Links have been updated! (9/25/21)
Here is a free soaker pattern for use with wool interlock, wool sweaters, and fleece.
**If you would like to sell soakers you make from the pattern, I don't mind you selling them. All I ask is that you offer up one to a momma in need FFS (free for shipping) or donate it to Miracle Diapers, Lend a Hand Diapers, or a similar organization. If you don't intend to sell them for your WAHM business, I don't mind you selling the soakers you made for your little one that didn't fit so that you can recoup your money for materials and time.**
Have fun sewing! And feel free to make a small donation if you like the patterns.
Skirtie Pattern Compliments of Staceyroo77 on DiaperSwappers!
Video tutorial by Sew Cheeky.
Soaker Patterns (good for fleece or wool)
XL-XXXL Patterns
Extra layer for the wetzone
Extra layer for the wetzone for xxl-xxxl
Instructions
I am a novice at pattern making, so please excuse any errors in pattern markings. This is designed for a 1/4 inch seam allowance, but if you would be more comfortable sewing with a 1/2 inch seam allowance, just add an extra 1/4 inch to the pattern. It goes from newborn to Xlarge. Here are some of the ones that I have made for my daughter. The first three are made from recycled wool sweaters, and the others are made from wool interlock that I dyed.
If you are using a rather stretchy wool, I suggest using the waistband that's at least one size smaller.
I just copied out your pattern from the diapersewing group actually, then found this!
ReplyDeleteDoes the pattern piece have the seam allowance accounted for, or do I cut them 1/4" bigger?
It has a 1/4" seam allowance.
ReplyDeleteI can't get the PDF to download. Is it gone?
ReplyDeleteNevermind, my error. Thank you for posting this!
ReplyDeleteThis is awesome! Do you felt your sweaters before making the soaker?
ReplyDeleteI get my sweaters at Goodwill, and most of the time someone has already felted them (probably by accident). If they are pretty thick already, I don't felt them.
ReplyDeleteI just found your pattern as I was Googling for a friend. Thanks so much for posting this, and sharing with us! I've got plenty of wool fabrics, but haven't ever been brave enough to try making them into anything. Time to warm up my serger . . . Thank you!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for the pattern. I will be sewing all day!!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for posting the pattern... I found the link on diaperpin. Your soakers are so cute! If you are using wool interlock fabric what (not recycled sweaters) how do you make the waistband and leg cuffs? Also where did you find your wool interlock? Is wool jersey the same as interlock?
ReplyDeleteI can't wait to sew up some soakers! Thank you so much for this awesome pattern! I heard about you on diaperswappers.com we love you there! =)
ReplyDeleteLisa,
ReplyDeleteI cut the waistband and leg cuffs from wool interlock the same way I do with fleece. I make sure the stretch is going from side to side so that the waistband and legs are nice and stretchy.
I don't think wool jersey is the same as interlock. I have never worked with it, but from what I've read it's thinner than interlock.
Great pattern! Is this one free to sell from?
ReplyDeletethis may be a dumb question, but fleece doesn't have to be hemmed b/c it doesn't unravel. How does wool interlock work? Do you have to hem it?
ReplyDeletedecemberjasmine,
ReplyDeleteI don't mind you selling soakers made from the pattern as long as you don't mind giving one away to a mom in need.
mary beth,
ReplyDeleteWool interlock doesn't unravel a great deal if it's felted. I usually run a zig zag stitch on the raw edges just to make sure if I'm not using my serger.
Thank you so much for sharing this pattern Katrina :D
ReplyDeleteI've whipped up 4 much needed soakers for Ayla, and they are the PERFECT fit!
If there is anything I can do in return for your kindness in sharing the pattern, please let me know :D
Bel
Thanks so much for posting this! I've been knitting soakers, but those take me a week each, and I made five from your pattern yesterday morning out of one sweater! Now I'm stocked for soakers and can use my yarn and knitting time for other stuff (like gifts for all the babies coming up!) :) Much appreciated.
ReplyDeleteI am really excited to sew some soakers. With Triplets it gets expensive having to buy covers. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteHi!
ReplyDeleteI was curious if you had a weight scale for the sizes of the pattern???
I have been making diapers and covers for friends in need and it is hard to get the fit right when I cant try it on their kids :)
Thanks so much for this pattern.
xo
g
Hi.. where would I go about donating a soaker? I DO have a Mommy that wants to buy some of these from me. So, do I pick an org. or is there a specific one that you choose?
ReplyDeleteThanks soooo much for this!
I started a Blog today but I'm still not blogger savvy :))
I went from your blog to start mine (if that made any sense?)
I am NappyNanny =)
So cute!
ReplyDeleteGinny, I can only tell you how they fit my kiddos. My 24 lb toddler wears a medium long. My 12 lb 7 week old wears a small. My babies tend to start out chunky, but get long and lean.
ReplyDeleteNappy nanny, you can choose whatever organization or individual you would like to donate one to. However, two very good places are Miracle Diapers (http://www.miraclediapers.org/) and Lend a Hand Diapers (http://www.lendahanddiapers.org/).
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for this pattern! I've been too intimidated to sew my own pocket or AIO diaps, but this was super easy! I can't wait to sew more. I used left over fleece I've had for years and my simple sewing machine with a zig-zag stitch and voila! Super cute!
ReplyDeleteMy computer does not allow the download, would there be a chance to get it via email?
ReplyDeleteSure, I can email you the patterns. I just need your email address. :)
ReplyDeleteSo, looking at the last page of the pattern, on the left piece it gives dimensions of soakers and on the right piece it gives different dimensions of soakers? What are these for exactly? Thanks!!
