A ring sling is an essential tool for attachment parenting and babywearing. As the number of parents practicing attachment parenting and babywearing increases, the cost of a quality ring sling is also increasing. Making a ring sling is possible at home, although prior sewing experience is necessary to make a high-quality ring sling. Even without prior sewing experience, clear directions and a friend or family member with sewing skills will help you create a custom ring sling in the fabric of your choice for much less than the cost of buying one.
Step 1
Hem one of the cut sides of your fabric. The hem should be between 1/2 and 1 inch wide. Surging the fabric instead is an option that will provide a sturdier seam. This end will form the tail of your sling.
Step 2
Surge or hem the selvage sides of the fabric if the edges are not intact. This hem should also be between 1/2 and 1 inch wide. The selvage sides of the fabric are the sides that were not cut from the bolt. If the selvage edges are not frayed, this step may be skipped.
Step 3
Accordion-fold the remaining unhemmed edge down the length (long side) of the fabric, with each fold being 4 to 6 inches wide. The folds should continue down the length of the fabric about 12 inches.
Step 4
Serge or zigzag-stitch through the layers of fabric an inch or two from the folded edge of the fabric. A serger is the quickest way to complete this task, as long as your serger can handle the thickness of the fabric.
Step 5
Place the serged, accordion-folded end through the two rings, and pull at least 4 inches of fabric through. Fold the fabric over, and pin into place. Do not pin the first panel, which is the outside fold.
Step 6
Fold the first panel out of the way, and stitch through the entire thickness of the fabric with upholstery thread and a heavy-duty needle about 3/4 inch from the rings. Reinforce this seam, because it will bear most of your baby's weight.
Tips and Warnings
- If you have large shoulders, you may want to make your accordion folds 6 inches wide for more comfort.
- Always check every seam before placing your child in the ring sling. A loose seam could cause the sling to fail and your baby to fall out.
Things You'll Need
- 2 1/4 to 2 1/2 yards fabric, 36 to 45 inches wide
- Sewing machine
- Serger
- 2 sturdy metal or nylon rings, 3 inches
- Upholstery thread
- Heavy-duty needle
