Meet the Team-- Jessica from Living Green Baby

Today we meet Jessica from the Etsy shop Living Green Baby. After learning more about her, check out her shop where you will find a great variety of fleece longies and soakers, bamboo baby wipes, and nursing pads.

Where did you get the name for your shop?
When we were trying to think of a name for our shop we sat down with a good old yellow note pad and started to compile words that made us think of living a greener life and Cloth Diapering. A couple scribble scrabbles later we had a simple name that defined who we were and what we believed in.

Is it big business or a hobby?
A couple Years ago I opened a little shop on Etsy (www.bullfrogboutique.etsy.com) where I made and sold little hair bows and such. Then I learned about cloth diapers and thought "I could make those!" Then I decided to list a couple and quickly found my calling. When My husband saw what was happeining he decided to step in and that was when Living Green Baby came to life. With his Business know how and My love of cloth diapering we make a pretty good Team!

Why do you like selling on Etsy?
Etsy is a wonderful site. It supports small business and Hand Made items, 2 things we love! Who wouldn't want to be a part of something like that? Etsy also gives us alot of tools and resources to help us along the way. Starting a new business can be intimidating but Etsy makes it very simple!

How long have you been sewing?
I grew up in a home where my Mother was sewing all the time, and for as long as I can remember I've been a crafty person. I really got into sewing after my husband bought me a sewing machine for Christmas 3 years ago, I used it so much I actually wore it out and had to replace it!

What is your favorite thing to make at the moment? What are you passionate about?
Right now my favorite thing to make is diapers... diapers of any kind! We're really Passionate about Cloth diapering, Breastfeeding, baby wearing and anything else that involves giving our kids (and others!) the best that we can!

What is your favorite thing in your shop at the moment? Why?Our current favorite item is our Natural Luxury Bamboo Cloth Wipes. They are sooo soft, they clean any mess that you could imagine easily, they're very gentle on any skin type, and best of all they're all natural! We have a 2 month old Son who is a very heavy wetter and we fold one in half and stick inside all of his diapers (even his prefolds!) They are so multi-functional, even People who don't cloth diaper can make use of them.


Who/What is your inspiration?
Our Primary inspiration is our 4 children. My husband works retail and has long hours so he's away from home alot. We decided to open our own small business with the hopes that someday he won't have to be away from home so much. Our other big inspiration is our love of cloth diapering and how good it is for our planet and for our children’s health. We want to spread the word and make affordable quality products so that anyone in any financial situation and enjoy the benefits.

Why is cloth diapering important to you?
We decided to give cloth diapering a try with our 3rd child. Unfortunately the thought had never even crossed our minds before then. My husband was skeptical at first, he didn't think it would work for us because I have an issue with laundry (it’s my least favorite part of being a stay-at-home mom and I can never seem to get it under control) he thought there would be no way that I would want to (or be willing to) wash dirty diapers of all things. I was hooked the very first time I snapped her pretty little pink diaper on her! My husband claimed he "didn't know how to do it" and got out of diaper changing for quite a while but was fully supportive of cloth diapering because we were no longer spending money every week on disposables and he knew the health benefits. Now he's a full on cloth diapering Dad, using Snappi's and stuffing pockets! He even helps make the diapers.

What factors are the most important to you when choosing a cloth diaper?
To us the most important factors in choosing a cloth diaper are price, function, and style. (Ok so maybe the style only really matters to me, my husband is more concerned about how much it's going to cost him and how well it’s going to work.) We've tried to incorporate all of that into our products. We try to offer a little of everything so that anyone can buy in any price range.

What is the kind of diaper you like the best at home? On the go? For travel? For budget?
At home our 2 little ones live in fitteds and fleece soakers or longies most of the time. On the go we like to use our One-size PUL covers and Bamboo inserts because its less to put in the bag, they fit both our 2 year old and 2 month old so there's no worry about bringing enough of the right sizes for each of them. For Budget we Love Prefolds and covers. Our Grandmas used them for a reason, they're easy, they work, and they're inexpensive!

What is your favorite cloth diapering memory?
My favorite cloth diaper memory was the first time we put our newborn son in one of our cloth diapers and fleece longies. He was 2 days old and we were still in the hospital, he looked so cute in them!

www.livinggreenbaby.com
www.facebook.com/onthegreenside
www.livinggreenbaby.blogspot.com

Meet the Team-- Sheila Steggall from Soft and Scrubby

Today we meet Sheila Steggall from Soft and Scrubby. After you've read all about her, check out her Etsy store to see all the great products she carries, including: Soft and Scubby wipes, basic baby wipes, nursing pads, wool diaper covers, and makeup remover pads.

How long have you had your store? I’ve had my Etsy store since Jan 2008. I sold at other venues for a couple years before that.

