Making your own Cloth Pads - Base + Insert Pads
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Sewing a base + Insert pad

Cut out the pattern.  You will need one pad base shape and 2 of the pocket ends per base/holder.  Or if you are going to be using straps you won't need those pocket ends.  The PUL base should go shiny side up.  If you want to make an extra layer (such as synthetic fleece) to go on top of the PUL cut one of these also and have it good side up ontop of the PUL base so that the shiny side of the PUL is covered.
 


Edge the pad base (overlock(serge), bias binding, zigzag etc.) making sure the pocket or straps are sewn down securely.  Again this step is optional, you can just sew the straps/ends on and not edge the rest of the base. Add snaps/buttons and you're done.

To make the Inserts
The most convenient insert to make is a 3 fold insert.  This is 3 times as wide as it needs to be, and is then folded into 3, to provide several layers of absorbency, but can be unfolded to dry quickly.  Measure the length of the pads once completed (Approx 25cm/10in long by 20cm/8in wide for the regular size pattern) and cut several of these.   You can combine several inserts to make up the absorbency you need, but as a guide 3 layers of flannel(flannelette) becomes 6 layers when folded and would be suitable for light to medium flow.  One layer of terry becomes 3 layers which is suitable for medium to heavy flow.  So a combination of flannel and terry inserts would be ideal.



These Cloth Pad making patterns and instructions are copyright Obsidian 2007-2008
And may not be copied or redistributed without permission