Sneak peak storage bag

This little bag has boxed corners for a sturdy bottom, is fully lined and has a zipper closure. The best part, though, is that it has a little plastic window to show off what’s inside. It’s perfect for storing various toy sets with lots of pieces that you want to keep together.

Owl-shaped tag blanket

You may be wondering what a tag blanket is. It’s a blanket-like plaything for babies that utilizes soft fabrics and interesting ribbons, cords, lace and other things to stimulate babies visually and tactilely. This one is owl shaped because I was inspired by the owl fabric, but you can easily make one that’s a simple square or rectangle. Use short ribbons, long ribbons, lace, piping, cording, ric-rac — whatever you want! I braided some, twisted some, looped some, doubled some of them up. Just make it interesting however you can. Most sewers can probably find enough scrap items in their…

Car seat panniers with cargo pockets

If you have a small child in a car seat, you have probably found yourself wishing there was a way to safely store things within their reach. One thing I regret is buying one without good, solid cup holders. At least having a little bag will provide a place to slip a sippy cup within reach. These dual bags can also hold books, toys and snacks. Best of all, they can easily be removed for washing. Cargo-style pockets allow for expandable space.

Preschooler’s apron

There are many ways for a toddler to get messy and many ways a miniature apron can come in handy. My preschooler loves to help cook, though he hates to eat. Anything. Ever. This is a very simple apron pattern that is great for even a beginner. It’s reversible (although one side will have the Velcro), so feel free to use different fabrics on each side. Velcro makes putting it on easy for little ones. This apron should easily fit ages 3-5. The little boy pictured is about to turn 4.

How to make an arm sling for a toddler or preschooler

I realize that this particular tutorial won’t be of use to most people, but we’ve had a rash of bad luck the last 5 months, and I know how it feels to be in desperate need of a miniature sling and not be able to get one. Luckily, I sew and could make one. I wanted to provide a tutorial for people in that same situation. As long as you have a sewing machine, even if you’re not much of a sewer, you can handle this! So, my almost 4-year-old son has broken each of his collarbones since January. Yes,…

Turn a card table into a fun fort!

Take one of those cheap folding tables in your garage and make it into a play place for kids. This one even has windows to let in light (though, I must admit that I made them a bit large!). I’ll give you the dimensions I used and also some tips so you can calculate yours if your table is a different size. Many run from 32″-37″. Mine was 33″ square.

Simple drawstring backpack

These types of drawstring backpacks are really easy to use and lightweight. They are perfect for little kids who may be weighed down by a regular backpack. The straps also serve as the drawstrings, so the bag really can’t accidentally be left open while wearing it. Great for storing or traveling with toys!

Car seat coverup

I wish I had something like this when my son was an infant. It’s a great way to protect a tiny baby from the elements (temporarily! A kid needs airflow, after all). But this blanket won’t lie on the baby’s face or blow away from a gust of wind. The outside is a really cute and fun floral and the inside is super-soft Minky.

Toddler sewing kit

Somewhere in the wide world of the web I once saw an idea for a toddler sewing kit. I have a 3-year-old boy who is in the “I do it!” stage and wants to help me do everything, including sewing my projects for this blog. I thought, what if he can sew and also be occupied and out of my hair while I work? YES! A little kit like this is super easy and cheap to put together. I’m sure you can even come up with your own additions. Leave ideas in the comments, if you have some.

Child-size travel pillow

Have you ever watched your kid sleep in his car seat and winced at the uncomfortable position of his neck? Or maybe just took your child on a trip and wanted him to have the same comforts you do? We’re traveling soon, and I thought this would be a great time to make up a mini, child-size travel pillow. But, really, it could probably be used more on a day-to-day basis for those times when the kiddo falls asleep while you run errands. It’s a really quick-and-easy project that’s the perfect size for little guys (and gals).