As a parent, you know that diaper changes are frequent throughout the day. To make it more comfortable for your baby, a changing pad is a great accessory to have on hand.
While store-bought changing pads can be convenient, they may not match your style or preferences. That’s where making your own changing pad comes in! Not only is it a fun and creative DIY project, but it also allows you to customize the pad to your liking.
In this post, we’ll guide you through the steps to make a changing pad that is functional, stylish, and perfect for your little one.
Supplies Needed
- Fabric: Look for a fabric that is durable, waterproof or easy to clean. Ideally, you should choose a fabric that is machine washable and can withstand frequent use. Some good options include vinyl, oilcloth, or laminated cotton.
- Batting or foam padding: You’ll need some form of padding to make the changing pad comfortable for your baby to lie on. You can use batting, foam padding, or even a folded-up towel.
- Thread: Make sure you have enough thread that matches your fabric to sew the changing pad together.
- Sewing machine (optional): While it’s possible to make a changing pad by hand, a sewing machine can make the process much quicker and easier.
- Scissors: You’ll need a good pair of scissors to cut your fabric and padding to the right size.
- Measuring tape: This will help you measure your fabric and ensure that your changing pad is the right size.
Tips on where to find these supplies
You can find most of these supplies at your local fabric or craft store. Some stores, like Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores, even carry pre-cut changing pad kits that include all the materials you need. If you’re looking for a specific type of fabric, try searching online fabric stores like Fabric.com or Etsy. Don’t forget to check online marketplaces like Amazon or eBay for deals on fabric and sewing supplies.
Cut and Sew the Fabric
- Measure and cut the fabric: Use your measuring tape to measure the size you want your changing pad to be. A standard size is around 16 inches by 30 inches. Cut your fabric to the desired size and shape using your scissors.
- Sew the fabric together: If you’re using a sewing machine, sew the fabric together by placing the right sides of the fabric facing each other and sewing around the edges with a 1/4 inch seam allowance. Leave a 3-inch opening on one end to turn the fabric right side out. If you’re hand-sewing, use a whip stitch to sew the edges of the fabric together.
- Hem the edges (optional): If you prefer a finished edge, fold the fabric over by 1/4 inch and sew a straight line around the edges of the changing pad.
- Turn the fabric right side out: Use the 3-inch opening you left earlier to turn the fabric right side out. Make sure to push out the corners so they are crisp.
- Sew the opening shut: Sew the opening shut either by hand or with your sewing machine.
Alternatives for those who don’t have access to a sewing machine:
If you don’t have access to a sewing machine, you can still make a changing pad by hand-sewing the edges together using a whip stitch. Additionally, you can use fabric glue to bond the edges of the fabric together instead of sewing. Keep in mind that the fabric glue may not be as durable as sewing, so it’s best to use this option for temporary use.
Add the Padding
- Cut the padding: Cut your batting or foam padding to the same size as your fabric. If you’re using a folded-up towel, make sure it’s large enough to cover the entire changing pad.
- Attach the padding to the fabric: Place the padding on top of the wrong side of the fabric and pin it in place. If you’re using a towel, fold it in half and place it on the wrong side of the fabric. Once it’s in place, you can sew around the edges of the changing pad to attach the padding. Make sure to sew as close to the edge as possible to avoid the batting or foam from bunching up.
- Make sure the padding stays in place: To ensure that the padding stays in place, you can sew lines across the changing pad at regular intervals. This will help keep the padding from shifting around inside the changing pad.
Tips for making sure the padding stays in place:
- Use a dense batting or foam that won’t bunch up easily.
- When pinning the padding to the fabric, use plenty of pins to hold it in place.
- Sewing lines across the changing pad will help keep the padding from shifting around.
- If you’re using a towel as padding, consider sewing lines through both the fabric and towel to keep them together.
How To Make A Changing Pad FAQ
Can I add pockets to my changing pad?
- Yes, you can add pockets to your changing pad by cutting a piece of fabric to the desired size and sewing it onto the changing pad.
How do I add decorative stitching to the changing pad?
- Sew the decorative stitching onto the edges of the changing pad before adding the padding.
Can I use a pre-made changing pad liner instead of making my own?
- Yes, you can purchase pre-made changing pad liners that can be used on top of any changing pad.
How do I clean my changing pad?
- Follow the care instructions for the fabric used to make the changing pad. Generally, wipe the surface clean with a damp cloth or wash it in the washing machine on a gentle cycle.
By following these steps, you can create a changing pad that meets your needs and style preferences. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fabrics, embellishments, and sizes to make your changing pad truly unique, happy sewing!