I am heading back to Africa in August. I have already been planning to teach them how to make cloth pads and cloth diapers. Two years ago I took 2 sewing machine there, and taught them how to use them, and how to make uniforms. So when I saw all these different videos on how to make home made items, I was excited. Great tutorial.
This is going to be a project for our sewing group at church to send to Haiti. We make dresses for the smaller girls but wanted something for the older girls. The missionary we work with said this is such a great need in this country. When it is their time of the month they are pretty much home bound because they have no access to anything. Thank you for teaching us to do this.
I am excited to try these for the first time. Being plus size I find the long overnight pads with wings to work best, and be most comfortable. But lately companies often "improve their products" and they're getting less efficient as they rework their ideas. Sewing my own, I can "adjust" for my needs, and get that perfect fit. P.s. who doesn't cheer when something they made still works a year later? I know I do. Thank you Whitney!
I had the same problem, the pads I used for years got "improved" but we're terrible after that. I have some overnight pads I made and use that are 14 or 15 inches long. I had to make a few versions before I got the shape and wing placement right, but they are perfect for those first few nights when I need the most coverage. I hope you love the ones you make!
I did not know you had this video until your most recent DIY items you use every day. I switched to cloth pads months ago. They are fantastic and a lot less expensive than disposables on the long run. I got mine from a local all women business. Now, I got your tutorial, and I am glad you guided me to this video! Many thanks!
I purchased a set of 8 pads from an online company and I love them. I have had them now for 5 years and they have yet to be mended! Definitely going to try my hand at making some.
I really liked your video. Very clear, enough explanations if we want to adjust to our bodies. I have been looking to make some reusable pads for my daughters. I bought mine years ago but with 3 girls in the house, I will need a lot of them.
Woo! I'm a cloth pad maker (along with other reusable eco friendly household items), and I'm so excited to see such an overwhelmingly positive comment section. ^_^ I've experienced quite a few seamstresses who turn up their nose when I mention making cloth pads and cloth diapers, and it's all from preconceived (usually incorrect) notions! The times I've gotten them to talk it out with me, 90% of the time they become curious and want more information. Knowledge is power, thanks for putting this out to your audience!
I'm also pleasantly surprised that every comment has been positive so far :) Looks like I have an awesome group of subscribers! But about the negative reactions from other places, I think people just do things the way we're told to like use disposables (and many other things in life) and anyone doing anything "different" is seen as weird. We always joke "and what about our lives made you think we were normal?!?" because Jeremiah and I don't do things the same as a lot of other people. We cloth diaper, I use cloth pads, we dress up in costumes whenever there is a reason, I'm learning how to can my own food, we love shopping second hand, etc. We hope to someday have a homestead with chickens and what not. So I figure if I'm not living life like other people I don't care what other people think about my life :)
@@Whitney_Sews I'm new around here. You sound like an amazing person. I want to be like you when I grow up. (Except that you look young enough to be one of my kids.) I've been making pads out of old clothes for years, and just came to check out your technique. (You mentioned this video in a comment on a video about a menstrual apron.) Keep living life your own way! 🤗
Sweet. I’m a cup user but I want some backup pads and I’ve got two daughters growing up and plan to start them out natural :) I’m so glad to see these things going so much more user friendly.
I had a family member ask me to make her some reusable pads and I really liked this pattern and the instructions are very easy to follow. I have purchased the materials I will need and can't wait to see how they turn out. I'm sure she will be happy with them.
Thank you very much Whitney. I am making washable pads to donate to Operation Christmas boxes.watching this video has been most helpful and encouraging.
Nice tutorial! I made something similar for incontinence. I use flannel fabric scraps I found at a yard sale. I got some cute prints which makes this utilitarian project a lot of fun! I recycled some old cloth diapers into the filler fabric.
I make my pads from reclaimed materials, bought at 2nd hand stores, or clothes my family is getting rid off. Love making all shapes and sizes.Thanks for sharing
Thank you for your patterns and video. I am going to give these a try. I have wanted to for some time and your have helped in getting me to actually do it now!
Thanks Whitney, I can’t wait to get started on my pads. I have a 13 year old granddaughter that will be needing them soon, I plan to make some for her. Thank you soooo much for the pattern!
Hello Whitney! I've made my first cloth pads 3 or 4 years ago and I love them!! sometimes I sew pads for others women and I feel very happy to do that. thank you for the patterns,I'll try them for sure.
Hey Whitney, wish that I had known about making these when I was at the age to need them, because I would have saved myself alot of money, they look really easy and much more comfortable to wear than the one's you buy, thanks again for video, it was really informative.
