether you need it in an emergency or you have to replace a sling that got wet or stained, you can make an arm sling with a scissors or just tear the sheet. Make the arm sling the right size for the person who is wearing it for extra comfort. Any emergency injury that requires an arm sling should be checked by a qualified medical person as soon as possible.
Instructions
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Size the arm sling. In general, a square piece of fabric about 40 inches on each side is used. Or measure from the armpit to the wrist--and double that length--for the length of the side of the square. Mark the fabric so you know where to cut. Use the square edge of a bed sheet for two sides of your square--you don't have to cut or tear as much fabric.
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Cut out the square. You can rip the square out of the bed sheet with your bare hands. If that is too difficult, use a scissors to cut out the square.
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Fold the sling. Take two opposite corners and fold them together to form a triangle.
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Wrap the sling on the person. Lay the closed edge of the sling under the wrist and against the chest. The open edge of the sling will be at the person's elbow. Take the end that is pointing up and lay this over the shoulder opposite the injured arm. Take the other end (pointing down) and wrap it around the injured arm and over the shoulder of the injured arm.
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Tie the sling. Use two overhand knots to secure the ends lying over the shoulders. The knot will be at the base of the person's neck. Make sure the sling is tight enough to support the injured arm but does not cause any discomfort.
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Pin the elbow. Use a safety pin or small knot to secure the two open ends of the sling at the elbow. This will keep the sling from shifting and losing its shape and effectiveness.
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Tips & Warnings
You can use these same instructions to make a permanent sling. Use the measurements and a colorful cloth for a child who has to wear a cast for a long time. You can replace the knot at the back with a smoothly stitched custom-fit seam that is more comfortable. Always check with your doctor to make sure the sling is properly fit.
Always have injuries examined as quickly as possible by a medical professional. Many shoulder, arm and wrist injuries require slings--others don't.