What cd products do you sell? Soft and Scrubby carries two styles of baby wipes, diaper inserts and wool soakers. I also carry nursing pads and facial items. I’ve been playing around with some pocket diapers, but have not yet decided to sell them.

I mainly use 100% cotton flannel. I love choosing cute prints for my products. The wipes, inserts, nursing pads and cotton rounds are all made from my own pattern.

What made you decide to start selling your items? The first Scrubby Baby wipe was created about 9 years ago when trying to find a creative use for some older flat diapers. Unfortunately, I did not get to use them and gave them to a friend who thought they were great.
A couple of years later I finally got my new baby and used and loved the scrubby wipes!

Later I found quality birdseye, sewed super cute flannel to the front and a business was formed! The Soft and Scrubby business has been busy for almost 6 years and now includes Basic Wipes, Diaper Inserts, Nursing Pads, and Wool Soakers.

A couple years ago my mom joined in and started knitting wool soakers and shorties to add to my shop.

What is the best cd advice you’ve heard?
Sample a few styles of diapers before you purchase a lifetime worth of cloth! Chances are you’ll settle into something you never thought you’d like. If I ever have another baby I’ll probably go for some quality prefolds and wool covers! I’m thinking basic, economical, and breathable!

Tell us something about your cd experience? My first cloth diapering experience was about 39 years ago! Of course I don’t remember that because I was just a baby. Disposable diapers were just becoming common and wouldn't you know to my mom’s chagrin I was allergic to them!

My first baby wore cloth out of necessity as she also developed an allergy to paper diapers. At the time I didn’t know anything about cloth diapering except that you could by Gerber prefolds in the store and a velcro cover. I was not very impressed, but had to do what I had to do.
Later I found out about all the great options in cloth diapers and by the time my fourth child was born I was truly excited about cloth! During my pregnancy I was busy sewing him quite a stash of fitted diapers and had bought some all-in-ones, Chinese prefolds and some great covers. He was cloth diapered this time by choice and not out of necessity. We even used cloth when we were camping!

I discovered wool pants around the time my son was potty training. We never got to use them over diapers but were so pleased with how well they worked at night with cotton training pants. I never again had to get up in the night to change wet sheets.

And now my oldest daughter and her husband have made the cloth choice also. When I get a sufficient stack of pocket diapers made for them I may just make some for my shop.

What makes your products stand out? I really enjoy choosing cute prints, matching the thread, and making sure everything that goes out in the mail is something that I would want to receive if I were a customer. Most of what I make, I originally made because it filled a need in

my family.

What is your favorite item to make? My favorite item to make is anything custom! I love to work with my customers to make something just for them. I’m always open to changes in size, shape, color or print. I’ve made dolly wipes, dolly dipes, facial tissues, cleaning cloths, rectangular inserts for gdiapers and even up-cycled some receiving blankets all because customers requested them. I started making make-up remover pads when a customer saw my nursing pads and wanted to know if I could make something small for using with face cleanser!

Etsy Shop: www.softandscrubby.etsy.com

Meet the Team--Michelle from LagamorphLounge

Today we meet Michelle from LagamorphLounge. After you've read all about her, check out her Etsy store to see all the great products she carries, including: flannel fitteds, hand-knit and repurposed woolies, nursing pads, fleece covers, and cloth wipes!

Where did you get the name for your shop? Well, I have a serious love of rabbits. I ran a rabbit rescue in Alaska for a few years until a change in my personal life put an end to that. Lagamorph is the scientific name for rabbit so it only made sense to go with it. I currently have 2 pet rabbits, Emmit & Raindrop.

Is it a business or a hobby? It was strictly a hobby for a number of years, then kind of slowly progressed into a hobby/business hybrid. I think I'm still a long way off from being a full on business, but who knows where 2012 will lead me.

How long have you been sewing? I have been really sewing since I was 18, when I got my first sewing machine. It just took off from there. I'm now 27 and am the proud owner of 7 sewing machines, including that very first one which I now use to teach 3 of my 4 kids how to sew. Baby #4 will be learning too once he's a little older. I learned to knit when I was still pregnant with him and that was the summer of 2010. It's become one of my favorite things to do.

What is your favorite thing in your shop at the moment? Why? I love my Maple Leaf Wool soaker so much. It was hard to list it. It's entirely too small for any of my kids so keeping it for myself would have been kind of silly. I love the rich warm fall colors and the way it reminds me what my homestate looks like in fall. I'm from New York but have lived in Alaska for the past 6 years and there is virtually no fall here. We go from a short summer, to a sadly short fall and then into a really long winter.

