I have used a few nappy patterns, but the one I like best is the Ottobre (downsized as suggested). I ended up taking a total of 3" off in 3 places to reduce the rise and shaped the tops to be a little higher at the back and a little lower on the tummy (most nappies ride down on my daughter's 'pot', and this way it doesn't) - a bit like some maternity pants that sit under the tummy.
I like this pattern with the alterations the best as it is narrow in the crotch and I think it will be ok on a smaller baby - my daughter is very thin and so I need a nappy that won't bulk up too much for her. I have also attached the soakers to the back so they just get hung by the soaker end on the line and have only one extra layer in the actual nappy. I have some Mandy Mac nappies with the soakers attached to the front, but I don't like it this way as it sometimes curls up onto her tummy when I fold the nappy over to fasten it.
I still use fluffies and they seem ok on.
Currently, I have used my daughter's terry squares that I won't be using again to make these nappies (18mths old when I switched to fitteds) but have now purchased some bamboo towelling from Bubba Earth to try to make some that are more absorbant and quicker to dry. I am not sure how this will go, but looking forward to trying - the fabric feels very heavy, but haven't cut or washed it yet.
I have used velcro but am considering purchasing a snap press and the high grade resin snaps. To try to offset this cost, I am looking into offering a snap setting service for my local area, but need to ensure that I will not be out of pocket too long. I actually don't like the velcro as it is hard and bulky and even though I made the velcro protectors that are in the patterns, find the velcro still escapes. And with having a shaped front, I have had to manually shape the velcro around it - looks a little like pavers, but in the end it actually saved on velcro as I spaced the the pieces and didn't go to the edge of the front with skinny minnie not requiring it. I have used metal snaps in a few nappies as I dry pail, but would prefer resin.
Kerrie
(Close this window to return to the Oz Cloth Nappies Links section)