There are so many options out there when it comes to diapering your baby! I'm hoping to demystify that a little for you. . . when it comes to what you can use under wool anyway.
First lets discuss absorbent diapers that can be used with wool. Really, anything can be used.
Disposable Diapers with Wool?
Maybe you're strictly a disposable diapering parent. Or possibly daycare doesn't accept cloth but you're tired of the excess amount of blowouts that seem to happen with newborns in disposables. Just slide those wool pants over their 'sposie and they'll be the most fashionable tot around! This is a great fashion statement as well as an extra insurance policy against messes.
Most thrifty and trim option?
Flats baby! With some 'tricky-looking' (but EASY to learn) folding techniques, you can save TONS on your diaper stash. I don't know of any day care centers that will play with those, but they are an option for home use! If I was able to start all over, I"d go with all flat diapers and only use fitteds when we're away from home, having a sitter etc. They are wonderfully absorbent as well. For over-night simply lay two flats out before folding, and as they get older add a doubler over night as well! Hemp or Bamboo are said to be wonderful for flats! Use a snappi, diaper pins or a boingo to fasten. Toss on a soaker and let that wiggle worm free. Yes, it is possible to put a flat on a newborn, but if you're scared of pinning baby (don't be. . . just put your fingers between diaper and baby!) I'd suggest the snappi or boingo.
What about just a little easier?
Prefolds all the way! Prefolds still require some folding, but not as much. They're just as absorbent but take more time in the dryer, as they've been pre-folded and have more layers throughout. This also uses a snappi, boingo or pins to fasten. They even come in many sizes. Newborn (I only suggest this for preemies smaller than 6 lbs), small/baby, toddler/premium and capri. Many people like the capri size on a larger baby/toddler, but I prefer the premium or toddler size. It's just a little longer and seems to be easier to manipulate where the most absorption is! I suggest getting the small/baby size the the toddler/premium size. I still can fit the baby size on my youngest at 20+ lbs though it's not very absorbent.
How about the most convenient choice of all?
Well, really that's up for debate. Flats take much less time, energy and effort in washing. You can even hand wash with little effort and line dry if you want or don't have access to a washer/dryer. Fitteds on the other hand should be washed in the washer or you'll really need to put in some major effort in scrubbing due to the many layers. They also take longer to dry. However, they work just like a disposable. Snap or velcro on and off, toss in the washer. However, it's crucial that you use a cover if you want to protect outer clothing or stop leaks. There are also contour diapers, which are a blend of the prefold and fitted. They are shaped like a fitted but often do not have any elastic and do require a fastener of some sort. I really love fitteds for their ease of use and the looks I get from moms who think cloth diapers only consist of big flat squares and huge scary pins.
What about All in Ones or pockets?
I've known people who've bought a big stash of all in ones or pockets only to find out that they leak. Instead of buying a whole new stash, toss a wool soaker over the diaper! Since the wool isn't getting saturated it wont even need to be washed as often and likely you could get away with only one or two covers.
Overnight?
Wool is great overnight! Bear in mind that when a urine soaked cloth diaper is sitting over night, it's going to smell pretty bad in the morning. I"m telling you that my boys morning diapers will burn the nose hair off you! Wool helps with that a little, but isn't perfect. It is the best option for ammonia filled diapers in my opinion. First you need to make sure the diaper you're putting on baby is highly absorbent. Preferably more absorbent than they need on a nightly basis. You may need to add a doubler or extra layers etc. Then choose a THICK wool cover to go over it. I actually suggest purchasing a custom order from me for an overnight diaper to ensure that it's thick enough. In the winter I suggest longies so you don't have to put so many layers on baby to keep her warm. Give it a few nights before changing up the diaper or amount of absorbency. You may find that your kiddo is wetting through every night, so bump up the diaper a bit. If the outer of the cloth diaper is bone dry, then consider taking the doubler out to see what happens. If you'd like to know the truth, I use a disposable at night. I know. . bad advertising here, huh? I don't want you guys to think there's anything wrong with feeling like giving up. . . you're not really giving up if you use a disposable at night. You're also not harming your baby any at all. As far as the brand I use. . . it's what ever is cheapest, whether it's by a sale or it's the store brand. I've never purchased an 'organic' or 'bio-degradable' diaper ever.
Well, that's it for now. I really need to go spend some time with my boys, they've had a rough morning!
I hope you can see that really, anything can work with wool, so pick what's best for you! I highly suggest a combination of flats and fitteds.
Next week I"ll talk about the choices you have in wool covers!
Friday, November 18, 2011
Thursday, November 3, 2011
What Woolies to Wear?
As I looked outside today at all the wet ground, I wasn't stumped about what woolies to put on my youngest son, in case he should want to run out side and grab the snowy weather by it's slushy grey wings. Then again, many people seem to have questions on this area.
In general, if my kids are playing outside, I tend to put pants or shorts over a soaker. This keeps my woolie free of debris. Most of the time that is. I can't always help it if they're at Grandma's or friends come over and they want to go out RIGHT NOW. And that's ok. It never hurts to wash a little extra. If we're camping I leave my nice woolies at home and use good ol' PUL! With flats. Easy washing, so you have no stinky diaper bag in the car on the way home.
In wet or super cold weather it's very easy to just toss snow pants on over longies. Just make sure that you tuck the longies into the snow pants to keep them away from wet weather. Then make sure cuffs of snow pants are tucked safely inside snow boots to keep toes warm. Tall rubber boots are a great option for warm rainy days, but I"d put them on over thick jeans, which would of course be layered over a soaker.
If you're running errands all day long, pack an extra pair of woolies if you tend to change less often than when you stay home. I pack 1 fitted diaper for every 1 1/2 hours I will be gone. This is a little much, I know. You never know when you're little one will pick a moment to explode. You also never know when you'll be stuck somewhere longer than you'd planned. (Says the girl who, on Christmas morning was stuck in a snow drift for what seemed like hours while prego with Lil' Gee while Dizzy was pretty little. That was not my fault.) If I'm going to be packing more than 6 diapers I plan on leaving a stash of 2-3 in my bag to carry in, and the rest in the car. If needed I'll keep a large wet bag in the car to empty my smaller one that's attached to my bag. With this system a cloth only mom could technically just carry a purse with 1 diaper and small wetbag (with a pocket for wipes of course). As far as what wool to put on them? Depends on the weather:) Use your best judgement. On the most humid of days or the wettest, put shorts, jeans, sweats or fleece (my favorite for cool wet weather, as it also has some water repelling qualities) over the soaker.
