Cranial Technologies

Lorenzo sitting in field with a decorated DOC Band

Decorating your baby's DOC Band

What do parents need to know?

We understand however that decorating the band is very popular and helps many families as they work through the treatment period.

If you decide to decorate your baby's DOC Band, please keep in mind that it is a medical device and nothing should be done to interfere with its capacity to provide the best possible outcome for your child. Anything that removes the band from your baby for extended periods of time or alters the properties of the custom manufactured device can impact its effectiveness.

Before you embark on decorating your band, be sure to check out our helpful guide for more information about child-safe materials and how to protect your DOC Band during the process.

DOC Band decoration & cleaning guide

DOC Band decoration & cleaning guide

Before you embark on decorating your band, be sure to check out our helpful guide for more information about child-safe materials and how to protect your DOC Band during the process.

Download Here

Looking for decoration inspiration?

Looking for decoration inspiration?

If you're looking for some band decoration inspiration from other parents, be sure to check out the DOC Band Parent Group and our annual DOC Band Babies Calendar.

Join the Group
Head shape concerns?

Head shape evaluations are always free at Cranial Technologies clinics.

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More helpful tips and tricks
General guidelines for decoration

Please remember to follow these general safety guidelines if you do choose to decorate your baby's band.

  • Only use materials that are labeled "child safe".
  • Always keep the inner foam liner and area underneath the strap free from any paint or materials.
  • Do not sand the outside of the band as it could reduce holding pressures.
  • Be aware that adding attachments (e.g. bows) could become a choking hazard.
Who can decorate my child's DOC Band®?

Many parents choose to decorate the band themselves. Additionally, some parents have a local artist/vendor decorate it.

Please make sure that everyone involved in the decoration process understands the importance of your child’s safety and preserving the integrity of the band.

Mailing your band to artists/vendors for decoration is also highly discouraged.

What are some "do-it-yourself" options?

Some options to decorate the band yourself include:

  • Stickers
  • Decals
  • ModPodge
  • Acrylic paint
  • Water-based latex paint
When is the best time to decorate?

The best time to decorate is the time "off" during the 1 hour break for initial skin checks and bathing.

Why do parents choose to decorate?

Decorating can make the DOC Band journey more fun!

Just remember that the primary purpose of the band is to help your child achieve a corrected head shape. If decorating materials or processes compromise the DOC Band's ability to do this, the replacement cost is the parent's responsibility.