A cradle is a small bed for newborns that can be rocked, moved, taken on the road, or placed right next to the parents’ bedside. This product must be durable and strong so that the child does not fall off with a poorly secured lounger during motion sickness.
In this article we will tell you how to make a cradle for newborns with your own hands in different ways. These are products made from waste material and wooden boards, ropes and thick fabric. There are options for weaving from wicker, and there are beautiful cradles made of wool rugs. The main condition for creating a crib is naturalness and environmental friendliness when choosing materials, so that the child does not inhale the “aromas” of synthetics or toxic varnishes and glues.
DIY cradles for newborns are made using natural wood or wool or cotton fabric. To fasten wooden parts, use only PVA glue (D3 or D4), and use only acrylic varnishes or paints for surfaces. They are completely odorless and non-toxic; they are widely used to cover children's toys and furniture.
Low wooden cradle
If the baby's dad has the skills to work with boards, then he can easily make a wooden cradle for a newborn baby with his own hands. Take high-quality boards - dry and clean, without gray spots of mold, so that the baby does not have an allergic reaction. To get wide and tall parts, the boards need to be glued together, making panels of the required size. This will protect them from cracking due to changes in temperature and humidity.
When the boards are ready, cutting is performed. The dimensions of the drawing must correspond to the height of the baby plus 20-30 cm for a pillow and freedom for the legs. The width of the bottom is also determined by placing the baby on a flat surface. It is better if the child can spread his arms to the sides freely.
The sides are cut out in a trapezoidal shape, rounding the parts at the top. The bottom of the bed is rectangular, as are the sides. For beauty, you can make beautiful curves. When the main part of the cradle for newborns is assembled with glue or screws, start working on the rounded legs. They have a flat surface on top, and the bottom part is made semicircular. The legs are made stable using a large radius. The crib should not completely rock, but slightly tilt in one direction and the other so that the baby does not fall out when tilting.
When you have made a cradle for newborns with your own hands, all that remains is to cover it with acrylic varnish. You can line the inside of the crib with fabric so that it stays on top; drill holes in the wooden parts for the laces.
How to make a cradle out of wood with your own hands?
This is a classic option. After all, our ancestors made cradles for babies from precisely this material. Cradles have changed over time. And the master class with step-by-step photos shows several options for making such an accessory for a baby.
Before making a cradle of this type, take:
- processed round timber;
- rope rope;
- thick plywood;
- drill;
- round drill bit;
- drill.
If you decide to make the same wooden cradle, then, like in ancient times, you can make it without a single nail and without using glue.
First, take round bars and cut them into pieces. Two sidewalls will be smaller and two will be larger.
- Now decide on the size of the bottom. Also cut it out. The corners need to be rounded so as not to get hurt on them. Since the plywood is quite heavy, make holes in it using a drill with a round attachment. They may be different. This is also additional ventilation. And this technique will allow the cradle to become lighter.
- Now determine where you will attach the rope. Using a centimeter or tape measure, draw holes with a pencil, which will then need to be drilled with a drill.
- You will also have paired holes in the slats. Place them on a flat surface, creating a rectangle. Now firmly fasten the pieces of rope at the corners to gather them together to form a rectangle. You can also additionally secure it with clamps here.
- Now cut the ropes to the same size. Pass the first one through the hole in the plywood and tie a strong knot at the bottom. Then pass this tip through a round beam, then the thread goes along it, enters the second hole and penetrates the hole in the plywood. You will also tie this rope in a knot at the bottom.
- Now take the same second piece and secure this sidewall with it as well. Two pieces of rope are enough to attach the short sides. And the long ones in this case are attached using four segments.
- Now you need to cut 4 identical threads from a strong rope. They should be of such a size that you can hang the cradle without it being too high.
- Fix the ropes at the top on the ceiling on the hooks, and tie them to the bars at the bottom.
- Now you can put the mattress inside, optionally attach soft sides to the cradle and put the baby to sleep.
If you want to make a wooden cradle like in the old days, then check out how to make this type of cradle.
It is semicircular in appearance. It can be made from plywood or the sides can be made on a frame and covered with durable fabric. You can also cover the baby's crib on one side with a cloth so that daylight does not interfere with him. But it’s better to hang fabric like tulle here so that air can penetrate. This applies to the sidewalls. But the base of the fabric must be strong, because then you will attach a long, strong shelf here.
Attach a ring to the ceiling and thread this slug through here. When you press on its free end, the cradle will begin to rise. This way you can swing it not only from side to side, but also from top to bottom.
Here's another master class showing how to make a rocking crib. It will not need to be suspended from the ceiling. It stands on the floor, but its middle part is bolted and made in such a way that such a cradle can be rocked.
The bed diagram will help you create the pieces in the right size. But if you wish, make an adjustment here to, for example, make this cradle larger.
- The height of this crib is 82.5 cm. Its length is 88 cm, width is 60 cm. The bed has 2 static sides, they are secured at the bottom with two boards. The cradle is attached to this base. It also consists of two backs, they are connected by parts of the sides and bottom.
- To make the stands, first create a template from cardboard. Now place it on the plywood.
- For such work, you will need a construction universal compass to draw semicircular parts. It's easy to do it yourself. To do this, take a strip, drill a hole at its end, and attach a pencil here. And at the other end you will secure the nail by driving it here.
- Now attach the template to the plywood and outline. Using an electric jigsaw, cut along the markings. Drill holes for the dowels. Make two slots in the rack to secure the backrest here.
- Cut out other parts. Make holes in them for dowels. Connect the blanks. Then you can paint the crib with a child-safe product.
