Help me make slings and wraps for babies.

[ToddlerBrain82]

There is a new program in my county. It's actually a really exciting, innovative program that hasn't been tried in very many counties in the US, so it's pretty groundbreaking. Long story short is it's a program designed to get different care providers and volunteers working TOGETHER to provide the best care and support for moms who are in substance abuse treatment and recovery - as well as any mom whose baby has been in the NICU, but with a special focus on addicted moms.

Since I'm going to have more free time as a SAHM, I've decided that I'm going to spend some of that free time seeking out free or low-cost fabric, and making slings and wraps for these moms and babies. Many of us here on Cafemom know the advantages of wearing our babies, and that's something that I think would be especially helpful for a fussy baby who has been in the NICU. That close contact from being worn by a loving parent is one of the best things for their recovery, and also, babywearing is just wonderful for building a strong attachment between a parent and their baby.

Anyone feel like getting on board with this project with me? If you get your hands on some fabric, make a sling or wrap (or a few!) and just include printed directions for how to use it, send it to me, and I'll hand deliver them to the woman who is directing this new program. She will make sure they get handed out to moms who need them most.

I'm so excited to be doing this. I'll be doing something constructive with my new "free time", and I'll be helping disadvantaged moms and babies get off to a loving start.

[dsteiner23]

Jan. 27, 2009 at 10:47 AM

Do you have a pattern you could share?  I'd love to do this.  I don't have a lot of free time, but I love to sew and I especially love to do good things for others.

[ToddlerBrain82]

Jan. 27, 2009 at 10:53 AM

I am going to be searching online, but I definitely will have patterns. I know there are pretty simple patterns available on the internet because I've printed them out for friends and clients before. Thank you!! And thanks for voting this up, everyone!

(Original Poster)

[lilmomma92706]

Jan. 27, 2009 at 11:05 AM

I am hounding Bear to buy me a sewing machine. When he finally does I would be more than happy to sew some up for you.

[ToddlerBrain82]

Jan. 27, 2009 at 11:10 AM

Yay, thank you!

(Original Poster)

[asaffell]

Jan. 27, 2009 at 11:50 AM

I actually just bought fabric to make a sling for a friend of mine. If I have extra after hers is done, I'll let you know.

[MemaSu]

Jan. 27, 2009 at 12:47 PM

What kind of fabric do you use for this? I have a lot of stash and am very willing to donate fabric to someone who can sew it up! I have colorful cottons and some ( I think- have to double check) knit fabric. Let me know!

[JoyeAustin]

Jan. 27, 2009 at 3:04 PM

Mom isn't fibbing--she's got fabric by the boxload. I think this is a swell idea, Nathalie.

[RanaAurora]

Jan. 27, 2009 at 3:57 PM

I would love to help, but I would never trust an infant's safety to my sewing! :)

[ToddlerBrain82]

Jan. 27, 2009 at 4:39 PM

Thank you everyone! MemaSue - I could use ANY kind of fabric. We could make slings out of the cotton, and wraps out of the knit fabric. The response to this has been wonderful! Thank you, ladies!

(Original Poster)

[veg4animals2006]

Jan. 27, 2009 at 4:52 PM

Man.. wish I had the time. I have fabric for sheet that's been sitting on my table for over a week! :(