Low-Tech, Low-Cost Do-It-Yourself Assistive Technology

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Low-Tech, Low-Cost Do-It-Yourself Assistive Technology Summary: This article explores how to create low-tech, low-cost, do-it-yourself assistive technology with everyday materials and a dash of ingenuity. Readers will gain a practical framework for safe, ethical, and user-centered design, along with pragmatic tips that acknowledge the realities of time, budget, and storage space. From toolkits to legal considerations, the piece blends replicable examples with humor and empathy, proving that sometimes the best solutions come from a glue gun, PVC pipe, and a strong cup of coffee.

makers of all kinds, these ideas are replicable, affordable, and adaptable for diverse users and environments. DIY AT also represents a philosophy. It is about believing that end users deserve access now, not after six months of pa- perwork or approval cycles. It is about honoring the voices of disabled people by including them in decision-making. And it is about resisting the idea that only expensive, commercialized devices can provide dignity and independence. DEFINING THE TERMS: DIY AND LOW-TECH AT Do-It-Yourself Assistive Technology (DIY AT) refers to non-commercially fabricated supports made from commonly available materials. These tools are designed with the end user in mind, whether the goal is communication, motor support, sensory regulation, or increased independence. Low-tech AT requires little to no technical expertise to use or maintain. It can be as simple as a modified spoon for better grip or a high-contrast visual aid. These tools are often devised or fabricated by a maker (educator, caregiver, therapist, or even the end user themselves) to meet a specific need.

INTRODUCTION: WHY DIY MATTERS In the words of Steve Ballmer, “Accessibility is all about re- moving barriers and providing the benefits of technology for everyone.” In a world where assistive technology (AT) can be prohibitively expensive, overly complex, or stuck in district pa- perwork (and sometimes insurance) limbo, low-tech and do-it- yourself (DIY) approaches offer affordable, accessible, and pow- erful alternatives. For many end users with disabilities, a thoughtfully crafted low-tech tool can support independence, increase access to learning, and promote inclusion, sometimes more effectively than its high-tech counterparts. A pool noodle may not have the sparkle of a $2,000 commercial device, but if it helps someone grip a writing tool, suddenly the classroom becomes a place of autonomy and creativity rather than frustration. This article introduces a framework for thinking about low- tech, DIY assistive technology: what it is, why it matters, how to create it ethically, and what tools and materials you will need to get started. Designed for educators, families, therapists, and

SARA LUCAS-DREISS is a National Board Certified Exceptional Needs Specialist with more than 25 years of experience in education. She serves as a curriculum, instruction, and assessment specialist and as an adaptive art teacher for Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) in Maryland, where she specializes in working with low occurrence disability populations. Having multiple disabilities herself, Sara is both an assistive technology (AT) user and a maker, bringing personal insight as well as professional expertise to her work. She is also a national presenter, consultant, and advocate for accessibility and equity in the arts, providing professional development across the country on low-cost assistive technology, inclusive classroom strategies, and adaptive arts instruction.

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CONSIDERATIONS BEFORE CREATING DIY AT

The most important feature of DIY AT is not its cleverness, but its responsiveness. It allows for rapid trial and error, prototyp- ing, and feedback. Commercial solutions may sit unopened in a closet because they arrived six months too late, while a DIY solution made with foam tubing and Velcro can start supporting participation in real time. DIY AT also acknowledges that technology is not neutral. The world has too often been designed for a mythical “average user,” leaving disabled people to adapt after the fact. Low-tech AT flips this script: instead of forcing the end user to adjust, it bends the environment toward the needs of the person. WHY LOW-TECH MATTERS There are many benefits to incorporating low-tech AT into your classroom, therapy practice, or home environment: • Affordability : Low-tech tools reduce reliance on high-cost, specialized equipment. A therapy chair may cost $600, but a booster made from layered foam and shelf liner may accom- plish the same task for $20. • Ease of Use: Simpler tools mean fewer barriers for both us- ers and caregivers. Families already juggling complex care schedules may not have the bandwidth to charge, calibrate, or troubleshoot. • Custom Fit: Tools can be adapted to the user’s preferences, environment, and existing skills. One student’s switch cover might have glitter and bright colors, while another’s is sleek and soft reflecting sensory and tactile preferences. • Repairable and Replaceable: Most items can be fixed or rebuilt quickly and at low cost. A broken foam grip can be replaced in minutes, not months. • Promotes Autonomy: When thoughtfully designed, these supports preserve dignity and foster independence. Access is not a gift; it is a right. Low-tech AT recognizes that. Low-tech solutions offer an efficient, low-risk entry point for exploring assistive technology. They allow educators, clinicians, and families to meet end users where they are, test interventions quickly, and reduce the stigma often associated with high-tech or medicalized devices. Equity also plays a central role. Access to commercial AT is shaped by systemic inequities: which schools get budget alloca- tions, which families can afford adaptive equipment, and which insurance companies approve claims. Low-tech AT democra- tizes access by providing more accessible solutions not tied to privilege. A cardboard switch may not look like much, but if it empowers someone to turn on their toy independently, it is priceless.

