by Muriah Summer

Created on: April 08, 2010   Last Updated: April 12, 2010

Parents of a new baby have a lot to think about. They also have a lot of expenses. One of the many decisions a new parent is faced with is how to diaper their baby. Disposables are easier, but cloth is better for the environment, and can be a money-saver as well. Nevertheless, the initial cost of high-quality cloth diapers is daunting. A dozen of the popular

bumGenius! one-size diapers costs around two hundred dollars, and will only diaper a baby for one day. Building a good stash of diapers can easily cost a parent five hundred dollars or more. While this saves money in the long run, it can be too much for parents facing the many costs of bringing a baby home. For those comfortable with a sewing machine, making your own diapers can be an economical alternative.

*What pattern should I use?*

There are many diaper patterns available on the Internet, both free and for purchase. Fern and Faerie, an on-line pattern store, offers several free patterns in addition to their patterns for sale. They have patterns for fitted diapers, pocket diapers, prefolds, and knitted soakers. These patterns are fairly simple, without any complicated sewing techniques.

The Rita's Rump Pocket diaper is another free pattern, which is a little more complex but should be within the ability of a hobbyist. The basic diaper is a one-size without any fasteners, intended to be used with diaper pins or a Snappi and a diaper cover. There are several variations on the website, including a diaper cover and an all-in-one (AIO) waterproof diaper.

 A third free pattern is the Tighty Whitey Hipster. This pattern is more complicated than the other two, and takes some time to complete. It makes a very cute fitted diaper with a sewn-in soaker, intended to be used with a diaper cover. There are more patterns available online, as well.

 Each of these patterns has strengths and weaknesses. The best strategy is to make a few diapers from each pattern you are considering and try them on your baby before deciding. Think of the frustration if you made two dozen diapers and then decided you didn't like them!

*What kind of fabric should I use?*

It depends on what kind of diaper you want to make. If you're willing to use a diaper cover, absorbent cotton fabrics are best. Flannel, knits, terrycloth, and birdseye are all fabrics that are used in making diapers. In order to make AIOs, you'll need a waterproof fabric as well. PUL, or polyurethane laminated fabric, is one popular choice. Another option

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