Monday, March 29, 2010

Cloth Diapers - Nothing like Grandma used!

Cloth diapering has become more and more popular.  While pregnant last year with our youngest child, I decided I wanted to revisit the idea of cloth diapering again.  Our oldest, now 14, was cloth diapered for awhile.  It only took searching the internet for maybe 10 minutes to realize that cloth diapers have left the dark ages and are quite modern now!  They are pretty comparable to disposable with many more benefits.  If you can sew, even just a little bit, you can make some great cloth diapers for rather cheap.  I've tried out several patterns, mostly free ones found on the web.  However, since Liam was 5 weeks old we have been practicing Elimination Communication (also known as infant potty training, though I don't particular care for that title) I was looking for a diaper that made pottying the baby easier.  


I stumbled across Chloe's Toes Boutique one day spending way too much time on the internet!  (Who doesn't right?!)  What I immediately loved about her fitted cloth diaper pattern was that it used all FOE (Foldover Elastic featured in the photo above) and thus making it perfect for Liam to wear as a diaper or as trainers!!  I also loved that the pattern was suppose to be super quick and easy, what busy mommy doesn't want quick and easy?!  I have to tell you that when the pattern arrived and I opened it up to read the instructions I was amazed at how thorough they were and the many different options for the pattern.  The pattern ranges in size from preemie (doll size) to XXL.  It can be used to make fitted diapers, pocket diapers, AIO (All in one) diapers.  I felt like I had hit the jackpot.  Then....what was even better...was the fact that because the entire edge of the diaper was elasticized they could be putted up and down without being unsnapped.  Hooray, they will be perfect for potty runs, too!


The first diaper probably took me about 1 1/2 hours to make.  I am a very visual learner, so I had to pay close attention to the instructions and photos, so it did take quite a bit longer to make sure I was following each step properly.


This was the trial run diaper, and the first time I've sewn with FOE.  I learned I definitely have to pull the elastic tighter around the legs next time, but I was thrilled with how the first run went!  The last photo is of the FOE.  Foldover elastic is sooo easy to work with, I don't know why I was so nervous to use it!





Please note, I have never been asked to review a product or been offered anything free for my reviews.  I just love to share what works great for us!