Yes! I'm so old I no longer need pads but I switched toy own homemade pantiliners several months back and I love them. I made them out of flannel scraps and bright snaps I had on hand from sewing for the kids and grandkids so they were free and they don't add any trash to the world.
I can't wait to start making my own. I switched over to Diva cup and have a small stash of purchased cloth pads but have wanted to make my own but didn't know where to start. This video makes tge who thing less scary and im going to make a start on making my own asap. I like the idea of tge layer of PUL for that extra reassurance. Thanks again for a great tutorial and video! Oh and for being so kind on giving us a free pattern!
I'm so glad the video helped make it less scary. The added PUL really is a fantastic reassurance! I wore one for a full day at a theme park and didn't have any issues with leaks which was wonderful! I was able to have fun with my family instead of needing to run back and forth to the bathroom all day to check on things.
This is such a helpful video, thank you for also including the pattern and all the different fabrics to use for absorbing! I've been using cups for a few years, but when I'm poledancing or stretching, they can fail and I'm left with a lot of leakage so I have to use a pad with the cup just in case.. And now that I have long nails I just want to switch to pads completely, so I'll be making a bunch!
The only regret I have regarding using cloth hygiene pads is that I did NOT learn sooner when I had my period for over 40 years!! I could have saved a ton of money if they taught us this in school! I hit menopause about 2 years ago almost now!! I love to learn new things and am enjoying learning how to sew these.
Just wanted to let you know I look forward to all your videos, and thank you so much for sharing this one. I have not used cloth pads before, but I definitely am now!
Thank you for this tutorial! Love it. I’m going to download your pattern! My daughter hasn’t started yet - but I want her to get motivated about cloth pads - I am thinking that if we make them together - and if I let her choose topper fabrics - that she will be more motivated!
Ive made my own stash. I have postpartum and a regular stash. I like to use a pretty quilters cotton for my topper. Old receiving blankets for my core and i use PUL. I use fleece for my backer because i feel like it keeps the pads from slipping around. I use snaps for closure. I have used metal but now use plastic. My wash routine is similar to yours except i stain treat with a fels naptha bar after rinsing. Great tutorial. Cloth is so easy to make and saves a ton. Ive used for 5 years and i know ive saved so much money.
Its great. I heard that shout is not good because it breaks down the PUL or id use that. I used to pour on a bit of peroxide before storing before i heard of fels naptha.
Hi. I have wanted a pattern to make these. I’m only 55 but I have a spinal injury this means I struggle with leakage. I can’t wait to be moved and settled to make my first set of these also my bear. So exciting.
Oh my gosh, I wish I had this idea back in the day-years, and years ago =) However, I can make them now for just being fresh through the day. Thank you so much it is a great tutorial and thanks for the pattern.
I followed a link somewhere on here and discovered that people are also using Zote Soap bars to clean them. Zote is really cheap and Walmart carries it. The bars are huge, compared to fels naptha. Thanks again, Whitney, you are a charm.
Ms Drea What i mean is i used to feel uncomfortable and dread my period but now i dont mind at all. Some people claim they make your periods lighter and cramp less but honestly I dont really think they can. But you'll feel 100% more comfortable! :)
I have also heard that they cause less cramps (mostly to people with a sensitivity to the chemicals in disposables). I haven't had any cramps since having my first kiddo though so no opinion one way or the other from me
So, I made my first one today using these materials. For the outer portion that has the wings, I used one layer of PUL, and 2 layers of matching flannel. For the soaker portion I used 2 layers of fleece and 2 layers of flannel. Since I only made one at a time, I did not cut out a lot. Some places I had to sew over it 2 or 3 times as there were little holes. I even zip zag stitched all around the outer edges. I have decided to use KAM snaps and just waiting to get some to complete this project for OCC. I have all year but want to sew at least 12 for the children of the world. Do you think that is a good number Whitney or should I sew more? My pastors wife is providing some of the materials and I already had some!! Thanks for the pattern and the excellent tutorial!!!!
I am so glad you made this video tutorial! I’m a cup user, but would like to make pantyliners for a little extra protection and then for just everyday usage. 😃
I love my cloth pads! I made a set about two ago, and they are still going strong! I have used both flannel and terry cloth for the absorbent layers. I have some backed with fleece, which is water resistant (read doesn’t leak through easily, but is not leak proof). Others I have hidden PUL. I also have some for lighter days that have just a flannel back ( no moisture proofing). For toppers I have flannel, cotton, and some minky. I find different toppers appeal to me at different times. For people new to cloth, I would suggest only making one or two pads to start, and wear them around. Are they comfortable? Are they the right length? Width? Do you need the crotch area narrower or wider? Pad patterns are not to difficult to modify. Make changes to your pattern if you need to. It is great to find your “Goldilocks” pattern!
