Avoid using anything too stretchy, like jersey—it will lose its shape as you use it, so it might not hold your baby safely. Also, fabrics like flannel, muslin, and quilting fabrics will not be strong enough to support your baby. Try picking a fabric in a fun color that matches your personality. And if you’re really crafty, you can even buy extra material to make matching clothes or cloth diapers for your baby!
For instance, if you wear a 2x, you’d add 54 in (140 cm) to 2. 5 yd (2. 3 m) for a total of 4 yd (3. 7 m).
In a pinch, you can buy 3 in (7. 6 cm) rings at a hardware store—just make sure there aren’t any rough welded edges. Also, keep in mind that these may not be made of a baby-safe material, so don’t let your baby put them in their mouth.
This hem supports your baby’s weight, which is why you should use multiple rows of stitches.
Spread the fabric out as flat as you can as you’re wrapping it—don’t let it bunch up or twist. [8] X Research source Adjust the fabric so the lower hem is snug against your chest and the top hem is loose.
Pull the slack fabric toward the ring, then tighten it until the sling is snug around your baby. To make sure your baby is secure and comfortable, double-check that their knees are higher than their bottom.
Make sure you use durable rings that are intended for a baby sling. These should be 2. 5–3 in (6. 4–7. 6 cm) in diameter. [11] X Research source Keep the short end of the fabric tucked under the rest of the sling as you wrap it. Feed enough of the short end through the rings that the weight of the fabric will hold the rings in place—at least 10–12 in (25–30 cm), depending on the material you’re using. If you make it too short, it could slip free. For very thin fabrics, add extra security by wrapping the short end through the rings twice.
Make sure the sling is wrapped all the way under your baby’s knees and all the way up to their neck so they’ll be secure
Make sure the T-shirts aren’t stretched out or torn—they need to fit snugly on your body. You can also use tube tops if you have them.
Once your baby is secure, pull the extra tube up from your waist so it stretches from underneath your baby’s bottom and up over their back. This will provide extra support. [14] X Research source
Bend with your knees when you have to pick something up—not at your waist—and always support your baby with 1 hand when you’re bending over. Always keep your baby’s back supported with their tummy and chest against you.
