DIY sling without rings. How to sew a sling with rings, one-piece with a pocket. Basic baby carrier models: step-by-step manufacturing instructions and use cases

There are two main types of slings - ring sling and scarf sling. A ring sling is indispensable for home use from birth. Further, for ages from 3.5 to 4 months, it is convenient to use it in the “On the hip” position. The sling scarf is convenient for long walks, it can be used in many positions - “Cradle for newborns”, “Sitting facing the mother”, “On the hip”, “Behind the mother’s back”.

SLING WITH RINGS
The most versatile type of sling. Well suited for first-time parents and children from birth. It is very convenient to breastfeed your baby without anyone noticing. With the help of rings you can regulate the degree of “adhesion” of the child to the mother. When carrying a baby, you should remember that a sling is a layer of clothing, so in order to avoid overheating, you need to dress the baby lighter. This sling is worn on one shoulder, alternating shoulders. It is universal and very convenient because you can quickly put a child in it and just as quickly take it out or change its position in the sling. If a child falls asleep in a sling, you can completely unnoticed put him on the bed or sofa, just by pulling the tail of the sling out of the rings. Easy to adjust, you can easily adjust the length on the go with one hand, and you can also change the position in which the baby is on the go. For example, change the sitting position to a lying one, or vice versa - sit him facing you so that the baby wraps his legs around you, or sit him on his hip.

How to sew a sling with rings
It is better to choose natural fabric. Cotton (chintz), viscose, and linen are perfect for summer. For the cold season - wool or fleece. Thin flannelette fabric is good for a newborn. Universal slings are made from calico. It is important that the fabric “breathes” and absorbs sweat, especially in the summer, when the baby gets warm from your body too. Rings must be made of metal; wooden ones may crack. When choosing rings, it is worth remembering that metal ones provide reliability, but the fabric slides in them, which requires periodic adjustment and fixation with additional knots.

To sew a simple sling with rings you need:
1. Cut a rectangle 220 cm long and 80 cm wide.
2. Finish the edges.
3. Thread one edge into two rings and sew with several lines.

The sling is ready. Now you need to throw it over your shoulder, insert the other end into the rings and fix it in a comfortable position.

A more advanced sling - with sides and a pillow.
To make it:
1. We make the sides from padding polyester.
2. We retreat 15 cm from the ring side, 75 cm from the tail.
3. Sew the sides along the entire length of the sling, grabbing the padding polyester where it is.
4. A cushion made of padding polyester measuring 30x35 cm is sewn on the ring side.
Ideally, the fabric should be painted on both sides, that is, it should not have a reverse side. Then the hanging tail of the sling looks much more beautiful.

SLING SCARF
This is a long strip of fabric, from three to six meters in length, 45-70 cm in width. With the help of a sling-scarf, a mother can “tie” the baby to herself in various positions: on the stomach, on the hip, on the back. The sling scarf can be worn either on one shoulder or on two shoulders; the load is evenly distributed on the mother's back and shoulders. Unlike a kangaroo, in a sling-scarf the baby is pressed closer to the mother, his legs do not dangle, but hug the mother around the waist, and, therefore, the weight is distributed better and it is easier to carry the baby. Unlike slings with rings, the load is distributed evenly (on both shoulders, not on one) and carrying the baby is even easier. You can carry babies in a sling-scarf from birth. A newborn baby can be comfortably placed in a sling scarf, like in a cradle. You can breastfeed your baby discreetly without removing him from the scarf sling or tying the sling. The sling scarf is universal: it can be used like a kangaroo - to carry a child on the chest, on the hip - like in a sling with rings, and it is convenient to carry a runner in a sling-scarf on the back - like in a child's backpack.
The length of such a sling is 2.5-3 meters. The sling is designed to carry a child from birth in the “Cradle” position and in the “On the hip” position after 6 months.
With a length of 3.5 - 4 meters you can use all the previously described positions, but now you can also tie the sling over two shoulders, this way the load on your back will be distributed evenly. For newborns, you can use the “Cross Cradle”, “Simple Cross” or “Figure Eight Cross” position; these positions are also suitable for older children.
A length of 4.5 - 5.5 meters will give you maximum possibilities for carrying a child from birth to 3 years. At the same time, such wearing methods as “Cross above the pocket”, “Cross under the pocket”, as well as various options lying on your back will not allow even the most painful back to get tired and get sick.