That's wonderful! Great advice about making a few and testing them out! I have made 6 or 7 different patterns to see what size and shape I like best. The one I showed in the video was the very last version and the one that is my favorite by far!
I just got my second period ever, so I'm looking for alternatives that are better for the environment and more comfortable. I'm going to ask my mom if I can get a menstrual cup tomorrow, and I'll make these tomorrow aswell! I hope she says yes because pads at night are sooo uncomfortable 😞
Thank you for sharing! I've recently got into wearing cloth pads & want to introduce my daughter to it when it comes that time & I was wondering if/how I could make my own since they can be so expensive to buy.
Good idea, I will alter it as I am making some for a male friend who has a catheter and sometimes has some leakage. You could do a design for incontinent men
I used to use them but I really don’t have a use for them anymore but they do save a lot of money and are easy to clean and they definitely last for years.
I made my own about 5 years ago and i'm just getting to the point of needing to make more. I love flannel and cotton for my tops. I have Star wars and Harry Potter pads i'm a nerd like that lol. Fat quarters work great if you just want one or two pads
An idea for ladies just venturing into the world of reusable pads.........I've been using store bought cloth pads for just over a year and love them. However I have a very heavy flow and I get through quite a few in a day (meaning I either need to wash them alot or I need a huge stash) so I sewed an soft flannel booster that I can place on top of my pad? The boosters can be changed regularly,allowing me to keep the sanitary towel on for longer.
Hi whitney, your fan here from India! Can you make a video on pocket pads and their inserts? I feel like these all in one pads take a long time to dry due to their thickness... thank you for your super easy projects! ❤
I have not made any pocket pads with inserts. The pads I showed in this video are ones that I designed and tested for a year before sharing, so I wouldn't be comfortable sharing a tutorial for one that I haven't created and used first.
Well such a product I don’t need anymore as am nearly 70 now but it’s such a fabulous idea and oh how I am sorry I never did this but simply never thought of it. At least I didn’t use disposable nappies on my babies though 😊. I hope lots of ladies think this is a great idea because between ladies sanitary items and disposable nappies it is a crisis 💕
PS: I don't need the pads themselves, (I'm through with that) but I DO need them for pantyliners. I just wish I would have found these many, many years ago.
This may be a silly question, but you mentioned that after rinsing you put your pads in a separate wet bag… do you put them in there wet? Or wait for them to dry first? Thank you for the informative video
I rinse until the water is as clear as possible, but they are not clean because no soap has been used yet. So I don't want rinsed (but still not clean) pads laying around waiting to dry. I prefer to stick them in a wet bag until I can get them in the wash and thoroughly cleaned. This works for me, but feel free to try different things and do whatever works best for you.
I tried cloth pads and found they moved, slipped and bunched when I was very active. I am now using disposables again. Any suggestions on how to keep them in place?
This is just a suggestion for all of us learning how to use your patterns: in the future maybe you can talk about how to assemble the pattern. I noticed that there were 3 pieces for pattern A and I had to figure out how to assembly them from watching this video over and over again. there is also a soaker for pattern A. Just a friendly suggestion!
I made the video before finalizing the digital pattern and didn't even have a functioning printer at the time. I had hoped the information on the pattern itself would be enough info for assembling, sorry it was confusing.
Talking from s.africa.15.17. 6 years ago I. Made my own version of cloth pads then moved to a new province. There was a lady living on same property hogging the water so I explained can I wash first ad I wear cloth pads fir bladder incontinence. So she gave me a packet if disposables which was easier to use but disliked rhe odours as our refuse removable is unreliable. So I went back onto reusable cloth pads. And I find they really more comfy etc. I can't find where I can download a pattern to get right widths and found a pattern with slits on topper but it frays and looks terrible.
Thank you for this, Whitney. I hope you might clarify a confusion for me. You state that your preferred topper fabric is flannel, but in the tutorial, your colourful topper fabric (rainbow zigzag) looks to me like regular, smooth cotton, not flannel. I plan to use quilting cotton for my toppers and cotton flannel for my backers. However, maybe I have it backwards. I've done lots of reading online about various fabric options for these pads, and I didn't come across anyone else who is using flannel for the side that touches the body. I realize there is no one right way to make these, but I'm hoping you can clarify that you use flannel for the side that absorbs the liquid.
The rainbow zig zag fabric shown in this tutorial is flannel. I have flannel touching the body and quilting cotton for the backing. That's what I prefer, but do whatever you like best.
