In 2000 I was first introduced to weighted blankets, vests, and other sensory products as a therapy based solution for my son. At that time, we were fortunate enough to be able to borrow a blanket and vest to test and determine if they would be of any value to hi. We had some success. That is, the blanket and vest helped – when he wanted and would allow us to use it!
The Decision to make our own
After researching prices to acquire our own and wanting to save money, I embarked on designing a custom vest and blanket. Finding suitable filling to provide the weight required was a challenge. Lead pellets were a definite no. So, I explored using washers found out our local hardware store, however, this ended up being bulky and the metal was a risk for overheating when drying items.
So, I went to our local Michaels store and bought 4 pounds of poly pellets for the blanket, and 2 pounds for his vest. I used the loaners we had for my template. It took hours to construct, cutting and recutting vest pieces until I came up with a design I like.
Unfortunately, I didn’t take photos of them. I wasn’t even thinking of making more for re-sale. Quite frankly, the time and cost in making these by had made it cost prohibitive for resale purposes. Ironically, several people suggested I make them to sell as they were hard to find, especially locally. Intrigued, I attempted to source supplies but that was a far as it went. Life with my son was a full-time, often two-person job. The idea fell to the side, though was never forgotten. I always felt that IF ever I could find quality and affordable suppliers, and IF I ever had the time, I would perhaps start making for resale. In fact, when I look back on my business project ideas over the years, there are several times where I sourced and explored developing weighted products.
Benefit of time
Until recently, weighted sensory products were not mainstream. If you happened to be a parent of a child living with special needs, then perhaps you were aware of them. But, with the recent surge in popularity, weighted blankets have become mainstream and can be found online, and in major box stores. In general, this is a plus especially for special needs families. People who suffer with various conditions are finding relief and weighted blankets provide a natural option for these people.
So, who can benefit from using weighted blankets?
- Insomnia
- Anxiety and Panic Disorders
- Depression
- Daily Stress
- ADHD
- OCD
- PSTD
- Autism
- Chronic Pain
- Restless Leg Syndrome
- Fibromyalgia Pain
- Hypertension
Deciding to develop weighted products
In 2016 I had back surgery which lead to having to refocus my full-service seamstress business. This past year, I began exploring developing my own line of weighted sensory products. Excitement mounted when I realized that supplies are easier to access. I made a few blankets as gifts over the year and realized that besides the length of time it takes to create one (adding to the cost), the physical demands would be prohibitive, and sewing a 15-pound blanket by hand is quite physical, as I’m sure you can image if you’ve ever lifted one.
So, I began researching manufacturing services and creating a way to have the heavy work produce through the manufacturer, but still allow my creative expression in some way. Thus,the result – Fun-R-We Creations & Co. Ltd. 40Winks Weighted Blankets. In short, my manufacturer provides the inside weighted insert and a basic cover, and I provide an add-on customization service for the covers! Thus customers can have various covers for different seasons, or simply preferences and moods.