travel changing mat pattern

How to Make a Travel Changing Pad

Hi everyone – this is Brittany from Sew Very Lovely . Today I am bringing you an easy, do it yourself, baby project for a special mom to be in your life.

My sewing journey is tied with my journey into motherhood. After years of light dabbling with my sewing machine, I really dove straight into the craft when my oldest was born. It brought so much joy to learn and experiment with makes just for him. Since I was still rather new to sewing, I made a lot of mental notes about products that I would like to be able to customize in the future.

One of the products that I knew I wanted to create myself was a portable diaper changer. My oldest was consistently in the upper 80th to mid 90th percentile and quickly became too long for his changer. It was also handwash only and a bit on the expensive side. I knew that I could create a diaper changer that would be able to suit my needs, and, in that space, this tutorial was born.

Sew a Travel Changing Pad

A quick note before we get started! This tutorial serves as a foundation and is easy to customize. Feel free to play and experiment with the size, adding batting, adding a button loop instead of a satchel tie, etc. There are so many ways that you truly make this DIY baby project your own!

Materials to Sew a Travel Changing Pad

• One towel (I used a towel from Target’s Room Essentials line)
• Fabric backing (one yard)
• Quilting ruler
• Rotary cutter
• Cutting mat
• Water-soluble pen
• Coordinating thread
• BERNINA 590 E

Steps to Sew a Travel Changing Pad

Arrange the fabric on your cutting mat and cut a 28×20 rectangle. Do the same for the towel or toweling.

Once you’ve cut your front and back to size, take the right side of the fabric backing and begin marking 1″ diagonal lines from corner to corner. Begin in the bottom left corner.

After you’ve marked your diagonal lines, place the backing on top of the wrong side of the towel piece. Pin in place. Then start topstitching down the lines beginning from the center and moving out to one corner. Repeat on the other side.

After topstitching the first set of diagonal lines, mark the next set of 1″ diagonal lines. Begin in the bottom right corner. This will create 1″ square boxes.

Topstitch the next set of lines.

Return the diaper changer to the cutting mat and even out the sides of the changer by trimming with the rotary cutter.

Measure the outside of your diaper changer for the binding and cut 1.5″ strips. Iron the strips in half with the wrong sides facing.

Cut a 1×27″ strip of fabric, iron in half right sides together, and sew with 1/2″ seam allowance leaving an opening at the top to turn right side out. Turn right side out and iron.

Place the strip in the center on the top of the diaper changer. The long side of the strip should face the diaper changer so it doesn’t get caught while binding.

Bind the diaper changer.

Remove the water-soluble pen. I like to toss mine in the wash on delicate.

Iron and then fold. To fold like a satchel, fold in thirds vertically and then fold the top slightly more than half. Wrap the tie and knot in the front.

And voila! Now you’ve completed your very own DIY baby project. I hope that you’ve all enjoyed this tutorial and has encouraged you to start sewing your own DIY travel changing pad! Don’t forget to tag us in what you make—we’d love to see how you bring your creativity to life with this tutorial!

Until next time!

Used Products

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11 comments on “how to make a travel changing pad”.

Great, quick project! Is the pattern for the jacket and headband available?

Thank you! The pattern from the jacket is by AyoMiniPatterns on Etsy and the bow is the Alexandra bow from Violette Field Threads in 3″. The Alexandra bow is a favorite!

I’m having trouble visualizing how you attached the tie strip. Did you sew one end of it into the binding, which would mean you would wrap the other end around the tie at the binding and tie it in a not?

Yes – that is exactly right! You can also modify it to make a traditional tie as well. Just cut and sew another strap, mark your placement, and sew the strap right sides together, iron over the strap with the wrong side facing the right side of the quilted back, and topstitch it down. You’ll have a really nice, clean looking additional strap for a traditional tie. I hope that helps!

I love this project! I’m somewhat of a beginner. Two questions: 1. Did you bind by hand on the other side of the pad or use machine? 2. With the bow, what did you use for the part that goes around the baby’s head. Thank you so much for sharing this project!! I have 2 baby showers to attend and hoping I can make the pad and bow…. Would love to try the jacket, but that might be past my skill level!! Thanks Again.

I am so happy to hear that you’re going to give it a try for your upcoming baby shower! Don’t forget to use the hashtag weallsew on Instagram so we can see your beautiful gifts!