On short trips going all cloth is easy and doable! Just find the system that works for you! Really!! For me, and I will be traveling soon enough to do it, that would be longies (bcs it's cold!) and fitteds. I"ll have to have some prefolds unless I want to be up until midnight sewing. Trying to travel light, saving space for souvenirs or flying? I'd suggest weighing the cost/convenience of packing all those space hogging diapers. You may find using 'sposies would be a better option for you. Don't feel guilty about it, just do it. Keep in mind you probably wont need to wash your woolies, but do grab an extra one or two just in case something disasterous happens. Pack a woolie refreshing lanolin spray, such as available from CJ's all natural. In a pinch you can do a quick rinse and spray to help keep your woolies presentable. As far as the cloth itself goes? Make sure you'll be able to wash where you're at. We'll be visiting relatives this month or next and I plan on checking first to make sure they wont mind me washing diapers in their home. I"m not willing to go to a laundro mat while on vacation, so there. Make sure to take your washing stuff with you. Use a plastic container for powder or a travel bottle for liquid. Don't repurpose a bottle, use a brand new one for this. Save it for future excursions. You wouldn't want residue to cause stink on your diapers would you? Double check to see if they have a high efficiency or old washer. If you're used to washing in one type of machine and they have the other. . . don't chance it. If you're lucky enough to know how to use both with out causing problems on your diapers, then great! Using a HE on cloth diapers the first time, can cause problems with out a lot of research.
Well, in my humble opinion, skip diapers all together! ha! We're lucky enough to have all wood flooring, expect where we have tile. When it's hot out I leave mobile babies in undies or naked. I also use fitteds w/out any cover at all in hot weather. Then, every so often, walk around with a prefold under your foot and catch any wet messes. Solid messes are usually contained in undies:) If you're child is regular enough, then you could guess when to put a diaper on them! Going outside? Great! nothing to mop up then! Do not let them wander naked outdoors though. You don't know what creeps are watching, nor do you want them getting scratches in places that a diaper may hold wet material against.
I hope this helps! Please comment with any questions!
Outside
In general, if my kids are playing outside, I tend to put pants or shorts over a soaker. This keeps my woolie free of debris. Most of the time that is. I can't always help it if they're at Grandma's or friends come over and they want to go out RIGHT NOW. And that's ok. It never hurts to wash a little extra. If we're camping I leave my nice woolies at home and use good ol' PUL! With flats. Easy washing, so you have no stinky diaper bag in the car on the way home.
Wet or Cold Weather
In wet or super cold weather it's very easy to just toss snow pants on over longies. Just make sure that you tuck the longies into the snow pants to keep them away from wet weather. Then make sure cuffs of snow pants are tucked safely inside snow boots to keep toes warm. Tall rubber boots are a great option for warm rainy days, but I"d put them on over thick jeans, which would of course be layered over a soaker.
On the Run
If you're running errands all day long, pack an extra pair of woolies if you tend to change less often than when you stay home. I pack 1 fitted diaper for every 1 1/2 hours I will be gone. This is a little much, I know. You never know when you're little one will pick a moment to explode. You also never know when you'll be stuck somewhere longer than you'd planned. (Says the girl who, on Christmas morning was stuck in a snow drift for what seemed like hours while prego with Lil' Gee while Dizzy was pretty little. That was not my fault.) If I'm going to be packing more than 6 diapers I plan on leaving a stash of 2-3 in my bag to carry in, and the rest in the car. If needed I'll keep a large wet bag in the car to empty my smaller one that's attached to my bag. With this system a cloth only mom could technically just carry a purse with 1 diaper and small wetbag (with a pocket for wipes of course). As far as what wool to put on them? Depends on the weather:) Use your best judgement. On the most humid of days or the wettest, put shorts, jeans, sweats or fleece (my favorite for cool wet weather, as it also has some water repelling qualities) over the soaker.
Going away for the weekend?
On short trips going all cloth is easy and doable! Just find the system that works for you! Really!! For me, and I will be traveling soon enough to do it, that would be longies (bcs it's cold!) and fitteds. I"ll have to have some prefolds unless I want to be up until midnight sewing. Trying to travel light, saving space for souvenirs or flying? I'd suggest weighing the cost/convenience of packing all those space hogging diapers. You may find using 'sposies would be a better option for you. Don't feel guilty about it, just do it. Keep in mind you probably wont need to wash your woolies, but do grab an extra one or two just in case something disasterous happens. Pack a woolie refreshing lanolin spray, such as available from CJ's all natural. In a pinch you can do a quick rinse and spray to help keep your woolies presentable. As far as the cloth itself goes? Make sure you'll be able to wash where you're at. We'll be visiting relatives this month or next and I plan on checking first to make sure they wont mind me washing diapers in their home. I"m not willing to go to a laundro mat while on vacation, so there. Make sure to take your washing stuff with you. Use a plastic container for powder or a travel bottle for liquid. Don't repurpose a bottle, use a brand new one for this. Save it for future excursions. You wouldn't want residue to cause stink on your diapers would you? Double check to see if they have a high efficiency or old washer. If you're used to washing in one type of machine and they have the other. . . don't chance it. If you're lucky enough to know how to use both with out causing problems on your diapers, then great! Using a HE on cloth diapers the first time, can cause problems with out a lot of research.
What if it's crazy hot out?
Well, in my humble opinion, skip diapers all together! ha! We're lucky enough to have all wood flooring, expect where we have tile. When it's hot out I leave mobile babies in undies or naked. I also use fitteds w/out any cover at all in hot weather. Then, every so often, walk around with a prefold under your foot and catch any wet messes. Solid messes are usually contained in undies:) If you're child is regular enough, then you could guess when to put a diaper on them! Going outside? Great! nothing to mop up then! Do not let them wander naked outdoors though. You don't know what creeps are watching, nor do you want them getting scratches in places that a diaper may hold wet material against.
I hope this helps! Please comment with any questions!
