If you’re navigating clubfoot treatment, you know how uncomfortable braces can be—especially for little ones. This simple DIY club foot brace cover was something I made to add a little comfort and softness during that stage, and I wanted to share it in case it helps someone else too. Sweet grand baby boy was born with club feet and after months of casting then surgery, he graduated to special shoes and a bar.
Before…
And sometimes that bar conks him on the head. Ouch. So I made up a little cushion/cover and wanted to share here for others who may be searching to cover their baby’s Ponseti bar.
Why a Brace Cover Helps
- reduces irritation
- adds softness
- helps with fit/comfort
- easy to wash/replace
This wasn’t about making it perfect, it was just about making things a little more comfortable.
Materials I used:
- pipe insulation
- fabric
- Velcro one wrap
What I did:
I cut a piece of pipe insulation to fit the brace between the shoes (6 inches).
Next, I cut a piece of scrap fabric 8×9 inches. (It’s a snug fit so I’d suggest doing 8×11 inches instead…a little extra to tuck in.)
Then just ironed/sewed the borders.
I cut two pieces of the Velcro to fit around the pipe insulation snuggly.
Assembly: Insert the brace into the pipe insulation. Wrap the fabric around the pipe insulation, tucking the ends into the open side. Secure with the Velcro.
Optional: If you’re more of a sewing expert than me, you could do snaps or sew on velcro.
Now, the brace has a bit of cushioning. If there was only a way to cushion those hard soled shoes.
Ps. Yes, his shoes are on backwards. Doctors orders, part of the treatment. Isn’t he the cutest?
Intentional Quality Time with Grandchildren
Look at him now! Playing sports and always active. He’s my oldest grandson. 🙂
Grand-Moments – a faith based mini devotional, planner, journal for grandmothers.
He is a complete cutie pie. That was a great idea to keep the ouches at a minimum 🙂
He is so adorable! And growing! My goodness! Know you and Momma will be glad when this part is over.
That was sweet of you to share. Good bless that little guy!
My oldest wore shoes with a bar because he was pigeon toed. He used to lie in his crib, pick up his legs and drop them on the mattress. By the time son #2 came along we had to buy a new mattress. By the way he is now 40 years old, over 6 feet tall with the straightest, strongest legs you have ever seen. Your grandson is beautiful and I am jealous because I want one and apparently my 3 sons don’t. Enjoy!
Your idea is really cute and innovative. I have had 2 children that wore a brace like this. The oldest beat his against his crib bars and broke clear thru. New crib time. I used batting in the ones I made and wish I had thought to use the foam insulation you did. Oh well it was 1977. I’m not sure I had even heard of it.
Awesome mom award!
Great and so important DIY.
Poor little guy undergoing surgery so young. 🙁 It must have been tough for all of you.
And yes, he is super cute! He is super cutely adorable, he is. ^^
I love this DIY! A DIY with lots of love! I am sure this post will help those out there going through the same thing. Thank you for sharing and your grandson is absolutely adorable! 😀
Love it. My little guy will be in boots n bars in about five weeks! I think I’ll do multiple fabrics to match his cute outfits too. Lol. Thanks and great idea. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you so much for this! I’ve been wanting to make a cover for our daughter who is coming in a few months! (I figured I’ll have more time now than after she’s born, so I’m trying to prepare! lol)
The issue I was having is what size to make it! Now I know, thanks to you 🙂
I am making this today for my son who was born with a club foot! Thank you so much for this diy! <3
Awe. I’m so glad you found it helpful! It’s kind of effective for avoiding bruises (for mom)! xoxox
Thank you for the DIY! I’m looking at these for my cousin’s little boy, who will be fitted quite soon for his bar. Are the bars always the same length, or is that dependent on the baby? Should I wait until he is fitted to see how long the bar is between the feet? Thank you for answering my questions! <3
Hi Sarah!
They are shoulder width apart so it is dependent on the baby. So if she can get the measurement to you, you’re good to go! Good luck!
It’s all so much harder on mom than the little one. And how amazing that it can be completely fixed! Prayers for your cousin’s little guy!xo
Thank you so much for sharing this. It’s exactly what I’ve been looking for!
You’re welcome, Mary! I’m so glad you found it helpful! xo