To answer your questions, yes – I did hand bind to the other side! Machine binding is also quick and great to use so choose whichever method works the best for you. 🙂 And I used nylon elastics for the bow since they’re really soft and stretchy!

Also – don’t be afraid to give the jacket a try! It’s pretty beginner friendly as well because you can choose to do a button hole or leave it without for a reversible jacket.

Can’t wait to see your creations!

A quick question….is there a reason you mark all diagonal lines? Couldn’t you just mark the first and use the arm on the presser foot to make the rest? Thanks, looks like a great project.

You could absolutely do it that way! I have a background in apparel where you start in the middle and then work out to each corner so I prefer to mark lines. There are lots of different ways you could go about quilting the top!

Unless my thinking process is really messed up today, I think there is a problem with step #8. If the strip is 1″ wide and you fold it in half, I don’t think a 1/2″ seam will work on a 1/2″ wide piece of fabric. Assuming I am correct, should the strip be wider or the seam narrower?

I did try using a scant 1/4″ seam allowance, but have been unsuccessful in turning the tube right side out.

Penny! I am so sorry – I believe you are correct! The finished tube should be 1/2″ so it should be 1.5″ with a scant seam. I am so sorry about this error and I will update it in this post. Thank you for bringing this to my attention!

Hi Brittany, When you talk about cutting the binding the post says to cut 1.5″ strips. Is that what you intended to write? Once folded in half and accounting for two 1/4″ seam allowances on either side, that only gives you a 1/4″ to fold over. I cut and prepared mine and am having to start over to do 2.5″ instead to allow for enough space

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May 15, 2020 By Brandy 55 Comments

Home » Sewing

DIY Travel Diaper Changing Pad & Playtime Mat Tutorial

Filed Under: Sewing

My inspiration for this project originated from a Patemm changing pad.

DIY Travel Diaper Changing Pad & Playtime Mat

How To Make A Folding Diaper Changing Mat

How To Make a Circular Pattern

Sewing On Bias Tape

Easy Folds for Changing Mat

To create easy fold lines and sections for your items, fold your pad in thirds. Starting with the left, then the right and mark your folds with a pin. And iron your fold so that you can see it clearly to stitch. Pin along the stitch line, if necessary, to see it better.  Stitch through all thicknesses starting at the top and going down on both lines (See illustration below) all the way to the bottom bias tape of your mat. This will create 4 sections. The top and bottom sections will be approx. 8×12″ and the sides approx. 8×24″. It is hard to see the thread in the photos, but it does create 4 nice sections and makes it easier to fold up the changing pad.

How To Secure Changing Mat

Welcome! I'm Brandy, mother to 5 darling kiddos and a cute black lab named Toby. My husband is in the Coast Guard so we've lived all over the place, turning each house into a home. I love baking, sewing, making cute things with my kids, and sharing what I've learned with all of you!

• Brandy https://gluesticksblog.com/author/brandy/ Copycat Subway White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cookies
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Reader Interactions

March 15, 2012 at 1:13 pm

This is such a great idea! I love how it turned out. Oh, and I love seeing Sophie the giraffe in those pictures. Our son LOVES her.

March 15, 2012 at 1:41 pm

So unique! And could that penguin fabric be any cuter?? Love this!

March 15, 2012 at 7:33 pm

I absolutely love this! You are immensely talented! I love the idea of using newspaper to make the circle too.

March 16, 2012 at 11:06 am

Hi Brandy!!!

This is SUCH A GREAT IDEA!!!!! I wish I would have seen this when my girls were babies!! Very practical!

I really hope you’ll swing by The DIY Dreamer and share this 🙂 http://thediydreamer.blogspot.com/2012/03/from-dream-to-reality-linky-party-7.html

March 16, 2012 at 3:34 pm

This is SO amazing! Pinning it right now!I want to make a bunch of these for baby gifts – my six are too old now…enjoy it while you’re in it 🙂

Come visit me at LoveItSewMuch.blogspot.com

March 17, 2012 at 1:03 am

Such a cute idea…maybe beyond my sewing skills though lol

March 17, 2012 at 1:17 pm

This is a great idea! I always tried to drag along a blanket for floor/belly time, which was a pain. Thanks for the inspiration!

March 17, 2012 at 3:35 pm

SO adorable- Thanks for the tutorial- I pinned this to my “To Sew” board

March 17, 2012 at 5:30 pm

Really cute idea – I’ll have to make one for my new grandbaby! Thanks for sharing! Hugs – Carol @arewethereyet

March 19, 2012 at 8:49 pm

Super cute baby – super cute changing pad! Thanks!