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Local Fire Destroys Family Business
I woke up yesterday morning and knowing I'd be taking my boys to the zoo with their Grandpa and Uncle I walked outside a few times. It looked foggy but felt like it would warm up. Right before I pick out their clothes I check the weather station, just to be safe. That's when I got distracted and checked Facebook as well. Then I saw that my neighbor had posted about a fire in her hometown taking down the hardware store. She's MY neighbor. . . her town is MY TOWN. Her hardware store is in sight from my front window. I run out to look and sure enough all that thick white fog was actually a billowing pillar of destruction. I could see the coloring in the smoke as I looked at it knowing what it really was. There was a hint of orange. Not much, just what was reflecting from the embers still being smoldered out.
I can't seem to figure out how to post the picture on my blog or share the article on my blog, so here's a link
What am I going to do about it? I have an open house this weekend. I"ll be donating 10% of all the proceeds of this open house to the hardware store for whatever they'd like to use it for. I'm not sure who's collecting funds for such a ministry, but in this small town, no one is hurt this deeply with out the whole town pulling together their resources.
Every family in Louisville and probably quite a few in surrounding communities have been effected in some way by this. My house, being up wind, smelled like a BBQ pit all day yesterday and the view from my front porch will never be the same again. Makes me wish I had taken a picture. Is that a real effect? Yes, but only be default. Many families now will be forced to drive out of town to get a simple box of screws to finish a project. Deeply effected are the families who worked there. I'm not sure how many families counted on an income from that store, but even one family missing an income (likely two incomes in the case of the owners) is one too many.
Whether you're local or far away, these families will need your prayers. If you're local you can do more than that, very easily. Drop off a meal or two, help stock their pantry. Offer to sit for the children so families can gather and discuss the hard decisions coming up. Make sure they've got warm coats for the kids and themselves, hats and gloves and scarves too. Let them know you still support them, while giving them space to grieve. This wasn't somebody getting fired or laid off. This was somebody that likely woke up to a phone call saying they lost a very substantial business. One they've owned for at least the 7 years I've been in Louisville. That's like loosing an old friend.
I can't seem to figure out how to post the picture on my blog or share the article on my blog, so here's a link
What am I going to do about it? I have an open house this weekend. I"ll be donating 10% of all the proceeds of this open house to the hardware store for whatever they'd like to use it for. I'm not sure who's collecting funds for such a ministry, but in this small town, no one is hurt this deeply with out the whole town pulling together their resources.
Every family in Louisville and probably quite a few in surrounding communities have been effected in some way by this. My house, being up wind, smelled like a BBQ pit all day yesterday and the view from my front porch will never be the same again. Makes me wish I had taken a picture. Is that a real effect? Yes, but only be default. Many families now will be forced to drive out of town to get a simple box of screws to finish a project. Deeply effected are the families who worked there. I'm not sure how many families counted on an income from that store, but even one family missing an income (likely two incomes in the case of the owners) is one too many.
Whether you're local or far away, these families will need your prayers. If you're local you can do more than that, very easily. Drop off a meal or two, help stock their pantry. Offer to sit for the children so families can gather and discuss the hard decisions coming up. Make sure they've got warm coats for the kids and themselves, hats and gloves and scarves too. Let them know you still support them, while giving them space to grieve. This wasn't somebody getting fired or laid off. This was somebody that likely woke up to a phone call saying they lost a very substantial business. One they've owned for at least the 7 years I've been in Louisville. That's like loosing an old friend.
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Coming Soon. . . A Website!?
Yes! After much deliberation and stressing out I have decided to take the plunge and dive into a website with 1and1. They offer a nice beginner business website with a shopping cart for $11.99 a month, designed for brand new businesses! Even better they have a three month free trial! How awesome is that! So, for the moment I am waiting for a confirmation email and then will shortly begin to get my site up and running.
For new entrepreneurs here is the link I found to this great deal!
I can't wait to get started! I just signed up and they said within 24 hours I should be able to get started making my site ready for viewing.
I'm not sure I can wait that long. In fact, just since I started writing this post I've double checked my email 3 times.
******Edited to add*******
THIS JUST IN! I JUST GOT THE EMAIL!
Well, I suppose I"ve got about an hour to kill before I have to make dinner and head out for the evening bible study, so I"m going to go take killer pictures to post on my site!!!!!
For new entrepreneurs here is the link I found to this great deal!
I can't wait to get started! I just signed up and they said within 24 hours I should be able to get started making my site ready for viewing.
I'm not sure I can wait that long. In fact, just since I started writing this post I've double checked my email 3 times.
******Edited to add*******
THIS JUST IN! I JUST GOT THE EMAIL!
Well, I suppose I"ve got about an hour to kill before I have to make dinner and head out for the evening bible study, so I"m going to go take killer pictures to post on my site!!!!!
Friday, October 28, 2011
Open House
If you haven't heard already, I'm hosting an open house with a guest vendor Danni Lee Baby Boutique. Danni Lee has some wonderful items for every baby! There's bows and headbands, clips and tutus and more for little girls! Bottle caps for all, ties and more for boys!
The open house starts at 2pm on Saturday November 5th. During the event there will be baby sitting for kiddos that are comfortable being away from mom and treats for all. At 3pm, for those interested there will be a live demonstration on using and caring for wool soakers and covers. Other than that the entire time will be open to shopping and conversation!
The first person in the door will get a free LamBums one sized fits most fitted diaper for testing. There will be an additional drawing for another free tester. Everyone else will have the opportunity to receive a free tester diaper with the purchase of $30 or more in any product, whether it be from The Sleepy Sheep or Danni Lee Baby Boutique.
I will outline Host/ess benefits for hosting a LamParty at the open house!
I can't wait to see who makes it out!
Info:
Saturday Nov 5th 2011
2pm- 5pm
214 Maple St
Louisville, NE 68037
402-298-5595
The open house starts at 2pm on Saturday November 5th. During the event there will be baby sitting for kiddos that are comfortable being away from mom and treats for all. At 3pm, for those interested there will be a live demonstration on using and caring for wool soakers and covers. Other than that the entire time will be open to shopping and conversation!
The first person in the door will get a free LamBums one sized fits most fitted diaper for testing. There will be an additional drawing for another free tester. Everyone else will have the opportunity to receive a free tester diaper with the purchase of $30 or more in any product, whether it be from The Sleepy Sheep or Danni Lee Baby Boutique.
I will outline Host/ess benefits for hosting a LamParty at the open house!
I can't wait to see who makes it out!