ReplyDeleteDIYMomma,
ReplyDeleteThe soaker dimensions on the first page should be accurate. I forgot to change them on the second page. I fixed it and added a preemie size on the patterns for fleece.
I just recently started cloth diapering. We also just found out that were expecting our fourth baby in April and now I can get a jump start on soakers. I'm using wraps at the moment and really don't much care for them. I've been looking for a great pattern and found your site. Thank you so much.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for sharing your pattern. I'm currently using wraps and don't care for them at all. We just found out we're expecting our fourth baby in April. Now I can get a jump on making soakers. Thanks again for publishing your pattern. Your saving us all money.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteCan anyone tell me how well fleece soakers perform? All I've heard of use wool but I like the idea of using fleece - so soft on the skin...
ReplyDeletesandylaine,
ReplyDeleteFleece works like wool, except it's a synthetic fabric. It will need washing more often because it doesn't have the natural antibacterial properties of wool. It also doesn't need to be hand washed or lanolized like wool.
Thank you so much for posting your pattern! I can't wait to get started sewing up these soakers.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThis looks like so much fun. I just bought 4 wool sweaters at Goodwill and can't wait to get them out of the dryer. I also have a yard of off white wool flannel. Can that be used for these, too? Do I need to felt it? Or lanolize it?
ReplyDeleteLynne,
ReplyDeleteThe wool flannel won't be stretchy enough for a soaker. It might make a nice pair of pants, though, or a wrap. I would lanolize any wool used for cloth diapering. It helps make it more moisture resistant and soft, too. I would use Rita's Rump Cover pattern for making a wool wrap. bloghttp://handmadebyrita.blogspot.com/2007/10/httpwww.html
Hi! I had made a fleece soaker for my NB a few months ago with the extra layer- I don't see the pattern for the extra soaker layer now? Is there a way to still get it? My nephew is a super soaker at night and I was making some to see if it helped. Thanks Brandy
ReplyDeleteThank you for posting this! I googled searched patterns and thought I'd spend forever sorting through websites for free ones and found yours right away! Can't wait to sew it this afternoon! THANKS so much! *hugs* :)
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for the patterns - can't wait to try them out. Question - I have an old cashmere sweater - can I use that?
ReplyDeletebrosia13,
ReplyDeleteIf it's thin, you might want to double the body layers, but yes, you can use it.
Thanks so much for this pattern. I just made my first one and I LOVE IT! It was super easy to make and I am a novice sewer. Thanks again!
ReplyDeleteIm BRAND NEW to CDing and reading things online and from friends. Im a sewer so I want to make some and these look like great and super easy patterns! Im only confused, isnt a "soaker" on the inside of diapers and made for soaking up the pee?? Isnt your pattern for covers???? Im so confused!! THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!
ReplyDeleteNicBurk,
ReplyDeleteSoaker is the term used for both the absorbant center of a cloth diaper and for a pull on wool or fleece diaper cover.
Thank you so much for posting this. I am working out an idea in my head for making wool training undies using the XL through XXXL patterns, and a snap in body layer that snaps in on both sides. Do you have a problem with me selling them on my etsy store? I will be testing them first on my own child.
ReplyDeleteI don't mind you selling them. I added that information to the blog. :)
ReplyDeleteJust an FYI for downloaders and the poster alike:
ReplyDeletefreewebs.com is on the blacklist of many anti-spyware / anti-malware software products. The PDFs in this post are hosted on freewebs.com. While the site itself is not bad, it has been frequently used by those with malicious intent.
To fix the issue you may have to update your browser's settings to remove freewebs.com from the list of restricted sites before you will be able to access the files.
Thank you sooooo much for this pattern. I've been having loads of fun so far. I do have a question though. What is the difference between the original pattern and the "new" pattern?
ReplyDeletethanks so much for this!!
ReplyDeleteQuestion:
Can I use soft and thin merino wool sweaters - I just found a few at value village!
Do I felt them or double them up?
I am afraid they will shrink too much to use...
Thanks!
thanks so much for this!!
ReplyDeleteQuestion:
Can I use soft and thin merino wool sweaters - I just found a few at value village!
Do I felt them or double them up?
I am afraid they will shrink too much to use...
Thanks!
Megan, as I revised the pattern, I made it dip in the front and gave it a bit more in the rise in the back. I also added more width on the pattern.
ReplyDeleteAnna, I would do either. Sometimes the thinner wool sweaters don't felt much. In that case you would need to double it anyway. I tried felting the merino wool sweater I used, but it didn't shrink or get thicker. Next time I will just double my layers.
ReplyDeleteI am getting ready to make my first wool diaper covers and was so excited to find your wonderful pattern and instructions! Thank you so much!
ReplyDeleteThank you for posting this.
ReplyDeleteJust wondering what type of wool - wool interlock is because when I went to the store they said that they have wool crepe and wool suiting but no wool interlock. When I indicate to them the use they always give me a dirty look and indicate that wool shouldn't be used for that.
How did you get those beautiful colours ....from what I see they only come in dark colours or plain coloured. Did you dye them your self and if so by what method did you use. Kool aid, or vegetable?
I just sewed up your pattern today. I am a pretty novice seamstress and this went together quickly and easily. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteWhat size would you suggest I make if I'm making fleece overnight bedwetter pants for a size 4T? I'll be putting several layers of fleece in the wet zone, as well as a soaking material such as a prefold.
ReplyDeleteThanks!
Thanks so much for posting. I've been looking for an easy pattern and this looks like it! Any suggestions or advice for fleece or will the stuff from joann's fabric work?