March 20, 2012 at 2:47 am

LOVE this!! SO beautiful!! Hope you can link this up at my turquoise lovin’ party!! http://www.sweetlittlegals.com/2012/03/turquoise-lovin-30.html

March 20, 2012 at 1:09 pm

Love this and I know it would come in handy! Such a cutie with the Sophie 🙂

March 26, 2012 at 4:20 pm

SO cute! I love it! I think I’ll make one for my little one:)

I would love for you to check out my new blog~

http://www.forcraftinesssake.blogspot.com

March 27, 2012 at 4:01 am

Super cute and great idea. Where the heck did you find all that for $6? I am impressed.

March 27, 2012 at 9:19 am

Great tutorial and lovely idea. It’s round! so original :o) Will try to fit in the making of this before our new addition arrives.

March 29, 2012 at 4:06 pm

Cute idea! I pinned it to my “baby gift ideas” board for future use!

March 31, 2012 at 2:55 am

Love the patterns. Too cute! I’ll have to look into a bias tape tool. Melissa http://www.lovebugliving.com

March 31, 2012 at 3:24 am

I love it.. and those fabric choices are sooo cute!

March 31, 2012 at 7:21 pm

Love it! Next time I have a baby I will have to make one. Thanks for sharing!

April 17, 2012 at 9:59 pm

I LOVE this!!! I’m actually in the process of making one for my friend who’s expecting and I had a quick question:

How big are your squares on the backside? I love the checkerboard and want to do that, too.

April 30, 2012 at 3:38 pm

What a wonderful project, thanks so much for sharing! I love that penguin fabric and the baby is beautiful.

May 4, 2012 at 9:02 pm

That is a seriously cute baby! What a great tutorial, and thank you for sharing.

June 2, 2012 at 1:59 am

SO cute! The baby and the project! I have a 11 week old so this is going on my to-do list for sure! 🙂

June 2, 2012 at 2:59 am

This is so awesome! I’m going to pin this…maybe for the next baby 🙂

Kathryn destinationcraft.blogspot.com

June 24, 2012 at 7:03 pm

I love this Thank You. I will make one too. And i will the happy baby!!!!! No, that’s a joke 😀

Bye Marie stoffsack.blogspot.de

August 11, 2012 at 4:53 am

This is so super adorable! I found out today that 2 good friends are pregnant, and I think this just might be an easy, beautiful and useful gift I can make! I’m pinning it! Also, I’d love to have you link this up on my blog hop. I host with 2 other bloggers, so your link will show up on three blogs 🙂 Hope to see you there! http://www.hideousdreadfulstinky.com/2012/08/eat-make-grow-thursday-blog-hop-2.html

August 17, 2012 at 3:10 pm

Hi there! I just wanted to let you know I featured you on Blissful and Domestic today. Stop by and check it out:>

http://www.blissfulanddomestic.com/2012/08/10-fashionable-fabric-projects.html

October 17, 2012 at 12:10 am

Just finished this project!! Thank you so much for the idea! Will be posting it on my blog today with your link! 🙂

http://thegandyshomebase.blogspot.com

November 5, 2012 at 3:32 pm

Wonderful Tutorial! I love it!

I linked to it on my blog post on the best baby tutorials, here:

http://welivedhappilyeverafter.blogspot.com/2012/11/35-baby-sewing-tutorials-ideas-found.html

<3 Hannah

December 18, 2012 at 5:33 am

Planning a trip? Gathering the best and most accurate travel information about the area you are interested in is a key part in your vacations success. I have found http://www.paradiseintheworld.com to be one of the best travel guides on the Internet.

December 28, 2012 at 6:06 am

I love this idea! It’s so stinking cute! So many of my friends and family are knocked up, and this would be an awesome baby gift! I am so excited to see more of your blog!

P.S: I found Gluesticks by clicking the NEXT BLOG button at the top of mine!

March 1, 2013 at 12:21 am

Love this! (and the cute baby pics too!) Please share your project at http://www.creativecraftsthursday.blogspot.com each and every week and check out what other creative divas are up to.

March 2, 2013 at 6:43 pm

This is so great. I love this idea! I’d love for you to check out our Pattern Party! http://getyourcraptogether.blogspot.com/search/label/Pattern%20Party

March 8, 2013 at 2:26 am

Newest follower here! I found you through the blog hop. you have a super cute blog, I can’t wait to read more!