Info:
Saturday Nov 5th 2011
2pm- 5pm
214 Maple St
Louisville, NE 68037
402-298-5595
Thursday, October 27, 2011
LamBums and Something Called Zorb
Just had to show off the my favorite side! This diaper is not for sale. I've fallen completely in love with this little Monkey Butt!
Well, with the help of a few friends and family I have decided on the name LamBums for my upcycled fitted diapers. Each of these fitted diapers are made of at least 75% upcycled t-shirts. The other 25% is sewing notions and a material called Zorb. I am using Zorb on a trial basis. My first set of diapers will not have any Zorb added to them, but after this batch is sewn up and sold I plan on using Zorb for the long fold over doubler for maximum absorbancy.
I have included links to articles on Zorb above, but here is the rundown.
- Zorb is made up only of materials already found in most AIO diapers. These fibers are 'tangled cellulose fibers of Bamboo/cotton/viscose and poly micro fiber' (quoted from What is Zorb? Do you know?) Viscose is becoming synonymous with rayon. Poly Microfiber is the microfiber found in inserts and other diaper making materials. You should note that microfiber should not ever be used next to the skin as it will leach the moisture right out of the skin, causing burns/rashes. Most all in ones inlcude microfiber on the inside of their diaper, using fleece or other fabric in between the micro fiber and skin.
- According to Wazoodles, Zorb is made in the US and Canada in modern facilities safe for workers and the environment.
- Every 2 layers of Zorb could replace either 8 layers of flannel, 6 layers of french terry, 5 layers of cotton fleece or 4 layers of sherpa. As far as thickness goes, it's about the same as 3 layers of flannel or 1 layer of sherpa.
- It is said that compression leakage is much less, due to the ability to quickly move liquids around.
- It's Hemp free. Why? I don't really know. Wazoodles is against using hemp in diaper or healthcare products. I'm assuming it's because they are against the use of pot as a medication, but maybe I'll do some research and post on it.
This post is based on the less expensive original Zorb. I am posting this in formation to see what kind of reaction people have to zorb. It's not entirely natural and is man made, as well as not being upcycled from previously loved materials. I'm not sure why I struggle with using new materials. I have to remind myself that thread and elastic really aren't salvageable!
Monday, October 24, 2011
Are my prices really fair?
Overall I've had a few people question my prices, but most people realize that I'm asking competitive prices for the products I"m selling. I usually check on Etsy before making a final price, looking to see what others are selling them at. The reason I think some are shocked by the amount that I'm charging is because I"m using 'old' items found in the thrift stores. However, I still have to purchase them along with the necessities to make them into the final product.
I thought that this might be a good time to let people know why I charge what I do, and what kind of money goes into making the final products. The amount in green is the starting price for each group of items.
Soakers & Longies: $5-$10 in materials for each one, plus 1-2 hours of time spent making each. $14
LambLegs: $2-$3 in materials, 3-6 made in one hour. $6
LambKlips (coming in November): $2 in materials, est 3-6 in an hour. est $5
LamBums: (testing to begin November): est $5+ in materials, est 1 an hour. Est price after testing: $12-$15
The cost in materials does not account for various business expenses like business cards or brochures, taxes etc. It does not account for booth fees, website costs, bank fees for transactions etc. In starting this business, I'm learning a lot about overhead. Will my prices ever change? Unfortunately they probably will. For instance if I start selling on Etsy I have to pay even more fees. If I start a webpage with a shopping cart, that's going to start at $20 a month, for a bare bones site. If I start accepting credit cards that's going to add more banking fees. If I get a cell phone (I don't have one at all at this point) that's another raise in my business costs. It's not cheap or easy to run a business.
When I first started shopping for unique handmade items I noticed how expensive it was. I was very naive and thought "Wow! What are these people thinking? I could make that for half that price!!" And I could. However most of the time I was looking at hours of learning how, a few hours of making it and enough of the cost in materials to make it much easier to buy it already made for the 'super expensive price'.
This is why I"ve written this post. I wanted to share a little that I've learned by starting up this business. People don't just spend money on the materials to make the things you purchase from them. They purchase special tools in a lot of cases, plus, if they're taking their crafting seriously and turning hobby into business, they have a lot of other costs as well.
So next time you look at a price tag, go ahead and gasp horribly, on the inside, and give a friendly smile to the vendor!
I thought that this might be a good time to let people know why I charge what I do, and what kind of money goes into making the final products. The amount in green is the starting price for each group of items.
Soakers & Longies: $5-$10 in materials for each one, plus 1-2 hours of time spent making each. $14
LambLegs: $2-$3 in materials, 3-6 made in one hour. $6
LambKlips (coming in November): $2 in materials, est 3-6 in an hour. est $5
LamBums: (testing to begin November): est $5+ in materials, est 1 an hour. Est price after testing: $12-$15
The cost in materials does not account for various business expenses like business cards or brochures, taxes etc. It does not account for booth fees, website costs, bank fees for transactions etc. In starting this business, I'm learning a lot about overhead. Will my prices ever change? Unfortunately they probably will. For instance if I start selling on Etsy I have to pay even more fees. If I start a webpage with a shopping cart, that's going to start at $20 a month, for a bare bones site. If I start accepting credit cards that's going to add more banking fees. If I get a cell phone (I don't have one at all at this point) that's another raise in my business costs. It's not cheap or easy to run a business.
When I first started shopping for unique handmade items I noticed how expensive it was. I was very naive and thought "Wow! What are these people thinking? I could make that for half that price!!" And I could. However most of the time I was looking at hours of learning how, a few hours of making it and enough of the cost in materials to make it much easier to buy it already made for the 'super expensive price'.
This is why I"ve written this post. I wanted to share a little that I've learned by starting up this business. People don't just spend money on the materials to make the things you purchase from them. They purchase special tools in a lot of cases, plus, if they're taking their crafting seriously and turning hobby into business, they have a lot of other costs as well.
So next time you look at a price tag, go ahead and gasp horribly, on the inside, and give a friendly smile to the vendor!
Thursday, October 20, 2011
On The Drawing Board
On the drawing board I have The Sleepy Sheep's newest product: The Fitted T-shirt Diaper. I know what I want in a diaper, but YOU are the customer. So tell me, what do YOU want?