Why is cloth diapering important to you? It's important for so many reasons. We are a family of 6 living on my husband's ever changing commission based income so knowing that I never have to run out and buy diapers with money we really don't have takes a huge stress off my shoulders. Knowing that what I am putting on my little one's bums is safe and for them and the environment is so important. I know exactly what is touching their skin, no mystery there.

What kind of diaper do you like best at home? On the go? For travel? For budget? It's the same answer across the board....a fitted with wool longies, shorties, or a soaker on top. You can't go wrong with that combo! I have tried so many types and always seem to come back to these! I do really like fleece covers too, but can't handle pockets. I know some families love them to pieces, but I've found they just aren't for me.

Favorite CD shop on Etsy? I love Bundlesofjoy. She's a fellow
Alaskan and has such beautiful items! Now that the holidays are over I'll be
making a purchase or two :)

Etsy Shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/LagamorphLounge

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Lagamorph-Lounge-Handmade-Fabric-Goods-Custom-Sewing/296047370412584

Meet the Team-- Theressa from Tiger Tooshies

Today we meet Theressa from Tiger Tooshies! After reading all about her own cloth diapering experience and her business, take a moment to check out her Etsy shop and let her know which of her many great products you love!

Where did you get the name for your shop?
My shop Name came from a Nick name, I got as a Child, Tiger so it was only
natural to use it and add Tooshies at the end.

Is it big business or a hobby? Right now it is a Hobby that I hope to turn to a business one day.

Why do you like selling on Etsy? I like selling on Etsy because of the ease of setting up and listing your homemade goods and it a worldwide site where your diapers could be sold anywhere in the world.

How long have you been sewing? I started to sew in high school but gave it up for years. When my Girls were young they went into dance and skating that is when I decided to start to sew again. I loved designing and creating their dance and skating outfits for competitions, I have been sewing again for about 12 years.

What are you passionate about? Right now I am passionate about making diapers from a new pattern made from almost all natural fabrics, cottons, hemp and bamboo.

What is your favorite item in your shop? My most Favorite thing in my shop right now is my Oh, Chickens diaper ...I like chickens ... it is fun and bright and just a happy Chicken and egg diaper.

What is your inspiration? I have a few things that inspire me, One I love seeing the handmade stuff I create and I also love that something I created is a benefit my daughter and the environment.

Why is cloth diapering important to you? In the small rural community I live in we have to look after getting our own garbage to the dump, after seeing the garbage that was leaving our house from just diapers and seeing the dumpsters at the dump and all the diapers in the dumpsters. You can not help but think what are we doing! and how long it will take for those diapers to disappear ?

What factors are the most important to you when choosing a cloth diaper? I think the most important thing is my baby and what is close to her skin and is she comfortable? I look for a trim diaper that is absorbent, soft and made with natural fibers.

What is the kind of diaper you like the best at home? At home I usually use the ones I make all thought I have a few BG and Sweet Peas that I like. On the go? When I go out I usually take my Sweet Peas and the new AIOs I make as they hold better .. Once the new AIO lasted a 5-hour shopping trip ... For travel? And when we travel (red face) we use disposables.

Favorite CD shop on Etsy? Annie Matheson - Allen, Dick and Jane diapers, I have one of hers and love it!

What is your least favorite cloth diapering memory? ... Well just when things get real yucky ... that is all I want to remember (or perhaps forget?--author's note) about that ! :)

Facebook : www.facebook.com/pages/Tiger-Tooshies/213208772096039?sk=wall
etsy: www.etsy.com/shop/TigerTooshies?ref=si_shop

Fleece Longies from Kissing Bunnies Cloth

I recently talked with Michelle of Kissing Bunnies Cloth.  I was really interested to know about using fleece for diaper covers, etc.  She makes some really cute fleece longies as well as diapers and other items in her Etsy shop.  She first started using fleece as she has a wool/lanolin allergy.  It works and is waterproof because it is made from polyester, the weave is so tight that it is both waterproof and breathable. The pattern she uses  is from  Christine Stevens, another etsy mom.  Michelle says, "  I really like her longie pattern because it is slim on the legs and still allows the child to wear a cloth diaper or none at all."  After trying many types of diapers and doing some embroidery (so much that her machine died!), Michelle discovered fleece longies, she says they make fantastic all day pants, or overnight pants.  

Michelle has been sewing for a long time, and started sewing diapers when her little man was about 4 months old.  A back injury has kept her from doing many things that she used to, so sewing has become her way of keeping busy while staying at home with her children.  I like how she puts it, "I sew almost everyday, it is kinda like my zen. Keeps me calm and rational with my back issue and my lack of movement.  My body may be much quieter than it once was but my heart will just not let me stop. Got to keep busy somehow! This is my solution."