ReplyDeleteThank you for this pattern, I'm preparing a cloth nappy pack for friends about to have a baby (as well as updating my baby nappies for my own babe due in 3 weeks). This pattern could not have come at a better time.
ReplyDeleteThanks SO much for sharing!
Just wanted to say THANKS, I am printing out the pattern right now. I've had some wool sweaters I've been meaning to make into soakers for some time. Hopefully I'll finally get it done! =)
ReplyDeleteWhat I hope to do is make one that is double layer, fully reversible. Have you ever heard of anyone doing this starting with your pattern?
My MIL made our son some fully reversible wool shorties a while back and I loved them!
Michelle,
ReplyDeleteI used food coloring and/or Kool-aid for dying my wool.
Wool interlock is a type of knitted wool fabric. I get mine here: http://www.naturesfabrics.com/
ReplyDeleteCyndy, I would take measurements to see which size (XL - XXXL) would work best for a child that wears a 4T.
ReplyDeleteByLuLu, I love the anti pill fleece from Joann's for my soakers. It has plenty of stretch and looks good after several washes.
ReplyDeleteAmanda, that sounds like a great idea! I've seen a reversable soaker before, but not from my pattern. I have never attempted to make one.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for this! I've just ordered some wool interlock and will be trying over the weekend to make a soaker for my daughter using your pattern.
ReplyDeleteGreat pattern! Has anyone tried combining wool for the main body and fleece for the cuffs & waist? I'm trying to figure out how to get the most out of a felted sweater I have. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteHi I hope this doesnt sound too lame but i am a complete novice to making soakers...can you tell me what i would need to make them. I have fleece i bought in walmart & a sewing machine....oh and i also bought yarn, can i sew wool shorties, soakers, or longies from it.
ReplyDeleteClick on Instructions above for sewing instructions. And don't worry, we all have to start somewhere. :) Since Walmart fleece isn't necessarily very stretchy, you might want to size up when you make your soaker.
ReplyDeleteYou use your yarn to knit or crochet a soaker.
I am FINALLY getting around to trying your pattern after hearing all the raves for the last 2 years! (Thanks in advance, by the way!)
ReplyDeleteI don't have a sergers, just a 1950's Kenmore machine....Do you reccomend a "stretch stich" or zig zag stitch to get the needed stretch when sewing the leg cuffs and waist bands on? I am thinking that a regular straight stitch would be a problem for pulling the soaker off and on??
Thanks for sharing. My friend and I just spent too much money buying fleece for our LO's :)
ReplyDeleteI love your soaker pattern. Thank you so much for it! I just finished making my new little baby an adorable soaker :)
ReplyDeleteJust wanted to say thankyou so much! I have been knitting longies which take months! It is the first pattern I have ever followed on my sewing machine and in 2 days I have made 2 longies and 2 soakers! I've had so many comments on the longies and feel very proud! Many thanks again!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for this pattern! I've been wanting to sew some soakers since I hate knitting them (takes way too long! I'm better as sewing anyway) and I was going to wing it. I stumbled across your pattern doing the Great Cloth Diaper Hunt and am so excited to start! Just waiting for fabric to come in.
ReplyDeleteCould you email me the pattern though? sarahdlgillikin@gmail.com
Katrina, I just wanted to leave a note to tell you how thankful I am that you have freely shared your wonderful patterns! It's so cost effective compared to retail woolies (that don't even fit right half the time! You can alter these however you need to fit YOUR baby!) at $30+ and so much more eco-friendly to use fabric that someone else is done with instead of new material. That's what cloth diapering is all about, right? Saving money and helping the earth! These make great, original shower gifts, too! Thanks again, Blessings and PEACE!
ReplyDeleteI'm just happy to be able to contribute something useful to the cloth diapering community!
ReplyDeleteStupid questions... I plan to make this from fleece. Do I just use one layer? What kind of diapers work best under these? I need to make something to go under as well, our stash is just BumGenius (which Bubba is outgrowing) so I am trying to figure out what would be best. I've made some cute diapers with flannel on the outside, fleece on the inside, and a soaker layer of 3-4 microfiber strips that seems to be ok. Also, do you find that the extra absorbent layer is a necessity?
ReplyDeleteSommerNyte,
ReplyDeleteI just use one layer if my fleece is thick enough. Joann's anti-pill works great for us with just one layer. If I have a thinner fleece, I'll add the extra layer to the wetzone. You can use these over any diaper that needs a cover. Of course, they definitely work best over an absorbant diaper. I change more frequently if I'm just using one over a prefold.
Thanks, I did use the Joann's anti-pill that I happened to have a ton of when I made one today. I used an old towel for the extra absorbent area and it looks good! Won't know until Christmas if it fits or works. ;)
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for this pattern mama! I just started making them for DS because all of a sudden he rashes up from the PUL covers he has! I love it though and they look so cute on him. I'm making some to sell and some to donate to some mamas in need! Thanks for your generosity!
ReplyDeletewow !!! just what i was looking for....looks awesome!!
ReplyDeletesorry though i am unsure how to get your pattern? could you tell me how to gain your pattern??
thankyou!!
Jenny,
ReplyDeleteJust click the green words for the patterns you want.
ohhh derr.....i just figured it out....sorry
ReplyDeletehope you had a lovely christmas and have a fantastic new year!!
xx
What is the best way to embroider on the soakers. I want to keep them leakproof.
ReplyDeleteWhen I have embroidered them, I have added the extra layer in the wetzone to cover the embroidery. The one that I didn't do that to leaked through the embroidery.