Here is what I need you to know about the final pattern. Unless special ordered each diaper will be serged with an extra long doubler. The doubler may be attached by serging or have snaps for easy removal. I find that I never take my doublers off and for that reason I'm more likely to just serge it together with the diaper itself. However, if I get enough requests to have them removable, or possibly entirely separate then I will heed your requests! Should the doubler be attached to the front or the back of the diaper? The other option I would like your input on is whether to have long skinny wings or short fat ones. I prefer the short fat ones as there is less material to fight with. I will also make each diaper with snaps, though I"m possibly going to offer diapers with no snaps as a economy style, and sell them for less. These diapers would be easily secured using pins, a snappi or boingo diaper fasteners. You could also add your own snaps, velcro or aplix. Joann's fabric offers a local place to get items specifically for making cloth diapers.
Here are three of the latest diapers I"ve made, and following each picture is a short description.
This diaper is serged, with short fat wings.
This diaper has an an extra long soaker, serged right to the back of the diaper..
This one has a hem. This seemed to add to the amount of time and work that was needed, and was not as nice as a finished product. Therefor I will not be offering this other than as a custom order. Note the long skinny wings of the diaper.
For good measure, here's a picture of the back.
The soaker for this diaper would be snap in. I also made it only as long as the diaper itself, thinking that maybe I'd offer two doublers with each one, for maximum flexibility. However, at this time I plan to make longer ones to fold over. Less pieces means less work for the laundry-doer in your house.
This is my personal favorite design, and I conveniently forgot to add the elastic at the right time, so guess what? We're keeping it.
As you can see the doubler is serged into the front of the diaper. This gives a very trim look in the bum. I would challenge you to tell the difference between a cloth and sposie diapered baby wearing jeans over this. You can fold it so that more absorbency is in the front for boys or crotch for girls. Also note the shorter, fatter wings.
The final picture shows the where the doubler is serged to the front. If I put a tag on this diaper, again it would be in the back.
Now leave a comment on what features you prefer. I'd also like to know if you'd rather have a one size fits most, with the possibility of adding a newborn size later or a two size system. A two sized system might mean it fits from birth to 18lbs and 18lbs to 35.
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Fall Festival
The Fall Festival at Circle Me was great! I loved being there and seeing all those cloth diapered butts:) During the festival I made a few connections with others interested in doing business in the natural world! One connection was a beautiful woman with her adorable kiddos. She's ECing in order to help keep her 6mo's very sensitive baby skin dry and rash free. We discussed maybe coming up with something woolie made especially for Elimination Communication. Another family wanted to go into business doing holistic medicine and is looking to brain storm some ideas! Another like-minded mom was showing off her beautiful baby shoes that we may get in touch over selling at my booths!
Can't wait for the next Sheepish adventure!
Can't wait for the next Sheepish adventure!
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Well, here we go again!
I've been away for awhile, haven't I? I got very busy with summer plans and running a daycare and just got plum lazy. Part of it was just not knowing what to do next, or even if I should continue at all. Then I heard about Circle ME's fall festival and thought about getting a booth, then decided it was silly and I should just give up, doing custom orders only. Well, then The Hubs mentioned that he was curious what happened, why wasn't I really working this business as it's been the most successful thing I've pursued. I started remembering how I felt God really had his hand in getting me started and holding me steady in the very early stages, and then got another boost from Him.
First the family that I sit for came to agree on a mutual separation. That meant I lost money and gained time to work on my soakers. I also gained some energy and that peace of mind that can only come from Him. I really feel that God had been pushing me to be right where I was for awhile now, but being me, I stubbornly dug in my heels and refused to be pushed in the very direction I wanted to be going. Stupid Sara. It's funny how we can balk at the things we know we want, know we need and even have prayed for. . . or maybe it's only me? Probably!
Ok, well, now here's the deal. I've worked my butt off the last month going from no inventory to a decently stocked one. I've got some things printed off for the event in two days, and a few more to print after I get some more color ink. After the Fall Family Festival (Family Fall Festival? Dyslexia is irritating!) at Circle Me this Saturday I have an open house to kick of Sara's Sleepy Sheep Boutique House Parties on November 5th. Then there's a possible Christmas event that I may be attending if I jumped on it fast enough. So I'm getting booked up, something each month until the next year!
I hope to have some fabulous pacifier clips, called LambKlips, ready for the open house in November. Not to be a tease, but you'll never guess what they'll be upcycled from! Then we'll see where we go from there!
Well, I hope that I've captured your attention!
First the family that I sit for came to agree on a mutual separation. That meant I lost money and gained time to work on my soakers. I also gained some energy and that peace of mind that can only come from Him. I really feel that God had been pushing me to be right where I was for awhile now, but being me, I stubbornly dug in my heels and refused to be pushed in the very direction I wanted to be going. Stupid Sara. It's funny how we can balk at the things we know we want, know we need and even have prayed for. . . or maybe it's only me? Probably!
Ok, well, now here's the deal. I've worked my butt off the last month going from no inventory to a decently stocked one. I've got some things printed off for the event in two days, and a few more to print after I get some more color ink. After the Fall Family Festival (Family Fall Festival? Dyslexia is irritating!) at Circle Me this Saturday I have an open house to kick of Sara's Sleepy Sheep Boutique House Parties on November 5th. Then there's a possible Christmas event that I may be attending if I jumped on it fast enough. So I'm getting booked up, something each month until the next year!
I hope to have some fabulous pacifier clips, called LambKlips, ready for the open house in November. Not to be a tease, but you'll never guess what they'll be upcycled from! Then we'll see where we go from there!
Well, I hope that I've captured your attention!
Monday, June 6, 2011
Mommy went camping. . .
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Tuesdays are for Flying, but Today is Wednesday
So, I'll do a little of both! A flying Tuesday followed by a woolie Wednesday!
Edited to add: I was so going to show off some pictures, with this post, but it's 5:45 pm already, and unless I want to put this up tomorrow, I should just post it! Ha. So here it is, sans pictures.
