I was bored one evening and looking for something to make. Wandering around on the internet, I randomly cam across a tutorial on how to make burp cloths or burp rags. This project is not only quick and easy, but inexpensive too! This is a good project for those wanting designer-look baby burp cloths – you get to pick out the fabric that you like. Thank to Heather at Make it from Scratch for the wonderful idea and tutorial!
I used two different prints to make the rags. I bought one yard of each type. The baby flannel goes on sale at Jo-Ann’s Fabrics sometimes, so I purchased two yards at about $2.50 per yard. Two yards will easily make six burp cloths.
So… I spent $5 on materials and got 6 burp cloths for a total of $0.83 per cloth. I used thread that I already had on hand.
To do a comparison:
- Sew them yourself – set of 6 – $5.00
- Amazon.com – set of 3 – $5.00
- Gerber at Toys ‘R’ Us – set of 4 – $8.00
- Organic at Target – set of 2 – $10.00
- Neiman Marcus – set of 2 – $26.00
Tools:
- Sewing machine and thread
- Scissors
- Drinking glass (to round the corners)
- 2 yards coordinating fabric (washed, dried, and ironed)
- Note: A long, sturdy straight edge, cutting mat, and rotary cutter definitely help!
Instructions:
- Make a template – tape two pieces of printer paper together to make an 11″x17″ sheet.
- Lay the fabric on your work surface with designed/right sides together.
- Use the template to cut out 6 sets of fabric.
- Place a drinking glass on each of the corners, mark, and cut to create curved corners.
- Pin and sew, leaving about a 4″ opening for turning out.
- Clip the corners. Turn out. Fold the opening neatly and press (this helps me with the next step).
- Sew a scant seam allowance around the entire edge, closing the 4″ opening.
- Trim ends and press again if desired.
- Done!
Variations!!!
I ran into a couple different variations online. I am not a mom yet – I have one niece who lives two hours away – and I’m learning that spit up just rolls right off the flannel instead of getting absorbed into it.
- You could alter the pattern to include a burpcatcher on one side.
- Instead of using flannel, you could decorate and use cloth diapers.