DIY crib bumpers - 8 step-by-step master classes

Do you need bumpers in a crib for a newborn?

The bumpers in a crib serve several functions and have many benefits. You can choose soft fencing, focusing not only on the advantages of the product, but also on your taste, taking into account the shades that predominate in the interior of the room.

Advantages and disadvantages

Children's bumpers have many advantages:

• protect the child from drafts and cold air;
• prevent the baby's arms and legs from getting into the space between the slats of the crib;
• participate in creating a cozy and comfortable atmosphere for the child;
• protect the baby from direct sunlight, which is especially important when the crib is located near a window;
• protect the child from impacts on hard parts of the sidewalls during sleep or wakefulness;
• decorate the room and maintain its uniform style.

The only disadvantage of soft fences is the need for periodic washing so that the products do not accumulate dust.

Permissible age - medical recommendations

Doctors and child psychologists believe that it is better to install soft bumpers in the second month after birth.

It is worth removing the fences at the age when the child begins to fully stand on his legs, holding onto the bars of the crib. In general, there are no serious restrictions in this matter.

How to choose and where to buy

Everyone's selection criteria are different. However, all parents purchase only hypoallergenic products from branded manufacturers for their children, regardless of how much they cost. No one will save on the health and safety of the angel, so everyone is wary of budget options. Today there is no shortage of models: high and low, with patterns and pictures, bright colors and pastel tones, for boys and girls. You can choose to suit every taste and budget. And it is imperative that they harmonize with the design of the children's room. The main nuances that are worth paying attention to are:

1. Textile. A prerequisite is naturalness. It should be environmentally friendly, not cause allergic reactions, not get dirty or fade when washed, and dry quickly. It is advisable to give preference to baize, non-woven fabric, calico and chintz. These fabrics are the softest, most durable and natural. They can be washed and ironed frequently.
2. Functions. The main task that the restraints are designed to solve is to protect the child from injury and drafts. The developing moment is important, but far from the main one. You can focus on pictures and figures. Any drawing will help the child develop. The colors should not be boring, nor should they be too bright. The baby should not be irritated or scared. You can choose models with pockets, attached toys and a variety of effects.
3. Filler. Differs in density. The main goal is to protect the child from misunderstandings. Most models are equipped with dense fiber or padding polyester. The last option is the softest and is suitable for newborns. You can find models with foam rubber and natural fibers. If you choose foam filling, ask the seller for a safety certificate. Wool fillings are also available. They retain heat well, are soft, comfortable, but can cause an allergic reaction in the baby. You can hardly find them in specialized retail outlets. If you have chosen synthetic materials, you should make sure of their quality and safety.
4. Size. It does not affect the functionality, but the parameter is quite important. Low models are suitable for babies who are not yet five months old. The low height allows fidgets to constantly monitor their parents and control the situation. In terms of protection, they are inferior to high-end analogues. It is advisable to buy higher restraints for children who are trying to sit or even stand up and hold onto the baby. The view, of course, will be significantly reduced, but you won’t be able to hit the wooden walls. And the handle won’t be able to get stuck when it has to fall after standing on fragile legs. For a sleeping place of 120-60 cm, you should choose restraints with a total length of 3.6 m. As for the height of the accessory, the optimal option is 30 cm. The baby should not stand on it, as it can “dive onto the floor.”

The question of where to buy is not difficult. Today there is no shortage of specialized retail outlets selling goods for children. They are everywhere: in megacities and small towns. It's better to visit the store yourself. There you can choose from the variety offered, get advice from a professional manager, and ask the price. There is another option - order goods from China using the AliExpress service. In terms of price, it may be cheaper. But there is no guarantee that the package received will satisfy you in full.

There are times when what arrives at the delivery point is not what you ordered, or the product does not meet the specified characteristics and quality. Before placing an order online, you should carefully study user reviews and check the integrity of the supplier. Otherwise, not only precious time will be lost, but also money.

What you need to sew bumpers

The main elements for sewing children's bumpers are:

• textile;
• filler;
• ties.

Tools worth preparing:

• scissors;
• threads;
• needles;
• pins;
• ruler;
• sewing machine;
• chalk.

Which fabric to choose

Before starting work, you should decide what fabric to purchase for sewing. In this matter, you should be guided by the following criteria.

1. The material must be made from natural fibers .
2. It is advisable to choose a fabric that is pleasant to the touch , because the child will often come into contact with the surface of soft fences.
3. It is better to give preference to material of pastel colors with dim patterns in order to reduce the burden on the baby’s psyche.
4. Textiles must be hypoallergenic .