You can find me at meandmr.com

-Melanie @ meandmr.com

March 20, 2013 at 7:58 pm

Comment by vimax September 19, 2006 # The pocket pussy is now ready for use. In some cases in a bid to conquer his demons.

December 11, 2013 at 3:53 pm

I needed a fast and quick baby gift and found your blog. Great instructions! It went together in a couple hours and looks great. I am so happy with it. I’m saving the pattern to make another one as it seems that there a lot of babies coming in the next year.

December 11, 2013 at 7:51 pm

Wonderful! So glad it went smoothly! I love this play mat because it isn’t something that they usually receive more than one of at a baby shower. Nice and original! Have a fantastic week!

January 4, 2014 at 1:30 pm

I made this & love it! Great tutorial! Took me 1 naptime & 1 evening to complete. What did you do with the inside circle fabric (that was cut out)? I’m thinking a matching taggie blanket would be nice

January 4, 2014 at 8:54 pm

Hi Amy! Thanks for contacting me! I’m so glad it turned out great for you. I actually just threw the fabric in my scrap box to use for other projects, but a taggie blanket would be such a nice addition to the gift!

February 4, 2014 at 2:16 pm

So cute and a great idea! Stopping by from SITSgirls! Have a wonderful evening!

August 24, 2014 at 8:32 am

could you serger the edges with a wide wooly nylon so it would be soft instead of bias tape? It would be faster.

August 24, 2014 at 12:50 pm

You could absolutely serge the edges! One day I will own a serger! What a time saver!

January 18, 2015 at 6:32 pm

Hi there sooo cute… currently making this.. can this fold whilst having the nappies and wipes stored in one of the sections

thanks for this .

January 18, 2015 at 9:07 pm

Yep! Should be able to fold up with a couple of diapers and a small package of wipes inside. 🙂

October 10, 2015 at 8:44 pm

This is a great idea! I just have some questions: What fabrics did you use? And does it slip on slippery surfaces such as wooden floors or tiles?

October 11, 2015 at 1:13 pm

Hi! I used cotton and flannel and didn’t notice it slipping around on wood floors too much. Especially when weighted with a few toys on top. Hope that helps!

April 9, 2016 at 7:36 am

I wonder how it would turn out using fleece for the middle layer? I know it would make it thicker, but would add padding and softness for a younger child.

April 9, 2016 at 1:41 pm

You could absolutely do that! I agree that it would add some nice padding and softness too!

May 9, 2016 at 5:53 pm

So after you sew the tape to circle, you do not have to sew this to the center fabric at all? In the center I mean. Seems like it might flap up a bit. I will try just sewing it at the outer edge and see. So cute!

May 10, 2016 at 8:30 am

Penny! By leaving the center circle open, you have areas to store wipes, diapers, etc. inside those flaps. Good luck! 🙂

July 14, 2018 at 7:04 pm

I made one of these for our youngest (born in 2013.) Last week, my husband asked me to make one for a little one coming soon to friends of ours. “That was my favorite baby gear we ever had,” he said.

So I just turned one out for our friends. Thanks for such a great tutorial, and such a useful item!

July 14, 2018 at 7:11 pm

This made my day! I’m so glad it worked out so well for you guys and that you wanted to make one for friends as well. I loved ours! The little lady in this photo is almost 7 years old now. They grow so fast!

June 21, 2021 at 12:10 pm

I tried this for new grandson and was really pleased with the result….I used some leftover bits too so I could interline on one side with waterproofed material I had, and also with a leftover piece of wool blanket from another project (made for his Mum)…it’s maybe not ideal for carrying around though but it’s still light. Thank you so much for sharing. Inspiring.

June 27, 2021 at 2:20 pm

Love this! I’m so glad it worked out for you!

April 6, 2024 at 7:14 am

Namaste Love from India. Thanks for Sharing.

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April 19, 2010

How to Sew a Travel Changing Pad in Oilcloth

This is the simplest of sewing DIY’s and a perfect first project for oilcloth. Find the full {and crazy easy} DIY for a Travel Changing Pad after the jump.

What you need:

• 2 pieces oilcloth 12″x27″. I used two different prints but if you use one print, you can get what you need from 1/3 yard of this 55″ width oilcloth. I used Heather Bailey Nicey Jane Oilcloth in Hop Dot Cream and Picnic Bouquet Gold, both sold by our lovely sponsor, Fabricworm.com .

