Norma Ritter had some great suggestions for a very simple sling!  I've
made several slings in much the same way, but rather than knotting the
fabric, I use two rings (like purchased slings) which rest in front of
my shoulder.  The end of the fabric that comes up over my shoulder goes
first through the middle of both rings and then back through one (like
you would fasten a D-ring belt).  I adjust the fabric into a ruffle
pointing back up toward my shoulder.  The end of the fabric that the
baby sits in also goes through both rings and back through one (again
like purchased slings), with the loose end hanging down.  This is more
adjustable than a knot, and is not quite as bulky.

Fabrics with color on both sides look best (oooohh- Guatemalan cotton
prints!).  I often use as much as 2 1/2 yards (2.5 m) of fabric, and use
the long end hanging down to provide extra coverage when nursing, to
keep the sun off baby, to wipe spitup, whatever.  When unused, the extra
length tucks in with baby, or I tie it into a knot to make it shorter.
I try to use fabrics that fringe on the ends so I don't have to sew a
hem.  Eventually I can use the fabric for something else.

Metal rings are available at craft stores; plastic rings are available
from maritime supply houses (perhaps other places).  Wooden rings are
not as safe due to possible cracking.  Avoid rings that hinge open and
closed.  Choose ring diameter appropriate to the thickness and width of
your fabric (more or less 3 inches or 8 cm).

If this isn't clear, e-mail me directly.

~~ Nancy Penney
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