Beginners Make By Sandra McConnell Share Tweet Pin Share You have a new arrival in your loving home and family. A bouncing baby girl or boy in the house sends a vibe of excitement and joy for everyone. Yet the price of diapers can put a damper to such happy times. When it comes to price gouging, you can almost feel the money leaving your bank account every time you go to the store and buy the 48-count of disposables that simply don't come in the right size for your baby. It either leaks, or causes the most awful diaper rash on your baby's bottom. Time to ditch the plastic diapers and make your own. Cloth diapers are economical as you can make as many as you need and simply wash them out. They are good for the environment as you won't be increasing your carbon footprint with the number of plastic diapers going to the landfill.These diapers are also customizable, as there are a wide variety of patterns and styles available. Lastly, your spouse will feel grateful that he doesn't have to run to a store at 2 o'clock in the morning when you run out of plastic diapers.Diaper Sewing: Types of PatternsBefore you sit at your favorite sewing machine, you need to decide on the types of diapers you want to create. There are 4 basic types of diapers and then you can have a diaper cover to use when you plan to take the baby outside to run errands or go on a trip. Some diapers you may want to make include the following: Pre-fold/Flat Diapers These diapers are the easiest to make at any skill level. They are simply a flat piece of fabric that can be folded into a diaper shape and then sewn. There are many ways to fasten the diaper together such as using pins, Snappis or wrapping it shut. You will often need to have a cover over this type of diaper to prevent moisture from soaking into the couch or mattress. Fitted Diapers Fitted diapers are breathable and are suited for babies who have very sensitive skin that is prone to diaper rashes. Although they have elastic around the waist and legs for a snug fit, you will need a diaper cover if you plan on going out somewhere. These diapers can be closed using Snappis, pins, hook and loops, or snaps. All-In-One Cloth Diapers Unlike the other diapers mentioned above that require a diaper cover to waterproof it, the All-in-One (AIO) cloth diapers have a waterproof layer sewn into it. They have the elastic like the fitted diapers and can wick in moisture like a soaker diaper. You also have the option of making a pocket if you want to add in some extra absorbency padding when spending the day out. You can place on snaps or the hook and loops to close the diaper. Pocket Diapers Pocket diapers are like AIOs. They have the waterproof lining and absorbency layer to lessen the amount of moisture held against the baby's skin that can cause a diaper rash. These diapers have the small pocket where you can stuff pre-fold diapers into to catch even more moisture. Fabric TypesSelecting the right type of fabric is essential so you can make a diaper that soaks up moisture well, won't leave messes, won't have too many stains when clean, and is durable enough to be placed in the washing machine. The best way to pick out fabric is to decide on which diapers you want to make and whether the diapers will be for all day use or nightly use (where you need them to be more absorbent and comfortable). Common types of fabric used for diapers include: Wool fabric MicrofleeceWaterproof PULStretch knit terriesCotton velourHemp fleece My Tip:Consider your budget and the places where you plan to purchase your supplies to also decide on the type of fabric to use. Also watch for any allergies your baby may have to certain fabric materials. You can always switch over to a different fabric if you notice your baby is having more rashes than normal.With the right sewing machine,creating diapers for your baby is a worthwhile investment for your budget and for the comfort of your child. So select the pattern that you like the best, get creative with fabric styles and colors, and start sewing.