How to sew a sling scarf
For a sling scarf, both simple natural fabrics, for example, cotton, linen or viscose, and stretchable ones, for example, knitwear, stretch cotton (cotton), fleece and others are suitable. Stretch fabrics are certainly very pleasant to use. They stretch out and very comfortably hug not only the baby, but also the mother’s shoulders. But it is necessary to take into account that when the baby grows up and gets heavier, the stretchy fabric will begin to sag under his already noticeable weight, the baby will be positioned lower than the mother would like, and as a result of a shift in the center of gravity, the load on her back will increase. Carrying a child will become harder. Simple non-elastic fabrics are not as cozy as stretch, but they support the baby’s weight much better, which also affects the mother’s comfort.

For sewing you need:
1. Cut out a rectangle of the selected length, taking into account in what positions the baby will be carried. Fabric width - 60 cm.
2. Finish the edges.

Please note that given the average fabric width is 130 cm, buying 5 meters you get 2 slings. Thus, you can buy 2.5 meters of fabric and cut it lengthwise. One part will be the middle of the sling, the other can be cut in half and sewn on the sides. You cannot make a seam in the middle, this is an unreliable design, the seam can cut into the child’s back.

The first semblance of a sling can be found on the bas-relief of the Egyptian pharaoh Horemheb in Saqqara. It depicts a woman with two children: one sitting on her shoulders, and the other in a carrier behind her back. But not only the ancient Egyptians appreciated this way of carrying babies. In medieval Europe, in paintings, artists depicted a mother and child in a special sling behind or in front. This method of carrying babies received a rebirth in the second half of the 20th century, and more and more mothers and fathers prefer close contact with the baby, because it is convenient and useful. Is it possible to make a sling at home with your own hands, and what models are suitable for newborns?

Types of slings, their characteristics

Before you start sewing a sling or constructing it from scrap materials, you need to understand the types of structures and for what purposes each is intended. There are 6 main types that are easy to make at home:

• long sling scarf;
• short slig scarf;
• ring sling;
• sling pocket;
• May-sling;
• sling scarf.

Each option is easy to do yourself if you have a sewing machine and basic sewing skills. For a sling scarf and a scarf, improvised means are suitable; the rings do not need to be attached; even a May-sling can be cut from a single piece of fabric rather than sewn. So every mother can handle making her favorite sling model for her baby.

The simplest types of baby carriers - photo gallery

Children of all ages can be carried in a long sling-scarf
A short sling scarf is similar to a ring sling and is suitable for older babies
The sling with rings is convenient for beginner slings - it is easy to put on and take off
A sling pocket is a comfortable “hammock” for a baby who is ready to explore the world, but cannot yet leave his mother’s arms
The May-sling looks like a kangaroo, but the baby in it is closer to the mother. The sling scarf is more often used by African mothers

Types of slings, advantages and disadvantages - table

Bed sheet, scarf, scarf, diaper: what can and cannot be used to make a baby carrier

A sling can be made not only from material specially purchased for this purpose, but also from available materials: sheets, towels, scarves, stoles, sarongs, large diapers, Pavloposad shawls. But their use is not as convenient for the mother and safe for the child as wearing them in a specially designed carrier, since they often do not meet the basic criteria for devices for carrying babies:

• density of the fabric (cambric, gauze and other thin materials will not withstand the load and will tear, but if too dense, on the contrary, it is inconvenient to tie, the knots will rub and press);
• the ability of the fabric to stretch (it is impossible to make a sling from highly stretchable materials: knitted scarf, thin knitwear);
• width (a scarf often does not have the required width, but a sheet, on the contrary, significantly exceeds this parameter and needs to be folded in half);
• length (the diaper and Pavloposad scarf are too short, they will only make a sling-type carrier with rings, the ends of which are tied together with a knot);
• shape (diaper or scarf - rectangular: too much width, not enough length, which significantly limits functionality).

The main condition for the means at hand is that the fabric must be woven, not knitted. Even a large apron can become a sling - in Korea this design is called a sling.

Podega is used as follows. The child (over six months) is placed behind the mother's back and covered with a device. The straps of the carrier are wound forward, crossed over the chest, returned back and tied over the fabric under the baby’s bottom to form a seat.