Michelle now sells exclusively on Etsy and at craft fairs. I asked her what she loves about selling her creations,

she replied, "I love that people buy my items. I really love that people sometimes find me and come back to see what else I have made. I love being able to stay home with my little man and keep him out of daycare, and still supplement my fabric stash. " 

 Please check out her fleece longies, wrap diapers and all her different creations in her Etsy shop Kissing Bunnies.   

Meet the Team

Where did you get the name for your shop?

Sweet Bobbins is made up of 3 main people, husband and wife team Michael, Angela and our cousin, Rene.

Sweet Bobbins is actually a funny name. My niece, who was living with us at the time, saw a little boy getting a spanking in a parking lot. She asked me what was going on. I said the little boy must have been very naughty to get a spanking in a parking lot. She looked up at me with her giant brown eyes and said with all the sweetness a 3 year old can muster in the midst of fear, "Oh Auntie, please don't spank my Sweet Bobbin!!"

I'd been looking for a shop name and while relaying the story to Grandma, I thought – Oh, perfect! Sweet Bobbins! It’s a great reference to sewing and it’s a family story- we all still laugh about it to this day!

Is it big business or a hobby?

These days, it’s becoming a big business. We just hit our 1800th sale on Etsy this week. We have a few local moms that help Angela out with cutting and organizing. We are currently in 10 boutiques in 4 countries! We are still running out of our homes, mainly Michael and Angela’s house in the Seattle area, with Rene making nursing covers and diaper pail liners in South Carolina in her guestroom.

This week Sweet Bobbins Cloth Wipes were nominated for Cloth Diaper Accessory of 2011 by Padded Tush Stats. As a WHAM, it’s an honor to compete with some top national brands.

Sweet Bobbins started out with $40 and a serger. I was a new stay at home Mom, bored out of my mind with an almost 2 year old. I had just left an office job and found my hands WAY too empty. My daughter was able to self play, which meant I was able to play too! I bought a serger for a few hundred dollars from a friend, and started serging. I found it relaxing and started aking wipes for our own use. It didn't take long to start selling them. We simply reinvested what we earned and here we are today.

Why do you like selling on Etsy?

I love Etsy.com for the unique variety of goods sold. A favorite feature of Etsy includes the ability for customers to request custom items from sellers. We are lovers of custom items! It’s a great marketplace and we are surrounded by people who LOVE to create!

How long have you been sewing?

I was always around sewing growing up, but always refused to sew. Then, one day, a nephew was born into the family and I wanted to make something. That was about 7 years ago. I started out quilting. When my own daughter was born, I really began sewing with a friend. It was a time for me to relax on the weekends, unwind from work and make cute things for my baby girl. I pretty much taught myself how to sew via youtube.com. I still refer to youtube.com for sewing advice to this day.

What is your favorite thing to make at the moment?

I love making Sweet Bobbins Cloth Wipes. Sometimes I just get "an urge to serge" so I pick up a stack of “blanks” and start serging away. It's incredibly relaxing to me. I love that sewing is measurable work. At the end of the day, you can look back and say, "WOW, I made all of this!"


What are you passionate about?

I love day trips. I pour all of myself into Sweet Bobbins, family and volunteering. Sadly, that is as deep as my current passion travels: down winding roads, past mountain streams and cascading waterfalls, over one lane wooden suspension bridges and into private vineyards. I love Washington State and I plan to see every square inch of it, and to taste every local wine, coffee, cheese and ice cream that I can find on my iPhone aps. Oh, and I really love coffee.

What is your favorite thing in your shop at the moment?

Our XL Hanging Wet Bags are my favorite item in the shop at the moment. For the mom not wanting to use a diaper pail, this is another option. It just hangs from a door knob or hook and is incredibly cute! These XL wet bags started out as a custom item. And we still offer them as custom items today! These are great for vacations, nurseries, sports gear, beach totes, hospital stays, and so much more! And they are seam sealed, which is a pro to any wet bag! Practical meets cute in this product!

Who is your inspiration?

Several people have inspired me. My Aunt Aline, who is also Rene’s mother, made custom wedding gowns when I was young. I used to sit in her sewing room looking at all the lovely lace trimmings and trying on Crinoline petticoats. Aline and Rene always amazed me with their creations. My Great Grandmother, Mamie was also a knitter and seamstress extraordinaire. In the 1940’s, she worked at Nelson’s knitting Factory making red heel stockings and sock monkeys. I inherited her knitting needles, buttons, and crochet hooks a few years ago. Today at Sweet Bobbins Seattle, the most important, beloved and indispensible tool we have is Great Grandma’s crochet hook.


Why is cloth diapering important to you?

