Changing Pads for Diaper Bags

Changing pads protect both the baby and the furniture. A changing pad gives you a clean flat place to lay the baby during a diaper change. The changing pad has a plastic layer that prevents any moisture from soaking through the pad onto furniture or carpet. The surface of the changing pad must be soft enough to protect the baby's skin. The entire pad must also be flexible enough to roll up and remain stowed in the diaper bag.

Instructions

1

Wash and dry all of the fabrics to be used in the project. This removes excess dye and sizing to protect the baby's delicate skin.

2

Cut three 19-by-25-inch rectangles. Cut one rectangle from a flannel-backed vinyl. The other two rectangles form the exterior of the changing pad. Cut these rectangles from the fabric you chose for the changing pad such as flannel, terry cloth or even a heavy knit fabric.

3

Cut the ribbon in half diagonally. The diagonal cut prevents most ribbons from fraying.

4

Lay one of the exterior fabric rectangles on the work surface, right side up. Lay one piece of ribbon on top of the fabric. Line up one end of each of the ribbons with the edge of the fabric in the center of the 19-inch side of the fabric. Pin the ribbon in place. Repeat with the second ribbon on the other end of the fabric. Lay the second rectangle of exterior fabric on top of the first, right side down. Lay the flannel-backed vinyl on top. Pin all three layers together lining up the edges.

5

Sew around the entire pad, a half inch from the edge of the fabric, starting in the center of one of the 25-inch sides. Leave a four inch space open between the beginning and end of the seam.

6

Reach inside the hole, between the two exterior fabrics and turn the pad inside out. Fold the seam allowance inside the hole and pin.

7

Topstitch around the entire pad, keeping the ribbons free of the sewing machine. Roll up the pad and tie the ribbons to keep it closed. Place it in the diaper bag.