Designer Burp Cloths Too Expensive? Not anymore!

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:

1. Make a template – tape two pieces of printer paper together to make an 11″x17″ sheet.
2. Lay the fabric on your work surface with designed/right sides together.
3. Use the template to cut out 6 sets of fabric.
4. Place a drinking glass on each of the corners, mark, and cut to create curved corners.
5. Pin and sew, leaving about a 4″ opening for turning out.
6. Clip the corners.  Turn out.  Fold the opening neatly and press (this helps me with the next step).
7. Sew a scant seam allowance around the entire edge, closing the 4″ opening.
8. Trim ends and press again if desired.
9. 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.