Using a podega (a type of sling) - photo gallery

Podegi - a Korean version of a sling - looks like an apron that is put on backwards By passing the straps of the podega under the baby's bottom, you create a seat for him. The podega is used mainly in Korea

How to choose material for a sling

The choice of material depends on the type of sling and the season for which it is intended. Fabrics with a predominance of synthetic fibers, silk group and rigid ones such as corduroy and gabardine are not suitable for dressings. Low-stretch stretch, thick interlock knit or footer are preferred. Summer models must be breathable, so for their sewing they choose cotton, linen with viscose, seersucker (crinkled chintz) and the like. For winter carrying, flannel, denim, thin wool mixture, cloth and, of course, jersey are ideal.

From an aesthetic point of view, double-sided fabrics are preferable - after all, this is not only a carrier for the baby, but also an accessory for the mother.

The weave of the fabric can be different:

• jacquard,
• mahra,
• linen,
• twill,
• knitted interlock and ribana.

A prerequisite for all types of slings is that the fabric should drape and not be too thick, otherwise rough knots will get in the way. To ensure the strength of the structure, it is better to take synthetic threads.

Basic baby carrier models: step-by-step manufacturing instructions and use cases

Each of the six types of slings can not only be sewn, but also made in the simplest version, without using sewing machine, which any mother can do.

Ring sling at home

For beginners, slingomas are the most suitable type carrying Thanks to the universal fastening, putting on, taking off and changing the position of the baby in it will not be difficult. The only condition is that sling consultants advise alternating shoulders so as not to create excessive pressure on one side of the spine.

You will need a piece of material 80 cm wide, and the length depends on the mother’s build and the age of the child, but not less than 2 meters, it is not advisable to take more than 2.4 m - it will hang down long tail. Rings should be purchased with a diameter of 7 to 9 cm, depending on the thickness of the fabric. They come in metal (steel and aluminum-based alloys), plastic and wood. Manufacturers guarantee their strength, but it is better to inspect them regularly during operation.

Making a sling with sewing rings

There are several options for patterning a sling with rings, but the most common and easiest to make is a rectangle.

Work order.

1. Cut out a piece of fabric according to your measurements.
2. Machine one short and both long edges.
   

   If you bought fabric with a width of 80 cm, then its edges were initially processed at the factory and do not need to be hemmed.

3. Fold the raw end like an accordion, insert it into both rings, bend it 5 cm, turn the edge under and pin it with pins or baste it with large stitches.
4. Sew the edge with a double seam and, stepping back a couple of centimeters, repeat the seam again.
5. Sew the fabric gathered in the ring so that it does not interfere with the subsequent attachment of the tail.

How to put on a ring sling to place your baby vertically and horizontally in the bassinet - video

Sling with rings without sewing

The cut piece of fabric is processed along all edges in the same way as the previous version. Then one end, up to 40 cm long, is threaded through both rings and returns to one, being fixed in a given position - this manipulation will replace stitching on a machine. This sling should be worn in the same way as a traditional one.

How to make a sling with rings without sewing - video

Sling scarf: patterns and job description

Sling scarves are divided into three groups:

• rebozo - a short scarf up to 3 meters long, the way a child is carried is similar to a sling with rings;
• semi-long - up to 4 meters, distributed over two arms, suitable for summer use;
• long - over 4.5 to 6 meters, universal, used from birth to three years in summer and winter models.

The width of the scarf can be from 50 to 70 cm and depends on the age of the child: the older, the wider. If a newborn and an infant up to 74 cm tall can still be placed in a carrier 50 cm wide, then for an older baby the back of the product will be short. The length of the scarf is the size of the mother multiplied by 10. For example, 48 x 10 = 480 cm = 4.8 m.

Depending on the type of material and the preferences of the mother, the sling scarf can be sewn according to different patterns (see figure). For dense fabrics, spindle and parallelogram shapes are suitable - this way the knots will be less massive.

Making a sling scarf comes down to cutting out a piece of fabric of the required length, giving it a shape and finishing the edges.

It’s better not to skimp and take the entire required length of fabric for the scarf in one piece, then the joining seams will not put pressure on the woman or baby’s back and you won’t have to regularly check their condition.

Three ways to wind a sling scarf - video

How to sew a sling pocket

The sling pocket is a ring of fabric in which the connecting ends are cut along the radius - the resulting “hammock” is where the child’s bottom is placed. This is the only carrier model that is made to individual measurements, so it is important to take your measurements correctly. The base line (B) goes from the shoulder diagonally to the protruding part of the thigh. The final length (D) will depend on several factors and is determined by the formula:

D = B x 2 + 4 + Pr,

where Pr is the allowance for a loose fit. For summer models it can be 5.5 cm, and for winter ones - from 7 to 15 cm, depending on the thickness of the mother’s outerwear.