I have very large clots. If they end up on the pad instead of in the toilet I just use a bit of toilet paper to get it off and into the toilet. Works well for me.
Thank you!! I have been wanting to do this. They have changed my usual product and I could never find the right thing anyway. So, I'm making my own!! How does fabric softener affect the absorbency? Should they be line dried or can they go in the dryer with a fabric softener sheet?
Don't use fabric softener or dryer sheets. It will build up on the pads and keep them from absorbing. I use dryer balls with mine. You can definitely line dry if you have that option, it will probably help them last even longer.
Definetly interested in making these. Bladder issues. Thanks for the tutorial. Btw I am a subscriber, always look forward to my email notifying me of new content.
Thanks! My mom and I always joke because she prewashes all of her fabric as soon as she buys it and I'm lazy and forget to rewash most of the time. It's best if you can prewash before sewing the pads, but to be honest....I didn't. I just make sure to wash them before using the first time.
I was wondering if you didn't prewash if that would cause the pads to lose shape due to some fabric shrinking more than others. No problem with that? thanks.
I am heading back to Africa in August. I have already been planning to teach them how to make cloth pads and cloth diapers. Two years ago I took 2 sewing machine there, and taught them how to use them, and how to make uniforms. So when I saw all these different videos on how to make home made items, I was excited. Great tutorial.
That is so wonderful!
This is so amazing! I want to do something like this too! Bless you.
God bless you lady❤
How did it go? I'm heading out in a few months and want to organize workshops on making them
Did you actually sew them with your girls at school, or did you travel to Africa?
This is going to be a project for our sewing group at church to send to Haiti. We make dresses for the smaller girls but wanted something for the older girls. The missionary we work with said this is such a great need in this country. When it is their time of the month they are pretty much home bound because they have no access to anything. Thank you for teaching us to do this.
I am excited to try these for the first time. Being plus size I find the long overnight pads with wings to work best, and be most comfortable. But lately companies often "improve their products" and they're getting less efficient as they rework their ideas. Sewing my own, I can "adjust" for my needs, and get that perfect fit. P.s. who doesn't cheer when something they made still works a year later? I know I do. Thank you Whitney!
I had the same problem, the pads I used for years got "improved" but we're terrible after that. I have some overnight pads I made and use that are 14 or 15 inches long. I had to make a few versions before I got the shape and wing placement right, but they are perfect for those first few nights when I need the most coverage. I hope you love the ones you make!
I did not know you had this video until your most recent DIY items you use every day. I switched to cloth pads months ago. They are fantastic and a lot less expensive than disposables on the long run. I got mine from a local all women business. Now, I got your tutorial, and I am glad you guided me to this video! Many thanks!
You are so welcome! Hope you give making your own pads a try!
@@Whitney_Sews I will! The layers of fabric you propose sold me out!
I purchased a set of 8 pads from an online company and I love them. I have had them now for 5 years and they have yet to be mended! Definitely going to try my hand at making some.
I really liked your video. Very clear, enough explanations if we want to adjust to our bodies. I have been looking to make some reusable pads for my daughters. I bought mine years ago but with 3 girls in the house, I will need a lot of them.
Woo! I'm a cloth pad maker (along with other reusable eco friendly household items), and I'm so excited to see such an overwhelmingly positive comment section. ^_^ I've experienced quite a few seamstresses who turn up their nose when I mention making cloth pads and cloth diapers, and it's all from preconceived (usually incorrect) notions! The times I've gotten them to talk it out with me, 90% of the time they become curious and want more information. Knowledge is power, thanks for putting this out to your audience!
I'm also pleasantly surprised that every comment has been positive so far :) Looks like I have an awesome group of subscribers! But about the negative reactions from other places, I think people just do things the way we're told to like use disposables (and many other things in life) and anyone doing anything "different" is seen as weird. We always joke "and what about our lives made you think we were normal?!?" because Jeremiah and I don't do things the same as a lot of other people. We cloth diaper, I use cloth pads, we dress up in costumes whenever there is a reason, I'm learning how to can my own food, we love shopping second hand, etc. We hope to someday have a homestead with chickens and what not. So I figure if I'm not living life like other people I don't care what other people think about my life :)
@@Whitney_Sews I'm new around here. You sound like an amazing person. I want to be like you when I grow up. (Except that you look young enough to be one of my kids.)
I've been making pads out of old clothes for years, and just came to check out your technique. (You mentioned this video in a comment on a video about a menstrual apron.)
Keep living life your own way! 🤗
@@missnaomi613 Aww thank you! I'm so glad you came over to check out my video and left such a lovely comment!
Sweet. I’m a cup user but I want some backup pads and I’ve got two daughters growing up and plan to start them out natural :) I’m so glad to see these things going so much more user friendly.
