A cane that folds in 4 segments, with strap In just 5 minutes you can modify your folding cane or folding crutch so that it stays folded, using a Velcro strap. It will fit into a backpack or bag, and yet you can unfasten it quickly.


Steps

1. Notice that Velcro has two sides to it, the fuzzy end and the spiky, rough side. You will be sticking the adhesive back of the rough end to the upper section of the barrel of your cane.
2. Measure your Velcro. For a cane that folds in two, for a total of about 3 inches of circumference, you will need around 8-9 inches of rough Velcro. For a cane that folds in four segments, you will need about 13 inches of Velcro. For the fuzzy Velcro, you will need about 3 inches less. You can measure the circumference by folding the cane and wrapping a fabric tape measure (the kind tailors use) or piece of string around it.
3. Cut segments of Velcro of the proper length. One fuzzy, one rough. Make the rough side three inches longer than fuzzy side.
4. Put the sticky backs of the two pieces of Velcro together, staggered by 3 inches, leaving 3 inches of stickiness exposed on the rougher, spikier side. Now you have a strap that is rough on one side, fuzzy on the other. The rough side is longer and has a sticky back exposed.
5. Make sure you position the Velcro to go between any holes in the cane so that you can still adjust its height.
6. Put the sticky part of the 3 inches of rough Velcro onto your cane barrel, near the upper end. Press it down really well.
   • To help the adhesive stick better, clean the surface of the cane or crutch first to remove skin oils and other debris. A bit of rubbing alcohol will work nicely, but you could also use a cleaner that doesn't leave a residue, such as a glass cleaner.
7. Fold your cane and wrap the strap around, fuzzy side out. The strap will now stick to itself.
8. Sew a colored cloth tab over the end of the strap to make it look nice, or extend the Velcro with a small cloth loop. The tab will help you spot the end and get hold of it easily, too. Now the cane will fit into your backpack. You can carry it easily without fear that it will spring open.

Tips

• You can buy sticky-backed Velcro in big rolls from a craft or sewing store, or online from Amazon. It is about $5.00 for five feet.
• Set up rough/spiky Velcro docking ports near your desk or bed, or on your wheelchair. Then use the strap to dock your cane!
• This might be a nice thing to offer to do for an older relative or a disabled friend.