To make a pocket sling, fabric with a width of 64 to 70 cm is suitable.

Work order.

1. Cut fabric to size.
2. Fold it in half crosswise.
3. Mark an arc at a distance of 10 cm along the outer edges and tapering off in the middle.
4. Fold the fabric in half lengthwise, cut along the markings, and unfold.
5. Sew the sling into the pipe along the radius.

Sling pocket without sewing in a hurry

For light-weight babies or if you need to make a baby carrier quickly, there are options without a single stitch: just cut off the top part from the T-shirt, and the sling pocket is ready. But it's important to take the thing tight knit so that the baby does not fall out of the unpredictably stretching knitted loop.

Stores offer excellent models of slings, but creating a sling with your own hands is not difficult; in some cases, you don’t even need a needle. However, we must not forget that the carrier must be strong enough to withstand more than 10 kg of dynamic load created by a restless baby. But the efforts invested will be rewarded with freedom of movement and hours of pleasant close contact with the baby.

How to sew a sling

The day before birth, the child asked God: “I don’t know what I should do in this World.” God replied: “I will give you an Angel who will always be by your side.” "But I don't understand his language." “The angel will teach you his language. He will protect you from all troubles." “What is the name of my angel?” “No matter what his name is... you will call him MAMA...”

Motherhood is the happiest time of every woman. Everyone chooses for themselves how to take this path, and just look back, see how people lived in ancient times, and many problems will disappear by themselves. The mother was always inseparable from the child, the child participated in her entire life, from birth absorbing skills, emotions, and learning to live. The baby was warm and comfortable, because her mother was always there, warming her with her warmth, feeding her always and everywhere. And the sling or, as this device is called now, a sling, helped the mother to be on time everywhere and be with the baby. The sling was used in African tribes, China, Vietnam, Nepal, and India. Russian women carried children in the hem. Now many families are taking advantage of this invaluable experience accumulated over centuries. The sling gives mom freedom of movement, and the baby is calm and enjoys looking at everything around her. The mother has the opportunity to feed the child whenever and wherever she wants, without having to return home to do so. A sling is an invaluable item for home use from birth.

There are two main types of slings - ring sling and scarf sling. A ring sling is indispensable for home use from birth. Further, for ages from 3.5-4 months, it is convenient to use it in the “On the hip” position. The sling scarf is convenient for long walks, it can be used in many positions - “Cradle for newborns”, “Sitting facing the mother”, “On the hip”, “Behind the mother’s back”.

SLING WITH RINGS

The most versatile type of sling. Well suited for first-time parents and children from birth. It is very convenient to breastfeed your baby without anyone noticing. With the help of rings you can regulate the degree of “adhesion” of the child to the mother. When carrying a baby, you should remember that a sling is a layer of clothing, so in order to avoid overheating, you need to dress the baby lighter. This sling is worn on one shoulder, alternating shoulders. It is universal and very convenient because you can quickly put a child in it and just as quickly take it out or change its position in the sling. If a child falls asleep in a sling, you can completely unnoticed put him on the bed or sofa, just by pulling the tail of the sling out of the rings. Easy to adjust, you can easily adjust the length on the go with one hand, and you can also change the position in which the baby is on the go. For example, change the sitting position to a lying one, or vice versa - sit him facing you so that the baby wraps his legs around you, or sit him on his hip.

How to sew a sling with rings

It is better to choose natural fabric. Cotton (chintz), viscose, and linen are perfect for summer. For the cold season - wool or fleece. Thin flannelette fabric is good for a newborn. Universal slings are made from calico. It is important that the fabric “breathes” and absorbs sweat, especially in the summer, when the baby gets warm from your body too. Rings must be made of metal; wooden ones may crack. When choosing rings, it is worth remembering that metal ones provide reliability, but the fabric slides in them, which requires periodic adjustment and fixation with additional knots.

To sew a simple sling with rings you need (Fig. 1):
1. Cut a rectangle 220 cm long and 80 cm wide.
2. Finish the edges.
3. Thread one edge into two rings and sew with several lines.

The sling is ready. Now you need to throw it over your shoulder, insert the other end into the rings and fix it in a comfortable position.