SKILL AND TRAINING Consider the skills required for both the maker and the user. The maker must have the knowledge and training to safely fab- ricate the device, while the end user must have the ability to use it effectively. If it takes an engineering team, a decoder ring, and an Alohomora just to utilize, the device probably is not as us- er-friendly as anyone had intended or hoped for. COST, MATERIALS, AND TOOLS Ask yourself: are the materials and tools affordable, easy to source, and realistic for the setting? An AT solution that relies on pricey, hard-to-find parts sets everyone up for big feelings if it breaks or gets abandoned. Everyday materials often work best. Corrugated plastic, for example, holds up better than cardboard in settings where the tool might get mouthed or come into con- tact with liquids. PVC and Velcro are also tried and true favorites, usually beating out boutique components on cost, availability, and repairability. LABOR AND SPEED When you’re building a tool, time really matters. Some DIY AT projects may call for materials you don’t already have lying around and have to order, or even help from an outside fabri- cator. That’s when you have to balance durability, cost, and how quickly the solution is needed. If a device takes 40 hours to put together, it probably won’t solve an immediate problem. On the other hand, quick prototyping can give the end user what they need right away, even if it’s more of a “good for now” fix than a forever solution. Think of it as the duct tape of assistive tech: not perfect, but sometimes exactly what saves the day. SAFETY Safety needs to be considered from every angle. For the maker, ask whether the fabrication process involves risks such as hot glue burns, sharp blades, or the need for protective gear like safety goggles or a respirator. For the end user, think about potential hazards such as sharp edges, choking risks, or adhe- sives that might be toxic or release irritating fumes. The envi- ronment also plays a role. Could the device scratch equipment, leave sticky residue, or damage the end user’s personal prop- erty? Safety should never be an afterthought. A design that creates more problems than it solves is not clever at all, and no one wants their DIY AT remembered as the project that set off the smoke detector. And trust me, I have come close a few times when soldering. DURABILITY AND RELIABILITY A good DIY AT solution should be built to last longer than a single use. Ask yourself if the device can withstand repeated handling, or if it is likely to fall apart after one enthusiastic trial.

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An array of low-tech, art oriented communication supports are arranged on a wooden surface. Features include PCS symbols, multilingual CORE vocabulary, and high contrast imagery with the caption, “Communication supports for inclusive art.

Reliability matters just as much. Will it consistently do what it is meant to do, or will it only work on good days and cause frus- tration the rest of the time? A sturdy, reliable tool saves time, re- duces stress, and keeps everyone from resorting to the dreaded “well, it worked last time” explanation. EASE OF REPAIR AND COMPATIBILITY Things break. The real question is whether they can be fixed without a meltdown and a trip to three different hardware stores. A strong DIY AT design should allow parts to be replaced

quickly with simple tools or commonly available materials. Re- pairs should feel like tightening a bolt, not rebuilding the space shuttle. Compatibility matters too. A device that works smoothly with other assistive technology already in use is far more valu- able than one that constantly fights for attention. The best DIY AT is the kind that can be patched up on a busy Tuesday after- noon and slide right back into daily use without drama.

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PORTABILITY, SIZE, AND WEIGHT A device only works if it can actually get where it needs to go. Consider whether it can be transported easily between settings or if it turns into a full workout every time someone tries to move it. A mount that is so bulky it blocks doorways or so heavy it re- quires its own rolling cart will quickly frustrate the team asked to use it, and frustration often leads to abandonment. The most effective DIY AT is lightweight enough to carry, compact enough to fit into everyday spaces, and sturdy enough to survive the trip without leaving a trail of broken parts behind. If moving it feels like gearing up for a cross-country road trip, it is probably time to rethink the design. SENSORY FEATURES Designs are more successful when they engage the senses. Consider whether the device supports tactile, visual, or auditory needs in ways that make it appealing to use. Covering a grip with a preferred textured material can encourage someone to pick it up, while adding sound or light can spark curiosity and sustain attention. Sometimes a glow or a buzz is the difference between a device that gets ignored and one that becomes a favorite tool. These small sensory details can turn basic DIY AT into something that feels motivating and enjoyable, not just functional. SANITIZATION AND STORAGE A great DIY AT device should be just as easy to clean as it is to use. In shared settings, ask whether the materials can handle frequent wiping, spraying, or even the occasional dunk without falling apart. Smooth surfaces, removable covers, and washable components all make a big difference when multiple people rely on the same tool. Storage matters too. Can the device be tucked away safely without taking over a closet or cluttering every flat surface in the room? A clever design not only works well in use,

