My littlest munchkin is 9 months old now… and he is every bit as clingy and stranger shy as he should. He is also a chunky 21 pounder. For a while, I used my awesome Moby Wrap to tie him on my back, but he has figured out how to wriggle out of it.
I did some searching and found this excellent and thorough tutorial for making a PADDED Mei Tai (an asian-style baby carrier). The padding really does amazing things for this carrier comfort-wise. Although I prefer un-padded ring slings, I wouldn’t recommend making an MT/ABC type carrier without it.
I decided to skip the Hood/headrest and add a button-on version in the future if needed. Also, I extended the pattern 2 inches. So it would reach above my son’s shoulders.
For materials, I used a brown twill for the sturdy fabric (3 yards was the perfect amount for straps + seat), and some fun quilting fabric for outside and lining, all from Joann’s. I used scrap (Blizzard?) fleece for the padding instead of the batting.
It took me an intense late night of sewing to finish it (4 un-interripted hours), but the construction was uncomplicated, and she does a great job explaining each step in the tutorial.
Mom is happy and baby is happy.
So Sweet! I am considering a Mei Tai this time around..
however, I am NOT considering going back to sewing..
just. can’t. do. it.
Yours looks awesome! Bravo!
I love them for the back carrying, but for newborns you could make yourself a no sew “Faux-by Wrap”. Buy 2 1/2 to 3 yards of knit fabric and cut it down to a ~ 30″ width. Tie on like the moby wrap. Knit fabric won’t unravel so you do not need to sew it. http://www.mobywrap.com/t-instructions.aspx I love mine for little babies doing front carries.
If you want a MT, search on etsy. There are lots of SAHM making carriers for sale.
I love it! (and jon wanted me to tell you he does too, he said it looked like a little indian sac, haha) Love the choice of fabric too!
Thanks. I am really happy with it, and it was one of those situations that paying a little more for the more eye-catching prints really was worth it.
So beautiful AND comfy looking!! Nice work!
Awesome. Double awesome, actually 🙂 I remember the bed sheet mei tai version… that one was great too but this is fantastic! Great job! I’m totally inspired, if currently babyless 🙂 Great domain name too…
Thanks Karen! 🙂