The wrist suspension cuffs depicted in the plan pre-dating this one are nice. Comfortable, strong, not too difficult to make. However, I've always wanted cuffs that provide a grip to hang on to, with all of one's fingers. This plan was inspired by my 'discovery' of really big D-rings. I bought some without knowing quite what to use them for. When a friend requested some suspension cuffs... bing! Perfect application.
The base of the D-ring provides an admirable place to grab. These cuffs are the best I've seen for extended suspension, or use on bulky folks, with the exceptions of the 'glove' design sold (for a hefty fee) by Mr. S. in San Francisco and my own AcuFit grip suspension cuffs. You can get the big D's from WWL Hardware.
Before starting, take a good look at the plan diagram and finished product shot. The size and shape of the base strap is difficult to describe, and you'll need to experiment on some scrap to get it right.
Mallet, Utility Knife, Rivet Setter, Punch, Edge Beveler #2, Sewing Gear, Edge Slicker, Strap-Cutter (optional), Eyelet Setter and Anvil (optional)
1" Roller Buckle (2)
3" Welded D-rings (2)
Medium Rivets
1/4" Key Posts (6)
Eyelets (optional) (6+)
Base Strap(2): 11.5" x 8.5"
Buckle Strap (2): 1" x 8.5"
Belt Strap (2): 1" x 4"
Measurement for this project is simple, but shaping the base strap is quite iterative. The initial measurements in the plan diagram, reflecting a 7" wrist, should give you an idea of the size and contour of the base strap, critical to cuff comfort. You'll need to make at least one practice base strap, with the intention of slowly cutting it down to size and shape, and then using it as a template for the real ones. The ideal shape will sit comfortable around the wrist. The curved base should 'disappear' when wrapped into shape, as seen in the finished picture.
Two measurements are required: wrist and finger length. Wrist should be obvious. Change the lateral dimensions in the plan diagram based on how much your measurement varies from 7". Finger length should be measured from the base of palm to the middle joint of the middle finger. This is F in the plan diagram, and should be about 4-5".
Cut two base straps using the template from (1) above. It's a nice touch to mirror the left and right cuffs.
Cut two buckle straps and two belt straps. Leave the belt straps long for now, and cut them down to size later.
Punch all indicate holes except the closure holes on belt strap, including the sewing holes indicated by small dashes in the plan diagram. This area is the minimum sewing required to keep the lining securely in place, although you can certainly sew all the way around.
Finish the edges before attaching hardware. Use a #2 edge beveller to bevel all outer edges, top and bottom, on all pieces. Rub all of the outer edges briefly with an edge slicker and apply Edge Coat. Allow to dry, about 15 minutes. Of course, you'll be trimming some of this off shortly, but most of the edge finishing can be done now.
Attach the belt and buckle straps to the base strap. I recommend key posts in these high-stress areas.
Cut appropriately sized/shaped pieces of felt lining, and glue one to each base strap. This lining should run up to the lower set of triple holes, just short of the four-pattern on the belt strap end, and all the way to the buckle strap end. Sew in place where indicated before trimming to exact size.
Secure large D-rings in place through the three-hole pattern using key posts. Rivet the four-pattern closed, completing the cuff shape.
With the cuffs in place on the target wrist, position and punch the closure holes on the belt straps. Terminate these straps 2+" beyond the last hole, and finish the resulting edges. You're done!
