" A very special gift made from the heart "
A cuddle cloth has a very special meaning and function for little ones. They cuddle with it when falling asleep, soothe themselves with the cuddle cloth at home and on the go and can comfort themselves with it. That's why the little cloth for babies is not just a lovely gift - it's also useful. If you want to sew a cuddle cloth, you are also giving something very personal and can customize the gift.
Comforter for babies: why is it so practical?
The cuddle cloth is a so-called transitional object. The boundaries between it and a simple cuddle cloth are fluid. This is why the terms are often used interchangeably. Both cloths help babies to soothe themselves and, for example, to comfort themselves in the absence of their caregivers. This makes it a practical aid on the way to independence. Similar to soft toysThis is achieved on the one hand by the fact that the cloth can be kneaded, pressed and individual elements can be traced with the fingers. It also offers the baby a familiar smell.
The cuddle cloth is also practical because it is so small. It is easy for little fingers to hold and can be taken anywhere. Whether on walks or on vacation - thanks to its small size, it fits in almost any bag. What's more, real cuddly toys never pose a danger to your children. If necessary, the cuddle cloth can also be used to dry tears or absorb liquids. As simple and small as the cuddle cloths are, they offer numerous advantages.
All this makes the cuddle cloth a wonderful baby gift.
Sewing and decorating a comforter - let your creativity run wild
If you want to sew a cuddle cloth, you can be very simple or particularly creative. A simple cloth made of soft fabric is enough. However, it can also be much more colorful and varied.
Threading cords are perfect for braided ribbons or embroidery, for example. With crochet and fabric beads can be used to apply patterns, design borders or create unusual handles.
Rings made from wood or silicone are ideal for gripping and biting.
Parts of soft toys can also be used. For example, a teddy head can form the center or the top of the scarf. Arms and legs can be sewn onto the sides of the scarf.
Our tip: As popular and much loved as the little scarf will be, the risk of losing it is unfortunately high. If you want to sew a cuddle cloth, you should therefore make two or more of these unusual baby gifts. This way, you will also have a replacement when the cuddle cloth needs to be washed from time to time.
Sewing a cuddle cloth for babies: how to do it step by step
There are many ways to sew a cuddle cloth. However, the first two steps are always the same.
- Select the material: Jersey, velour, terry cloth or another soft cotton fabric are ideal. The material should always be free of harmful substances and, of course, non-toxic. Prints and colors should also be abrasion-resistant. It is also a good idea if the fabric is absorbent, as the cloth will often end up in babies' mouths when they are cuddled. A scrap of fabric is usually sufficient, so that leftovers from handicrafts, rompers that no longer fit, broken pillowcases or similar can be used.
- Prepare utensils: Fabric, scissors, thread and needle or a sewing machine are required. You should also have a ruler, tailor's chalk and an iron ready.
The simplest way to make a baby scarf requires only a few additional steps and can be done without a sewing machine:
- The fabric is cut to the desired shape and size. Oval, square or rectangular, circular or polygonal - whatever you like is fine for a cuddle cloth. However, the simpler the shape, the easier it is to make.
- The edge of the fabric is folded over twice by about one centimeter and ironed in this position and/or pinned in place. The double fold ensures a thicker edge and prevents the fabric edges from fraying.
- The edge is now sewn around in this position. The cuddly scarf is finished!
Sewing machine and accessories
Second version
This second version is particularly suitable for fabrics that are already relatively thick and cozy in a single layer. For thin fabrics, two layers should be placed on top of each other and sewn together. You can also add filling wadding or crackle foil between these layers. Another and somewhat more elaborate alternative is to add a contrasting edge to the cuddle cloth. You can also use a different fabric for this, which differs not only in pattern but also in texture from the main part of the scarf.
Proceed as follows:
- The edge fabric is folded into a triangle. The fold line is ironed to make it more stable.
- Use a ruler and tailor's chalk to draw lines parallel to the ironed fold line on the back of the fabric at intervals of around 4 to 5 centimeters.
- Now cut strips along these lines.
- Fold the strips lengthwise in the middle and iron the fold line again. Each side edge is now folded again towards the center. The folded edges are ironed again. This creates a kind of envelope.
- This envelope is now cut to fit the side lengths of the scarf and sewn to it. It is also advisable to use a separate strip for each side. This saves folding and aligning at the corners and angles.
- Finally, the corners of the individual strips are sewn together. The cuddle cloth is finished!
Tip: If you don't have the confidence to make the cuddle cloth yourself, you can of course also buy it. It can be made just as personal and individual with an embroidered name or perhaps a few added elements.
Decorated scarves as baby gifts - safety instructions
Although the cuddle cloth can be creatively decorated, it should also be safe for babies and toddlers. Whether the baby puts the cuddle cloth in its mouth, pulls on it or twists the threads a thousand times - it must always be clear that there is no danger of swallowing individual parts or risk of injury from the gift.
The following should therefore be avoided:
- sequins
- small beads
- sharp-edged elements
- Decorations made of glass or easily breakable plastic
The fabric and all other materials should also be washable at a temperature of at least 60°C. This allows the comforter for babies to be cleaned hygienically.