it also survives cleaning and fits neatly on a shelf when it is not needed. If it requires its own storage locker, it might be time to go back to the drawing board. SUSTAINABILITY Whenever possible, choose materials that are recyclable, reusable, or biodegradable. A sustainable approach not only benefits the broader environment but also helps keep costs down and reduces waste. Cardboard, corrugated plastic, and re- purposed household items can often do the job just as well as pricier specialty materials, and they give a second life to things that might otherwise end up in the trash. Think, too, about what happens when a device is no longer in use. If it can be taken apart and its pieces reused to make something new, you are supporting the circle of DIY AT tool life. After all, it feels pretty good when a device helps the intended user and saves the plan- et at the same time. EVERYDAY TOOLS AND MATERIALS Think of a good maker’s kit as part toolbox, part junk drawer, and part MacGyver starter pack. With the right mix of everyday supplies, a classroom, garage, or therapy office can instantly be- come an innovation lab. TOOLS Start with the basics: scissors that actually cut, pliers that do more than pinch your fingers, and screwdrivers that match the screws you own. Add in a drill for when you want to feel power- ful, a sander for when things are a little rough around the edges, and a heat gun for when you want to feel like you are wielding a magic wand. Toss in a leather punch, grommet press, snap pli- ers, PVC cutters, and even a coroclaw (because someday you will need to cut corrugated plastic, and you will be glad you have it). ADHESIVES & MOLDABLE PRODUCTS Adhesives are the best friends of DIY AT. Hot glue is quick, ver- satile, and fixes almost anything, though it usually leaves behind those stringy souvenirs as proof. Epoxy delivers a rock-solid hold but can be brittle, so one bad drop might undo a lot of effort. Wood glue is dependable for everyday fixes, while spray glue gets the job done but has a habit of covering more than just the intended surface. Velcro earns its place by making adjustments simple and comes in a wide range of sizes, shapes, and strengths. Moldable glue starts soft like clay and cures into durable rubber that sticks to nearly anything. Thermoplastic pellets and sheets are equally handy since they can be heated, reshaped, and tried again, making them the ultimate second-chance material. TAPES Tapes are the quiet problem-solvers of DIY AT, ready to hold, patch, or reinforce just about anything. Clear and masking tapes cover the basics, while painter’s tape is perfect for tem-

A fingerlight attached to a paintbrush handle illuminates the surface as the user watercolors, with the caption “DIY adaptive light-up paintbrush supporting creative expression.

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porary holds that come off cleanly. Duct and gaffer tape bring heavy-duty strength, and foam or grip tape add comfort and traction where it is needed most. Athletic and surgical tapes work well for wrapping or securing lightweight parts, while electrical tape is a go-to for quick fixes involving wires. Specialty options expand the toolkit even further: anti-slip tape for safety, carbon fiber and thermoplastic tapes for durability, self-fusing

silicone tape for watertight seals, conductive copper tape for simple circuits, and repositionable or double-sided tapes when you need flexibility. With so many options, there is almost always a tape for the job, you just have to pick the right roll.

Picture collage of low-tech writing supports and adaptive scissors. Materials featured include corrugated plastic, PVC, pipe insulation, and a pool noodle , “Quick, low cost, low-tech supports for writing and cutting.

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A user draws with an adaptive tool made from common materials, PVC and Thermoplastic, with the caption, “DIY tool holder providing stability and access for independent mark making.”

READILY AVAILABLE MATERIALS Everyday classroom and household supplies are DIY AT gold. Zip ties can become instant handles, holders, or restraints (for objects, not people). Cardboard is a blank slate for endless pro- totypes, from quick models to sturdy structures. Fabric scraps and elastic cords transform into sensory tools or custom sup- ports with just a little creativity. Add in beads, pompoms, and bells and suddenly you are not just building AT, you are running an arts and crafts rave. Even the basics like pencils, pens, mark- ers, paints, screws, nuts, bolts, speaker wire, or self-adhering bandage wrap can find a second life as clever adaptations. These familiar, low-cost items are often the quickest way to turn an idea into a solution, proving that sometimes the best AT starts in the junk drawer. HOUSEHOLD & HOBBYIST ITEMS Never overlook the mighty pool noodle. It is the duct tape of the aquatic world and a true DIY superstar, perfect for padding, positioning, or reshaping into just about anything. Shelf liner