Preferred fabrics for baby bumpers:

• satin;
• flannel;
• bike;
• calico;
• thick cotton.

Each of the presented materials does not cause allergies and does not lose its appearance after washing.

Many manufacturers offer fabrics with stylish prints, which will allow you to choose a fabric to suit every taste.

By the way, it’s better to buy fabric of different colors, because it will be even more original!

Filler

Choosing the right filler for children's bumpers is no less important than the fabric base.

Despite the fact that many synthetic materials are safe for babies, it is worth paying attention to their functionality.

For example, synthetic winterizer often loses its shape, forming clumps, especially after washing in a drum. But, if the sides with such filler are taken care of more carefully, they can last a long time.

Holofiber is a modern analogue of padding polyester. It is often used to make soft baby crib railings, as it is considered hypoallergenic and retains its appearance and shape even after thorough washing.

A few more worthy options that perfectly serve as filler for sides:

• Periotek – soft fabric, does not cause allergies;
• polyester – does not absorb foreign odors and moisture;
• hallcon – protects from cold air.

To make dense sides, it is better to use foam rubber, which does not lose its shape, does not break, and is quite durable.

The sides can also be filled with buckwheat husks. This product perfectly develops fine motor skills.

It is strictly not recommended to stuff products with down or cotton wool, which can cause allergies in a child and cause suffocation if inhaled. In addition, these materials cannot be washed.

Model type

Children's bumpers can be high or low. Traditionally, the first option is used.

High fences can protect the baby from cold air, direct sunlight and prevent injuries. But such sides have a small disadvantage - they block the child’s view.

The best option is a combination of fences of different heights.

The low sides look quite neat and allow the baby to view the surrounding space without obstacles. But such products will not be able to provide full protection for the child.

Classic fences look like flat pillows. But more functional will be the sides in the shape of houses, animals, cars, which in the future can be used as interior toys.

Color spectrum

Soft fences in a crib act not only as protection for the baby, but also as an interesting decor in the room.

A wide range of modern fabrics in different colors makes it possible to choose the ideal option for any interior.

When choosing a color, you can rely on the classic division: blue fabrics for boys, pink fabrics for girls. But it is better to use delicate shades, diluting them with bright prints.

Expert opinion

Irina Klimova

I am 29 years old. I'm an interior designer. I love my profession and have been doing this activity for more than 8 years. About 100 projects have been implemented. I provide professional advice.

If the crib is located in the parents' bedroom, you can choose fences in neutral basic colors - milky, gray, beige. So, this piece of furniture will fit perfectly into an “adult” interior.

Excessively bright or dark sides will not be the best choice, as they can negatively affect the baby’s psyche.

Fabric consumption calculation

To make calculations, you should take into account the shape and dimensions of the sleeping place and crib.

1. Classic soft fences consist of 4 products, so you need to know the exact width and length of the sides of the crib.
2. If the sides are in the shape of pillows, then you need to sew 2 symmetrical parts on the headboard area and the sidewalls. You may need up to 4 – 5 products for the sides of the crib.
3. To make shaped sides, you should be guided by the parameters and number of pillows.

Before sewing the fences, you need to measure the height, length, width of the crib and each bed.

If you are not from Russia, then follow the link to buy patterns

https://www.etsy.com/shop/MaranisBabyPattern?ref=l2-about-shopname

Hello, this is the Maranis company. In this article we will look at how to sew the sides of an animal with your own hands.

These soft pillows are ideal for a newborn's crib and will give it a great look. They also have a functional affiliation:

• They will protect the baby from injuries from the bed bars.
• Will protect from wind and drafts.
• They will be true friends for the entire period of the baby’s growing up. He will quickly begin to understand what this or that animal looks like.

We will teach you how to sew animal bumpers into a crib for a bunny, fox, cat, dog, moose, owl, unicorn, fish, sheep, hedgehog, pig, dragon. This is not difficult to do if you have at least some seamstress skills. All you need is an ordinary household sewing machine, fabrics and a great desire to do something with your own hands.

But we will need patterns which you can find by following the link:

Ready-made pattern diagrams for protective edges

At the last stage, when all the exact calculations have been made and the necessary material has been purchased, you need to make patterns for future bumpers. You can do them yourself or use our options.

[MASTER CLASS] Simple and quick sewing of square bumpers

To make a square bumper, prepare:

• 2 types of fabric;
• scissors;
• sewing machine;
• needles or pins;
• filler.