ReplyDeleteKatrina, thank you SO much. This is awesome :) I did a picture step by step tutorial for a DS mama on my blog. (http://stitchinglibertysbelle.blogspot.com) I love that you let us pass on the love for this pattern!
ReplyDeleteThank you for this pattern! I'm posting it on my baby registry so that people can make me some for baby shower gifts :)
ReplyDeleteAre there directions for the skirtie?
ReplyDeleteJust came across this on the internet looking for patterns for night time bed wetting for my 11 & 9 yr olds (late bed wetters). I cannot find any training pants/soakers cool enough for older kids so decided to start looking to make my own. I'm a beginner sewer however so this might be a challenge. Any guidance on the best absorbant fabrics and cool printed outer fabrics to use for heavy wetters and where to buy them at a decent price would be appreciated....tired of washing full bedding every morning. Thanks for the pattern!
ReplyDeleteTo mom2lovebugs:
ReplyDeletethe best type of fabric to use for keeping things waterproof is a product call PUL.You can only purchase this online usually at diaper sewing supply stores. It usually sells for around $8. I've have never tried it with this pattern before but I'm sure you could try it for the main panel and than put the fleece on the legs. Fleece is water resistant not waterproof so wearing fleece pj's to bed might also keep it off your sheets. I would defiantly use two layers for the main panel of the soaker if you are going to try it with fleece. Pul is a tricky thing to sew with as it very slippery on one side. You might want to become a member of a forum like http://diaperdivas.proboards.com/ . there is a ton of information on how to make diapers and trainers as there are so many more options available. as for pul just be careful if you want to use it as some people laminate the pul to a cotton woven. Cotton wovens etc will wick moisture and I would be leery of this because of their ages. The big name in pul is made by fabrite and is laminate to 100% polyester fabric (this is why fleece works as fleece is 100% polyester). You can also purchase pul covers that have been embroidered and sealed in such away to prevent leaks. Hope that this helps.
I just did it. Fits perfectly. Merci !
ReplyDeleteKatrina,
ReplyDeleteIreally love this pattern, and your generosiyt in sharring it. I own a cloth diaper web-site and woul like to create a section of free, and low cost diapering options... not everyone can afford brand name diapers, and I want to include quality products for them too. Woul it be alright if I put a link to your blog, and pattern on my site ( smallbundles.com ) ?
Thank you again,
Heidi
Heidi,
ReplyDeleteSure! I don't mind at all. I'm glad to help out with a cost effective way to cloth diaper.
can you tell me, do I just print out the pattern and trace and cut like a normal clothing pattern?
ReplyDeletethanks,
Dawn
Dawn,
ReplyDeleteYes, just cut it out and use it like a regular sewing pattern. The 1/4" seam allowance is included already.
I just found your site. Thanks for the soaker pattern! I can't wait to sew one up tomorrow! I cd'd my 3yo but so far not the 1yo. We received free disposables. The 1yo has come up w/the mystery rash that won't go away. Creams don't help. So, I pulled out all my cd stash and cloth-ed him up. Voila! Rash is almost gone! I want to use prefolds, will the soaker work well with those? I'm just afraid he might p through the soaker. I'd hate to be out & about and have an accident. What would you suggest?
ReplyDeleteFarm Marm
ReplyDeleteI have used this soaker for ds who is 2.5yr old at night time with only minimal leaks (as he is a heavy wetter and even soaks through disposables.) Now with car rides depending on the length of time you might want to add a layer of pul (waterproof material found at diaper websites) to the middle for added comfortability of no leaking but it's truly not necessary imho for shorter car rides. Pressure (from sitting) will give you less time between changings. I suggest a soaker and then for added protection if desired when out and about try to put your ds into 100% polyester clothing (so like fleece pants etc) as cottons will wick the moisture into them. Although this information is really overkill and not necessary. I usually get at least 2 hours before having to change my son and love the fleece more so than the pul covers as it allows for more air circulation.
Hi Katrina - I really want to take a look at your patterns, but the links won't work for me (they time out). Is there anywhere else that might have your patterns available? Thank you!
ReplyDeleteI'm trying out your soaker pattern today! I'm so excited! I picked up a bunch of great wool sweaters at our local Salval and have been making longies from the sleeves. Now if only the washer would hurry up I'm getting antsie!
ReplyDeletei plan to head to goodwill right now to get sweaters to felt and make some soakers. 2 q's. i have never felted before. i assume once the fabric is felted and sewed it becomes machine washable, right? or does it shrink every time it is washed?
ReplyDeletealso, how many soakers do you tend to go through for nb before doing a load of laundry? i'm new to cd'ing as well and have read about 12 diapers a day to plan to use, would it be 12 soakers as well or more or less? is a diaper considered a prefold plus a cover plus a soaker? there's so much verbage! :)
thanks!
also, for felting wool, do i do hot wash/cold rinse or warm/warm? I don't have a double hot cycle...
ReplyDeleteKimmy,
ReplyDeleteIf you felt the sweaters too much, the fabric will get very dense and not have much stretch. The soakers really need stretch. After one machine wash on warm or hot, I would always hand wash to keep them from over felting. This only needs to be done every other week unless they get pooped on.
You can rotate a few soakers throughout the day. One can be air drying while the other is in use. I'd start with about 4 soakers in rotation and go from there.
You only need a fitted diaper or prefold with a soaker. No other cover is needed. Make sure your diaper is absorbant enough, but this is the case no matter what type of cover you use.
Audrey,
ReplyDeleteEmail me (email addy in my profile), and I can send you the files.
