How to Make Fitted Cloth Diapers

Making cloth diapers is a great way to make diapering a frugal adventure. Cloth diapers can be expensive because of all the new styles and patterns available. Making cloth diapers from recycled fabrics is another cost-cutting measure that helps the earth too. Many moms and dads are making cloth diapers for their little ones, and you can begin making your own cloth diapers too. Here is how to make fitted cloth diapers.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Buy a fitted cloth diaper pattern online. Making cloth diapers starts with a good pattern, so make sure you find a good one. Purchase fitted cloth diaper patterns online at specialty websites, such as the Diaper Shop, and auction-style sites.

2. Join an online forum about making cloth diapers, such as Diaper Swappers, to share ideas and glean information on making cloth diapers. Ask those who sew their own cloth diapers what patterns they recommend.

3. Pick material for making cloth diapers. Specific types of fabrics work best; refer to your pattern. Absorbent material is critical for making cloth diapers. Fitted cloth diapers usually have at least two types of fabric, one for the bulk of the diaper and one for the exterior, but some only need one.

4. Cut the fabric following the cloth diaper pattern, making any size changes as needed. Sew the fitted cloth diapers as directed, adding elastic at legs and waist as indicated. For diaper closures, use snaps or heavy-duty Velcro, which are the two main closures used for most fitted cloth diapers.

5. Buy or make cloth diaper liners out of micro fleece material to go inside your fitted cloth diapers. Making cloth diapers and liners out of corresponding fabric adds to the appeal.

Resources

• The Diaper Pin Site
• Making Cloth Diapers Instructions
• The Diaper Jungle
• Diaper Swappers Website and Forum
• Cloth Diaper Making Fabric and Patterns

[Vanessa22]

on 1/15/2009 Great info, thank you!

[CrunchyMama]

on 4/23/2008 You can also trace a well-fitting disposable diaper (or a cloth diaper you already have) to get a good pattern for free.