We toyed with the idea of cloth diapering with our daughter. We tried it, but weren’t convinced. Then we did some simple math. When she was 6 months old, we switched to cloth and NEVER went back! We used one size pocket diapers just for the savings for a longer fit.
For us, cloth diapering meant saving money on diapers and the trash bill. Our water bill NEVER went up from the additional 2 loads per week. We saw cloth diapering as a win-win situation. It helped our environment, our finances and our daughter’s skin. It also is what started Sweet Bobbins. I don’t have many friends who cloth diaper, but they always say, “Wow! Had I known there were products like these, I would have considered it more!” Cute, modern products and an increase in education are bringing Cloth Diapering into the mainstream again. And we are excited to be part of that!

By: Angela Inman, Sweet Bobbins

Etsy Shop: http://www.%20sweetbobbins.etsy.com/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/SweetBobbins

Blog: http://www.sweetbobbins.com/

Instagram: Sweet Bobbins

Twitter: @Sweetbobbins

Meet the Team--Emilie from GotEmCovered

After reading what Emilie has to say about her shop and cloth diapering visit her Etsy shop to see her quality hand-crocheted wool diaper covers.

Where did you get the name for your shop?

I mostly make and sell cloth diaper covers and based on the idea that whatever your need, whether it is diaper covers, feminine cloth, or any other handmade items that I have it covered.

Is it big business or a hobby?

My craft started as a hobby to make one of a kind, custom fit diaper covers and items for my children and family, I found myself enjoying it so much that I wanted to continue crafting and sharing with others. Although it is a source of income, it is still a hobby for me. I put the same care and attention to every piece in my store as I would a gift for a family member.

Why do you like selling on Etsy?

I enjoy selling on Etsy because it is a community of craftspeople creating and sharing handcrafted goods.

How long have you been sewing and crocheting?

I learned the basics of both sewing and crocheting at an early age from my grandmother. But it was not until I later had my first son (5 years ago) that I really started doing both on a regular basis. Since then I have honed my skills and learned many new techniques. I really enjoy creating new sewing and crochet patterns to meet the needs of my family and clients.

What is your favorite thing to make at the moment?

I have currently learned a new technique to add designs onto my wool covers and I am really enjoying creating different themes and trying new ideas.

What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about self/personal expression. I feel that everyone should feel the freedom of self through art, craft, music, personal belief or appearance. I believe everyone has a creative outlet and should feel open to the ability to share it with others

What is your favorite thing in your shop at the moment?

My favorite items in my shop currently is the one size wool snapping tester covers. They are made with the tunisian/afghan crochet stitch which mimics the look of a knit item, but has the density of a crochet item. this stitch has sometimes been referred to as 'bullet-proof" when it comes to wool diaper covers. I originally learned this technique specifically as a solution for my own sons night-time diapering. Since then I have been working and testing numerous designs to make a great fitting covers for a wide range of babies and toddlers. The current design is the result of years of work. It is a 2 part system that allows the rise to be adjusted, snaps along the waist for adjustment, and a contoured backside and thigh for a better fit. I still have these at a reduced price and offer a refund incentive for feedback given in the form an online survey. Although this design has proven to have a great fit and performance, I still appreciate more feedback to ensure that it is the best for my clients. I know that wool covers are an investment and I wanted to find way to make sure that it would be usable for the long term and for every unique child.

Who is your inspiration?

My grandmother is my inspiration. I remember as a child I was sure that she could make that my heart desired or fix anything that may have broken. She was a loving, caring, and generous woman to anyone she met.

Why is cloth diapering important to you?

Cloth diapering is important to me because of so many reasons, but name just a few: it is healthy and comfortable for your baby (any woman who uses disposable feminine pads may be able understand the discomfort a disposable could potentially bring), it is good for the environment, and it is good for the budget - I could not imagine having to pay the large and ongoing expense of disposable diapers especially in the tough time many are facing . I have learned inexpensive ways of cloth diapering and even took the flats hand washing challenge to support the idea of inexpensive cloth diapering. I am more than happy to help anyone get started or just answer questions in a pressure free, non judgemental environment. please feel free to contact me!

Etsy Shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/GotEmCovered?ref=pr_shop_more

Facebook/web Address: www.facebook.com/GotEmCovered

Meet the Team--Meet Johanne from Mamajodiapersandpads

Today we hear what Johanne shares about cloth diapering and her experience as a cloth diapering and work-at-home-mom. Her Etsy shop, Mamajodiapersandpads, is filled with all kinds of great products made from North American milled fabrics including: pocket diapers, fitteds, inserts, wipes, menstrual pads, and nursing pads. Don't forget to check out her shop after reading this!

Where did you get the name for your shop?
I came up with my name because close friends and family have always called me Jo (JoJo en francais). I wanted something that represented me and my momminess!

Is it big business or a hobby?
Although I am on mat leave currently, and will be returning to work full time (sniff sniff) I would say it is a business. I dont want to give it up when I go back. But I am so passionate about it, and enjoy it so much, it feels like more of a hobby to me.

