Make your own over the shoulder baby holder!

It is so easy to sew a your own over the shoulder baby holder or baby sling. You just need some basic sewing skills and fabric and this basic baby sling pattern. Wearing a baby in a sling is one of the best ways to bond with and nurture your little one.

How to make your own baby sling: Baby Sling Pattern
1. Picking out your fabric. This is the best part. There are so many fabulous prints out there, it may be hard to choose. My favorite baby sling fabric is the kind found in the home decor section of your local sewing store. These come on large rolls. People are often tempted by the beautiful selection that quilting fabric offers, but this is not strong enough fabric to make a baby sling out of unless you double it up. Some people love fabric with a bit of stretch, so look for a 97% cotton/ 3% lycra blend.

Over the shoulder baby holder fabric resources:
As always, I feel it is very important for mothers to support other mothers, so if you can, try to buy from a work at home mom (wahm). Here are some fabric resources I pulled together, but if you are or know of a wahm that has an online fabric store please tell me so that I can add it!

Be sure to prewash all your material!

Quilting (good if doubled up): Sew Mama Sew. They have a huge selection of very stylish fabrics-definitely what I would use for one of our slings if we used this weight.
Home Decor: Try here, they have good prices and you can get swatches, too. We like to use Waverly prints, they are so gorgeous.
Stretch: This is always a challenge. Beautiful prints in this kind of fabric are always hard to come by. Try this website. Be sure to get fabric that stretches widthwise and not lengthwise. You do not want your baby sling to stretch out too much as you wear it.
Fleece: Fleece is the best baby sling for winter. It is so soft and cozy for your baby. Try here to buy it by the yard. Be sure to see how much it stretches. You can hold the fabric down with your knee and stretch it alongside a ruler. However much it stretches is how much smaller you should cut it. Fleece is synthetic and does not need to be prewashed.
Minky fabric: This is that oh so soft material that baby blankets are made out of. Nothing in the world is softer, I wish all my clothes were made out of this! Buy it here: MINKY, you'll be working with a wonderful wahm. Minky is synthetic and does not need to be prewashed.
Solarveil: It protects your baby's skin from 95% of the sun's harmful rays if you double it up. Always double layer it: it is too thin for just one layer. It is great for the pool, shower, or any kind of water, and dries in just minutes. A great summer baby sling. It is a bit scratchy at first, but softens up with every wash and will soon become your favorite sling. Beware: sizing is easy for someone that is on the small side. If you are small, you can cut the fabric widthwise, making the stretch go along the width. If you are above a 26" shoulder to hip measurement you will have to cut lengthwise, so be sure you cut the fabric about 1"-2" shorter. Also, when you make a baby sling out of solarveil, remember that you will be wearing this without clothes on, so you may want to cut it a little bit shorter. If this is confusing at all, feel free to email me here. Find Solarveil here. Solarveil is synthetic and does not need to be prewashed.

Other than the above mentioned, you will want to avoid synthetic materials for babies. Polyester is just awful for a baby sling. We want your baby to be as comfy as possible in the sling!

With this pattern, you'll need about two yards of whatever fabric you choose for your baby sling. You will be able to get two slings out of this so make one for a friend or an extra one for yourself while one is being washed (or, if you are like me, you may have to save that fabric for when you mess up the first piece!).

2. Cut your fabric lengthwise to about 22". You should now have a 2 yard by 22" piece of fabric.

3. Fold fabric in half lengthwise, then fold up so that all four open corners are to the right.

4. Measure the top edge of the sling. This should be 1/2" longer than your shoulder to hip measurement. (see our sizing page for more info on the shoulder to hip measurement) Mark that (in my case, 25") on the upper right edge of the folded fabric. Now, measure the bottom edge. The measurement for this should be the top edge measurement + 3 (in my case 28").
Now, cut a half smile from the bottom mark to the top mark.

5. Unfold fabric widthwise and sew the two ends together along the curve that you just cut.

6. Now, turn the pouch inside out. You will now encase the seam that you just made. Be sure that all of the excess fabric from your seam on the other side is encased in your new seam.
Next, sew the encased sling down. Voila, you have made your first french seam.

7. Now that your french seam is done, you will sew the raw top and bottom edges of the sling. Simply make a 1/4" hem on each side, being careful when you get to the part where your french seam is, you may have to adjust your machine for the thickness of the three layers of fabric there.

And that's it! You should now have a beautiful new over the shoulder baby holder a.k.a baby sling.

Extras:
My design for the Karma Baby Sling also includes a pocket lined in bias tape and a handy toy ring.

The pocket: If you are not an expert seamstress, I would recommend staying away from the bias tape that we use to line our pockets. It is sometimes difficult to work with. Instead, you can simply cut a square whatever size you want your pocket to be, hem the sides, and then sew it on. We put ours on over the french seam so that the pocket is right in the middle of the sling.