Flying Tuesday
Well, the hubs and I had a nice little conversation. He's very honest, almost brutally so at times. I ask him how I look, and he knows, I really do want to know if I look fat. So he tells me. Yup. The Hubs tells me I look fat in certain outfits. (I don't want to go out looking fat so everyone but me knows it do I? NO!!!!!) Well, after discovering I didn't have a single dress that I looked at least healthy or 'not fat' in, and my bff is working on getting me into her fitness club so we can be partners, I brought it up to The Hubs. I believe I can talk my way down to a $30 a month membership including child care. I flippin' hope so! The Hubs agreed because of a few things. I guess finances are doing a bit better, my health isn't all that great these days, mostly due to stress and being overweight. We have a nice history of diabetes and heart disease on both sides of my family, so getting fit is going to be pretty important. So we made a compromise. Here's where the Flying comes in. I have to keep up with the house a little more. I thought his point to argue was going to be about money, but nope. It's about housework. It's been bad the last few weeks/months. Pretty darn flippin' bad if you ask me! So he agreed to help out a bit more (which he has, a little) in specific areas with out being asked. He's usually willing when he is asked, but I feel like an ogre when I ask him to clean up. In general though, this slob of a sheep has compromised by agreeing to pick up after herself more often, keep her side of the bed clean and the floors tidy etc. If it weren't for the $150 I have to spend on getting my serger back (argh!!!!) in working order (and later I'm going to need to get the sewing machine serviced as well, though I don't think anything will need replaced) I would start that membership this week. As it is, I imagine I wont be starting until next month. I am 'testing' them out this week though. My BFF wanted to try out a Kickboxing class. Yeah, that will be hilarious! I think she's asking me because we all know I'm much clumsier and so much more out of shape than she is!! This way, she knows everyone will be looking at her, rather than me. I"ve just decided I don't care if people gawk. It just makes them look bad! Pictures coming soon!
Woolie Wednesday.
I actually have no idea what I plan on blogging about this woolie woolie Wednesday. So here it is, off the top of my head. Yes, It's hot outside. Yeah, it's humid too. Who cares? If your kiddo is wearing a wool soaker. . . there little butt can breathe better than anyone in a PUL cover, and I'd even go so far as to argue that it's more breathable than a disposable. . . which as we all know is made of paper, plastic and chemicals that soak in moisture. Go ahead and put that woolie on your babe!! In fact, pair it with an ultra light, thin, but absorbent flat for the most breathable combo on the market. Might I add that my woolies start at just $10, and flats are pretty darn cheap as well? Who knew that the most breathable solution would also be the cheapest!!! On the hottest of days, I put my crawling Little Gee in training undies, w/out a PUL lining or cover of any kind. This keeps him extra dry and cool. But, when out and about, it's flats and woolies all the way!!
Edited to add: I was so going to show off some pictures, with this post, but it's 5:45 pm already, and unless I want to put this up tomorrow, I should just post it! Ha. So here it is, sans pictures.
Flying Tuesday
Well, the hubs and I had a nice little conversation. He's very honest, almost brutally so at times. I ask him how I look, and he knows, I really do want to know if I look fat. So he tells me. Yup. The Hubs tells me I look fat in certain outfits. (I don't want to go out looking fat so everyone but me knows it do I? NO!!!!!) Well, after discovering I didn't have a single dress that I looked at least healthy or 'not fat' in, and my bff is working on getting me into her fitness club so we can be partners, I brought it up to The Hubs. I believe I can talk my way down to a $30 a month membership including child care. I flippin' hope so! The Hubs agreed because of a few things. I guess finances are doing a bit better, my health isn't all that great these days, mostly due to stress and being overweight. We have a nice history of diabetes and heart disease on both sides of my family, so getting fit is going to be pretty important. So we made a compromise. Here's where the Flying comes in. I have to keep up with the house a little more. I thought his point to argue was going to be about money, but nope. It's about housework. It's been bad the last few weeks/months. Pretty darn flippin' bad if you ask me! So he agreed to help out a bit more (which he has, a little) in specific areas with out being asked. He's usually willing when he is asked, but I feel like an ogre when I ask him to clean up. In general though, this slob of a sheep has compromised by agreeing to pick up after herself more often, keep her side of the bed clean and the floors tidy etc. If it weren't for the $150 I have to spend on getting my serger back (argh!!!!) in working order (and later I'm going to need to get the sewing machine serviced as well, though I don't think anything will need replaced) I would start that membership this week. As it is, I imagine I wont be starting until next month. I am 'testing' them out this week though. My BFF wanted to try out a Kickboxing class. Yeah, that will be hilarious! I think she's asking me because we all know I'm much clumsier and so much more out of shape than she is!! This way, she knows everyone will be looking at her, rather than me. I"ve just decided I don't care if people gawk. It just makes them look bad! Pictures coming soon!
Woolie Wednesday.
I actually have no idea what I plan on blogging about this woolie woolie Wednesday. So here it is, off the top of my head. Yes, It's hot outside. Yeah, it's humid too. Who cares? If your kiddo is wearing a wool soaker. . . there little butt can breathe better than anyone in a PUL cover, and I'd even go so far as to argue that it's more breathable than a disposable. . . which as we all know is made of paper, plastic and chemicals that soak in moisture. Go ahead and put that woolie on your babe!! In fact, pair it with an ultra light, thin, but absorbent flat for the most breathable combo on the market. Might I add that my woolies start at just $10, and flats are pretty darn cheap as well? Who knew that the most breathable solution would also be the cheapest!!! On the hottest of days, I put my crawling Little Gee in training undies, w/out a PUL lining or cover of any kind. This keeps him extra dry and cool. But, when out and about, it's flats and woolies all the way!!
Monday, May 30, 2011
Flats and Handwashing: The End
Well, it's time to wrap up this challenge. First I"d like to start by listing off all the difficulties I faced with this challenge, that I don't normally face.
Here are a few tips if you're going to do this:
Look forward to new products coming soon based on this challenge! Flats for sure, and possibly prefolds, all made from old shirts/blankets!
Happy Monday!
- I didn't have enough diapers when I started (of course were I expecting a new born I"d have had all my dipes made up before birth and thus always have enough on hand)
- Little Gee chose this week to start pooping like a pro. His normal once or twice a day poop became daily, and wasn't always 'ploppable' if you know what I mean. He also had diarrhea for a day and a half. That made for yucky handwashing!
- There wasn't a single day that we got to stay home all day. That meant every day there was a new place to be trying to change a flat while holding Little Gee down. Normally we only leave the house once, maybe twice a week.
- The Hubs wasn't entirely aware of this challenge, and the babysitter I desperately needed on Friday would have been freaked if she had to figure out flats! So there were a few fitteds in the mix, which then lead to a machine washing cheat.