That's awesome! I was already thinking the same things for my girls (still many years to go for them).
I had a family member ask me to make her some reusable pads and I really liked this pattern and the instructions are very easy to follow. I have purchased the materials I will need and can't wait to see how they turn out. I'm sure she will be happy with them.
Thank you very much Whitney. I am making washable pads to donate to Operation Christmas boxes.watching this video has been most helpful and encouraging.
Nice tutorial! I made something similar for incontinence. I use flannel fabric scraps I found at a yard sale. I got some cute prints which makes this utilitarian project a lot of fun! I recycled some old cloth diapers into the filler fabric.
I make my pads from reclaimed materials, bought at 2nd hand stores, or clothes my family is getting rid off. Love making all shapes and sizes.Thanks for sharing
Good idea! I do too!
Thank you for your patterns and video. I am going to give these a try. I have wanted to for some time and your have helped in getting me to actually do it now!
Thanks Whitney, I can’t wait to get started on my pads. I have a 13 year old granddaughter that will be needing them soon, I plan to make some for her. Thank you soooo much for the pattern!
Hello Whitney! I've made my first cloth pads 3 or 4 years ago and I love them!! sometimes I sew pads for others women and I feel very happy to do that. thank you for the patterns,I'll try them for sure.
That's wonderful!
Hey Whitney, wish that I had known about making these when I was at the age to need them, because I would have saved myself alot of money, they look really easy and much more comfortable to wear than the one's you buy, thanks again for video, it was really informative.
Yes! I'm so old I no longer need pads but I switched toy own homemade pantiliners several months back and I love them. I made them out of flannel scraps and bright snaps I had on hand from sewing for the kids and grandkids so they were free and they don't add any trash to the world.
Very interesting and well explained. I’m going to have a try at this for my friend who is experiencing incontinence
Just begun making them. This is a great tutorial. Thanks!
I have been using and making my own cloth pads for years now and I love the fact that I can customize them to my body and needs
Yes, I love that too!
I can't wait to start making my own. I switched over to Diva cup and have a small stash of purchased cloth pads but have wanted to make my own but didn't know where to start. This video makes tge who thing less scary and im going to make a start on making my own asap. I like the idea of tge layer of PUL for that extra reassurance.
Thanks again for a great tutorial and video! Oh and for being so kind on giving us a free pattern!
I'm so glad the video helped make it less scary. The added PUL really is a fantastic reassurance! I wore one for a full day at a theme park and didn't have any issues with leaks which was wonderful! I was able to have fun with my family instead of needing to run back and forth to the bathroom all day to check on things.
This is such a helpful video, thank you for also including the pattern and all the different fabrics to use for absorbing! I've been using cups for a few years, but when I'm poledancing or stretching, they can fail and I'm left with a lot of leakage so I have to use a pad with the cup just in case.. And now that I have long nails I just want to switch to pads completely, so I'll be making a bunch!
The only regret I have regarding using cloth hygiene pads is that I did NOT learn sooner when I had my period for over 40 years!! I could have saved a ton of money if they taught us this in school! I hit menopause about 2 years ago almost now!! I love to learn new things and am enjoying learning how to sew these.
Very good video, well explained and demonstrated. I plan on checking out your patterns and website also. Thank you for sharing!
Thank you for the free pattern. Great video you explain things really well! I love these pads!
Just wanted to let you know I look forward to all your videos, and thank you so much for sharing this one. I have not used cloth pads before, but I definitely am now!
Aww thank you! I'm so glad you like my videos :)
Thank you for this tutorial! Love it. I’m going to download your pattern! My daughter hasn’t started yet - but I want her to get motivated about cloth pads - I am thinking that if we make them together - and if I let her choose topper fabrics - that she will be more motivated!
Ive made my own stash. I have postpartum and a regular stash. I like to use a pretty quilters cotton for my topper. Old receiving blankets for my core and i use PUL. I use fleece for my backer because i feel like it keeps the pads from slipping around. I use snaps for closure. I have used metal but now use plastic. My wash routine is similar to yours except i stain treat with a fels naptha bar after rinsing. Great tutorial. Cloth is so easy to make and saves a ton. Ive used for 5 years and i know ive saved so much money.
Thanks for the fels naptha tip! I'll have to get a bar and try it out :)
Its great. I heard that shout is not good because it breaks down the PUL or id use that. I used to pour on a bit of peroxide before storing before i heard of fels naptha.
From a 60+ viewer these look wonderful! Will work wonderful for bladder leaks ! ! Great job ! !