Can I use 100% Polyester Fleece to make these or is that not a good soaker material? They have tons of cute prints at the fabric store, wondering if they're diaper friendly...
ReplyDeleteJennifer,
ReplyDeleteThe fleece I use is 100% polyester. I just try to find some that has some stretch to it. Otherwise, I'd size up. When the fleece doesn't stretch much, it makes it difficult to get the soakers on.
Thank you Katrina!
ReplyDeleteI am a mother to a 4 month old baby boy and can not afford to buy the really cute covers. When I found your patterns I was so excited! Now my baby can live in something other than plastic pants! Thank you for freely sharing your pattern :)
I also wanted to testify to how easy it is to sew the covers.
I have a sewing machine, but honestly, the last time I sewed anything with a machine was about 10 years ago when I was in my 8th home ec. class. Yesterday my husband sat down with my while we read the manual, threaded the bobber, broke a needle, practiced zip zags, and with in 5 hours from re-learning how to use the machine, I was able to make my son his first pair of fleece covers! So really, thank you for making it so easy to read the pattern!
The only thing I still haven't figured out is what the "r" measurement is. I assume 'r' stands for rump, so I just measured around his little bottom and hoped I was right. I still don't know if I have exactly the right fit, but hey, the covers kept everything in!
Thank you again! I'm so excited to be able to make these for him.
Next we are going to try merino wool :)
I'm so glad you like the pattern, and that I was able to help you with cloth diapering.
ReplyDeleteThe "r" is for rise. It's the measurement from the top of the waistband in the front, down around the crotch, and back up to the top of the waistband in the back.
O wonderful! Thank you Katrina.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much! This pattern is the first thing I have ever made with a sewing machine....I made 3 fleece soakers today in no time at all. Simple and cute!
ReplyDeleteLooking at switching my girl to fleece soakers due to some contact dermatitis with PUL. Just wondering how they work for night with the extra soaker layer sewn in .
ReplyDeleteAlso wondering if there are directions for the Skirtie!
I would sell my whole stash of pockets if the fleece works with good fitteds. I have a toddler who diapers at night and my 10 month old in dipes full time.
Okay, this is SO cute. I'm still a beginner when it comes to sewing, but I think these directions seem pretty easy to follow. I can't wait to try!
ReplyDeleteForgive my naivety, but can I use any kind of 100% wool (lambswool, cashmere, etc)? Also, I have a 100% polyester fleece baby blanket that I used partially for another sewing project and I was wondering if that is acceptable as a fleece soaker?
Heidi,
ReplyDeleteI have only ever had problems with wool or fleece at night if the diaper underneath wasn't absorbant enough. That's a problem with any type of diaper, though. And
I rarely add the extra soaker layer.
Sarah,
ReplyDeleteAny 100% wool is good if it's thick enough. I've doubled some thinner cashmere. Even wool blends work well as long as they're mostly wool (70% or higher) and the other material isn't something absorbant like cotton.
Hello, I would like to have the permission to make Soaker in polar with your boss to sell.
ReplyDeletetanks,
Myrha
for those of us who don't have sergers, what stitch would you recommend for fleece and wool? thanks.
ReplyDeleteAlmost all of mine were made without a serger. I use a straight stitch for the seams and then I use a zig-zag stitch to keep the edges from fraying if they look like they might. I don't necessarily do that on fleece, but wool can sometimes unravel.
ReplyDeleteawesome, thanks for the quick response Katrina!
ReplyDeleteI am having problems getting the fleece pattern to match up. Can you tell me what i am doing wrong... If i make the leg openings meet the rise is like an inch off or vice versa....
ReplyDeleteCheck your printer settings. The page scaling should be set to none. I found my printer settings under printing preferences when I go to print something.
ReplyDeleteHello, I would like to have the permission to make Soaker in polar with your boss to sell.
ReplyDeletetanks,
Myrha
You can sell soakers from this pattern. See the note at the top of the page. :)
ReplyDeleteok thank you :)
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteDo you have any idea which Malden Mills type of fleece is the best kind to use for a soaker? I am going to try it in a print that I have sitting around, but is it better to use a different type for the cuffs so they are stretchier?
ReplyDeleteI did check the scale. I was trying the medium on the fleece pattern. i just couldn't get it to work... I used the large wool pattern with fleece and it worked and fits... So if I get in some interlock wool would I still need to use the large? or medium?
ReplyDeleteOh and do you know about how many mediums you can get from one yard interlock? Skirties?
ReplyDeleteI just whipped this up in under an hour but I used cheapo fleece to practice with. It looks adorable but I can't get it over this little girls chunky thighs lol!
ReplyDeleteGood thing I made it in black and we've got a baby boy coming lol.
Thanks and I'll try again paying closer attention to the stretch =)
I've made about 8 of these using remnant fleece from JoAnns. The first I did in medium and it fit both my 20# babe and my 30# toddler. The rise was a bit low to fit over the few fitteds we have, so I did medium with the longer rise for the rest and they are working great! Thanks for a great free pattern!
ReplyDeleteIs the anti pill or blizzard fleece better for the soakers?
ReplyDeleteThanks!
Is the anti pill fleece, or the blizzard fleece from Joanns better for soakers? THANKS!
ReplyDeleteHere are some diagrams to give you an idea of how many soakers you can make with various amounts of fleece. http://katrinassqs.blogspot.com/2008_08_01_archive.html
ReplyDeleteI like the anti-pill better for soakers because it is stretchier.
Rebecca asked:"Do you have any idea which Malden Mills type of fleece is the best kind to use for a soaker?"
