I’m a lazy crafter, I have to admit. I really am. I work part time at a nature center where I do crafts with children. Having a child myself has really made me really how much art is about the process. It’s in this spirit that I present to you a few ideas for making a toy baby sling. If I can do it, anyone can!
Why make a toy baby sling? Well, as your baby grows, she is going to want to haul her own dolls around. If you have children close together, as the first becomes a toddler, she will want to emulate what you’re doing with the second – and this includes wearing her own “babies”.
Now, my friend has made my daughter an absolutely gorgeous mei tai carrier so that she can carry her dolls in front or back carries. You can find instructions on how to make a mei tai carrier online. This craft does require some sewing skills so that you can attach straps to a central piece of cloth.
For those of us with some sewing skills but not outstanding ones, you might consider making a toy ring sling. This involves sewing up the sides of a single long piece of cloth, then weaving the ends through a wooden craft ring to make an adjustable sling for your child. You can find ring sling instructions here.
Finally…you’ve been waiting for it…the lazy way to make a toy baby sling! It’s the baby wrap! Find some lightweight fabric that does not run when you cut it. A pretty or funky pattern is good, or you and your child can paint on white or cream fabric before you cut it. If you paint, do this the day before. Cut a length of the fabric – the length of your arm will likely do. Make it at least half an arm’s length wide, too. You need lots of fabric to snuggle your child’s baby dolls! Don’t finish the edges, because your child will now be standing beside you begging for the sling.
Place the fabric diagonally across your child’s body – start at one shoulder, go diagonally down to the hip, and go up across your child’s back to meet the other piece of fabric. Tie it together – you want it fairly tight. And there you go – an instant sling!
If you’re feeling inspired, you can also do this with a play silk – and dyeing it together with your child can be part of the fun.
What crafts have you made with your toddler?