Here is the first version of a wool diaper cover that I made from an old wool sweater.  You know, I really hate making the first version of things.  I know that it’s going to turn out ok but not great, so it feels like a waste of time.  But honestly there is just no better way to figure something out than to have a live version to work with, so the creation of “Version One” is just a part of the process.  Don’t be afraid to fail–if you’re not failing then you’re not taking risks.

So here is my critique so far:

• Next time I will cut the bias tape on the bias.  Whoops.
• A tighter gather in the legs and on the back.
• Thicker wool.
• Line the inside (behind the snaps) for greater stability.
• Better snap placement.
• Coordinating thread for the stitches on the inside of the soaker.

And the parts that I DO like:

• The bias tape!  (Also made from a repurposed, lightweight wool shirt.)
• The rayon thread that I used just because it was in the machine…I’ll probably keep that.
• The shape and size are perfect for Nico.
• I finally had an excuse to buy a snap tool.
• Cost of the diaper cover:  less than five dollars.  (The dude is now ready for his FIFTH set of diaper covers at ten months old.  Time for mama to figure out how to make our own!)

So the major challenge with making a wool soaker is to get a good fit without making the cover look totally ghetto.  Our dude is quite a chunker so we have had some pretty major issues with finding the perfect fit for him.  Most diaper covers end up leaving red welts on his fat little thighs and that just won’t do.  Another challenge is finding all wool materials that are not scratchy…nobody wants scratchy wool against their skin, least of all a little baby with the proverbial soft skin.  Test out the wool on a tender part of your skin (belly, under your arm, even your bum if you are so inclined) to make sure that your tot will approve.  I put some scratchy wooly pants on Nico and he sat there picking at them until he started to cry.  Sorry, little man.

Why 100% wool?  The lanolin in the wool (which needs to be added from time to time) makes the fibers absorbent and apparently keeps the soakers from smelling like pee.  From my research so far, you only need to wash the covers when they get hit with some #2 action.  Sounds too good to be true, doesn’t it?  We’re going to be doing some serious experimenting around here and I’ll share my observations as we go.

My hope is to have this pattern/process developed within the next month or two.  Then I’ll happily share it with you all for free and even offer a paper version for sale if you don’t feel like drafting a pattern yourself.  The pattern will be geared toward an intermediate level sewer.

I’m also working on the pattern for the Slim and Trim Diapers that I make out of repurposed flannel sheets (which we love!).  This pattern is easy as pie so it will be appropriate for a beginner level sewer.  I should have those available within a couple of weeks if all goes well.  Again, I’ll give it to you for free here on the blog but if you don’t feel like drafting a pattern a paper version will be available for sale.

They do make a nice pair though, don’t they?