How to Make Simple Crutches

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Choose some straight-grained sound lumber suitable for the project.

   Oak, poplar, ash, or hickory are good, strong, bendable hardwoods, but even a softwood like white pine used in the illustrations will do in a pinch.
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   Step 2: Rip the wood to yield two 1 1⁄4 inch (3.2 cm) by 1 1⁄2 inch (3.8 cm) boards about 66 inches (167.6 cm) long.

   Mark these 12 inches (30.5 cm) from one end and rip them down their centers from the end to the mark so the two limbs can be separated. , Insert a 3⁄8 inch (1.0 cm) hex bolt through this hole with a flat washer on the head of the bolt, place another washer on the threaded end, and then install the hex nut, tightening it snugly. , The sides should each bow out symmetrically and form a "Y" shape. , Sand or shape these blocks round so they are comfortable to hold. , For an adjustable grip, a series of holes can be drilled so the grip can be raised or lowered for persons who are different heights.
   
   For a crutch being used by one person, the single mark you have made is all that needs to be drilled. , Tighten the nuts securely, and cut off any of the all-thread rod that extends beyond the nuts. , Cut the limbs off at these marks. , Glue and nail the ends of the limbs in these notches to form the tops of the crutches. ,
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   Step 3: Drill a 3⁄8 inch (1.0 cm) hole through the center 2 inches (5.1 cm) below the mark at the end of the rip cut in the previous step.

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   Step 4: Cut a wedge 3⁄4 inch (1.9 cm) wide to a point

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   Step 5: 3 inches (7.6 cm) long

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   Step 6: and drive it between the two limbs to spread them out.

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   Step 7: Cut a 1X1 inch block of your wood 4 inches (10.2 cm) long with a 15 degree bevel on each end for each crutch grip

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   Step 8: then bore a 3⁄8 inch (1.0 cm) hole through the center

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   Step 9: lengthwise.

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    Step 10: Mark a center where the grip should fit through the limbs by placing the end of the crutch on the ground and dropping your hand to a comfortable height between the limbs.

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    Step 11: Push a 3/8 all-thread rod through one limb

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    Step 12: the grip

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    Step 13: and then the other limb

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    Step 14: place flat washers and then nuts on each end of these bolts.

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    Step 15: Hold the crutches by the grips in the position you would use the crutches in

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    Step 16: and mark the height the limbs need to be trimmed at.

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    Step 17: Cut two more blocks of wood 1 1/2 inches (5.1 cm) square and 7 inches (17.8 cm) long

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    Step 18: then notch each end 1⁄2 inch (1.3 cm) back from the ends and 1⁄2 inch (1.3 cm) deep to create steps for the limbs to fit into.

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    Step 19: Sand or smooth any rough surfaces of the crutches for a more comfortable and attractive crutches.

Detailed Guide

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