Comfort items can create calm during the moments of sensory overload or stress that people with autism often experience. If you’re an adult with autism, these DIY comfort items are simple things you can craft and turn to in moments of stress. Choose a project that matches your preferences and enjoy the relaxation of a hands-on project.
Weighted Comforts
Weighted items provide gentle pressure that can reduce stress and aid relaxation, similar to the effects of a strong hug. Start with durable and soft fabrics that feel good on your skin. From there, you can create a variety of weighted crafts.
Weighted Blankets
For example, consider sewing a blanket with compartments filled with rice or tiny beads. You can measure precise weights for comfort without overdoing it by using bench scales or balances. Generally, weighted blankets should be about 10 percent of your body weight, plus or minus 2–5 percent, depending on how much pressure you want. This ensures your weighted item feels perfectly calming for you.
Weighted Heating Pad
Another idea is a weighted heating pad. Sew a small pouch from soft fabric, fill it with dried rice, and add a few drops of essential oil. Heat it in the microwave, and you’ll have a warm, soothing companion.
Weighted Plush Toy
You can even transform a plush toy into a comfort item by inserting a securely stitched weighted pouch inside.
Added Fidgets to Everyday Clothing
Small adjustments to everyday items can also promote comfort. For example, you can sew durable gel-filled stress balls into the sleeves of a sweatshirt to create a discreet outlet for tactile stimulation.
Carefully cut a small opening, secure the ball, and guarantee it’s durable enough for frequent use without popping. This simple design change to a sweatshirt makes comfort accessible during daily activities without drawing attention.
Whether you’re walking, working, or waiting, stress balls stitched into clothing can support your nervous system. You can get all your adulting done while supporting your autistic brain.
A Hard-Day Box
A hard-day box is simply a preparedness tool for challenging days. Start with a sturdy container and fill it with sensory-friendly tools, textures, or objects that bring you peace. You might include squishy toys, spinners, or textured fabrics for tactile comfort.
Adding familiar snacks and a notebook can make the collection feel even more personal. Having a notebook in the box offers a space to process emotions and thoughts when verbalizing is tough.
Moreover, building the box can be as therapeutic as using it.
Bonus Ideas
Beyond the foundational ideas, there are endless options for simple, customizable tools. Here are a few ideas.
Scented Sachets
Aromatherapy sachets filled with calming herbs like lavender can sit quietly in a pocket or workspace and provide a soothing scent throughout the day.
Fidget Toys
Fidget tools, easily made with buttons or loops of fabric, can keep your hands busy and mind focused.
Weighted Wristbands
Even weighted wristbands crafted from soft fabrics and tiny beads can ground you in your daily routines.
Empower Your Calm With DIY Projects
You can empower yourself as an adult with autism by making these DIY comfort items personalized for your needs and preferences. These crafts present an opportunity to support your sensory needs in a way no store-bought solution can match or understand. Each item can contribute to your sense of peace and control in daily life.