pulls double duty as a non-slip miracle, keeping items steady on desks or wheelchairs. Polymer clay can be sculpted into cus- tom grips or adapters, while twist ties tame wires or morph into bendable tool holders. Even simple silicone molds, PVC pipes and joints, or laminating sheets can be repurposed into surpris- ingly durable solutions. Hobby electronics like mini switches, button lights, or stereo jacks may sound intimidating at first, but if a middle school robotics club can figure them out, so can you. With a little creativity, everyday household odds and ends quick- ly become the building blocks of custom AT. ALLERGIES & SAFETY One important reality check: not all materials are safe for every end user. Latex, for example, can cause severe allergic re- actions, so it is wise to keep latex-free options in your stash. A helpful guide with safe alternatives is available from the Allergy & Asthma Network: Latex-Free Equipment Guide. Safety may not sound as fun as hot glue and pool noodles, but it keeps your brilliant ideas from turning into liability nightmares.

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Involving high school students can be especially powerful, giving them hands-on experience with skills like solder- ing and switch adapting while sparking a habit of lifelong problem-solving. • Revisit and revise: Needs change, and so should solutions. A good DIY AT tool grows with the user, not against them. Sustainability also applies to the humans involved. Families and educators can feel worn out by constant trial and error. Sharing the work through lending libraries, maker spaces, or even a “pass-it-on” bin of materials spreads responsibility and amplifies the benefits. In the end, DIY AT is not just about tools, it is about building a community of problem solvers who know that sometimes the best fix comes from the recycling bin, a roll of tape, and a little shared laughter. CONCLUSION: BUILDING A CULTURE OF INCLUSION The value of low-tech AT is not in its price tag or sophistica- tion, it is in its ability to empower. A piece of molded plastic, industrial twist tie, or repurposed beauty blender can unlock access, build confidence, and affirm identity. With a builder’s mindset and a focus on dignity and autonomy, we can craft meaningful, sustainable solutions that truly change lives one DIY project at a time. The beauty of this approach is its flexibility. Maybe you are a parent armed with nothing but a roll of duct tape, a therapist pushing a wobbly maker cart down the hall, or an end user with an idea that refuses to be ignored. DIY AT leaves the door open for everyone. And the more people who walk through that door, the more lives get better tools that work right now. Equity, advocacy, and access are inseparable from this work. Every adapted tool pieced together from household supplies is more than just a quick fix. It is an act of resistance against exclu- sion, a declaration that disabled people deserve solutions today, not someday. And sometimes, that act of resistance starts with nothing more than scissors, hot glue, and the radical belief that everyone belongs.

BALANCING DIY INNOVATIONS WITH INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY CONCERNS Creativity is at the heart of DIY AT, but makers need to tread carefully when borrowing ideas. Replicating or modifying ex- isting commercial designs can cross into intellectual property (IP) infringement, which is no small matter. Infringement occurs when someone uses, sells, or distributes another person’s pro- tected work without permission, and the law takes that serious- ly. Patents A patent protects new inventions and improvements, grant- ing the owner exclusive rights for a set period. The most com- mon type is the utility patent, which covers over 90 percent of U.S. patents and is valid for 20 years from the filing date as long as fees are maintained. Legal Process and Consequences If infringement happens, the IP owner may pursue legal ac- tion. Typical steps include cease and desist letters, litigation, and settlements. Consequences can range from statutory damages (set by law) to actual damages (lost profits or market dilution), and even attorney’s fees that the infringer may have to cover. In other words, this is one rabbit hole you really don’t want to fall down. Inspiration, Not Imitation The safest path is to treat commercial products as inspiration, not blueprints. Patented designs can spark new ideas, but if your version checks all the boxes in a patent’s claims, you may be in violation even if you didn’t mean to be. Using different materials or processes can sometimes avoid infringement, but caution is essential. When in doubt, consult a patent professional before producing or selling items on a larger scale. In short: legality is no laughing matter, and it is always better to be safe than sorry. GOOD HABITS FOR GREAT DIY AT Creating DIY AT that is effective and ethical takes more than just a clever idea and a hot glue gun. A few good habits can make the difference between a tool that truly supports the end user and one that ends up forgotten in a supply closet. • Start small: Focus on one end user, one need, and one solu- tion. A mountain of ideas is exciting, but one tool that ac- tually works is better than ten half-finished experiments. • Involve others: Collaborate with families, end users, and community makers. Fresh perspectives not only improve designs but also catch problems before they become di- sasters. • Document and reflect: Keep a log of what worked, what did not, and what was just plain weird. Your future self will thank you. • Celebrate creativity: Host “maker days” that share designs, compare notes, and build capacity across the community.

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