Step by step process:

Pattern and fabric cutting

To make a pattern, you will need to take measurements (measure the length and width of the bottom of the stroller), pay attention to the fact that it has rounded corners. Exactly with the dimensions on thick paper, plastic film, or better yet on oilcloth - make a pattern and cut it out.

Place the pattern in the stroller and check for accuracy. If everything is correct, prepare the fabric:

• Wash it. This is necessary, firstly, for hygienic purposes, and secondly, to check the shrinkage of the fabric. Calico “sits” by 4-10%. It is better that it “sits down” before sewing, otherwise the mattress will become small later.
• Iron: cutting can only be done on neatly ironed fabric.
• Place the pattern on the fabric folded in half (along the grain thread!), remembering to leave seam allowances. Make them 5-6 cm on three sides, and at least 10 cm on the 4th (short) side to sew a zipper here. If you do not want to make the cover removable, the same 5-6 cm will be enough.
• Having measured, according to the proverb, seven times, cut out the fabric.

If you have an overlocker, or you can use a machine to make a zigzag seam, finish the edges of each piece.

Until this point, regardless of the mattress model, all operations were performed the same way. Further actions will depend on which product model you prefer and what filler you decide to use.

[MASTER CLASS] Beautiful sides that keep their shape

To sew sides that hold their shape, you need to prepare:

• a piece of panel and other type of fabric of equal size (34*34 cm);
• 2 rep ribbons 62 cm long;
• insulation sheet (38*38 cm);
• scissors;
• filler;
• needles or pins;
• sewing machine

Step by step process:

How to stitch correctly

You can sew a set for a stroller for a newborn with your own hands either manually or using a machine. In the second option, the seams will be stronger and more durable. Before you start stitching, you need to choose a model for the mattress:

Step-by-step work:

If the mattress is provided with a cover, then a fastener is sewn into it. To do this, you need to fold the two cut out elements and carefully sew in a zipper. Then the sides are also stitched, and the mattress is stuffed with padding polyester. If desired, you can sew a pocket for small items. Such products can be used not only in a stroller, but also in a cradle. The work is ready.

Winter wool model

Washing such products is a rather complicated process. It is not recommended to use hot water or detergents containing chlorine and bleaches. This will cause the threads to become shiny and the product to fade. The optimal temperature for washing is 40–60 degrees; machine drying is prohibited, as it can cause the filling to clump. There is no need to wring out the mattress, you just need to let it drain, and it will air dry on its own. It is better to avoid direct exposure to the sun, as the pattern on cotton may lose its saturation.

Coconut filler

Many seamstresses recommend using liquid-based baby washing powders; they do not clog into the pores of the fabric and are easy to wash out. If the dirt is not very strong, you can remove it with a soft brush and soapy water. There is no need to iron the product, as it will smooth out during use. It is not recommended to wash children's clothes and accessories together with adult items. You need to store mattresses in plastic wrap in a dark place, as the fabric will fade in the sun and may lose its properties due to drying out.

Coloring for a boy

In conclusion, it should be noted that sewing a mattress into a stroller is quite simple. It consists of only two parts that need to be stuffed and sewn. If desired, you can decorate with some beads. Here it is important to include all your imagination in the process of work. Manufacturing takes literally a few hours. To clearly understand how to sew a mattress with your own hands, you can watch several lessons with master classes on websites for moms.

Source

[MASTER CLASS] Quilted sides - an easy and economical way

Sew a quilted crib border using:

• fabric of two colors;
• scissors;
• sewing machine;
• 10 rep ribbons (65 cm long);
• thin padding polyester;
• ruler;
• needles/pins.

Step by step process

We sew a mattress into a stroller

Now you need to decide on the mattress model:

• A simple mattress with a non-removable cover.
• Mattress with zipper.
• Mattress with frill around the edges.

In the first case, the manufacturing technology is simple:

1. Place the two cut pieces together, right sides to right sides.
2. Stitch three sides.
3. Turn the product inside out.
4. Insert the filler.
5. Carefully sew the fourth side by hand or on a machine, remembering to fold the edges inward.

If you decide to make a removable cover, you first need to sew in a zipper. To do this, fold the two cut parts and carefully sew in the lock. After this, sew the other three sides and insert the filling.

[MASTER CLASS] Sewing a velor braided side

To sew a braided border you will need:

• velor fabric in 2 colors;
• filler;
• scissors;
• 2 plastic pipes for stuffing the product with a diameter of 50 mm and 35-40 mm;
• light threads;
• needle.

