How to Make a Changing Table for a Nursery

Children can be expensive. Most soon-to-be parents experience that right away. So searching for ways to cut back on expenses for your newborn is a good idea. While there are certain things you cannot skimp on--diapers, for example--there are other things you can save money on while still providing for your baby. Making your own changing table will save you money and is a fairly easy project for new parents. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Visit thrift shops and flea markets to purchase a waist-high dresser. Be sure to get a dresser that has a wide-enough top to allow for proper diaper changing. Using a dresser for a changing table will give you lots of great storage space. It can also be used as a dresser as baby gets older.

2

Paint or stain the dresser the desired color. A light sanding and good painting primer will help you prepare the dresser for painting.

3

Measure the dresser and cut the craft foam to the desired size. Many craft centers will cut their foam for you when you purchase it, so be sure to bring measurements of your dresser with you when you purchase the craft foam. Craft foam can also be cut with heavy-duty scissors.

4

Cut the fabric to size. Wrap the fabric around the foam pad so that the ends slightly overlap. While still on the foam, cut the fabric to size. Allow approximately 1/2 inch of the fabric to hang over all sides.

5

Iron down inch on all sides of the fabric for a seam allowance. Once ironed, this -inch allowance needs to be folded down again, then ironed and sewed in place. This will help to avoid fraying edges.

6

Wrap the fabric around the foam pad again and pin the width of both sides of the pad. On the length of the pad, pin only about inch from the sides, leaving an opening where the pad can easily be removed and washed.

7

Sew the pad where pinned. Once sewn, flip the cover inside-out to hide the rough stitching and place it on the pad.