BUILD A BREAST
Would you like to join the growing group of knitters providing knitted prosthetic breasts for mastectomy patients?
Sounds silly, doesn't it? Yet, when placed in a bra, these knitted breasts take the shape and feel of a real breast. They are lighter and more comfortable than silicone prosthetic breasts. The knitted fabric breathes and prevents the heat rash experienced by many women wearing the silicone ones. Knitting instructions are provided below.
· Did you know that just one silicone prosthetic breast costs between $300 and $500?! Without health insurance, they are out of the reach of most breast cancer survivors. Even those with insurance are limited to a new prosthetic breast every two years. If it springs a leak that is not covered by the warranty, you are out of luck.
Consider joining us. Why? Because knitting a Build a Breast is fun. It is a great
conversation starter. And because it means so much to women who
desperately need a little giggle. You might ask, why a knitted boob? Don’t they have silicone ones you can get at medical
supply stores? Yes. They do. But you can't always get one right
away. You can’t be fitted for traditional breast prosthesis until you have been
out of surgery for at least three weeks.
Build a Breast knitted breasts are currently donated to Skaggs Medical Center for Cancer Patients in Branson, MO and other Missouri-Illinois cancer centers. As more breasts are received, additional recipient locations (any state) will be added
KNIT TIPS
Women and breasts come in all sizes, so we need all sizes. Knit whatever strikes your fancy. Knit your size. Knit your sister’s size. Just knit.
When choosing a yarn, look for dk or sport weight. You want something that is soft, lightweight, and that breathes. My favorite yarn for the boobs is Cascade’s pima tencel, a cotton/tencel blend. Many are making their boobs out of Debbie Bliss’s baby cashmerino. Bamboo is another good choice. Avoid pure wool as it can be itchy when close to the skin. Check your stash, ask your friends to swap yarn, have fun and be creative!!
We stuff each breast with poly-fill, but always leave a small opening so the recipient can adjust the size by adding or removing filling, and then sewing up the seam themselves.
This pattern provides instruction to begin the front of the Build a Breast with a short i-cord that will be tied into a knot to form a nipple. Some women prefer the knitted breast without the faux nipple. Just cast on, and begin.!
Knitted breasts may be sent to the Build
a Breast donation site by sending an email to one of the following people
for shipping information, questions or comments:
Missouri/Arkansas Ozarks
Mid Missouri
KNITTING INSTRUCTIONS
