How to Make a Simple Baby Wash Cloth
Requirements (for one 11" x 11" baby wash cloth):
11 1/2" by 11 1/2" cotton flannel in baby colours and prints
11 1/2" by 11 1/2" light coloured cotton towelling
6" coordinating ribbon (1/2" wide)
matching thread
materials for applique (optional): small piece of flannel print, iron-on adhesive
basic sewing skills
How to:
1. Prepare your materials. Round off corners of both flannel and backing fabric.
Tip: You can also use store-bought face washers for your backing. Those are inexpensive, come in a variety of colours and are usually thicker than ordinary cotton towelling. 2. Lay your cotton towelling square right side up. Fold ribbon in half and position diagonally on the upper right hand corner of your fabric, as shown below.
3. Place flannel square on top, wrong side up. Pin all layers in place, making sure your ribbon stays in its proper placement. Stitch all around using a 1/4" seam allowance, leaving about a 2" gap in the bottom center edge for turning.
4. Turn wash cloth to its right side, push out the corners and press well. Slipstitch the opening closed. Topstitch all around, about 1/4" from the edges.
5. Optional applique: Cut out your desired flannel print design in whatever shape or size you want (Mine is a 2 1/2" diameter circle). Follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to use the iron-on adhesive (I used Heat 'n' Seal - Lite so fabric remains soft). Position your applique near the bottom right corner of your wash cloth. Sew in place using a medium width and small length zigzag stitch.
That's it, you're all done! Too easy, wasn't it? And how cute is that? Now go and make some more!
By the way, if you noticed, the title of this post says 'Handmade Holiday Gift Idea #1'. This should mean there would be a #2, #3 and so on. Hopefully, I will be able to follow through in the coming days and weeks before Christmas!Have fun!
This is so simple to make and would be a great gift. Time to get my fabric together and go get some wash cloths...
ReplyDeleteThanks for the tutorial. I am so looking forward to Gift Idea's #2,#3,etc.....Just like everyone else, I am looking to cut my spending this holiday season and you are helping us all do this...
ReplyDeleteThanks again.
Thanks for the great tute. I haven't heard of Heat n'seal lite before. Where do you buy that from? I love the little monkey applique as well. Can't wait to see your other gift ideas.
ReplyDeleteHeat 'n Seal is just one brand of fusible webbing. I bought it from Big W (here in Melbourne). I am sure there are other brands to choose from in any craft shop. Just make sure you use the 'Light' kind to keep your fabric soft.
ReplyDeleteThanks for asking!
Thank you so much for this easy washcloth. My baby started eating solids and we use one facecloth at every meal. I didn't want to buy a bunch, so I made my own using old receiving blankets and "el cheapo" (super thin) terry hooded towels we never used due to their lack of absorbency. They make perfect facecloths! I made 16 in an afternoon and plan to make more. Thanks again for the idea.
ReplyDeleteGREAT tutorial. I had to see what a top stitch was because I am new, but I think I can do this.
ReplyDeleteDo you have any tips on how to best round the corners?
Hello, You can use any object with a rounded edge (like a small plate or drinking glass) to round off the corners. I sometimes use a compass but it's totally unnecessary.
ReplyDeleteThanks for asking!
Super cute. My good friend is having triplets soon. These would be perfect for them!!
ReplyDelete