A more advanced sling - with sides and a pillow. To make it:
1. We make the sides from padding polyester.
2. We retreat 15 cm from the ring side, 75 cm from the tail.
3. Sew the sides along the entire length of the sling, grabbing the padding polyester where it is.
4. A cushion made of padding polyester measuring 30x35 cm is sewn on the ring side.

Ideally, the fabric should be painted on both sides, that is, it should not have a reverse side. Then the hanging tail of the sling looks much more beautiful.

SLING SCARF

This is a long strip of fabric, from three to six meters in length, 45-70 cm in width. With the help of a sling-scarf, a mother can “tie” the baby to herself in various positions: on the stomach, on the hip, on the back. The sling scarf can be worn either on one shoulder or on two shoulders; the load is evenly distributed on the mother's back and shoulders. Unlike a kangaroo, in a sling-scarf the baby is pressed closer to the mother, his legs do not dangle, but hug the mother around the waist, and, therefore, the weight is distributed better and it is easier to carry the baby. Unlike slings with rings, the load is distributed evenly (on both shoulders, not on one) and carrying the baby is even easier. You can carry babies in a sling-scarf from birth. A newborn baby can be comfortably placed in a sling scarf, like in a cradle. You can breastfeed your baby discreetly without removing him from the scarf sling or tying the sling. The sling scarf is universal: it can be used like a kangaroo - to carry a child on the chest, on the hip - like in a sling with rings, and it is convenient to carry a runner in a sling-scarf on the back - like in a child's backpack.

The length of such a sling is 2.5-3 meters. The sling is designed to carry a child from birth in the “Cradle” position and in the “On the hip” position after 6 months.

With a length of 3.5-4 meters, you can use all the previously described positions, but now you can also tie the sling over two shoulders, this way the load on your back will be distributed evenly. For newborns, you can use the “Cross Cradle”, “Simple Cross” or “Figure Eight Cross” position; these positions are also suitable for older children.

A length of 4.5-5.5 meters will give you maximum possibilities for carrying a child from birth to 3 years. At the same time, such wearing methods as “Cross above the pocket”, “Cross under the pocket”, as well as various options for positioning on the back will not allow even the most painful back to get tired and get sick.

How to sew a sling scarf

For a sling scarf, both simple natural fabrics, for example, cotton, linen or viscose, and stretchable ones, for example, knitwear, stretch cotton (cotton), fleece and others are suitable. Stretch fabrics are certainly very pleasant to use. They stretch out and very comfortably hug not only the baby, but also the mother’s shoulders. But it is necessary to take into account that when the baby grows up and gets heavier, the stretchy fabric will begin to sag under his already noticeable weight, the baby will be positioned lower than the mother would like, and as a result of a shift in the center of gravity, the load on her back will increase. Carrying a child will become harder. Simple non-elastic fabrics are not as cozy as stretch, but they support the baby’s weight much better, which also affects the mother’s comfort.

For sewing you need (Fig. 2):
1. Cut out a rectangle of the selected length, taking into account in what positions the baby will be carried. Fabric width - 60 cm.
2. Finish the edges.

Please note that given the average fabric width is 130 cm, buying 5 meters you get 2 slings. Thus, you can buy 2.5 meters of fabric and cut it lengthwise. One part will be the middle of the sling, the other can be cut in half and sewn on the sides. You cannot make a seam in the middle, this is an unreliable design, the seam can cut into the child’s back.

If you don’t succeed in using a sling the first time, don’t despair, ask for help from a consultant or an experienced sling mother, practice more often, and experiment. Over time, the child will get used to his new house and your reward will be peace of mind and surprised eyes that will follow you everywhere and admire new discoveries.

Means for carrying newborns and infants are becoming increasingly popular every year. They are comfortable, look stylish, and give the mother mobility that is incomparable to a bulky baby stroller. The most common of these devices are slings, which have a simple fabric design. You can easily make them yourself at home.

What slings can be made at home using improvised materials?

Even a housewife who cannot call needlework one of her strengths, is able to quickly make a sling for her baby that is in no way inferior to the factory one, spending several times less money than purchasing it. Without any skills at home you can sew:

• sling scarf - a very simple carrying design, which is a large rectangular piece of fabric that can be wrapped in various ways, but tying and correctly positioning the child in it requires certain skills;
• sling with rings - the free edge of the fabric is tucked between two rings, which allows you to adjust and securely fix the position of the little one in the carrier. It is comfortable to carry your baby in it from the very first days of life. However, if the child is already quite large, it should be taken into account that the load during operation falls on only one shoulder of the adult. To distribute the weight evenly, you can choose a different model for sewing;
• Sling pocket that is very easy to use. This model resembles a bag thrown over the shoulder. But it has a strictly defined size, and it is not possible to adjust the product if necessary.

