It took me a long time to find the print I wanted. Jo-Ann's had nothing good for me, but I did notice that I really liked the tree print on the shopping bags up front, so at least I knew there was a print style I really liked. Then I tried a large quilt shop. There was some cute prints, but nothing I wanted to wear around for the next 2+ years.... but I did find a remnant I liked. It was small, but enough for me to piece it on the front. Here it is, Mei Tai #2:
I also made a mini version for my daughter with the leftover fabric.
The only problem was, once Ike was born and I started using it, I found out I hated MT#2. The straps were more supportive, but annoying to put on and off quickly (which I loved about my other one). The hood was annoying to use, and didn't work well as a storage pocket either (which I also loved about my old one). The biggest annoyance was the body fabric. It was too thick and didn't have enough drape. Bleh! I went back to using the 'gold standard' until Isaac was old enough that I had time to sew again.
Here's my current new one (MT#3). No hood, but a 'proprietary' sleeping design (not shown), shorter straps that only wrap around once, and the same type of fabric I used last time. The body cut and shape and strap placement are what really makes it different then my first, and fix all the problems I had with that one. I tried to simplify for this one. I mean, that is what I like about mei tais isn't it? I bought the same print in a different colorway. Seriously, I love this mei tai!
My current awesome one! Isaac's legs are tucked in (he's around 6 weeks old). |
I think he looks manly without needing to flex :) |
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My sister's mei tai. |
So, I've officially finished developing this pattern. I'll be drafting it on the computer soon. I've decided to sell it instead of offer it for free (I know, :( ), but I did put a lot of time into the design.