Free Cloth Diaper Patterns and Sewing Guides

There are many free cloth nappy patterns available for download. This is a good place to start if you would like to try your hand at making cloth nappies with minimal upfront costs. We also offer two paid PDF patterns (Boegoe Bugz Patterns), which are more comprehensive and provide you with step by step instructions and fabric recommendations if you need more guidance. All fabrics recommended under each cloth nappy type can be purchased from our online store.

Fitted Nappies

We recommend using Cotton Fleece, Bamboo/Hemp French Terry, or Bamboo fleece for fitted diapers.

• http://handmadebyrita.blogspot.co.za/2007/10/classic-rrp-ritas-rump-pocket-pattern.html
• Fitted sewing tutorial http://mayna.livejournal.com/198548.html

Pocket Nappies and Inserts

Pocket Nappies require a waterproof outer fabric. Use PUL or Waterproof Softshell for the outer layer. Inner layers are traditionally made from a stay-dry fabric like Microfleece or Suedecloth, but Inserts can be made from Bamboo 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/

Nappy Covers

Waterproof covers are made using PUL or Waterproof Softshell fabric. The edges can be bound with fold-over elastic. Water resistant covers are more breathable (but not quite as bombproof as waterproof covers) and a great solution for nighttime to be worn over flats and fitteds. Water resistant covers can be made from thick polar fleece which is available at all mainstream fabric stores.

• 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 OSFM size flats are around 70cmx70cm. You can use Hemp Jersey or Hemp/Bamboo jersey to make ultra trim flats. Be sure to wash your fabric before cutting to allow for the shrinkage.

Newborn Fitteds

Newborn fitteds can be made from Cotton Fleece or Bamboo Fleece.  Add a PUL layer outside and you have a newborn all-in-one nappy.

• 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), nappy 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 waterproof PUL fabrics.

Happy sewing!