Baby Sling Pattern

Fast Photo Guide
If you have already used the free baby sling pattern, and just need a quick refresher, then this quick photo guide will step you back through the process easily. If you are new to sewing, or have never made a baby sling before, please see these baby sling patterns for a beginners guide, advice on choosing fabrics, etc. A custom baby sling is easy to make, but there are some important considerations that you'll need to wade through if it's your first time making one.

To sew a lined sling: lay fabrics right side together, and cut and handle as one piece of fabric to save time.

If you're making a fleece pouch sling, or using stretchy material, be sure to choose fabric that stretches more across the width than the length. (fig.1)
fleece baby sling pattern

Step 1

Cut or fold fabric(s) to width

Step 2

Fold your fabric so it is ready to cut

Fold it in half so that it is half as wide (if it's not already folded this way)

and then fold it in half again making it half as long

Step 3

Measure and cut the curve for the pouch

Step 4
Taper, or not...
baby sling pattern

Step 5
Sew!
Consult your sewing machine manual and select a stretchy or zig-zag stitch for sewing fleece or stretchy fabrics. Lined Pouch:
Unfold your pouch and line up the long sides. The lining and outer fabric should face right sides together. Don't sew the curved ends yet!
sew a baby sling

Stitch down the length of both sides and turn right side out
baby sling pattern

Making the strong 'French Felled Seam.'
Line up the curved edges, and stitch 3/8 from edge. Trim seam to 1/4".

Turn pouch inside out, and iron. Sew a seam that 1/2 " from curved edge, fully encasing the first seam. Lay out as flat as possible, and stitch down the seam to complete a very strong 'French felled seam.'
baby sling carrier

Unlined Pouch:
Leaving edges un-hemmed, complete steps above. Roll and stitch edge hems in place last.

Time Saver Tip: Make a Paper Pattern of your

Custom Baby Sling

If you plan on making more than one sling, then use the sling that you've just cut to make a quick custom pattern. Take the folded sling, and lay it on a piece of heavy paper. A cut and unfolded shopping bag or a heavy piece of wrapping paper work well. Carefully trace around your sling to create a paper pattern. Be sure to label the pattern with the name and measurements of the person who it is made for, as well as the fabric type (stretchy or non-stretchy). Now all you have to do for your next sling is fold the fabric, pin on your baby sling pattern, and cut it out!

It's also easier to make modifications when you make your own free baby sling pattern. If your first sling turns out a little too long, or you want the pouch to be deeper, just make some notes on your paper pattern, and make the needed adjustments on your next sling.

Want more creative inspiration?
Find more great free baby patterns, and unique handmade baby gift ideas here!