help--best fabric to make slings

[neveryoumindthere]

i looked in both our local fabric stores and i cant find what i like (mostly cuz i dont know what to look for)!

I dont know much about fabrics so tell me what is the BEST?
-breathable, lightweight, comfy but still looks good (does suiting material work well. i like how it feels)

i'm making the unpadded mayawrap pattern if that makes a difference

tia

edited to add: i got some muslin bed sheets, do u think those would work well?
AND what sites sell the best/cheapest sling fabrics or is it cheaper to go local --dont have much to spend at the moment

[rubelin]

Just about anything will work, so long as it's sturdy enough. If you find a knit, it shouldn't be too stretchy. Muslin should be good, so long as it's not too lightweight (it comes in lots of different weights so it's hard to say if what you have will work or not). Best thing to do it try pulling it in different directions, lengthwise, sideways, and diagonal and see if it feels strong enough. Also try tying it or putting it through rings to make sure it isn't too slippery or too bulky to fit well. Otherwise, it's really a matter of personal preference, some people like heavier fabrics, I prefer lighter ones.

[AnnR33]

I have a friend that makes them and she always used quilters cotton-sturdy and lots of cute prints=cheap too. I actaully found some clearance 100% cotton for .88 a yard and a sling takes 2 yards-talk about a cheap sling!
As post above-just watch out for knits-they will stretch more over time-I'd stick with a woven cotton to start.
Ann

[~Megan~]

I really prefer calico. Its easy to work with, breathable, comes in all kind of beautiful patterns too.

[baileysmommy]

I also use sturdy woven cotton most of the time. For a maya style ring sling it looks best if the material is the same on both sides. That can be a little tricky to find. Solids work but also stripes and plaids are often the same on both sides. I would stay away from homespun material because I don't think it would be quite strong enough. I found a remnant at Hancock several months ago of Waverly decorator fabric. It is a pretty plaid and it is nice and sturdy. It is 65" wide too so I could make 2 slings with 2 yds.

[norasmom]

I found some great woven flannel locally. The pattern is the same on both sides and has held up great so far (2 1/2 mos only). It was $2.50/yd.

[LuvMy2Kidz]

My mom uses cotton twill to make slings for me


*note to self, steal mom's pattern to make my own darn slings :LOL

[saphire]

strechy fabric makes good tube slings

Knits and fleece are nice for this. Directions can be found online for this type of sling. (but here are mine). You measure from one shoulder, down to hip and up across your back to the starting shoulder. Add 6-8 inches of ease and about 1" seam allowance. This is your length. Width is about 25"-30 " personal preference.
Once you have your panel, sew a french seam in a curved shape, (experiment with the steepness of the curve) and you're done.