ReplyDeleteI prefer the 300wt or the Windpro. They hold longer and leak less with compression. A 200wt would be fine for the daytime but personally based on my own experiences I'd double anything that's a 100, or any fleece from a regular store that isn't at least a polar fleece. I had horrid leaking issues with the less expensive stuff. That's just my experience, though.
I just made one of your fleece soakers tonight! I love it, so easy. Thank you so much!!
ReplyDeleteI really want to make the newer soaker pattern but the links aren't working.
ReplyDeleteThe links should be working again.
ReplyDelete? links aren't working...
ReplyDeletewhat are the difference between original, new and fleece patterns??
ReplyDeleteI have wool interlock, which pattern should I use??
thanks
The original pattern does not come up higher in the back. The newer pattern does and dips in the front a little. The pattern for fleece has a slightly higher rise and is a little wider in the back.
ReplyDeleteI would use either the newer pattern, or the pattern for fleece. If you have nice stretchy wool, I'd go a size down on the waistband so the soaker will stay on better.
thanks a lot!!
ReplyDeleteCan I just say that I think it is a WONDERFUL idea that you ask people to donate one completed soaker to someone who needs it! What a great twist on the cottage licence fee! I love it!
ReplyDeleteI made 3 last night within a couple hours! Super easy and they work great! My son is a chubby 32inches tall and 25 lbs. and a large fit him great! One thing I am going to do when I make more is make the leg cuffs a little wider. I also made one for my friend whom has 3 baby girls, gonna make her a few more later on.
ReplyDeleteHere is a great nappie pattern I made myself to use under covers.
ReplyDeletehttp://loveinfinitely.blogspot.com/2010/09/how-to-make-prefold-into-diapernappie.html
If you have any questions you can email me at outridinhorses@hotmail.com
THANKS so much!! Our whole diaper stash only goes up to size medium. I was not excited about buying an entire set of size large covers/pockets only to be used for a few months. I am using this pattern to sew a set of larges to get us through the last stretch before my daughter is potty trained! I love this pattern as it is very pull-up-ish and great for toilet learning :) This will save us lots of money!! I really appreciate you sharing it.
ReplyDeleteThis is great. thanks so much for sharing!
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing your patterns. I just made my first wool cover using your pattern. It was so easy!
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing this pattern! I made a fleece pair for my daughter last night and they're perfect!
ReplyDeleteI can't wait to go home and make so soakers!Thank you for taking the time to post this for all of us to use :)
ReplyDeleteSo very excited to see this pattern. I haven't sewn since home ec. but am completely obsessed with tryin this out. I have been cd for about a month with my 6mo and can't believe I haven't done it sooner. I would just like to ask some silly quetions for clarification:
ReplyDeleteI am going to use fleece for my soaker. I use prefolds and pin or snappi them. So do I just use the pf and then use the soaker as a cover? Thats what it looks like.
My ds seems to be a heavy wetter, if I am using a pf and soaker where does the xtra wet zone go? In between the two? And is it sewn in somewhere.
And lastly I am using gerber pf and seems to be just fine, but do I need to wash the soaker after every use if I use fleece? In which case I would need to make 8-9 of them in rotation?? Thank you again for this pattern and tut!
FTM
to the above comment, they are covers so you would use them over your PFs. the extra wet zone piece is just another layer sewn down into the crotch.
ReplyDeleteI've made 4 soakers so far (out of felted sweaters) and we've been using them for a couple of months. They're great!
ReplyDeleteThanks for so generously sharing the pattern.
I'm happy to help make cloth diapering more affordable. :)
ReplyDeleteKatrina, do you have a shortie pattern?? I thought you did, but I can't seem to find it.
ReplyDeleteThanks sooo much!
Kelly
Yes, I use the longies pattern since it doesn't have a specific inseam. http://katrinassqs.blogspot.com/2008/09/longies-pattern.html
ReplyDeleteThank you for the awesome pattern. I have been looking for a while and couldn't find much and the ones I did find weren't quite what I was looking for. I will probably use PUL covers in the day time, especially when we're out and about, but I want to use wool at night. 7 weeks to go before DS arrives, and so much to do before then. I have already started cutting them out. I had two felted wool sweaters (on the small...shrunk...side) and I have gotten two NB, two small and two longies, with lots of odd scraps left over....I'm thinking nursing pads, maybe? I can't wait to find some more thrifted wool sweaters. Or piecing them together to make another, do you know if they will leak along the seams? Also, what's the best type of thread to use. I usually use poly for everything, but I have threads in poly and cotton.
ReplyDeleteI'm also taking pics as I go along. I'd like to do a tute using your patterns and variations of them on my blog. Would that be okay? I'd be glad to link back to your page. Thanks again for the excellent patterns. I'm very grateful! :0)
Hey I love this pattern and I have found it super easy, excpet that I am having a lot of trouble getting the leg cuffs to fit around the openings properly! they are really tight and cant get them on with tons of ouckering sewn in. Any ideas? I'm just trying to make them for my new baby on the way :)
ReplyDeleteFirst off, I found the answer to my question, polyester is the thread to use. Apparently smells can stick to cotton thread, so you would have to wash more often.
ReplyDeleteI made 4 of these today. I love them. They were so easy, especially if you are using recycled sweaters and have cuffs and collars. :0)
To Noah's blog. (I have a little one due in 7 weeks and his name is Noah). I found it easiest to sew the leg cuffs on before sewing the pant together. Pin one end of the leg cuff on one side, then pin the other on the other side, fold in half with the leg cuff on the inside and find the middle of each peice and pin them together there. When you sew, start at one end and pull the cuff taught between the pins so that it is flat on top of the pant and sew through to the other end. Once both leg cuffs are on, sew one side from cuff to waist. Then sew the band on the same way you did the leg cuff. When you're done with that, sew the other side from bottom of leg cuff to top of waist band....and your done! I really hope that makes sense. I'm not too good at describing it, I did take pictures along the process and would like to put it on my blog. I'm visual and like to see how things are done, so I thought that might help some others out there that might need it too.