Yep! Tons of people use them for bladder help :)
Startipper bladder leaks yes
Hi. I have wanted a pattern to make these. I’m only 55 but I have a spinal injury this means I struggle with leakage. I can’t wait to be moved and settled to make my first set of these also my bear. So exciting.
I hope you like the pattern and let me know how your pads turn out :)
I use Terry cloth for the center for absorbency. Plus I use regular buttons to fasten them. It works.
Whitney, you save so much money doing that! You are a smart lady.
Thank you!
What a fantastic idea and so ecological! A great tutorial! TFS xx
Thank you! Glad you liked the idea and video :)
I was just thinking about something like these last weekend! I am definitely adding to my project list! Thank you.
Yay! Great minds think alike ;)
I've been making these for almost a year. It's cool to see TH-camrs give tips
That's awesome!
Oh my gosh, I wish I had this idea back in the day-years, and years ago =) However, I can make them now for just being fresh through the day. Thank you so much it is a great tutorial and thanks for the pattern.
I followed a link somewhere on here and discovered that people are also using Zote Soap bars to clean them. Zote is really cheap and Walmart carries it. The bars are huge, compared to fels naptha. Thanks again, Whitney, you are a charm.
Super excited to try your patterns! I got snap pliers a few months ago for this exact project but I've haven't used them yet.
Very useful video! 🥰🥰🥰 And beautiful pads,great work
Hey! I use cloth menstrual pads! They literally changed my period so im now so comfortable and dont feel like im wearing a diaper!
Awesome! I agree...so much more comfortable, especially when it's super hot outside.
SpindelyShankz how have they changed your period? I cramp alot, do u think wearing these would help with that?
Ms Drea What i mean is i used to feel uncomfortable and dread my period but now i dont mind at all. Some people claim they make your periods lighter and cramp less but honestly I dont really think they can. But you'll feel 100% more comfortable! :)
SpindelyShankz ok, thanks! I'm gonna give them a try... it cant hurt. Plus, it would be fun just to sew them 😊😊
I have also heard that they cause less cramps (mostly to people with a sensitivity to the chemicals in disposables). I haven't had any cramps since having my first kiddo though so no opinion one way or the other from me
So, I made my first one today using these materials. For the outer portion that has the wings, I used one layer of PUL, and 2 layers of matching flannel. For the soaker portion I used 2 layers of fleece and 2 layers of flannel. Since I only made one at a time, I did not cut out a lot. Some places I had to sew over it 2 or 3 times as there were little holes. I even zip zag stitched all around the outer edges. I have decided to use KAM snaps and just waiting to get some to complete this project for OCC. I have all year but want to sew at least 12 for the children of the world. Do you think that is a good number Whitney or should I sew more? My pastors wife is providing some of the materials and I already had some!! Thanks for the pattern and the excellent tutorial!!!!
Great tutorial! love how they turned out!
Thank you so much for sharing this is very helpful I made my first 2 cloth pads so far.
Love it! 💕 so much healthier than store bought chemical filled pads and tampons. I have been using cloth pads and cups for a year now!
Yep! We must have started using them about the same time :)
I am so glad you made this video tutorial! I’m a cup user, but would like to make pantyliners for a little extra protection and then for just everyday usage. 😃
They would be perfect for backups with just a thin soaker layer. Let me know if you like them
I love using cloth pads, I use fleece fabric and PUL fabric it works great 👍🏼
Hi Whitney,
Thanks for reminding me how to make these cloth pads. I was making them a while ago using bamboo fleece. Maybe I will try zorb next time 💕
You are so welcome!
I love my cloth pads! I made a set about two ago, and they are still going strong! I have used both flannel and terry cloth for the absorbent layers. I have some backed with fleece, which is water resistant (read doesn’t leak through easily, but is not leak proof). Others I have hidden PUL. I also have some for lighter days that have just a flannel back ( no moisture proofing). For toppers I have flannel, cotton, and some minky. I find different toppers appeal to me at different times.
For people new to cloth, I would suggest only making one or two pads to start, and wear them around. Are they comfortable? Are they the right length? Width? Do you need the crotch area narrower or wider? Pad patterns are not to difficult to modify. Make changes to your pattern if you need to. It is great to find your “Goldilocks” pattern!
That's wonderful! Great advice about making a few and testing them out! I have made 6 or 7 different patterns to see what size and shape I like best. The one I showed in the video was the very last version and the one that is my favorite by far!
Thanks so much for the free download. And your tutorials are very good
Thanks you make it look so easy to make. I'm gonna get the materials and make some. 😊
Awesome! I've been thinking about making these with my scraps. I have sooo many flannel scraps. Lol. Also it's a great money saver.
