Infants

Recieving blankets     Receiving Blankets and Sheets:
Single layer flannel in cute cotton prints; 24"-36" sq. for receiving blankets; 30"x33" for sheets

How used:
One of the most popular charity craft items and easiest to make, is a simple receiving blanket. This can be a squarish piece of soft fabric, like flannel, with the raw edges finished off. The finished edge can be serged, hemmed (zig-zagged or straight-stitched), or decorated with embroidery stitches. Finished sizes can vary widely, depending on the desires of the institution requesting the blanket. Most blankets range from 24" square to 36" square. Use discretion when choosing the fabric, but "cute" comes to mind more often than not. Ask your hospital contact what size they prefer, as most are more than willing to share this information or provide samples. Use caution when choosing flannel, and do not invest in shabby flannel as it will not hold up in the wash.

Material requirements:
approx. 1/yd. of fabric

Crochet Afghans     Quilts and Afghans:
Cloth, knitted, crocheted (from 24"-45" sq.; 45"x60" for larger quilts).

How used:
Everyone can appreciate the warm, secure feeling a quilt can provide, especially when facing an unpleasant experience. Whether many hours are spent on making a quilt or whether the quilt is made in a matter of minutes, quilts quickly become security blankets or binkies when an adult or child is under stress. Quilts can be sewn, crocheted, or knitted. They can be just about any size, depending on the intended use of the quilt. Small, 24" square quilts are a good size for preemie babies; mid-sized 36" square quilts are a good size for toddlers. Larger quilts, 45" x 60" for instance, are better for older children or adults.

Get the instructions:
Crochet afgahan instructions, click here.
Simple quilt instructions, click here.

Preemie hospital shirt     Preemie Hospital Shirt:
Diaper and hospital shirts made from lightweight cotton.

How used:
Because preemies are so small, it is difficult to find hospital shirts to fit them. Sewing volunteers come to the rescue with their talents and caring hearts. Be sure to check with your hospital contact before sewing hospital shirts. Some NICUs "dress" their babies and some don't. If a baby is in an isolette, they are usually burdened with a lot of medical equipment, and clothing them is not practical. These babies are kept warm by the isolette itself, so there may not be a need for clothes. However, when a baby "graduates" out of an isolette and is able to maintain itself in a crib, some nurses enjoy dressing "their" babies in cute little hospital shirts with matching hats and booties, if they are fortunate to have such a creative sewing volunteer. Some hospitals prefer an open shoulder and side seam with ribbons for closures. Again, be sure to get your guidance on such issues from your hospital contacts.


    Crib pads:
Thin, cotton batting sandwiched between two flannel pieces (12"x18"), edged with lace.

How used:
Crib pads soften the bedding of babies in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). These bright pads also soften the emotions of those caring for these babies. Crib pads are basically small quilts edged with pre-ruffled cotton eyelet lace. Cotton scraps may be used to piece the outside pieces. Cotton or low-loft quilt batting scraps may be used for the "filling" layer. Pre-ruffled cotton eyelet lace is preferred because of its softness.

Get the instructions:
Crib pad instructions, click here.

    Knotty Doll:
Cloth dolls used to comfort Mother while baby is transported in an emergency or to absorb the scent of the Mother to comfort baby in the hospital.


    Holiday Crochet Caps:
Cute crochet caps in holiday colors for special occasions.



Get the instructions:
Crochet cap instructions, click here.