Why do you like selling on Etsy?
The MaMas. I have "met" the most wonderful group of ladies here, like nowhere else. I feel very blessed to work for them.

How long have you been sewing?
I have always been crafty and making things, but I have been sewing dipes for two years now.

What is your favorite thing to make at the moment?
I love making everything that is my shop so that is a hard hard question. Although my dipes take a long time to make, I get great satisfaction in making each and every one. I always wonder what little bum will be in there. Lately, I am also really loving making breast pads for Mamas- because they deserve some goodies too!

What are you passionate about?
Cloth diapering and North American milled fabrics and products (buying local).

What is your favorite thing in your shop at the moment?
My new Jean diaper. I love it love it love it- is is sooo cool. Also my flames diaper, which for some reason, nobody buys???

Who is your inspiration?
My children. They were both cloth diapered and being frustrated with what was on the market , I developed my own. And my Dad. He was forced out of business due to manufacturing of fabrics in China and as you will see in my profile, that is the foundation of my business.

Why is cloth diapering important to you?
For the planet- absolutely. We are a very green family and wish more people were. And for baby's health: In 1955, 100% of American babies wore COTTON DIAPERS, 0% wore DISPOSABLES, and 7.1% experienced DIAPER RASH. In 1991, 10% of American babies wore COTTON DIAPERS, 90% wore DISPOSABLES, and 78% experienced DIAPER RASH.
SOURCES:
JOURNAL OF PEDIATRICS 1959, Vol 54 pp. 793-800 “Relationship of Peri-Anal Dermititis to Fecel pH” by Drs. Tamio, Steiner, Benjamin
CLINICAL PEDRIATRICS May 1991, Vol 30 Department of Internal Medicine & Pedriatrics, Loyola University Medical Ctr. “Newborn Chemical Exposure from over-the-counter Skin-Care Products” by Drs. Cetta, Lambert, & Ross

What factors are the most important to you when choosing a cloth diaper?
For me it is about choosing the very very best fabrics out there for baby and- ALL made in North America. Even my thread is made here. The only thing in my diaper that is not manufactured here are the snaps (the best are from overseas unfortunately) and my elastics- but I may have found a North American elastic that will work for us.

What is the kind of diaper you like the best at home?
My own MaMaJo one size PUL diaper. But now that I am potty training Rafi, I like to take two pair of absorbent underwear, one bigger, one smaller, put them one inside the other, and he can wear those around the house. They are super comfy and semi absorbent. I am working hard to try to make a lightweight absorbent and soft trainer-no success yet;.
On the go? For travel? - any good cloth diaper will do!
For budget? For budget, many people like flats or prefolds- they were not my first choice by any means but still a good option.

Do you have a favorite CD shop on Etsy?
Someday Sara - for her gorgeous wool longies. Both my children (and husband ) are allergic to wool so we had to forego my favourite combo of bamboo fitted dipes and wool longies- sniff sniff.

What is your favorite or least favorite cloth diapering memory?
Oh my Gosh. The first time I used an eco soap, I did not realise how harsh they are and used a regular amount on Maiya's diapers. When I took her diaper off, it was like a severe sunburn all over. I was just mortified. My favourite: making my very first cloth diaper for Rafi - I still have it and will always keep it. It is pretty lopsided- but gorgeous because it sent me on this wonderful wonderful journey of being a WAHM on etsy.

Etsy Shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/MamaJodiapersandpads?ref=seller_info

Review and Giveaway of Boulevard Designs

Shop – Boulevard Designs
Twitter - @wallypop
Facebook - Wallypop and Boulevard Designs
Blog - wallypop.wordpress.com

Getting to know Sarah from Boulevard Designs:

How did you get started on Etsy? I had had my regular store, Wallypop, for several years when I started noticing more and more of the bloggers that I follow had opened shops on Etsy, and when I went to check it out, it seemed like something fun to try out. That was almost five years ago!

What makes your products unique? Most of my customers report that the fit of Wallypop/Boulevard Designs diapers is just amazing, which is always nice to hear. I also offer a fairly wide assortment of different things, from cloth diapers to upcycled baby shoes, to soap made with milk from my goat, Ginger.

Do you also sell your products locally in your community (craft fairs, consignment stores, etc)? Though I don't participate in craft fairs as much right now as I have in the past, my local sales are really strong, mostly through word of mouth. I have a small "store" in my office and see people by appointment if they want to come browse, or folks can shop online and come pick up their items when it's convenient.

What would somebody who is totally new to cloth diapering need to know about your product(s)? My products are sized for the best fit, and I typically use Touchtape closures. Touchtape is so strong and long-lasting, it's a much better product than what's used on mass-produced diapers. Don't be afraid of hook and loop tape just because you've had a bad experience with major brand diapers!