Let me know how it goes! They are so perfect for scraps
I just got my second period ever, so I'm looking for alternatives that are better for the environment and more comfortable. I'm going to ask my mom if I can get a menstrual cup tomorrow, and I'll make these tomorrow aswell! I hope she says yes because pads at night are sooo uncomfortable 😞
Lps Pika Productions good on you - I hope it went well for you x
This sounds great. I spend a lot of money on pads a month.money is getting short around here.i love to have.this.pattern.
Thank you for sharing! I've recently got into wearing cloth pads & want to introduce my daughter to it when it comes that time & I was wondering if/how I could make my own since they can be so expensive to buy.
That's exactly how I got started! Wanted to try, but didn't have the money to splurge.
Whitney Sews I'll definitely be trying these out :)!
Good idea, I will alter it as I am making some for a male friend who has a catheter and sometimes has some leakage. You could do a design for incontinent men
Very interesting video . I will try when I get the materials required. Thanks
I absolutely LOVE my cloth pads!! Thanks for sharing your pattern!! I'm excited to give it a try!! CHEERS!! =D
Yay! Let me know how they turn out :)
Good to know. Your videos are wonderful and so is your smile. Thank you.
Aww thanks! 💜
I used to use them but I really don’t have a use for them anymore but they do save a lot of money and are easy to clean and they definitely last for years.
I made my own about 5 years ago and i'm just getting to the point of needing to make more. I love flannel and cotton for my tops. I have Star wars and Harry Potter pads i'm a nerd like that lol. Fat quarters work great if you just want one or two pads
Awesome! Thanks for the fat quarter tip :)
An idea for ladies just venturing into the world of reusable pads.........I've been using store bought cloth pads for just over a year and love them. However I have a very heavy flow and I get through quite a few in a day (meaning I either need to wash them alot or I need a huge stash) so I sewed an soft flannel booster that I can place on top of my pad? The boosters can be changed regularly,allowing me to keep the sanitary towel on for longer.
Hi whitney, your fan here from India! Can you make a video on pocket pads and their inserts? I feel like these all in one pads take a long time to dry due to their thickness... thank you for your super easy projects! ❤
I have not made any pocket pads with inserts. The pads I showed in this video are ones that I designed and tested for a year before sharing, so I wouldn't be comfortable sharing a tutorial for one that I haven't created and used first.
Whitney Sews That's good! I love all your videos, so easy to understand ☺
Thank you for the pattern. I wanted to make this for Days for girls, but did not under stand the written directions. Thanks for the video!
Hope this video makes it all easier for you :)
ive never made them but i totally an now....thanks for tutorial and list for product!
Let me know how they turn out :)
I hope to try making some of my own.
Well such a product I don’t need anymore as am nearly 70 now but it’s such a fabulous idea and oh how I am sorry I never did this but simply never thought of it. At least I didn’t use disposable nappies on my babies though 😊. I hope lots of ladies think this is a great idea because between ladies sanitary items and disposable nappies it is a crisis 💕
I think this is awesome idea , Thanks for sharein 😁 🌻
Thanks I will make my own now. Have been buying them but would like to be able to do them myself. Thanks again
Awesome! I hope you like the pattern :)
This is wonderful!! Thank you thank you!! I'm going to make a few this weekend
Yay! Let me know how they turn out :)
In this video I loved you so much !! , because simply , you care about the family happiness
Aww thanks! ❤
Never used one but now I'm more curious to do so
Well explained. I will try for sure
I make my own and for my backer I use a good quality fleece as its water resistant.
Love love love cloth pads paired with a sea sponge
What is a sea sponge? Great tip on the fleece, I just use the PUL so I'm not worrying all the time
Sea sponge tampons. Sponges that grow in the sea, harvested and used for a tampon.
Thank you SO much for sharing all of your wonderful tips. You are a plethora of information and are so giving to share this with us. :-)
PS: I don't need the pads themselves, (I'm through with that) but I DO need them for pantyliners. I just wish I would have found these many, many years ago.
I read that anti pill fleece is also great for a soaker and I used 2 layers and 2 layers of flannel. Is that a good combination@ Whitney Sews?
I've put "channels" in my top and soakers in cloth diapers so the soaker doesn't fold up oddly, would you need that with the sooner sized soaker?
This may be a silly question, but you mentioned that after rinsing you put your pads in a separate wet bag… do you put them in there wet? Or wait for them to dry first?
Thank you for the informative video
I rinse until the water is as clear as possible, but they are not clean because no soap has been used yet. So I don't want rinsed (but still not clean) pads laying around waiting to dry. I prefer to stick them in a wet bag until I can get them in the wash and thoroughly cleaned. This works for me, but feel free to try different things and do whatever works best for you.
