4 Must-Haves For Baby Slings Patterns

If you’ve looked online for a baby sling and were left gasping when you saw the prices, the next thought that may have gone through your head was, “It’s just a piece of fabric. I can do that!” And you definitely can.

Baby sling patterns are plentiful and simple. Just add the simple word “pattern” to your Google search and you will come up with hundreds of Web pages to browse and explore. However, be careful not to get too self-confident. As much as a baby sling simply looks like a piece of fabric, it’s important to use a pattern to make a sling that will be a good fit for you and for baby. If your sling happens to be too long or too big for you then it may not hold baby correctly and can be unsafe for both you and your baby.

Here are a four things to consider:

Size: Find a pattern that fits you. Measure yourself according to the instructions and pick the size or style that will fit you best. If you would like a sling for both you and your husband, measure him as well. You may have to make two separate sizes to ensure that you both have one that fits snugly and is safe for baby.

Fabric: Even though baby may not weigh much to start out with, he or she will quickly put on the pounds! You want to find a fabric that is strong and durable and will carry the weight well. Baby sling patterns often offer recommendations for pairing two different kinds of fabrics in order to combine the strength of both, as well as using a softer or warmer fabric for the lining.

This brings up another very important point—the warmth of the fabric. Depending what season your baby is born in, you may need to choose a warmer fabric that will keep baby comfortable while you are out. Keep in mind that having baby closely cuddled up against you also means that your own body temperature will play a part in keeping baby comfortably warm.

Style: Two basic styles of baby sling patterns are tapered and not tapered. The most common is the one without the taper, which means that more fabric is up by the shoulder. This can be advantageous for a little more protection from the elements, but can also be bulky. Take the time to look at pictures of moms using both and decide which appeals best to you.

Fashion: Don’t forget to pick something fun! The perk of using a baby sling pattern is the freedom to choose your own fabric. There are hundreds of options, so have fun! Consider making your sling reversible with an everyday print on one side and a dressier, sleeker print on the other for going out in the evenings.

If you and dad are about the same size and you plan to share the sling, consult him before making a final choice! You wouldn’t want him to refuse to carry baby in it because he doesn't want to wear pretty flowers and pink elephants and miss out on all those wonderful child-bonding moments!

Baby sling patterns are definitely the way to go when you don't want to fork out the bucks or want to make your own personalized sling. Imagine the joy of putting baby into a sling lovingly designed and created by you!