How to Make a Maya Wrap

A Maya Wrap is a sling-type baby carrier with a long piece of fabric and two sturdy rings. The rings are securely sewn onto one end of the fabric. The person carrying the baby puts on the fabric and threads it through the rings. The baby is placed into the pouch created with the fabric and then the fabric is tightened around the baby by pulling it through the rings.

Things You'll Need

• Cotton fabric (45 inches wide)
• 2- to 3-inch diameter metal rings (4 gauge)
• Scissors
• Sewing machine
• Thread (standard thread and upholstery-weight thread)
• Pins

Instructions

1. Purchase 2.25 yards of fabric to make a medium size wrap, adequate for a person of average weight and height. Purchase 2.5 yards of fabric to make a large wrap. This size would be adequate for a heavier or taller person.

2. Make a 1/4-inch hem on one of the short edges and both long edges of the fabric.

3. Fold the remaining short edge of fabric back and forth to resemble a fan.
   The folds should be approximately 6 inches wide. The folds do not need to be made throughout the entire length of the fabric. Fold about 10 inches down from either long edge.

4. Sew a zigzag stitch through all of the folds of the fabric at the edges to hold the folds in place.

5. 

   Place the zigzagged edge of the fabric through both rings as shown in the diagram. Pull the fabric edge through the rings approximately 4 inches, fold it over the rings and then back onto itself. Pin the fabric in place, making sure not to catch the first flap of fabric in the fold.

6. Sew through all fabric thicknesses 1/2 inch away from the zigzag stitches using upholstery-weight thread. Do not sew the first flap of fabric into this stitching. Because this seam needs to be very secure, back stitch at the beginning and at the end and sew back and forth several times to create a very strong seam.

Tips & Warnings

• Because of the way the wrap is constructed, both sides of the fabric will be visible when the wrap is worn. Take this into consideration when choosing a fabric; select something that looks attractive on both sides.

Resources

• How to Wear a Maya Wrap