Only the first two types of carriers are suitable for a newborn. For a baby in the first days of life, it is extremely important to correctly fix the position of the spine and pull it as close as possible to the mother, which is impossible to do with a sling pocket. Therefore, it is allowed to carry a baby in it no younger than 4 months, or the age when he reaches a weight of 7.5 kg, confidently holds his head and, lying on his stomach, leans on the arms.

Types of slings for babies - photo gallery

Experience is required to wind a sling scarf. The “cradle” position in a sling with rings is intended for newborn babies. You can carry a child in a sling-pocket no earlier than 4 months

What is possible, and what is dangerous, to make a baby carrier from?

The main thing you need to pay attention to when making a sling is the material. It should be durable, not stretch much and have a natural composition. You don’t have to buy a cut, but use available tools from the arsenal of any housewife.

1. The use of a sheet is advisable only in the warm season and for home wear in those rare moments when there are no better options, because it is extremely difficult to ensure the anatomically correct position of the baby in it.
2. The stole can be used both at home and outdoors, but mainly in the autumn-winter period. It is necessary to take into account that a sling is also clothing, therefore, in order to prevent overheating, you need to select a suit for the child accordingly.
   

   Please note that a sling scarf requires a piece of fabric from 3 to 6 m long, at least 60 cm wide, and the length of even the longest stole does not exceed 2–2.5 m. Therefore, you will have to use 2–3 such products, sewing them together with a friend, or choose a sling with rings for sewing, because it costs less material: approximately 220 cm long and 80 cm wide.

3. The sling can be made from a large cotton scarf measuring 150 by 100 cm (for use at home, sometimes a regular diaper is used). Such carriers are common among African women and are called kanga.

The listed items for making a sling must be new. Over time, the fabric loses elasticity and strength, easily tears and deforms, which is unsafe for the baby.

Carrying from a scarf

The scarf can be used to carry a child in different ways.

Don't forget that you can't use this carrier all the time. This method is only suitable for emergency situations when you need to free your hands for a while. For more frequent wear, you should get the right sling.

What should not be used to make a baby carrier?

A warm knitted scarf is unlikely to be suitable for proper carrying. As a rule, it is narrow and short for a sling scarf, and it is impractical to use it for a sling with rings due to the insufficient density of the fabric, because even with the required length, the product will not provide the necessary support for the baby’s back.

Using an ordinary square scarf, for example, the Pavloposad one, is an unsuitable option, because its standard dimensions of 80–90 cm will not allow you to securely secure the child. The material from which it is made also plays a role: wool will be prickly for the baby, and silk is too slippery and will not provide the necessary support.

DIY scarf sling - video

What requirements must the sling material meet?

If you decide to take sewing a sling seriously and make it at home no worse than the representatives of leading brands, then carefully consider the choice of fabric. Preferably use cotton, linen and woolen fabrics without synthetic fibers, so as not to cause allergies in the baby:

• for the warm season, chintz is well suited, but it is quite thin, so when sewing, the sling must either be reinforced with additional materials, or used only for very small children with low weight;
• For winter, you can choose wool or a mixed fabric, but first check by applying it to your face to see if it is itchy. There are options for sewing a sling made of thin fleece. But it is worth remembering that this material is synthetic and consists of polyester. It is only suitable for a sling scarf;
• for demi-season carriers it is better to take calico and jeans. The fabric should breathe well, be dense enough, but not stiff, so that it can be easily tied into knots.

Silk (even natural silk) is not suitable for making a sling; it has too smooth a texture, which will not allow you to securely hold the baby.

Ideal for sling:

• twill, consisting of a mixture of cotton and linen. It follows the curves of the body, holds its shape well, but at the same time is quite soft and elastic. When cutting, you need to take into account the direction of the threads so that the product does not deform in the future;
• knitwear For a sling scarf, a good choice would be a cotton composition with interlock weaving (uniform alternation of facial and purl loops), which does not stretch very much. This is an elastic, soft, elastic material, both sides are facing. But you should remember that in order to avoid deformation, the finished product must be dried in a horizontal position;
• scarf-weave fabrics used for making stoles. When choosing, you need to pay attention that the material stretches not in length, not in width, but diagonally.

