Introduction: Look Mom, No Hands! a Simple Baby Sling
This instructable will show you how to make a "peanut shell" style baby sling for under $20, (even lass depending on your fabric. You can also find similar info on this site http://mykarmababy.com/pages/BabySlingPattern.php
Step 1: Supplies, Choosing and Treating the Fabric
1.5-2 yd. fabric (this depends on what size you're sling will be, which depends on what size you are)
Sewing Machine
Thread
Scissors
Pins
Iron
The first step is getting the right fabric, and there are a few things to keep in mind:
1. Don't get anything too stretchy, (if you do, the baby will sag down, and won't be safe and secure in the sling)
2. Great something that's washable!
3. Get a strong pattern that will hide stains well, (let's face it, kids are messy!)
Once you've picked out your fabric, be sure to wash it in mild detergent at least once.
Step 2: Determine the Size of the Sling
To make your sling the right size, measure a straight line from the top of your shoulder, across your body to your opposite hip, (in the same way a sash is worn). For example, my measurement was 27". Multiply it by 2, for me 54". Then add 3" to that measurement, for me, 57"
(HIP TO SHOULDER MEASUREMENT x2) + 3" = SLING LENGTH
Then cut your fabric so that it is 22" wide by the sling length. For example my sling is 22"x57"
Step 3: Flip and Iron
Flip your cut fabric so that it is "wrong side" up.
Iron thoroughly.
Step 4: The Folding Starts
fold the fabric along the "sling length" axis, (the long side)
Step 5: The Folding Continues
now fold up, along the 22" axis
Step 6: Cutting the Curve
Now measure in 3.5" from the top corner (where all the frayed edges are) and mark with a pin.
Then cut from the bottom corner (full length) to the top corner mark
Now open it up along the 22" axis to show the curve you just made, and pin up the curve.
Step 7: Making a French Seam
A french seam is a way to make a very strong seam without any unfinished edges.
1. Sew the curve you cut and pinned in the last step.
2. Cut away any excess fabric, leaving about 1/8" away from the seam, (be careful not to cut the seam, if you do, stop, re-sew that section, and start where you left off)
3. Flip the fabric "wrong side out" and iron the curve and seam
4. Sew the curve again, about 1/8" in from the seam.
5. Flip "right side out"
6. Great job, you just made a french seam!
Step 8: Sewing the Hem
While your sling is still "wrong side out" Fold the edges down about 1/4" and iron, then sew them (a zig-zag stitch is great here) as the hem.
Now you're done sewing!
Step 9: Wearing Your Sling
Check out youtube, or the following links for different ways to wear your sling!
Happy carrying!
http://www.mykarmababy.com/pages/instructions.php
http://www.thepeanutshell.com/tips
Thanks for reading.

First Prize in the
Mother's Day Contest

Participated in the
Mother's Day Contest
1 Person Made This Project!
- RebeccaL125 made it!
10 Comments
6 years ago
I just finished making this for my 14 month old and love it. It literally took me 30 minutes. Your instructions were easy to follow. Thanks so much!!
7 years ago on Introduction
Easy sling, great instructions. Trying to figure out the best way alternative to expensive baby carriers.
11 years ago on Introduction
i made this last year for my little boy and it was a god send, as a second child he just slept in it or was carried around while i looked after his big sister
12 years ago on Introduction
i just made one for my baby racoon and it loves it this makes my life so much more easy TTTHHHAAANNNKKKSSSS SSSOOOOOOOOOOOOOO MUCH !!!!!!!!!!!
12 years ago on Introduction
awwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww! cute baby!! awwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww
btw Great instryctable very nice instructions, easy to follow!
13 years ago on Introduction
That's a cool idea, but if you don't do this correctly, it's kinda "Look, mom, no teeth." BTW, nice instructable.
Reply 13 years ago on Introduction
Well, in theory, if they still fit in the sling they don't have teeth yet....
13 years ago on Introduction
Congratulations on your First Prize win Sarah! Your baby is beautiful BTW.
13 years ago on Introduction
Nice one, I was looking for some gift for my cousin'w new baby _ Even if that one is made for older babies... Sure it'll come out handy...
Reply 13 years ago on Introduction
I think they need to be able to support their own head, but maybe not... either way, she'll be able to use it in 2-3 months I think, check out (or have her check) for more info on different carries for different age babies. I just gave it to both my sister-in-laws (both pregnant!)