Free Cloth Diaper Patterns and Sewing Guides
There are many free cloth diaper patterns available for download. These are useful as they will tell you which fabrics you will need and give some instructions on how to sew your diapers. All fabrics recommended under each cloth diaper type can be purchased from our online store minimatters.co.za
Fitted diapers
We recommend using cotton fleece, bamboo terry, or hemp fleece for fitted diapers. You can also use a microfleece layer on the inside if you prefer a stay dry inner.
- https://mammacandoit.com/collections/free/products/fitted-diaper-pattern
- http://handmadebyrita.blogspot.co.za/2007/10/classic-rrp-ritas-rump-pocket-pattern.html
- Fitted sewing tutorial http://mayna.livejournal.com/198548.html
Pocket diapers and inserts
Pocket diapers require a waterproof outer fabric. Use TPU or PUL for the outer layer. Inner layers are traditionally made from a stay-dry fabric like microfleece or suedecloth, but you can also use cotton fleece for the inner lining. Inserts can be made from bamboo terry, hemp fleece or cotton fleece.
- Side snapping pocket http://themafiatutu.blogspot.co.za/2010/04/free-cloth-diaper-pattern.html
- Hook and loop closure pocket http://fraldamalda.blogspot.co.za/
Diaper covers
Waterproof diaper covers are made using PUL or TPU fabric. The edges can be bound with fold-over elastic. Water resistant covers are more breathable and a great solution for nighttime to be worn over flats and fitteds. Water resistant covers can be made from thick polar fleece or softshell fleece.
- PUL waterproof cover with FOE https://crazywonderfullife.wordpress.com/2009/04/27/diaper-cover-with-gussets-tutorial/
- Fleece or Softshell covers with snap or hook and loop closure http://handmadebyrita.blogspot.co.za/2007/10/httpwww.html
Flats
No pattern is needed for making flats. Newborn flats are around 50cmx50cm and standard size flats are around 70cmx70cm. You can use hemp jersey to make ultra trim flats. For very absorbent flats, bamboo terry is a great choice.
Newborn Fitteds
Newborn fitteds can be made from bamboo terry, hemp fleece or cotton fleece. You can also use microfleece to line the inside of the diaper. This will keep baby’s bum dry and is super soft against the skin. Add a PUL or TPU layer outside and you have a newborn all-in-one diaper.
- Newborn fitted. Two patterns for small and larger newborn babies. http://www.darlingdiapers.com/Darling%20Diapers%20Free%20Newborn%20Fitted%20Pattern2009.pdf
Extra notions needed
You will also need some good quality braided elastic (we prefer 8mm width), diaper closure of your choice (we offer KAM snaps and diaper quality hook and loop), good quality polyester sewing thread and ballpoint machine needles. If you want to use snaps, you will also need KAM pliers for attaching the snaps.
Optional extras are wonder clips, rotary cutter and cutting board, and tailors pens for marking your fabrics as you sew.
And finally, have a look at our handy guide for sewing with PUL and TPU fabrics
Happy sewing!
12 Comments on “Free Cloth Diaper Patterns and Sewing Guides”
Hi, do you sell hemp fabric and hemp jersey? Please
Hi Louisa, yes we stock thick hemp fleece and winter weight hemp jersey. Please see them on this link https://minimatters.co.za/product-category/fabricmatters/fabrics/other-fabrics/
hello Elmarie,
Can I use cotton fleece to make newborn flats? if so is 1 layer enough?
Hi Stephane
Yes you can and one layer is enough, but hemp jersey is more ideal as it’s more absorbent, trimmer and snappi fasteners grip the fabric better.
Good day,
I want to buy bamboo inserts for my pocket nappies but im wondering if there isnt bamboo flats or something like that that I can use that will work just as well as bamboo inserts?
Hi Alexa, You can use this fabric to make super thirsty flats. You can padfold them instead of using inserts so they will dry much quicker. https://minimatters.co.za/shop/bamboo-terry/
Hi Elmary/ anyone at Minimatters
What is the measurement of your material? Are they all the same? I wanna make flats but have no idea if i must work on 150cm drop or ?
The width of each fabric is specified under the product description. They are all slightly different so just select the fabric you want and scroll down to the description. There it will give you all the details on that specific fabric.
I’m in love with this site. You have a fabulous variety. This is great for a start up mom Like myself.
I want to make adult AIO
PUL for outer layer with flannel on top of PUL then hemp jersey to absorb.
Do I need to put something on top of hemp to keep skin dry.
I’m new would love help
Thanks
Vivienne
Hi Vivienne
A stay dry layer on top is optional. Personal choice, you can make it with or without.
Pingback: How to make a nappy shell/cover | Mini Matters