In order for the fabric to shrink, it must be washed before cutting and sewing the sling.

The sling threads must be strong. A good option will be lavsan, strong and allowing for slight stretching of the material.

The simplest slings to make and sew that you can make yourself

After choosing the material, you should decide on the type of sling and proceed directly to sewing it.

Carrying like a sling with rings: pattern and manufacturing process

Necessary materials for sewing a sling with rings:

• 2 rings with a diameter of 6–7 cm, preferably metal, but wooden ones can also be used (plastic ones are not recommended);
• a rectangular piece of fabric at least 80 cm wide, 220–250 cm long;
• spool of strong thread.

If you don’t have any metal or wooden rings at hand, you can do without them. To do this, we use knots, as in the example with the scarf. The only thing that should not be neglected is processing the edges of the cut. If the fabric begins to unravel, it will be extremely uncomfortable for you and your baby.

1. We process the edges of the cut with an overlocker or simply turn it under and stitch it.
2. We thread one end of the fabric into both rings approximately 8–10 cm, bend it, sew it with an “envelope” or several seams for strength.
3. The sling is ready. We throw it over the shoulder so that the rings are 10–15 cm lower. We thread the free edge of the product through them, then repeat the action in the reverse order, only this time into one ring. We form a “cradle” from fabric, put the baby there and pull him towards us, adjusting the length of the carrier using rings.

If you don't have it at hand sewing machine, such a carrier can be made without sewing. To do this, we thread one edge of the cut through both rings for about 30–40 cm, then return this edge, but into one of the rings. The sling is ready. The further algorithm is similar to the previous one.

Sling with rings sewing instructions - video

Sling scarf for newborns and infants

Sewing a sling-scarf is even more elementary. To work you need:

• a rectangular piece of fabric 60–70 cm wide, 400 to 600 cm long;
• spool of strong thread.

In order to determine what size sling you need, there is a little trick. We add “0” to the Russian clothing size and get the carrying length in centimeters. For example, for the owner of size 42, a cut length of 420 cm is sufficient, and for a person of size 52, a length of 520 cm is perfect.

When we have measured the desired length, we simply finish the edges of the fabric with an overlocker or a hem stitch. We dress in any convenient way.

Option for winding a “cradle” scarf sling - video

DIY baby sling pocket: photo and description

Finally, you can make a wonderful carrier yourself - a sling pocket.

Required materials:

• rectangular piece of fabric 55–60 cm wide;
  

  For such a sling, scarf fabric of double diagonal or jacquard weave type, very dense and low-stretch, is ideal.

• strong threads;
• if desired, padding polyester for the sides from two pieces 4.5 cm wide, 30 cm long each.

We calculate the length of the cut individually. To do this, measure the distance from the left shoulder to the right hip, multiply the result by 2 and add 15 cm for a loose fit, cut off the length, taking into account seam allowances, at least 2 cm on each side.

We bend the cut along the long sides by 1 cm, then again by 1 cm. If we make a side, then we form a drawstring. To do this, bend the side on which it will be located by 1 cm, and then by 5 cm and stitch it.

Fold the fabric in half lengthwise, then in half widthwise.

We set aside 7.5 cm from the corner where the free ends are located and put a point. We connect it to the lower edge of the fold with an arc, as shown in the figure. We cut the folded fabric along an arc. Let's expand it.

We insert padding polyester (2 pieces of 30 cm each) into the drawstring for the sides, leaving 5 cm from each edge. This is the future side for the baby's convenience. We secure with seams on each side.

Fold the canvas in half, combining the two arcs right sides, we stitch them, retreating from the edge 1 cm. Turn the sling inside out and again apply a stitch along an arc, hiding the fabric sections.

Lay the resulting fold on its side and stitch it to the main fabric.

The sling is ready. We put it over the head and over the shoulder. The middle of the pocket (where the seam goes) should be located near the adult’s hip and coincide with the line of the baby’s spine. All that remains is to carefully straighten the carrying fabric so that there are no wrinkles.

No sewing

A sling pocket can also be made without sewing, in a hurry. But this option is more suitable for one-time use at home than for going outside, because the material is very stretchy and does not meet all the safety characteristics for a child.

All you need to make is a regular T-shirt. large size, threads and scissors. We cut off the lower part with a width of 55–60 cm, process the cutting line (if possible) with a hem seam or an overlocker. The carrier is ready.