What advice would you give to people just starting out with cloth? Cloth diapers should not leak. Cloth diapers that do leak are having a problem which can usually be solved through answering a few simple

questions. Also, washing once a week is too infrequent. Every 2-3 days will keep stink down and help make sure your diapers last for years.

What is your inspiration or passion behind the type of product you make? I try to make diapers that are affordable to single income families, made from really sturdy materials, and easy to use. For the non-diapering products I offer, I really just look for other fun things I can make out of the materials I have on hand. After sewing diapers for 8 years, it's fun to take some time to sew up some adorable shoes, or to tie dye headscarves.

What is your favorite item you sell? I don't have any listed right now, but I love the geeky soaps I make. I get to share our awesome raw, organic goat milk with others (I'm not allowed to sell the milk for consumption), I get to share some other local ingredients like honey from a producer down the road, and I get to spread the geeky love. The baby shoes are another favorite for me. They're so unnecessary. Baby shoes are really kind of ridiculous when you think of it. But they're so adorable.

Giveaway Details

Sarah will be giving away a fleece cover of the winner's choice from either her Etsy store or her other store (which has more selection) www.wallypop.net

2 Required entries:

-Follow this blog, etsyclothdiapers.blogspot.com, via Google friend connect. If you are already a follower, just leave a comment saying you already follow. Otherwise, leave a comment saying you are a new follower.
-Visit Boulevard Designs' shop; come back here and leave a comment about your favorite item.

Additional optional entries (leave a separate comment for EACH of the following that apply)(be sure that you are signed in or leave a way to contact you in each comment):
- Like Boulevard Designs on Facebook
- Like the Etsy Cloth Diaper team on Facebook
- Follow the Etsy Cloth Diaper team on Twitter

- Tweet about the giveaway (limit one per day) - be sure to use @etsyclothdiaper in your tweet

-Post about the giveaway on your own blog.

Giveaway closes at 11:59pm EST on October 26th.

Winner will be announced on this blog on Thursday Oct. 27th.

A random blog comment number will be selected using random.org. You MUST comment on this blog post to be entered, and have contact info in your profile. Each entry entry must be its own comment. If you combine entries into one comment, it will only count as one entry. Winning entries will be validated, and you MUST do the required entry to have any additional entries be valid. Thank you for entering!

Meet the Team: Vilate from Nifty Nook

Today we will meet Vilate from Nifty Nappy Cloth Diapers. She has been selling on Etsy for 4 years. Her etsy shop is Vilate's Nifty Nook.

Vilate started cloth diapering to save money and started off sewing fitted cloth diapers for her two little girls. When her boy came along, she met another mom who used pocket diapers and fell in love with them. Vilate thought they would be cheaper to make them herself so she did!



Vilate makes make fitteds, AI2’s, swim diapers, trainers, Woolie Wraps, newborn diapers, and new born woolies. "It's been a fun adventure," says Vilate, describing her sewing experience. She experimented with different fabrics and patterns before sticking with a wool cover. She's also a big fan of organic fabrics like hemp and bamboo. Her hubby prefers front-snapping diapers so this is what she stuck with. Vilate's favourites include her fitteds and her woolie wraps.



The best cloth diapering advice Vilate received was to use tea tree oil in her diaper wash and to sun the diapers. Clean smelling diaper every time!



After making the perfect diaper and cover combination for her own children, Vilate felt she could offer these to other families. She began selling on Etsy and eventually created her own website. Vilate loves what she does: " I love the interaction I have with other mothers. I love that I can help them determine what is best for their families and live a greener lifestyle. If you think I can help you please feel free to ask any questions. I love to talk fluff and I would love to help you get started."

Review of Kailyn, the creator of Spotty Dog Crochet on Etsy

Recently I got to talk to a very special mom named Kailyn. Kailyn is the creative director behind Spotty Dog Crochet on Etsy. She is a valuable member of the Etsy Cloth Diaper team. Kailyn's main craft is crochet. She makes beautiful items. Go take a look at her shop. http://www.etsy.com/shop/kaimedeiros

Here is a couple pictures I borrowed from Kailyn to show case her art!

A beautiful red and blue set of wool Longies, I just want to eat them up. They are so cool looking!

and a sweet ruffled wool soaker, perfect for that princess in your life!

So now I am on to the questions, here are a couple of the questions I asked Kailyn and her perfect responses! Take a look at her shop when you are done, you will have your mind blown on how cool her art is.

How did you get started on Etsy?
I had some friends who were using Etsy, mostly as buyers, and they suggested I check it out. I started selling on Etsy but it took me a couple years to start really getting the hang of it. Now, I am working for a temp agency and focusing almost entirely on my shop / craft fairs.