• Approx 2.5 feet coordinating single fold bias tape (or ribbon)

• 3 Pieces 8.5×11″ thin quilt batting.

• Basic sewing supplies.

What to do:

1. Cut the two 12×27″ rectangles. The size is not very important. You might want a shorter and wider pad, especially if this is for a newborn. This one is for a tall toddler.

2. Align your fabrics, right sides facing and pin in just a few places and along the very edge as pins leave marks in oilcloth.

3. Sew with a straight stitch 1/4″ from the edge all the way around the rectangle except for 1/2 of one of the short sides.

4. Snip all four of the corners.

5. Reverse your piece right side out.

6. The edges will be curling in (as seen above.) Use a knitting needle or chop stick to push the corners out clean and pointy.

7. Slide a small square of light card stock (a greeting card works well) inside the piece and use it to push the edges out while you iron them flat*. With oilcloth, use an additional piece of fabric (light batting in my case) between the oilcloth and the iron. I’ve heard that you can’t press oilcloth, but with the additional buffer, I’ve had great success. *Test your fabric and iron first.

8. Fold your piece in thirds and mark your folds. I thought I was being smart and used permanent marker thinking it would just wipe off but it stained my yellow thread. Use disappearing ink, or tape.

9. Measure your first third, the one furthest from the opening. Mine was just under 9″x11.5.

10. Cut a piece of batting slightly smaller than the first third. I cut mine 8.5″x11″

11. Slide the batting into the hole and position it in the third furthest from the opening.

12. Just below the end of the batting (where your original one-third marks are) give yourself some kind of a cheat line either with disappearing ink or tape.

13. Sew straight down that line. You may find the oilcloth sticking in the foot of your sewing machine and might have to help it along as it stitches.

14. Repeat from step 9 for the center section and again for the third section.

15. After you insert the batting for the third section, fold the seam of the opening in, iron as instructed above and topstitch across entire length, 1/8″ from edge, closing up the opening.

16. When you get 1/8″ from the end of the side, leave your needle down and turn piece 90 degrees. Continue topstitching along remaining 3 sides. Add a few back-stitches at the end.

17. I used single fold bias tape for my tie so I folded it in half and ironed it flat. You can skip this if using ribbon or another fastener.

18. Measure 1/2 way down the first third of your changing pad (approx 4.5″) and pin the tie in place, centered on the outside of the changing pad.

19. Starting at the end of the string, begin sewing the tie flat. (make sure your string is NOT twisted.)

20. When you get to the changing pad, continue sewing straight through all layers, attaching tie to changing pad. Then continue to the end of the tie, sewing the rest of the tie flat.

21. Tie the ends of the tie in knots or fold over twice and hem.

And you’re done! Fold the changing pad in thirds, then in half the other way, and tie the strings in a little bow!

17 Comments

how fabulous!

Great! I like to give a few hand-made items for the new babies in my friends' lives – this would be a great addition!

This would be a great gift – and I have never really thought about using my sewing machine on oilcoth but I guess it is up to the job! Thanks for the post.

What a sweet little model you have there!! I just wanna squeeze those cheeks! : ) And thanks for yet another great project idea girls! I just got two yards of oilcloth last week, so I am ready to rock! : ) ~Melissa

I would have loved to have one of these mats when my children were babies. I of course had a huge bulky one that was difficult to use. Great job 🙂

oh my god it's super cute and easy to make, yay! i love that fabric so much that i ordered some from fabricworm to make my own travel changing pad, but you beat me to it, HA

I love this, what a great gift idea! Thanks so much, I'll be linking.

Beautiful and useful! Its perfect!

I was just about to buy some oilcloth to make this as a gift and found a warning on a website that says that there are phthalates that are in levels too high to comply with standards to sell for use in children under 12. I really don't know much about phthalates and their risks, but figured I'd pass that along. Here's the website I found that on: http://www.mendels.com/fabrics10.shtml

Thanks for the info. I am by no means an expert but based on the patterns they are showing, this "oilcloth" is a different type than those sold by Fabricworm.com. I've seen both in person and they feel totally different! These are very plastic-y and the fabricworm type feels like cotton with a light coating. Not sure that makes them safer tho! Definitely worth investigating.

awesome tutorial! i am so stoked for this. just a fair warning to anyone new to sewing oilcloth though (as i was), to adjust their stitch length. mine was too small and it torn the seams of my change pad due to too many puntures too close together. (i loosened my stitch and just covered the edges with bias tape to hide the mistake).

