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Dr. Ramsay and one loom purchased in the first instance. This
proved suitable in size and weight for the use of a bed-patient
and the Care Committee have recently bought two more. These
two are now in use, the patients being instructed by members
of the Committee who learned on the first loom obtained. No
patient will be supplied with a loom except on the recommendation
of the Chest Physician, who will lay down the number of
hours he may work at it. Wool is being provided by the Care
Committee and eventually some means will be found to dispose
of the articles made, but it is not proposed that selling them
for profit should be made a matter of any consequence as the
occupational value is felt to be sufficient justification for the
expenditure, although it is hoped that after a time the sale of
articles will cover the cost of materials, etc.
"Three patients were supplied with Dryad Hand Looms
and with materials for use at home.
"A male patient was found to have started embroidery on
his own initiative while awaiting admission to sanatorium. After
a time he was unable to afford materials and when this was
known to the W.A.T.C.H., they agreed to provide materials.
The first set of materials had been provided by the Red Cross.
Work done was of a high standard and resulted in his receiving
orders from friends and becoming independent of help.
"Another male patient while in Broomfield Hospital
learned to make cane-edged trays. On discharge he was put
in touch with suppliers of the necessary materials by the
Secretary of the W.A.T.C.H., and is now making and selling
them independently.
" A female patient was provided with materials for
embroidery."
Disposal of Articles made.—No final decision will be possible
until developments show what will be practicable. The first
scarves have only recently been completed and suggestions have
been made that a sale of work could be arranged when sufficient
finished work is available or that a local trader might be prepared
to lend the use of part of a shop-window to display the goods.
Cost of Materials.—The Dryad loom costs only 17s. 2d. and
the wool used so far was bought direct from Newcastle Wool Co.,
at 16s. per lb. A scarf takes 3—4 ozs.
Instruction was given by Mr. McGiverin (member of
W.A.T.C.H.) and Miss Busby (Local Voluntary Helper), who
learned the use of the Dryad loom from the Dryad instruction
leaflet and undertook to visit the home, set up the loom and show
the patient how to use it. Frequent visits have not been necessary