- The weather was only line-dry nice two or three days! Normally it would be humid, but at least hot and sunny, drying the flats in a timely manner. THere were two days I had to wait all day for them to dry!
Here are a few tips if you're going to do this:
- Register for quality flats at your shower, look for hemp or a hemp/cotton blend.
- Ask for donations of XXL or larger shirts. Cut them into the largest squares you can manage. Hem/serge the edges if you can, but don't stress if you can't. Make a trade with a friend if you can. Offer to help her out by ______ if she hems/serges your flats for you.
- Don't have a washer/$$ for laundro-mat? Do another trade! Maybe one of your friends would love to have you come in and clean house for the hour that you're there washing your diapers! Then toss them in the dryer or in the basket to take home and put on the line! Maybe they'd rather have a weekly free babysitter, or you could bake them a cake. The service/item you trade for could even change on a weekly basis depending on whats needed! I barter free haircuts for my Dizzy (who's hair grows faster than anything I've ever seen!) for a small bag of the neighbors favorite brand of coffee!!
- Handwash as much as you need, but do consider boiling or putting them through a hot wash once in a while just to be sure all germs are gone!! I would suggest on a bi-monthly basis myself, but once a month or even every other month should be fine as long as you're prompt in washing smelly diapers. I would always suggest doing it if there was any tummy bugs that week at all.
- Make a Camp Style Washer. Much easier than hand washing, and a little less 'hands on'!
- It's possible to handwash your clothing and diapers!
- It's easy and even less work for your diapers, really! At least if your washer is old fashioned and requires many trips down the stairs to put it on the proper cycle!
- On a beautiful sunny day flat diapers will dry out on the line just as fast as prefolds and fitteds will in the dryer!
- Diapers come out smelling just as clean!
- All you need to diaper a baby for free is to obtain cotton materials (t-shirts, towels, blankets etc), pins, soap and water!
- If the world as we know it ends and we loose all power and electricity, I can still clean my baby's diapers! (not too worried about that though!)
Look forward to new products coming soon based on this challenge! Flats for sure, and possibly prefolds, all made from old shirts/blankets!
Happy Monday!
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Flats and Handwashing: Days 6 & 7
Well, I finished day 6 in flats! I wound up going to bed with a headache so I did not wash them as would have been appropriate since I had to get ready for church in the morning! And of course we're currently short on flats because of that!! I may have to use the hair dryer to do the last bit of drying since it's wet and humid outside and they will likely take all day to dry again!
If I were to be doing this full time, handwashing and all, I would always go to bed with clean flats drying on Saturday night so that I could confidently pack my bag with enough to last us through church! Thankfully Little Gee is napping now and while wearing two flats and only having one more, I know that by the time that one is ready to be worn I can start using a hair dryer to dry the next few. . . but that will take a long time! I'll need to have 4 or 5 dry ones to pack for church tonight, plus 3 for his night time diaper.
When I post a summary of the entire week tomorrow I"ll update you on how the drying went!!
I would like to mention that I am now adding Tshirt Flats to my product line! So now in addition to upcycled woolies you can purchase upcycled flats to go with them!!! Yay for upcycling! I do believe, if there is enough interest that I may start the next month with a giveaway! Five Tshirt Flats to a random winner! That is if comments on blogger start working!!! I don't want to have this connected to Facebook in any way, because their rules are annoying and I don't want to play with that!
Happy Folding!
If I were to be doing this full time, handwashing and all, I would always go to bed with clean flats drying on Saturday night so that I could confidently pack my bag with enough to last us through church! Thankfully Little Gee is napping now and while wearing two flats and only having one more, I know that by the time that one is ready to be worn I can start using a hair dryer to dry the next few. . . but that will take a long time! I'll need to have 4 or 5 dry ones to pack for church tonight, plus 3 for his night time diaper.
When I post a summary of the entire week tomorrow I"ll update you on how the drying went!!
I would like to mention that I am now adding Tshirt Flats to my product line! So now in addition to upcycled woolies you can purchase upcycled flats to go with them!!! Yay for upcycling! I do believe, if there is enough interest that I may start the next month with a giveaway! Five Tshirt Flats to a random winner! That is if comments on blogger start working!!! I don't want to have this connected to Facebook in any way, because their rules are annoying and I don't want to play with that!
Happy Folding!
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Flats and Handwashing: Days 4 & 5
Well considering it's the morning of day 6. . . I"m a little behind!
Day 4:
Nothing extraordinary happened. Flats worked great all day, including at the theater while taking the boys to see their first movie. The only problem came from me forgetting to make sure Little Gee was pointing in the proper direction if you know what I mean! So he wound up peeing up and over the diaper, which then ran down his pant leg (of longies of course!) and all over his foot and the theater floor. Oops. And of course, since people don't expect babies in the theater there was no place to change his diaper, but I still managed to change him on a bench in the restroom that was only an inch wider than his waist. Of course it was a flat diaper! So glad I had it pre-folded using the kite fold!
Day 5:
I cheated. I had to. There was no choice. I had an appointment that I couldn't take the boys with me for so I left them with the sitter. She's 18 and indirectly has made it clear she really isn't comfortable using cloth diapers at this time. She does and will, if they snap or velcro, but flats and prefolds are just a bit too complicated at the moment. So I packed a bag full of fitteds. And since I'm uncomfortable washing fitteds by hand they are in the wash this morning, with all the flats from the last 24 hours. I have to make it worth while to run the washer! I did of course only use flats after my appointment was over.
As I head into day 6 I find that I'm feeling as though I am being punished by not being allowed to use my washer and dryer. I'm fairly certain this only stems from the fact that I have them, they work and the guilt of breaking the rules on the challenge. If I had no washer and dryer, and no money for disposables I would very likely be just fine with doing this. After all, as it is I've cut down on quite a few expenses to stay home with my babies. I don't have a cell phone, a gym membership, buy new clothes for myself, and bake/cook nearly everything we eat from scratch. I make all of our cleaning products from scratch as well. So what would it really be to hand wash and dry a couple of flats every day? If I didn't have a washer and dryer, I'd probably be doing it with most of our clothing to cut costs down. Since I have the utilities and it's yet again rainy out. . . I feel entitled to use them. I wont use them again until Monday, when the challenge is over. I'm still planning on using flats, and drying them on the line as needed. I may even hand wash them on occasion.
