DIY Filter Socks

[kenfai]

A few people have asked me how I make my filter socks so I figure I'd post a thread in case this can be helpful to others. All you need is a sewing machine, very basic sewing skills and about 30-45 minutes every 2 months. I buy my polyester felt from JoAnn Fabric for about $2.50/yard (usually $5 but they have online coupons every month or so for 50% off). One yard of material will give me 15 12" socks which comes out to around .16 cents a piece. Old ones just get tossed and no need for washing and drying, etc. Changing them out twice a week these will last you almost 2 months.

The key to making these easy to use and change is the ring which you only need to make once. When it comes time to change socks, you just pull out the ring and thread it in to the new sock through the upper slot and you are done….30 seconds tops.

Below are the steps with photos.

1) Cut fabric in to 12" strips

2) Cut strips every 13"

3) Using the default straight stitch, fold a 1/2" flap and sew across leaving both ends open. This will be the slot that receives the ring. Doesn't have to be perfect as long as it stays wide enough that the ring can pass through.

4) Fold the fabric in half. Using the same stitch (or tighter one) close up the sock. Doesn't have to be perfect.

5) Trim the edges around stitching and cut off any long threads (not necessary).

6) Using a torch, bbq lighter, stove or hair dryer, heat up some 3/16 rigid tubing and form it around the neck of a 4" filter sock. You can leave a gap like I have or have it overlap…might be easier with the gap. I also found that if you cut one end at an angle it makes it easier to thread it through the sock.

7) Thread the ring through the slot you sewed at the top of the sock.

8) Done. Hope you can find this useful

[CrazyEyes]

So awesome man. I was just looking at buying some more filter socks lastnight too. Might have to try this.

[le0p]

Great tip! I might have to give this a shot.

[CrazyEyes]

Sure does beat the hell out of spending $8+ per sock.

[Horerczy]

Cool trick

[slowngreen]

So when going to Joanns, you just ask for Polyester Felt?

[kenfai]

So when going to Joanns, you just ask for Polyester Felt?

 

Its in the utility fabrics section. Here's a shot of the roll. Their website usually has a 40% off coupon but once a month usually they have 50% off.

 

[slowngreen]

Awesome thanks! This is exactly what Ive been wanting to do myself but didnt know what to use.

[bdevillier19]

I've done this same thing. I put the wife to work for 2 hours on her sewing machine to make up a bunch of filter socks. The only problem I have found is that they plug up very fast when compared to other filter socks.