Hey thanks that does help I will give it another try this weekend. My Noah is almost 3 and is very excited about his little sister on the way :)
ReplyDeletehave you posted the pic? I am very visual as well! What is your blog? Thanks aletha
I am fairly new to sewing and plan on making a pair of these. I am using a recycled wool sweater. Do I need to use a serger on the inside seams for this to stay together? Thanks, Jennifer
ReplyDeleteJen, it's not necessary to use a serger. If I could get the tension correct on mine, it sure would save me an extra step, though. I usually just use my sewing machine and a zig zag stitch the raw edges.
ReplyDeleteTrisha, I think it's a great idea to have some picture tutorials on your blog! Send me a link, and I'll add it to the ones I have listed.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for having this free on the internet. I'm one of those "moms in need" you talk about and it is such a blessing to be able to make a couple new soakers as my daughter is outgrowing her old ones. God bless you.
ReplyDeleteKatrina, I did a tute on my blog with pictures showing how I put them together. I hope it can help some of the mom's here. I also threw in some links to tips on how to wash and lanolize wool diaper covers/soakers.
ReplyDeletehttp://scrimplythrifty.wordpress.com/2011/02/28/diy-wool-diaper-soakers/
Aletha (Noah's Blog), You've probably already done yours already, but if you haven't, you can look at my pics. I'm sorry I took so long, there's been a lot going on here getting ready for baby and all.
I just really can't tell you all how much I love these. They are adoreable. I can't wait to try them on my son when he arrives.
Holly, I'm very glad I can help out. I only wish I had time to do more.
ReplyDeleteTrisha, your blog looks great! I added it to my blog list on the right. Thanks for sharing your tutorial. Your soakers and longies look wonderful!
Thank you so much for these patterns Katrina! My husband lost his job when I was pregnant and I was able to sew all the soakers and longies I needed thanks to your pattern. I was new to cloth diapers in general and your patterns were easy to follow and just what I needed. My daughter is 15 months old now and I'm still loving your patterns. I just made her a skirtie last month. THANKS!
ReplyDeleteYou are very welcome, LA! I am so happy that the patterns were helpful.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for your generosity!
ReplyDeleteWhen I print the fleece pattern, the pattern's measurements are not accurate and some dotted/dashed lines missing. Do you know what I could be doing wrong? Would you be able to email me the fleece pattern?
Thanks so much
I was just wondering if anyone knows, could I use this pattern and just add some extra layers of flannel, or microfeece in the wetzone and have an AIO diaper, or make a pocket in the wetzone to have a pocket pull-up? I am ECing my 8 month old and find it such a pain in the butt to find a place to lie her down, unsnap her cover, undo the velcro on her diaper, and take her potty, especially while we are out, I would love to be able to have a pull up diaper for her that is easy to get on and off when I don't have access to a nice changing station.
ReplyDeleteHow do i cut out the skirt part????
ReplyDeleteCan I use any fleece for the soakers? Like the Polar Fleece that lines the stores most the year?
ReplyDeleteSarah,
ReplyDeleteYou can use just about any fleece. The only problem is that some fleece really doesn't have much stretch. In that case, you will need to size up to get it to fit. I plan on getting a side snapping (and other closures) version of the pattern ready this summer. I think less stretchy fleece will work great for a soaker that you don't have to pull up over a diaper.
Thank you, Katrina, for the free pattern. We are trying to save some money with cloth diapering and after researching enough on the internet how to make your own covers, I stumbled across your pattern and saw all the positive comments. I'm a novice sewer but have made a few wool soakers so far, and am really excited to try them on our baby. Thank you so much for helping out by sharing your pattern!
ReplyDeleteThank you for this! I had been searching for weeks for a pattern to make a wool cover for my son. This was so easy!!!!! Didn't take me long at all and it looks great! My husband loves it too and said I can go get more stuff to make more!
ReplyDeleteI would love to try this with the skirtie but am a little confused as to how to use the pattern and how to attach it to the soaker. Do I print all of the pages and tape them together to cut our the wool? I am dying to make this please help. Also I was interested in edgeing the skirt with some cute fabric or cute ribbon would this be possible. I have never made any wool soakers before this it the first time!!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the pattern. How do I shorten the rise if I need to? Are these soakers designed to sit above waist?
ReplyDeleteBJ, I haven't made a skirtie. I do think you can fold your material in half or fourths and cut out the skirtie portion. Your skirtie portion should be a circle with another circle cut out of the center like a donut. The video is very helpful for sewing it.
ReplyDeletegeet, to shorten the rise, cut the pattern to the size you need for the waist and legs. Then measure down half the amount you want to decrease the rise by, and cut this off the top edge and bottom edge of the pattern. The soaker is meant to cover the entire diaper.
ReplyDeleteJust wondering how much fabric you will need for a Large fleece soaker? Thanks so much!!!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for this pattern, it's worked great for me! I have a question about using old sweaters that I haven't been able to find an answer to anywhere. Some of the soakers I have made "shed" all over on babies legs and it's difficult to wipe off as it really sticks to the skin. Is there anything special I can do to fix this problem? I haven't lanolized them as they seem to be working just fine and I tried "shaving" them with a sweater shaving stone but that seemed to almost make the problem worse.
