You can quilt, crochet, knit, or sew any of the items that make up a baby bedding set using a theme or coordinated fabrics, yarns, and colors. The basic bedding set includes: crib sheets, bumper bed, comforter/blanket, and optional items such as: pillows and crib skirt. But if you have time constraints, budget restrictions, or maybe you really just don't think you have the talent, there is an easier way to get that homemade feeling using a few simple tricks. Here are a few suggestions varying in difficulty, time requirements, and costs.
Comforter/blanket ideas:
1. Purchase yards of fleece from a fabric store, cut to the dimensions you desire, and then serge the edges to prevent unraveling or fraying. Or you could add a simple border using pre-made borders available from most fabric and craft stores.
2. You can take a gently-used baby blanket and just spice it up by adding a different border. Or you can add that "special touch" by embroidering the baby's name or a simple design. Another suggestion is to use precut fabric letters, shapes, or other decals. Many of these require simple sewing stitches to apply, but some can just be ironed on.
3. A memorable quilt can be made by using some of the family's outgrown clothes (sweaters, shirts, coats, etc). Just cut squares of any size, sew or serge edges together, press edges to lay flat, layer with a thin batting and a backing piece and sew or serge edges together. Next add a simple border then hand sew on shapes or letters using simple stitching through all layers in each square to ensure that the batting does not slip.
Crib sheet ideas:
1. Purchase knits or cottons from a fabric store, cut to the dimensions you desire, and then serge the edges to prevent unraveling or fraying. This can be used for a top and a fitted sheet. A fitted sheet will only require that you tuck under the loose ends and fasten edges under mattress with sewn on Velcro.
2. Bed sheets (twin, queen, or king size) could also be used. Just cut to size and serge edges to prevent unraveling or fraying. You could get many crib sheets for the cost of one.
Pillow ideas:
1. A memorable pillow can be made by using some of the family's outgrown clothes (sweaters, shirts, coats, etc). Just cut squares of any size, sew or serge edges together, press edges to lay flat, then pair with a backing piece (right sides together) and sew or serge three edges together. Then you just turn it right-side out, stuff with a pillow form, and slip stitch remaining side edges.
2. A towel or bed sheet makes a simple pillow project. Just fold in half, cut to size, and sew or serge two edges with wrong-sides out. Then turn right-side out, stuff with a pillow form, and slip stitch remaining edge.
These are just a few suggestions to make a quick homemade baby bedding set. The ideas are endless. Make everything homemade or combine with a few store bought items. While crafting your own ideas, however, please keep in mind the safety of the infant. The baby's safety is more important than that extra little detail. Do not use small items that may come accidentally loose like buttons or beads, and please make sure that all bedding is a tight fit with no loose edges that the child may get tangled in.