Step by step process

Preparing fabric for stitching

The stitch can be done either manually or using a machine. The traditional option would be straight lines, which in the future will turn into small squares. If the craftswoman wants to add originality to the stitch, then you can find patterns where there are different snowflakes or flowers on the outer part of the product.

Preparing fabric for stitching begins with applying a pattern to the material. The mattress will be sewn along the stitch.

Attention! If you want to decorate the product with figures or designs, then you need to make it on paper in advance. Then, after making the pattern, the needlewoman only needs to attach the sketch to the material and simply trace it. Below is how to sew a mattress into a stroller.

Option for girls

[MASTER CLASS] Fence sides - a fashionable option

To sew a side fence, you need to prepare:

• 5 ties 66 cm long, 4 cm wide;
• 2 types of fabric;
• scissors;
• thin padding polyester (100 g);
• holofiber;
• sewing machine;
• ruler;
• needles;
• chalk.

With a width of 150-160 cm, you will need 1.4 m of fabric (excluding ties) for a round crib or 120*60 cm on three sides. For an oval crib or on all sides 120*60 2.1 m of fabric. The same amount of insulation. Holofiber from 1.5-2 kg.

Step by step process

How much fabric will you need?

To calculate consumption, you need to know the size of the stroller and the width of the fabric. Calico usually has a width of more than a meter (1.2 or 2.2 m). Wide material is intended for bed linen - it is not profitable to buy it. The width is 1.2 meters - ideal for sewing a mattress into a stroller.

With this width, one length of the mattress + 10 cm for folding and sewing in a zipper will be enough. If the required mattress length is 80 cm, buy 100-110 cm of fabric. The stock is needed because cotton fabric shrinks.

Important! The length, width of the product, its shape must exactly match the bottom of the stroller, otherwise the mattress will bend or slide under the child’s body and quickly lose its shape.

Useful article about the right choice of children's mattresses https://matrasium.ru/matrasy/kak-vybrat/razmery-detskih-matrasov/

[MASTER CLASS] Sewing borders from panels with ties

To sew one soft side from panels with fabric ties you will need:

• panel;
• thick fabric;
• scissors;
• light threads;
• pins;
• thin padding polyester (60 g);
• filler;
• 4 ribbons 33 cm long, 6 cm wide.

Before making the side, it is advisable to iron the panel and other type of fabric well.

Step by step process​

Which filler to choose

Since the product is intended for street “transport”, the child will wear clothes on it, there is no need to impose particularly strict requirements on the filler, these could be:

• padding polyester;
• foam;
• batting;
• coconut coir.

Foam rubber and coir placed in the cover do not require additional preparation: it is enough to cut them exactly to the size of the bottom of the stroller. Sintepon, batting and other non-woven materials will need to be quilted.

You may be interested in recommendations on choosing mattress fillers

[MASTER CLASS] Animal bumpers with patterns

To sew a side in the shape of an animal, you need to prepare:

• pattern;
• sewing machine;
• thick fabric in 2 colors;
• threads;
• a needle;
• 2 satin ribbons 60 cm long, 1 cm wide;
• felt, felt of different colors for making elements;
• hypoallergenic soft filler;
• ruler;
• scissors;
• thermal pen for drawing (can be replaced with chalk or soap);
• pins for fixation.

Step by step process

Ready-made patterns (to download, right-click and select “Save link as”):

Preliminary preparations

Preliminary preparation for work consists of selecting the necessary tools and determining the size of the future size.

Tools for work

In order to get started, the needlewoman will need to prepare the following tools:

• Textile;
• Filler;
• Threads;
• Needles;
• Scissors;
• Set of pins;
• Chalk or soap;
• Pen;
• Oilcloth;
• Sewing machine.

Deciding on the sizes

An important stage of work is determining the size of the children's accessory. The mattress must match the dimensions of the bottom of the stroller. If the item is larger than what the vehicle requires, the accessory will twist and deform, which will cause a lot of inconvenience to the little person. If it is less, the mattress will move and slide.

[MASTER CLASS] Sides with removable covers

For a standard crib with a length of 120 - 140 cm and a width of 60 - 70 cm, you will need 12 pillows: 2 pcs. in the area of ​​the legs and head, 4 on the sides.

To sew 1 side with a removable cover, prepare:

• white pillow (35*35 cm);
• a piece of plain fabric (37*37 cm);
• scissors;
• fabric for 2 ties, 50 cm long and 9 cm wide;
• zipper of a suitable size;
• printed coupon (37*37 cm);
• sewing machine;
• igloo;
• white threads.

