I am so excited to share this project with you! While I was contemplating a baby shower gift for my friends (who we threw the Rustic Fall Baby Shower for) I came up with this super simple and affordable idea. It took one evening – of mostly wait time – to complete, and I even got to make a few for my little while I was at it!
I’m sure most of you have seen (and probably love) Aiden + Anais muslin swaddle blankets. I understand because I have fallen hard for them…unfortunately, my checkbook isn’t as big of a fan as I am. While in search of a more budget friendly DIY version of these blankets, I thought of those adorable photo prop swaddles that can be found all over Etsy. That’s when my idea to marry a cheesecloth photo prop swaddle with the incredible size of an A+A blanket came to be.
What You’ll Need:
Cheesecloth
Fabric Dye
Cheesecloth can be found in a variety of prices and weaves. How “fine” the cheesecloth is will determine how much money you’re going to spend. If you’re planning on simply using these blankets as photo props, go ahead and buy the cheesecloth at your local supercenter. However, I would suggest that you “splurge” a little on finer cheesecloth if you’re planning on using these for everyday swaddle use.
I found my fabric at the store in 3′ x 9′ segments for $3. I made 3 swaddles out of this fabric…which breaks down to ONE DOLLAR each! If you want a larger swaddle, cut the fabric into 2 pieces instead.
Once the fabric is cut to size, follow the instructions on your fabric dye to soak it. I chose powdered RIT dye, which was less than $2 per box. For the shower gift, I made 3 different colored swaddles; one in Sunshine Orange, another in Dark Brown, and the last in Fuchsia.
After the swaddles air-dried, I simply folded and rolled them up to store.
If you’re giving these as a gift, wrap them in a cute ribbon and add a sweet gift tag. It’s also fun to create a photo gift set with the swaddles and a headband or hat!
I have to apologize since I don’t have any little babies (yet) to model these beauties! As soon as my little guy gets here, rest-assured I will have pictures of him all bundled up. They’re so quick and easy that I plan on making TONS more to have on hand.
*Care Instructions: Hand-wash in cold water with baby-friendly detergent. Air dry.
**Safety: These blankets do have unfinished edges; please use caution when swaddling, and don’t leave your child unattended while wrapped.
Linking to these parties.
Love this idea. You are too clever!
Thanks so much! :-)
Good idea, I love those blankets too!
What a good idea. I would never have thought to use that material, but it is so stretchy that it is perfect for getting a tight taco wrap!
Thanks for joining our Twirl and Take a Bow party! We would love to have you join us again…every Tuesday we go live!