I hope I haven't discouraged anyone from using flats or hand washing diapers. I definitely hope I haven't discouraged anyone from choosing cloth of any kind. I look forward to sharing the expense of hand washing and drying flats including the initial cost of stocking up on flats and covers.
Day 4:
Nothing extraordinary happened. Flats worked great all day, including at the theater while taking the boys to see their first movie. The only problem came from me forgetting to make sure Little Gee was pointing in the proper direction if you know what I mean! So he wound up peeing up and over the diaper, which then ran down his pant leg (of longies of course!) and all over his foot and the theater floor. Oops. And of course, since people don't expect babies in the theater there was no place to change his diaper, but I still managed to change him on a bench in the restroom that was only an inch wider than his waist. Of course it was a flat diaper! So glad I had it pre-folded using the kite fold!
Day 5:
I cheated. I had to. There was no choice. I had an appointment that I couldn't take the boys with me for so I left them with the sitter. She's 18 and indirectly has made it clear she really isn't comfortable using cloth diapers at this time. She does and will, if they snap or velcro, but flats and prefolds are just a bit too complicated at the moment. So I packed a bag full of fitteds. And since I'm uncomfortable washing fitteds by hand they are in the wash this morning, with all the flats from the last 24 hours. I have to make it worth while to run the washer! I did of course only use flats after my appointment was over.
As I head into day 6 I find that I'm feeling as though I am being punished by not being allowed to use my washer and dryer. I'm fairly certain this only stems from the fact that I have them, they work and the guilt of breaking the rules on the challenge. If I had no washer and dryer, and no money for disposables I would very likely be just fine with doing this. After all, as it is I've cut down on quite a few expenses to stay home with my babies. I don't have a cell phone, a gym membership, buy new clothes for myself, and bake/cook nearly everything we eat from scratch. I make all of our cleaning products from scratch as well. So what would it really be to hand wash and dry a couple of flats every day? If I didn't have a washer and dryer, I'd probably be doing it with most of our clothing to cut costs down. Since I have the utilities and it's yet again rainy out. . . I feel entitled to use them. I wont use them again until Monday, when the challenge is over. I'm still planning on using flats, and drying them on the line as needed. I may even hand wash them on occasion.
I hope I haven't discouraged anyone from using flats or hand washing diapers. I definitely hope I haven't discouraged anyone from choosing cloth of any kind. I look forward to sharing the expense of hand washing and drying flats including the initial cost of stocking up on flats and covers.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Flats and Handwashing: Day 3
Well, today was interesting. I went in to the Dr's office with both boys, Gee in flats and Dizzy in undies, of course. That went well, and easy enough.
Before we left the house, I did diaper laundry. Just over 24 hours worth of diapers was three sink fulls of laundry! Tomorrow I"ll get a basin out to wash them in. Likely the same one I wash my woolies in. Because it was raining outside, I hung the diapers all over the bathroom, not wanting sopping flats on my wood chairs. There were way too many to do that with! I need an indoor drying rack for rainy days like this morning!
After we finished up with the annoying Dr visit we stopped by work to meet The Hubs with candy and a soda. Just to let him know we love him:) Then, we came home to still wet diapers (this was 3hours after hanging them up)! We still had 3 flats left at that point, and Little Gee went straight to bed with a dry one on after lunch. Thank goodness they are absorbent enough for him to pee in twice in a pinch.
So, then a full 6 hours after hanging them up, my flats were still wet. Not dripping or soaked, but wet. Part of it is the humidity and lack of air flow in the house. Part of it is my arms were hurting and I didn't get things wrung out like I should have. A lot of it was that they were bunched up against each other. Outside the weather was still cool, but the rain was done and a breeze had started, so I decided to hang them out on the line. It was humid, but what the hay. . . it's just as humid inside too. There was 15% or less chance of rain until 8pm, so I thought I could manage. Should they not get dry in time, I do have a hair dryer. (I REFUSE TO CHEAT!)
Well, I thought it was breezy. . . . . .
Maybe. . . . .
Wait for it. . . .
Well, get out of town! It's down right windy! I've been told that cool windy days are perfect line drying weather. The coolness allows clothes to dry nice and slowly while the breeze keeps it from stiffening up! We'll see how it turns out. They were hung by 3pm. By 4pm one diaper was dry. By 4:30 it started to sprinkle and I lost my nerve and brought them in. The last ones were dry enough to fold and put away just a few minutes ago (it's 8:03pm now).
All in all the diaper challenge was easy enough today too. I don't like how long it took to dry my diapers, but there are solutions to that. Wringing out more water, maybe even spinning them in a salad spinner first, using a drying wrack and fan could make humid/wet days like today a little faster drying:) However, I think after this challenge I would likely use a dryer on a day like this.
Before we left the house, I did diaper laundry. Just over 24 hours worth of diapers was three sink fulls of laundry! Tomorrow I"ll get a basin out to wash them in. Likely the same one I wash my woolies in. Because it was raining outside, I hung the diapers all over the bathroom, not wanting sopping flats on my wood chairs. There were way too many to do that with! I need an indoor drying rack for rainy days like this morning!
After we finished up with the annoying Dr visit we stopped by work to meet The Hubs with candy and a soda. Just to let him know we love him:) Then, we came home to still wet diapers (this was 3hours after hanging them up)! We still had 3 flats left at that point, and Little Gee went straight to bed with a dry one on after lunch. Thank goodness they are absorbent enough for him to pee in twice in a pinch.
So, then a full 6 hours after hanging them up, my flats were still wet. Not dripping or soaked, but wet. Part of it is the humidity and lack of air flow in the house. Part of it is my arms were hurting and I didn't get things wrung out like I should have. A lot of it was that they were bunched up against each other. Outside the weather was still cool, but the rain was done and a breeze had started, so I decided to hang them out on the line. It was humid, but what the hay. . . it's just as humid inside too. There was 15% or less chance of rain until 8pm, so I thought I could manage. Should they not get dry in time, I do have a hair dryer. (I REFUSE TO CHEAT!)
Well, I thought it was breezy. . . . . .
Maybe. . . . .
Wait for it. . . .
All in all the diaper challenge was easy enough today too. I don't like how long it took to dry my diapers, but there are solutions to that. Wringing out more water, maybe even spinning them in a salad spinner first, using a drying wrack and fan could make humid/wet days like today a little faster drying:) However, I think after this challenge I would likely use a dryer on a day like this.
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