I am so excited to try this!!! Wonder if this would work with PUL? Its worth a try and would rid anyone of concern over phthalates and other chemicals since it is used in cloth diapering. Also when sewing with fabrics that pins leave holes in I found that bulldog clips and tape work great as a way to hold everything together.

Hi! I have a question about the oilcloth—–how does it do with washing??? Are you able to wash it in the wshing machine???? thanks for the cute, cute, cute ideas!!!

[…] for a tutorial and didn’t find one that I wanted to follow exactly, so I improvised. I used this post from Prudent Baby as a starting point and made the dimensions a tad wider and about 6 inches longer to accommodate my […]

Wow this is really great!! I have just finished making one for my daughter and I have to say I seriously wanted to kill myself about half way through! lol You must have the patience of a saint to work with oilcloth! Mines just kept sticking and because it is so stiff it’s quite difficult to sew. All in all though mines still looks good, not as great as yours but it does it’s job!!

Thanks again!

Hi there, yes this piece of writing is truly fastidious and I have learned lot of things from it concerning blogging. thanks.

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Baby Changing Mat Patterns – Two FREE Options

Babies will soon be popping out everywhere so my sewing for all the new babies continues.  There's one thing I know, when they aren't sleeping / feeding / screaming, babies are pooping.  One of my expecting friends showed me the changing mat she used first time round and just told me – it's just so big.  I don't need all these pockets and things, all these bells and whistles.  Just make it simple and small enough to carry about, but big enough at the same time. And it needs a wipe clean inner surface.

So I made one, and although it's great and is already on its way to a new home, I wanted to make one that closed up even smaller so I made a second version too.  Here is the pattern and brief instructions for both.

Making up the baby changing mat pattern

You will need:

• 1 yard of fabric total – all the same or mix and match prints
• Piece of vinyl – 12 x 24 inches (optional)
• Low loft batting or fusible fleece – 12 x 24 inches
• Ready made bias tape or make your own from 1 fat quarter
• The pattern – download below
• Closures – sew on velcro or button and elastic loop

Download your Baby Changing Mat pattern pieces and instructions here.  The pattern can be downloaded from my design account at Payhip.  

If you have any trouble downloading, opening or printing the pattern, please see this post - How to download PDF sewing patterns .

Option 1 – satchel style with handle

This bag is a little more open and loose in style than the second.  It has a carrying handle and the pockets are placed at the bottom of the bag for easier access when you have a wriggling baby on there.  But because of the lower pocket placement it doesn't wrap up as tightly as option 2 below.  Pick which one you like best – both are made from the same pattern, and instructions for both are included in the download.

Download the pattern and check out the fabric sizes needed.  Assemble the pattern piece for the top shaping. If you are making your own bias binding tape – start with this.  You will need approx 4 yards if you use it efficiently.  A little more is better. You can find tutorials on how to estimate , make and use bias tape on the tutorials page .

Start by assembling the pockets.  Fold the fabric in half press. On the smaller pieces, trim the folded edge with your bias tape.

Match the raw edges of the smaller piece with the larger piece, at the sides and bottom.  The pocket front is slightly wider so at the center bottom, create and pin a small pleat.  Keep your pins away from the edge so you can sew past them, and then add your binding along the bottom and the two long sides.  Repeat for the other pocket and set them aside for now.

Make your handle.  Fold the fabric in half length-ways and press, then fold each side into the center and press, and fold again through the middle to get 4 layers.  Once pressed, open out at the ends and fold the center fold back the other way so the raw edges are on the outside.  Stitch with a 1/4 inch seam at each end, then turn right sides out again and turn out the corners neatly.  Stitch all around the outside of the strap close to the edge.

Use your pattern piece to place the strap on your outer fabric.  Leave a 1 inch gap from each side seam, and place the strap butting up to the bottom of the pattern piece.  Pin in place and then stitch a 2.5 inch long rectangular box over your previous lines of stitching to hold it in place. (If you are using a fusible fleece, apply this to the outer fabric before sewing on the handle.)

Press the fabrics for the main body of the mat.  All the fabrics are cut unshaped to start with and layered before cutting.  Place the outside fabric face down.  You can either use a fusible fleece on this fabric for a little padding, or a layer of low loft batting. Then add your inner fabric face up.  If you are using a vinyl for a wipe clean finish, add this as the top layer.  Match up all the edges and either pin in place (within the seam allowances so you don't pierce the vinyl), or use your Wonder Clips .