The toy ring:
We use cotton webbing and a d ring for our toy ring. Both of these items can be found at your local sewing shop.


original source: www.mykarmababy.com

Baby Slings - Padded Vs Unpadded

There's a debate going on, almost as intense as digital vs. analog, satellite tv vs. cable. It's padded vs. unpadded. No, it isn't referring to women's underwear. It's the baby sling debate.

For those of you who haven't been up on the Hollywood news of how stars like Julia Roberts, Brooke Shields, and even Brad Pitt carry their children, baby slings are worn over the head and shoulder and often have a ring sewn into the end for adjustability. They are used to carry newborns through tots 4-years old. The slings have been proven to simulate a more womb-like environment for the young child, promoting a happier baby and one more closely bonded to its parent.

But even with such a basic design, there are many variations. One of the biggest differences is whether the sling contains batting sewn into its layers (padded) or is simply fabric without batting (unpadded).
There are pluses and minus to each, it really comes down to these three issues: comfort, ease of use, and support.

• Comfort Padded baby slings typically have padding where the sling hangs on the parent's shoulder. This makes carrying the child more comfortable, which is especially important for extended periods. One brand has side rails sewn together over the shoulder pillow; which doubles their padding and prevents the sides from falling down toward the parent's elbows or pressing into his/her neck, thus keeping the whole sling in better proportion for the wearer. One criticism of the padded baby sling is that the extra batting causes it to get warmer than its unpadded counterpart, especially in the summer months, although cotton batting and fabric will stay cooler than polyester.
• Ease of Use Advocates of the unpadded sling prefer being able to slip the non-bulky sling into a purse. It is also more adjustable than the padded version since padding cannot fit through the ring.
• Support The batting of the padded baby sling serves to support the child's head and legs, simulating how a parent would hold a child. This is important for an infant, and also allows for hands-free nursing. The padded side rails are an extra safeguard against the baby falling out.

Whether you choose a padded or unpadded sling depends entirely on your situation. If you have a newborn or infant, padded would be better because of the extra support it gives your baby. For older children who won't be carried for extended periods of time, an unpadded sling might do the trick. Either type is a great way to bond with your child while giving your arms a break.

To find out more about the Over the Shoulder Baby Sling, which contains twice the padding of the leading brand, visit Baby Slings Direct.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=S._Duff

So Many Slings, So Little Time! How to Pick the Right Baby Sling For You

Ring slings, pouch slings, or wraps. What is the difference between these baby carriers, and which one should you choose? Depending on your life style and the places you plan to take your baby depend on the type of sling you will want to have.

If you have a lot of errands to run with your little one and seem to visit more than a few stores in a day, the baby sling - pouch style, seems to be a very convenient choice. You can keep it folded in your purse and quickly put it over your shoulder and place baby inside easily and quickly. You don't have to worry about buckles, ties, or rings. Just over the shoulder and baby goes in the holder. Easy as that!

The baby sling, pouch style, is pretty versatile for all situations, and offers easy and discreet breast feeding. When breast feeding, the baby is already in the perfect position while placed in the sling. The sling has just enough fabric on the edges to accommodate a private feeding area for baby and mommy.

The baby wrap, which is different than a regular sling, involves a little more setup time but can be done quickly as well, once you get the hang of it. It is a long piece of sturdy yet soft fabric that you wrap around your body and baby in a specific way that encloses baby safely. This might be a good solution if you plan to be out at an event for a few hours and you don't need to take baby out for a while, because of the time it takes to re-tie. It could be used if you're at a fair or concert for example.

Ring slings are very similar to the baby pouch style but you can adjust the slings length, therefore making the pouch area more or less snug. This is also a good sling for quick on and off situations, but a few extra moments might be spent getting the fabric through the ring and some may not like the extra piece of fabric that hangs through the ring. This could cause annoyance for some people. Although this piece of fabric could also serve as an extra cover during breast feeding.

People can own several different baby carriers to account for these different situations, but usually one baby sling can be used for all situations easily; it simply depends on what you find works best for you.

Nala Jones is co-owner of http://www.BabySlingSite.com and has a commitment to spreading the word of baby wearing and the many benefits it includes. Offering a blog community for baby wearers and a variety of baby slings too.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nala_Jones

Baby Slings - Why You Need One

Looking for a great first baby carrier? Then consider one of the best things ever to happen to modern parenthood - a baby sling.

A baby sling is a baby carrier made out of fabric that wraps around the wearer's body from his or her shoulder to the opposite hip and back up to the shoulder, creating a pocket for the baby to sit or lie down. Very common in many cultures around the world, the use of baby slings, or "baby wearing" as it is sometimes called, is gaining popularity in the United States as parents are realizing the many benefits associated with baby slings.