I tried cloth pads and found they moved, slipped and bunched when I was very active. I am now using disposables again. Any suggestions on how to keep them in place?
But probably not for the dryer, correct? Especially the ones with that rubber lining. Great idea.
I dry them on low heat right along with cloth diapers made from the same materials.
I am going to try it. Thanks
Thank you. Just what I was looking for.
Glad I could help!
This is just a suggestion for all of us learning how to use your patterns: in the future maybe you can talk about how to assemble the pattern. I noticed that there were 3 pieces for pattern A and I had to figure out how to assembly them from watching this video over and over again. there is also a soaker for pattern A. Just a friendly suggestion!
I made the video before finalizing the digital pattern and didn't even have a functioning printer at the time. I had hoped the information on the pattern itself would be enough info for assembling, sorry it was confusing.
Can you make a pattern for extra long night time pads?
Maybe it’s just me but Pattern B did not show up in the download. Anyone else have this download.
I like the idea of making these. Where would you get the plu material from please.
You can find it at Joanns or online. Just search for PUL fabric. Usually with cloth diaper making supplies
i was wondering if you can use anti peel fleece in stead of flannel
i think this is really cool and i like how you explain things
Thank you! I'm always doing my best to explain all my projects in an easy to understand way :)
The best video so far. Simple and so inspiring
Thank you!
Talking from s.africa.15.17. 6 years ago I. Made my own version of cloth pads then moved to a new province. There was a lady living on same property hogging the water so I explained can I wash first ad I wear cloth pads fir bladder incontinence. So she gave me a packet if disposables which was easier to use but disliked rhe odours as our refuse removable is unreliable. So I went back onto reusable cloth pads. And I find they really more comfy etc. I can't find where I can download a pattern to get right widths and found a pattern with slits on topper but it frays and looks terrible.
Going to make some!
Thank you for this, Whitney. I hope you might clarify a confusion for me. You state that your preferred topper fabric is flannel, but in the tutorial, your colourful topper fabric (rainbow zigzag) looks to me like regular, smooth cotton, not flannel. I plan to use quilting cotton for my toppers and cotton flannel for my backers. However, maybe I have it backwards. I've done lots of reading online about various fabric options for these pads, and I didn't come across anyone else who is using flannel for the side that touches the body. I realize there is no one right way to make these, but I'm hoping you can clarify that you use flannel for the side that absorbs the liquid.
The rainbow zig zag fabric shown in this tutorial is flannel. I have flannel touching the body and quilting cotton for the backing. That's what I prefer, but do whatever you like best.
Making my first pad today! anyone have blood clots....and find the pads still work? thanks! fantastic video
I have very large clots. If they end up on the pad instead of in the toilet I just use a bit of toilet paper to get it off and into the toilet. Works well for me.
Thank you!! I have been wanting to do this. They have changed my usual product and I could never find the right thing anyway. So, I'm making my own!! How does fabric softener affect the absorbency? Should they be line dried or can they go in the dryer with a fabric softener sheet?
Don't use fabric softener or dryer sheets. It will build up on the pads and keep them from absorbing. I use dryer balls with mine. You can definitely line dry if you have that option, it will probably help them last even longer.
Very creative even though I’m 68 and don’t need them. But don’t the snaps/buttons hurt when you sit down?
Thanks! The snaps/buttons don't hurt; can't even feel them when sitting.
lowec315, they snap on the outside of the undergarment., under the crotch area.
No they don't:) I can even ride my bike whilst wearing a pad and I don't feel a thing ^^
Definetly interested in making these. Bladder issues. Thanks for the tutorial. Btw I am a subscriber, always look forward to my email notifying me of new content.
Awesome! Thanks for being a subscriber :)
super cute and practical. do you happen to prewash all the different fabrics before you sew them together or does it matter? thanks
Thanks! My mom and I always joke because she prewashes all of her fabric as soon as she buys it and I'm lazy and forget to rewash most of the time. It's best if you can prewash before sewing the pads, but to be honest....I didn't. I just make sure to wash them before using the first time.
I was wondering if you didn't prewash if that would cause the pads to lose shape due to some fabric shrinking more than others. No problem with that? thanks.
Victory I haven't had that problem with any of them. But if you are still concerned about it you can definitely prewash before sewing :)
I can't locate the free panty liners pattern on your website. Can you direct me to it? Thank you.
First link in the description box
I love your work 💋💋
This is so clear, I love it.
Thanks Whitney
Can pads wash and dry?how can wash and dry.because it has many cloth layers.please reply.thanks
I linked to a post in the description box with washing info