Always wanted a sling, but did not have the cash to buy one of those fancy expensive ones you see all over? Well here is a cheap and easy way to make your own personalized sling on pennies on the dime!




2.25 - 2.5 yards fabric (see this link for types of fabrics to use: What fabrics should I use for the best sling? )

Two 3" sturdy metal or nylon rings.

These rings may be available where cattle or sail boating supplies are sold.

Rings may also be purchased on line at: elizabethlee.com and Slingrings.com
NOTE: Metal rings should be 4 gauge wire or thicker.

Sewing Machine, or needle and thread



Width: If you choose fabric that is 36 - 45" wide you will not need to hem the sides unless you choose to do so. If the fabric is wider than 45" you will have too much. (The Maya Wrap Sling is 34" wide.)

Pattern: Both sides of the fabric will show when you use your sling so you may want to choose a fabric that does not have a "wrong" side.

Type: Cotton or cotton/polyester blends are recommended. The rings may not be able to hold a slick fabric in place. You will sew a seam through many layers of fabric so choose a fabric your machine can handle or plan to sew this seam by hand.

Length You will need 2 and 1/4 yards to make a size medium sling. If you are tall or large 2 and 1/2 yards is a good idea.


Hem, or surge one of the cut edges of the fabric. This will be the tail of your sling.

Hem or surge the selvage edges. If the selvage edges look good, you may not have to finish them.


Figure 1. Fold the remaining unhemmed (or unsurged) edge of fabric like a fan. Make the folds 4" or 6" wide*. You do not need to make these folds the entire length of the fabric, 10-12" down from the top will be enough.

Surge or zigzag through all thicknesses of the folded fabric. Note: if you use a serger for this step, be sure that your serger can handle all of the thicknesses.


Figure 2. Put this folded end through the rings and pull it through 3 - 4 inches. Fold the fabric over the rings back onto itself. Pin in place, but do not catch Panel 1.


Figure 3. Fold Panel 1 out of the way. Stitch through all thicknesses 1/4"-1/2" from cut edge, making sure not to sew through Panel 1**. This seam will take a lot of stress so it is important that it is a strong seam and that it is backstitched on both ends. It is recommended that you make two lines of stitching. Consider using upholstery thread and a heavy duty needle for this step.

*NOTE: *For people with large shoulders, we have found that 6" is a more comfortable width. **When you use your sling, you can unfold Panel 1 over your shoulder to create a Shoulder Cap. This will help to keep the sling in place and better spread your child's weight across your back.

Now you got yourself a beautiful ring sling to wear your baby close to your heart in.. If you need help on different holds you can do with your sling.. Click here for wearing instructions
Enjoy your new sling!


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