Benefits of Baby Slings

o Baby slings are "hands-free." They allow your baby to be with you at all times when you are running errands or tending to chores around the house.

o The baby finds comfort in the sling environment which simulates the pressure, motion and warmth sensations they experienced before birth in the womb.

o Slings are great bonding tools for fathers, grandparents and other caregivers.

o Slings may aid in reducing crying and colic, and lower the baby's stress hormones.

o Slings often make it easier to nurse in public.

o A baby sling can be used for newborns and babies up to 35 lbs.

One of the more popular types of baby slings is the pouch sling, also referred to as the tube or pocket sling, where the baby is carried in a semi-prone position. This type of sling often fits around one arm, with baby hanging at about stomach level. There are other types of slings which can be worn like a backpack, with the baby facing in or facing out.

Using a baby sling is often more convenient than trying to carry your baby around in his or her car seat, and much easier on the back. A baby sling also provides a great way to carry your baby around if you don't want to pack a bulky stroller.

Padded or Unpadded?

Padded or unpadded, that is the question many parents must decide, and there are pros and cons to both. Many parents like padded slings because they give their baby's head some support, and feels more comfortable on the shoulders. Many parents dislike padded slings because they feel padding makes the sling too bulky, and keeps the sling from being adjusted very tightly because the padding won't move through the rings. They also like unpadded slings because they are more easily shared between two people of different sizes. One option would be to choose a lightly padded baby sling which gives support to the baby's head, yet lightly padded enough to slip through the rings.

Popular Brands of Baby Slings

Popular brands of baby slings include Maya Wrap, The Peanut Shell, Moby Wrap, and Hotslings, and will generally cost in the neighborhood of $35 to $70. For hot summer days you might want to check out slings made out of Solarveil(TM) , a breathable material with UV protection, blocking out 95% of the sun's harmful rays. You can also use the Solarveil (TM) sling in the pool, shower or beach.

Baby Sling Tips

When using baby slings, it's important to keep the following in mind:

o A baby sling should not be used instead of a car seat or other infant protection device.

o Do wear your baby in a carrier while cooking at the stove or oven, as there is the risk of hot substances splashing on your baby.

o Always keep one hand on your baby when bending over, to prevent your baby from accidentally falling out.

o Remember that babies can be bumped by doorways or sharp corners, so be aware of those things while walking with your baby.

Shari Hearn is a writer and creator of Expecting Baby website, where you can read about such things as MacLaren Baby Strollers review.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Shari_Hearn

Top Tips to Hold Your Baby Close

If you are looking for an over the shoulder baby sling that is very comfortable you should try the Over the Shoulder Baby Holder. This is actually a manufacturing company that makes baby slings and they call it the OTSBH.

Many baby experts have gone on record to say that this is the best over the shoulder baby carrier you can get for you and your child. The nice thing about this particular baby sling is the fact that it looks so comfortable for the baby. It is as though your child is snuggled into this pouch and is safe and warm.

This baby holder is made of durable fabric and it is the only one that works with the naturalness of your body. It also gives you a variety of ways to wear your baby and accommodates as your baby grows.
Whether you like to carry your baby in the front next to your heart or on your hip, or you like to cradle her or him, this over the shoulder baby holder baby sling will give you the versatility you need.
 
The people who make the OTSBH have been in business since 1987 so you know this is a product you can trust. They are in the business of making baby slings so they have perfected this through probably thousands of babies.

Another great idea is that they have a variety of styles, colors with the opportunity to change sizes as your baby grows. They also offer distributorships for those people who are looking for a small business.
Reasons You Should Wear Over the Shoulder Baby Slings:
There are many reasons that wearing your baby is a better idea and here are a few from the developers of the Over The Shoulder Baby Holder:

• You promote physical development -- a baby that is in a baby sling is able to move more freely and you will have more mobility. When you need to you can use it as a changing pad, cushion or blanket.

• Babies worn in baby slings are happier babies -- As you may know, studies show that babies that are held more often are less fussy. When you wear your baby in an OTSBH they are more involved with you and the world around them.

• Baby wearing is healthy for you -- As you work with a baby sling like this one you will get your exercise. You will be more comfortable carrying your baby so you will not have to worry so much about getting out and walking. You will naturally do this and walking is a good way for your baby to go to sleep.

Conventional over the shoulder baby carriers do not have the support that the OTSBH has because your baby's legs are forced apart and they cannot comfortably sleep. In this sling they can and their legs are cradled.

This over the shoulder baby holder baby sling is a great sling for parents and babies. Art Gib writes for many baby and family online publications including HugaMonkey. Art is an avid over the shoulder baby holder [http://www.hugamonkey.com/over-shoulder-baby-holder] supporter because of the positive impact it can have on families. For more information regarding baby slings, visit [http://www.hugamonkey.com/over-shoulder-baby-holder]

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Art_Gib