Use your pattern piece to shape the sandwich at one end.  Place the pockets now so they'll be sewn in with the binding.  For option 1 – the pockets were placed at 2 inches up from the bottom edge.  Place them so the pocket front (the short side) is face down on the mat when folded.

Apply your bias tape all around the edge of the mat, catching and enclosing all raw edges and securing the pockets in place.

Once everything is sewn, its time to add your wipes and diapers and fold up the mat.  Once you are happy with how you have it folded and made sure the handle is at the top, mark the placement of your velcro.  Match up the pattern in the fabric if you can for a cool look. Stitch it in place making sure the soft fuzzy part is by baby's head and the rough scratchy side is on the outside.  Completed!

Option 2 – the clutch style

Option 2 is almost the same, uses the same pattern etc, but has some small variations.  See which one you prefer.

• Make the pockets the same.
• Don't add the handle to the outside
• Pin the pockets at 3 inches down from the top corners

When adding in the bias tape around the outside, make sure to slip a short piece of elastic or a hair elastic at the center top underneath the binding.  Or, you can still close this one with Velcro – it's up to you.

Add your wipes and diapers to the pockets and fold up the bag.  With the pockets in the upper position, it folds up much tighter and creates more of a clutch.  If using Velcro, mark where to sew on both pieces.  If using the elastic and button, mark where your button will go.

Sew on your velcro, or your button, close up your clutch and go.  Oh, and don't forget the baby.

I'm already working on a third one of these and am thinking of adding some kind of wrist strap or hanging strap.  What do you think?  And which option do you prefer – 1 or 2?

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I am going to use your pattern but omit the pockets. Roll the mat up in thirds and fasten. Easy to fit in diaper bag; already have wipes , diapers etc. in diaper bag. Thanks. 🙂

Just completed this with some difficulty and I’d rate myself as an advanced beginner/early intermediate sewer. I have done a few other projects with using bias tape/binding but this part was the most difficult step of the project – the vinyl was so slippery and getting around the curve at the top (has both an “inner” and “outer” curve without looking sloppy was difficult. If I make another I would definitely 1.) use premade bias tape 2.) use iron on vinyl or printed vinyl fabric 3.) sew the velcro prior to putting it all together so the stitching didn’t show on the finished sides.

Made this for my granddaughter 2 years ago. Decided to add some length to it at the time so it could be used for longer. Changed a 2 year old and a 17 day old in the back of our 4runner yesterday! Awesome mat and highly recommend adding some extra length! Thanks for the great pattern!

Haven’t tried this yet but I think this pattern would be great for a small, traveling ironing surface for classes. Use reflective batting used in hot pads plus the silver reflective fabric sold by the yard and use the pattern with the handle for larger interior area. Going to try it soon!

I asked my niece what she wanted…I added snaps on the side and a button in the middle. Padded handle and an extra pocket. They love it!!!! I even had extra fabric so I made a waterproof bag to go with the mat! Thanks for the pattern. You can see it on my Facebook page.

I will have a look Thanks!

This has quickly become my “go to” baby shower gift! I’ve made it the favorite sports team fabric, so dad will carry it in their cars. It goes together quickly and all couples really like them!

loved it, im makin one for a friend who just had a baby, what are the measurements for the pockets? thanks

I like the pockets being near the bottom like the one with the handle, but I prefer the foldability of the one. I guess there’s really no top or bottom when it’s laid out, it could easily lay the other direction. Thanks for the pattern.

love this ! my grandchildern are starting to have children and want to give them useful and nice things that will remind them of me when they use it. this is perfect.

Thank you for this idea and tutorial, be making for my granddaughter she will be arriving soon can’t wait to make this. God bless you and family.

Okay, what am I missing? How can the pockets be 22″ wide if the center pad is only 12″ wide?

You fold the pockets in half.

What iron-on vinyl do you like? Can the pad still be laundered? Thanks.

i have the same exact question.

I answered your question on Instagram.

Mayra, I can’t find anything related to this project on your instagram – can you please direct me?

Hi Kristi, Instagram does not allow direct links yet, so here it is https://so-sew-easy.com/baby-changing-mat-pattern/ press on the orange button and you will be redirected. Kind regards,

I had something like this 20 years ago with my first baby. I haven’t seen anything like it since. I loved it to “death”. It survived 9 years of use. It was so perfect because as a nursing mom, I didn’t need to carry a lot of stuff. I eventually made a pouch that hooked onto the strap to put pacifiers and a toy or two in.

