This is one of the most practical gifts that I like to make for family members & friends! I design them to hang out in the recipient’s car trunk, so if a minor medical situation comes up while they’re out-and-about, they’re prepared.
I start by purchasing a first aid kit, usually from Walmart although any kit would work. You want a kit that includes the first aid basics – bandages, antibiotic ointment, etc. The smaller, cheaper kits don’t usually include tweezers, so I purchase a pair to stick in there for splinters. Purchasing the kit first lets you make sure that the kit will fit in the bag.
I like to use the Medical Tweet machine embroidery design from Embroidery Library. (This is not sponsored, just sharing what I’ve used.) I use the smaller size, just under 5×7″. Sometimes I stitch the birds out in different colors – some more pastel, some darker, some brighter – depending on the preference of the recipient.
Of course you could use any fabric you’d like. There are lots of medical-themed machine embroidery designs, so choose one that fits the size of bag that you need to make. You could applique, cross-stitch, or paint a simple red cross, or use a fabric with a medical theme. You could machine-embroider or hand-embroider the words “First Aid Kit” on the front of the bag, and that could be made in any color scheme. I do recommend that you identify it as a “medical” bag in some way, so it’s easy to recognize it in a stressful situation.
I usually add 2 strips of the “hook” side of Velcro to the back, with the idea that it can grab onto the carpet lining in a car’s trunk & not slide around as much. That step is optional.
I usually line the bags with quilt batting and a plain backing, but you could use a single layer of a twill or denim fabric. The drawstring casing at the top allows the kit to stay inside, but is still easy to open in an emergency. The strings could also be used to tie the bag to something in the vehicle so it doesn’t slide around. If the recipient drives a vehicle that doesn’t have an enclosed trunk, such as a minivan, station wagon, SUV, pick-up truck, or some hatchbacks, it would be good to tie the tote bag to something so that it doesn’t become airborne and injure someone during an accident.
If anyone is interested in a full tutorial, please let me know! I could also make and sell bags, although you’d probably want to purchase the 1st aid kit locally to save on shipping costs. If you’re interested in purchasing a bag for a first aid kit, you can use the Contact form to get in touch.
Happy stitching!
— Elizabeth