About once a year, I spend an hour sewing a dozen elastic bands for sleeve protection. These are very simple to make: just snug the elastic around your arm while wearing a heavy coat, then mark it with a sharpie marker or pin it with a safety pin. Use that measurement as a pattern, making a few larger and smaller bands to have a good variety. Sew the short edges together and you’re done!
I put them into the pockets of my favorite jackets, the ones I might wear while hunting or shooting at the archery range. Any time a blousy sleeve impedes my bowstring, I have one handy to slip onto my bicep area to contain excess fabric. I put a couple into my quiver pocket so I have some to share at archery shoots. I also safety pin a band into place on my primary hunting coat. No more string slapping fabric on my shirt or coat sleeve causing loud noise or poor arrow flight.
Looks like Alaska interior background to me!
You might also consider saving the tops of those worn out Smartwool socks. Cut off above the heel and the top part will work similarly, depending on the thickness of your clothing and size of your arms.
Years ago I cut the legs off my daughter’s leggings and ballet tights. Around 3 – 5 years old size works well. I have black and white, various lengths and sizes, and they are very firm and stretchy. I haven’t used an arm guard since.
I agree with Dave, I keep the tops of a couple of old socks with me. Works well.
Instead of sewing the ends of the elastic band together, use Velcro to connect them. The upside is that only one band would be needed as it could be adjusted to fit either larger or smaller sleeves. The downside is the notorious noise that Velcro makes when the ends are separated; when hunting, be careful making adjustments in the field and try not to pull the Velcro apart until you’ve finished hunting for the day.
I like the idea of the rubber band for baggy sleeves. I have not found any at the local retailers. I have looked at places like Meijer, Wal Mart, Dunhams , etc. Any suggestions.
Hi Dennis,
I think you can usually find 3″ wide elastic in the sewing section of most big department stores. If not, try a fabric or craft store. I think the top of the sock idea is also good, and there is no sewing involved.
. Inexpensive, compact and easy, thanks great idea.
Another option is an item available at your local bike shop. Intended to keep pant-legs out of the chain. 1″ wide nylon with velcro ends. Sturdy, adjustable, and available in a variety of colors. Bright yellow is my favorite as they are less likely to be lost. They’ll cost a few dollars, but if you’re into “easy” and even a bit stylish, they might be a nice late addition to your Christmas list.