Step by step process

Manufacturing process

Before starting work, wash the foam rubber and fabric - they must be clean. Now you need to find out the size of the future mattress. To do this, measure the bottom of your stroller, namely the length and width. This is the required size. The height of the mattress should not be large, so purchase foam rubber only a couple of centimeters thick.

Let's start cutting out the foam rubber. Draw a rectangle on it using the measurements taken from the stroller. Carefully cut out the resulting rectangle. Now we do the same procedure, but with fabric and with some additions. You need to take into account the dimensions of the stroller + the height of the foam and + 2 cm for the seams (1 on each side). Have you measured it? Then we begin to carefully cut.

In order to sew a cover on foam rubber, we fold two pieces of fabric with the right sides and sew three sides on a sewing machine so that they turn out smooth and beautiful. We can start by sweeping the product by hand. Now we turn the resulting cover inside out and insert foam rubber into it. It will be clear whether we have selected the correct size of fabric and foam. We turn the edges of the fourth side inward and secure them with tailor's pins. Now we sew the last side with a zigzag and remove the needles.

As you can see, sewing a mattress into a stroller with your own hands is not at all easy. If you want to secure the fabric even more effectively, you can stitch squares across the entire surface of the mattress. These squares will also become an additional decoration for your product. You should not decorate the mattress with additional details. Be aware that it may be uncomfortable for your baby to lie on. Therefore, if you want to make your creation special, then it is better to choose a bright, interesting fabric and your mattress will be original and beautiful.

This mattress will be comfortable to use both in summer and winter. From the outside, it is no different from a store-bought one, but how much love and care has been put into it. Any mother who wants to can sew such a miracle. Such products can be easily and conveniently washed even in a washing machine. And how much pleasure you will get from the process of creating a gift for your baby is simply beyond words.

It happens that a baby stroller needs a good mattress, because the one included is often thin and causes discomfort to the baby. This problem often accompanies transformable strollers that are popular today. To correct the situation, a caring mother will have to go through many children's stores in search of the right color and size. But there is another option - sew a mattress into a baby stroller with your own hands.

The process of creating an accessory for a baby is quite simple and will not cause unnecessary trouble. At the same time, a thing created independently will meet all the requirements of quality and convenience. Mom can easily choose the color scheme and fabric to match the child's vehicle. In addition, her skillful hands will sew a mattress from high-quality materials.

Rules for caring for sides

The sides should be looked after as carefully as other things in the children's room. Removable bumper covers (if equipped) must be washed on a delicate cycle every 5 to 7 days.

To do this, use baby detergents that do not cause allergies. It is better to give preference to powders in liquid form, the particles of which do not remain on the surface of the material.

If soft fences do not have removable covers, they should be hand washed and dried in a horizontal position so that the pillow does not lose its shape.

To smooth the fabric on such edges, you should use a steam generator or steam iron.

It is also recommended to air the products at least once a week.

Winter and summer option

For the winter option, it is better to take the coconut option; it retains heat for a long time, but at the same time has increased rigidity. The bark is usually added to orthopedic mattresses. For summer walks, batting or synthetic down is used, which easily allows air to pass through. In winter, it is necessary to pay attention to ensure that the child does not sweat from the product, otherwise there will be a high risk of getting sick. Winter models are usually difficult to wash in a machine, as they are thicker than products for warm seasons. Therefore, it is advisable to use dry cleaning services so as not to spoil the accessory.

20 photos with ideas for protective bumpers for a baby crib

We bring to your attention a photo gallery of children's crib bumpers for inspiration and ideas.

Briefly about the main thing

1. Babies need bumpers in their cribs after 2 months of birth.
2. Recommended fabric for protective bumpers: satin, flannel, flannel, calico, thick cotton.
3. Sintepon, holofiber, periotek, polyester, holkon, foam rubber, and buckwheat husks are recommended as fillers. DO NOT use fluff or cotton wool.
4. The sides should be washed and aired weekly.

As you already understand, you can sew soft bumpers for a crib yourself. The main thing is to prepare all the necessary materials and tools, strictly measure the parts according to the given values ​​and strictly follow the instructions. It is better to use bumpers with removable covers that can be easily removed and washed in the washing machine.

Practical Velcro bumper

The ties on the sides can be successfully replaced with Velcro. To do this, after cutting out the fabric for the sides, lean it against the bars of the crib and mark the places where the Velcro will be. To ensure that the Velcro holds securely, sew them first around the perimeter, and then sew the resulting rectangle also diagonally.

Velcro bumper