What makes your products unique?
Almost all of my items are my own patterns that I have worked hard to design. Also, I strongly encourage my buyers to customize their orders with me. I love to make items that have been "designed" by the customer.

Do you also sell your products locally in your community (craft fairs, consignment stores, etc)?
I just started selling at craft fairs. My first one was small but I managed a few sales. My second one is coming up in November and it should be much larger. I am enjoying getting started on craft fairs, its a great way to connect with potential customers.
What would somebody who is totally new to cloth diapering need to know about your product(s)?
The products that I make for cloth diapers are wool soakers and wool longies (pants). I started making these for family members (they asked me to try it out) and they have become my biggest selling items. Wool is an amazing fiber that is absorbent, dries quickly and has anti-bacterial qualities.

What is your inspiration or passion behind the type of product you make?
Because I make my own patterns, each of my items becomes a piece of me. I love to try new things and am constantly mixing things up, just to see how it comes out.
What is your favorite item you sell?
My favorite item to sell is my Wool Soaker. They are fun to make and can be made in so many color combinations and styles. Recently I made one with a little skirt around it and I just got an order for one with little ruffles across the back that I can't wait to start on.
Why choose your product?
Choose my product because it is 100% customizable. You can choose the colors, the type of yarn, the style, everything! I love making new things and am happy to try whatever ideas you have. I take my work very seriously, and can get the majority of my orders out within a week.

Don't forget to look at Kailyn's shop and possibly buy something. http://www.etsy.com/shop/kaimedeiros?ref=seller_info

Meet the Etsy Cloth Diaper Team: Candice from Wee Essentials

Candice has been selling on Etsy for a little over 3 years, at Wee Essentials. Candice first started selling soap at craft shows and needed something to do with the extra soap that was left over. "I had heard of soap bits and decided to make some. I decided to put them on Etsy to 'fill up' my store - only to find out they were very popular! I tweaked my recipe until I found what I think are the perfect recipe for wipe solution cubes."



There is a wide variety of cloth diapering products at Candice's store: Wee Essentials, including wipe solution cubes, cloth wipes, wet bags and cloth diapers. Candice uses PUL as a waterproof material but almost all her other materials are from natural sources - including cotton and bamboo. "It's important to me that my products not only be reusable and eco-friendly, but that they are the highest quality possible, so the fabrics I choose allow me to create the best value in a product."

Candice started cloth diapering when her oldest was 18 months. She has since cloth diapered her second and now third child, who is still in diapers. Originally encouraged by financial reasons, Candice tries to live simply and thoughtfully and finds cloth diapering a perfect fit for her lifestyle.



Candice's cloth diapering advice for newbies is to try out many different styles and brands of cloth diapers before investing in one. "If your cloth diapers don't work for you child, you won't want to stick with it. Find a brand or two that works well and stock up on those. Better yet, find a brand or two from small businesses run by work-at-home moms! When you can put any diaper in your stash on your child and feel happy about it, they call that 'diaper nirvana'!"

Meet the Etsy Cloth Diaper Team: Kelly from Lil' Stuff

This week we'll meet Kelly, from Lil' Stuff. Kelly has been selling on Etsy for about one year. Kelly first started out knitting baby items as gifts. People suggested she sell her creations and once her daughter-in-law got into cloth diapering, she switched to offering those items. Her store: www.kellylulu.Etsy.com offers a wide variety of cloth diapering items including wet bags, diaper pail liners, cloth wipes and swim dipes. Kelly sews out of her home and enjoys a sunny view of the birds as she works.

Kelly has hung inspiration bulletin boards around her workspace to help inspire her and provide motivation while she works. Her major inspiration, though, is her granddaughter, Fable Rose.





Kelly cloth diapered her own children for economical reasons, because it is better for babies' skin and because it is less wasteful. Kelly shares this piece of advice for cloth diaper users: always do a cold water rinse before your wash cycle, as it allows the stains to rinse out before setting in the hot water.

Kelly recently designed a new wet bag that she calls her gramma go bag. It combines wipes, wet bag, and a pocket for your wallet, etc all into one bag with a strap! She has designed all of her own bags.

This past summer, Kelly introduced a new cloth diaper swim suit. Using her granddaughter as a model, Kelly designed a swim suit with a cloth diaper bottom and matching top. "I was rather pleased with my final design, and will make them again next summer," said Kelly.

"I just would like to say that it is a blast selling on Etsy, and also at the few craft fairs I have done. I love talking to young moms with a passion for cloth diapering and natural child rearing etc, I was really surprised at how many moms actually stopped and talked and made a purchase at our booth the last fair we did...and as I have said before, I am amazed at all the moms who sew on Etsy, you deserve a special award, I could have never done that amount of sewing when I had kids at home, let alone kids still in diapers..."