Sling pocket instructions for use - video

Of course, there are many other options for sewing a sling at home, because there are no limits to imagination. Try, experiment and remember that any thing made by hand loving mother, much nicer for the baby than the most expensive and high-quality purchase.

Every mother strives to provide maximum comfort for her baby. There is no better place for a small child than in the arms of a mother. In order not to hamper your movements, you can use a sling. You can sew such a device for newborns with your own hands. For instructions on how to make it, see below.

Selection of materials

A sling is a kind of bag for a child. With its help, you can carry your baby in your arms without limiting your movements. This is a great alternative to a bulky stroller. In addition, a huge advantage is that you can do it yourself.

The conditions when choosing suitable materials are a pleasant texture, density and, of course, strength of the fabric. In order to minimize the risk of irritation, it is better to choose natural fabrics.

Knitwear is considered the best option. Good choice Twill fabric based on flax and cotton will also become available. It is very convenient to use, as it stretches. You can also take jacquard, but moderately dense.

In addition to fabric, some models may also require elastic bands to finish the edges or metal rings. It is better not to take plastic ones, as they can burst during use, which is quite dangerous.

Model selection

Before you decide to sew a sling yourself, decide on its model. .

The most popular options are:

• Scarf . This is the easiest option to make with your own hands, since it only requires a long piece of fabric. The flap is then processed around the edges and used using a special wrapping technique around the body.
• With rings. This sling is an alternative to a scarf. Instead of extra meters of fabric for winding, you can get by with fixing rings. It is important to select durable fittings and be able to use them correctly.
• Bag . This is the most convenient option for both the baby and the mother. This is a small cradle bag that is worn over the shoulder. The newborn is placed in a cavity. Thus, he is located very conveniently, as close as possible to his mother. The risk of falling out of such a sling is minimized. You can make it from several layers of fabric: put a soft, pleasant one inside, and a water-repellent one on top, like a raincoat. The edge of the cradle is stitched with an elastic band.

Many mothers consider the sling model in the form of a bag to be the most convenient. You can also make it yourself if you wish.

Pattern and manufacturing process

Since a sling scarf is the easiest to make, this is where you should start considering options self-made. First you need to determine how much fabric you will need for the job. This can be done in different ways:

1. The easiest option is to add a zero to your clothing size. That is, if mom wears size 44, you will need 440 cm of fabric, if 48 - 480 cm.
2. So that other family members, including dad, can use the sling, it is better to take extra material. For a medium-sized product you will need approximately 5 meters.

The average width of the product is 70 cm, but take another 5 - 10 cm to process the edge.

The pattern for the scarf is extremely simple. Basically, a rectangle is used, but for the convenience of tying the edges, you can narrow the cut by 10 - 20 cm with an indentation of 1 meter on each side. All you need to do is stitch the edge of the material. It is better to process regular fabric with a double hem, and knitwear with an overlocker.

If you want to save fabric, then take the second model as a basis - with rings. In order to secure the fittings, you need to step back from the edge about 10 cm and make a hem. Rings are inserted here, and the fabric is stitched with several rows of zigzag for greater strength. You will need two rings in total; their diameter should be approximately 7 cm. The second edge of the sling remains free. The cut, in the same way as in the previous version, is processed around the perimeter.

How to use the sling

Not all parents understand at first glance how to use a sling. In addition, understanding its application will allow you to better understand the principle of cutting and sewing a product. First, you should consider the scarf model. In order to place a child in it, you first need to fix the fabric on the mother’s body. To do this, the fabric is straightened and the central part is placed on your stomach. One edge wraps around the back and extends over the top to the opposite shoulder. The same manipulation is done with the second edge of the cut. Thus, from the back, the fabric is crossed crosswise, and in the front, a horizontal strip is obtained on the stomach and two edges of the sling hanging down on the sides.

The baby is seated on a horizontal strip of fabric, closer to his own body, that is, on the inside. The edges of the sling are pulled crosswise under the legs, wrapped behind the back and tied.

For a newborn, it is convenient to use a model with rings. To begin with, the product is thrown diagonally over the mother’s shoulder. The free edge should go from below and connect to the rings in the shoulder area. The fabric is pushed through the rings several times, locking in one position. The baby is placed in the resulting pocket.

Sewing one of the sling models with your own hands is quite simple. This device is very convenient to use, especially for active parents. At the same time, it is important to ensure the baby’s safety and comfort to ensure proper development.