I can’t wait to make a few of these for my nieces and nephews who are starting to have families if their own. I plan on using the vinyl-backed fabrics that can be used to make diapers k the inside and putting an adjustable shoulder strap on it. The outside fabric will be something a proud daddy wouldn’t mind carrying.

Thanks for this pattern made it for my first grandchild. I used pvc coated cotton with a “kiddie” print, it worked very nicely. If I were to make another one, I think I’d sew the front and back RST and then turn it out thereby avoiding the bias ….

I love the idea of these changing mats, I’d like to make the satchel version, but I don’t see finished measurements within the patterns – or have I just missed them?

I’m making #2 and am adding a strap as well. I’m just not sure if it’s going to be a wristlet or shoulder strap yet. Can’t wait to see how it turns out!

Thank you so much for sharing. This pattern looks beautiful and I can’t wait to make it for my best friend baby shower. A couple of questions because I’m a very beginner. 1. If I can find a vinyl with the design I like, can I use the vinyl layer without the inner layer? Do you have any recommends for vinyl that look like fabric? 2. Has anyone try laminate or iron-on vinyl? 3. What if I put the vinyl under the inner layer? Yes, I realize that means the inner layer can still get dirty but at least the other 2 layer are still protected. I guess my concern if that adding a layer of vinyl on top of the inner layer fabric will make the pad less pretty somehow. So please let me know what you all think. Thank you.

I use the iron-on vinyl all the time. It’s very easy to work with and work so great for a project like this. I also skip all the bias and top stitch instead

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Baby Changing Mat – Free Sewing Pattern in 2 Sizes

October 3 , by Anne Weaver . Leave a Comment

If you’re out and about with a baby, chances are you’ll need to do a diaper change on the fly.  These travel diaper changing mats are just the thing!  Slim and easy to carry, they fold out to make a mat where you can change a diaper.  Pockets inside hold a pack of wipes and a couple of diapers.  So Sew Easy has a free sewing pattern you can use to make these travel diaper change mats , and it includes 2 sizes – a larger mat that folds up into a satchel, and a smaller mat that folds up into a clutch.

[photo from So Sew Easy]

Looking for more DIY sewing patterns to make your own bags, totes and clutches? Check these Sewing patterns out on Etsy.

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• Easy Baby Bib - Free Sewing Pattern in 4 Sizes

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Sequin fabric sewing inspiration and tips.

Sequin fabrics.  They look so shiny and pretty wrapped around the bolts in the fabric store.  They call to you, oh the pretty things you can sew from me!  But sewing with sequin fabric is a lot different than sewing on regular fabric.  The same shiny sequins that make the fabric so pretty can also complicate sewing on it.  But don’t let that stop you. You just need to be prepared so  your sequin sewing project will turn out how you like. 

If you’ve never sewed on sequin fabric before, check out this post from Melly Sews .  She gives 12 tips for working with sequin fabric.  In addition to the 12 tips, she tells about the main types of sequin fabric, the tools and sewing machine settings to use, and ways to finish it  

And once you’ve got a plan for handling the sequin fabric, you can pick out the perfect project to make from it! 

Melly Sews has a great tutorial showing how to make a lovely sequin skirt that’s pictured at the top of the post. It’s perfect for holiday parties or just going out.  You can dress it up or down to suit the occasion.  Her tutorial is a video so you can watch along and see how to make one for yourself!  It’s a simple pattern that uses only straight cuts and straight seams. 

Ruffled blog shows how you can sew a simple mermaid style skirt .  The lines of the skirt are simple which makes that sequin fabric the star of this skirt.  It’s perfect for any dressy party or formal occasion, and no one will believe that you made it yourself.

With this tutorial from Sweet Verbena , you can sew a gorgeous sequined clutch.  It has a fold over top and a zipper closure, and is covered with sparkly sequin fabric.  It’ll be your go-to bag for any special occasion so you can easily carry your phone and other essentials with you.

This fidget pillow by Swoodson Says is made from reverse sequin fabric.  When you run your fingers against the grain of the sequins, they reverse and show another color or pattern on the back side of the sequins.  You can even draw simple designs or letters in the sequins. How fun is that!

[photo credit: Melly Sews]

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