ReplyDeleteJust stumbled upon this pattern too and I love it already. Can't wait to get down into the charity shop and then getting a sweater under the serger.
ReplyDeletephxazmama, you will need a half yard of fleece to make a large soaker, but you will be able to get two larges and a small out of that. See the link to the right that says "How many soakers can I make with a yard of fleece?"
ReplyDeleteKat, I'm not really sure. You could try lanolizing them to see if it helps. The lanolin might help the fibers to stick together and shed less.
ReplyDeleteHi Katrina,
ReplyDeleteI'm 37 wks pregnant and the few friends I have here (Im an expat) who have babies use disposables. I like the idea of using cloth diapers and am considering using Happy Nappy diaper service for the first few months (until I'm in the swing of things) but am unsure of two things:
1. Are cloth diapers (generally and/or from Happy Nappy) suitable for a newborn?
2. Why are covers required? (the Happy Nappy's look fine as they are! - please excuse my ignorance).
I will have my mum visiting soon after I'm due so I think Ill get her to help me make some of your covers if they are in fact required! (they look cute too).
Thanks, and hope you can help!
Kate
Just made up two NB soakers and they were so quick and easy. Thanks! One question. I'm a first time mom, my baby due in Jan and I'm wondering if anyone has tried the NB on a baby. They look so tiny I'm wondering if I should make more NB or switch to the smalls?
ReplyDeleteThanks,
Tori
Just made up two NB soakers and they were so quick and easy. Thanks! One question. I'm a first time mom, my baby due in Jan and I'm wondering if anyone has tried the NB on a baby. They look so tiny I'm wondering if I should make more NB or switch to the smalls?
ReplyDeleteThanks,
Tori
Just made up two NB soakers and they were so quick and easy. Thanks! One question. I'm a first time mom, my baby due in Jan and I'm wondering if anyone has tried the NB on a baby. They look so tiny I'm wondering if I should make more NB or switch to the smalls?
ReplyDeleteThanks,
Tori
I just made the NB soaker, so quick and easy thanks! One question... I'm a first time mom expecting in a few months and the NB looks so tiny. Anyone tried it on a real NB? Wondering if I should now switch to making smalls. Any feed back on what size (lbs/age) the smalls fit?
ReplyDeleteThanks,
Tori
Tori-
ReplyDeleteI would make several in various sizes so that you have a good stock. Once the baby comes you may not have a chance to whip any up before he/she is ready for hte next size. That will just stress you out.. so make a couple NB, S and M.
That's my suggestion, take it for what it's worth!
KP
hi, i am new to cloth diapering, and i really like these, but i dont know how to use them. do i put a cloth diaper on the baby, then put this over it? or do i put this on the baby and then put a cover over it? or do i just put this on and thats it?
ReplyDeleteYou need a diaper underneath. This pattern is for a fleece or wool diaper cover.
ReplyDeletenot sure if this has been asked or not but i saw that there were 2 patterns. 1 for fleece and 1 for 1 wool. what is the difference?
ReplyDeleteThe fleece pattern is a little bigger because fleece doesn't stretch like wool does. I only use the fleece pattern anymore, but I shorten the waist band and leg cuffs when I use wool so it stays on better. You can't do that with fleece.
ReplyDeleteHi! love the pattern and looking forward to trying it. Im pretty novice to sewing, so i have a couple of questions :) I will be using wool, and doing a sweater waist band from the bottom of the sweater. the pattern says to cut 4'' tall, is that so with fleece you can fold over? Im using thicker wool, so can i cut 2'' thick to get the same length rise? thanks!
ReplyDeleteYes, for fleece or wool with an unfinished edge, the waistband and leg cuffs are meant to be folded over. So you can cut yours 2" instead. If the waistband is really stretchy, you might want to cut it shorter for a better fit. It may be too loose if it has a lot of stretch.
ReplyDeleteI love these soakers! They weren't practical for me with a newborn but they work great for a busy toddler to pull them on.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing! I linked to your blog via my blog: http://kimmy.kimmykokonut.com/2012/01/17/cloth-diapers-work-for-us/
My only challenge is getting the legs and waistbands tight enough but not too tight.
Hi, I can't print out the pattern anymore. I'm taken to a page that says hosting expired on 3/7/12. I'm hoping it's back up soon. I love this pattern and needed to make a larger size so was coming back to print a bigger version.
ReplyDeleteThank you. I made handknit soakers for my first daughter and I am looking forward to trying these for the upcoming baby.
ReplyDeleteIs it just my computer or is there a problem with the pattern for the XL-XXXL wetzone?
ReplyDeleteIt seems the link address is wrong...
I've made most of the soakers that my almost 2yo has ever used from this pattern. The only alteration I make is that I move the pattern down to the waistband of the sweater and use the sweater waistband as the waistband of the soaker. So, I make the soaker up side down. I do not felt my sweaters so I don't know if felting would effect the stretch of the waist.
Anything to save a step. If you choose to do this...move the pattern away from the edge of the waistband because you have to make up for the width of the waistband fabric that you are not using.
I can't get the XL wetzone pattern to load either. It takes me to another site.
ReplyDeleteDoes anyone know how much wool interlock you need to make a medium soaker, or how many soakers you can get from 1 yd of felted interlock? Katrina, if I use the feltable wool-spandex blend from Nature's Fabrics, for instance, a woman from NF told me that 1 yd will felt down to 42" wide by 27" long, and that I can piece scraps together. Is this enough for 2 med soakers? Thanks.
ReplyDelete