- There are easier options for how to make a cradle. To make the next one you will need only 5 parts. These are 2 backs, two sides and bottom parts.
- The backs can be decorated with various curls by cutting them out using a jigsaw. Also, the burning technique will help create a unique decor. These methods allow you to decorate the cradle so that it remains environmentally friendly.
Thoroughly sand all wooden parts so that they are perfectly smooth.
Assemble the crib using dowels and glue. You can further strengthen it with screws. Then tie a tight rope and hang your creation, but not too high.
You can make only the base from wood, and the other parts are woven or created from fabric. See how to do this.
Barrel version
A rocking crib for a baby made from a barrel will look very impressive. This DIY cradle for newborns is made up of two main parts. This is the barrel itself, from which a large piece has been cut off, and a wooden stand made of two strong legs and a lintel.
The barrel is attached to the side legs with dowels and mini-fixes made of hard wood. You can screw it on with bolts, securing it with nuts on both sides, adding a lock nut or a lock nut to make the structure reliable.
The remaining parts can be screwed on with screws or, if you have carpentry skills, tied onto tenons. You already understand how to make a cradle for a newborn with your own hands; all that remains is to cover everything with a layer of varnish and line it with fabric from the inside. It is advisable to attach a quilt to prevent the child from hitting the hard walls of the barrel. Don't forget to thoroughly clean the edges of the metal hoops so that they don't tear the fabric and harm your baby.
Let's go to the lesson
You can see the process of making a cradle in the example of a master class. We took the diagram from the last drawing and simplified it a little.
We cut out the headboard and legs, then cover them with colorless transparent acrylic varnish.
Next we make the sides.
You can buy these round sticks at the store, then you will need to sand them and glue them to two strips.
Making the bottom of the cradle. As you can see, we make it not from one thick board, but from slats.
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We drill holes and begin to assemble the crib.
This is what should happen at this stage.
Cut out the legs in the shape of the letter "L".
Cut out the swing mechanism.
Let's collect it.
At night, you can clamp the discs with clamps so that they stick better.
We present a photo of the cradle that we got, from different angles.
We sew the sides and mattress cover.
Cradle-boat
Another interesting idea for making your own hanging cradle for newborns is a rocking boat. Unfortunately, this is a very difficult job that only an experienced high-level carpenter can do.
Therefore, if you are a carpenter, then you will definitely like the idea of creating such a spectacular cradle boat, as it looks quite original. It is not difficult to make stands for the cradle; these are ordinary legs with a jumper, the upper part of which is slightly raised and rounded. But it’s difficult to make the curved edges of the boat itself. You must have a steam generator and a chamber to steam the board and bend it according to the template of the required size. After cooling, the board remains curved.
Such a cradle is attached to cotton ropes threaded through holes drilled in the boards. To make it more similar to a real boat, small blocks were used, but they serve only a decorative function, since the cradle can neither lower nor rise.
Review of baby bassinets for newborns
The cradle is the small kingdom of the baby born. The crib - cradle protects his sleep, making him calm and serene. How to choose the right cradle so that your child feels comfortable in it?
What is it and why is it needed?
A cradle for newborns is a small crib, where the sleeping space occupies 50 by 100 cm. The function that the cradle performs is rocking the baby.
The shape and appearance of the stroller depend more on how comfortable it is for parents and what it is intended for.
A cradle for a newborn has several advantages:
- the baby sleeps more soundly and falls asleep faster;
- the cradle bed is more mobile, it can be moved around the room;
- takes up much less space.
Along with the advantages, the cradle for a newborn has one significant drawback. Unlike a stroller or playpen, the cradle can be used until the baby is 5 months old. At six months the child begins to sit steadily and even tries to stand on his feet or crawl. Leaving him in a rocking chair unattended becomes dangerous.
Kinds
There are many types of cradle for newborns. Their use directly depends on what goals parents set for themselves and how they see their child’s vacation. Some types of cribs can be made with your own hands.
Wicker
A wicker cradle for newborns looks aesthetically pleasing and neat.
The main material used for production is vine, raffia leaves or rattan stems.
These are absolutely environmentally friendly raw materials, and at the same time, they are durable. A wicker cradle for newborns made from them turns out to be very reliable.
The inside of the wicker cradle for a newborn is trimmed with quilted fabric, so that the baby in it is warm and cozy. Some models feature a snap-on hood.
A wicker crib for newborns is installed on special stands. Thanks to this device, the baby can be slightly rocked. If you want to go deeper into the past, the cradle for newborns can be hung on a special hook that is attached to the ceiling. This is how rocking cradles were located in peasant huts.
Hanging
A hanging rocking cradle is a cradle suspended from the ceiling. It can be either wicker or wooden. Since in a modern apartment it is very difficult to attach such a heavy object as a crib with a baby to the ceiling, a modern cradle for a newborn is equipped with stationary supports.
This design of the cradle greatly facilitates motion sickness and promotes restful sleep for the baby. The supports for the cradle can be moved, so you can rock the baby anywhere in the house or apartment where space allows and it is convenient for the mother.
Electronic
A cradle for newborns with an electronic control unit is an offer from the developers of modern technology. It is made of metal or plastic. The electronic carrycot has several modes:
- setting the required melody;
- adjusting the intensity of motion sickness;
- backlight
To make the baby and mother comfortable, it is possible to adjust the height of the cradle and its position. To calm and entertain the baby, illuminated toys are located above the cradle.
"2 in 1"
This is a very convenient design where the cradle can be used as a portable one. It is attached to the bed with special straps. Until the child reaches six months, he can sleep in such a cradle, and when he grows up, in a crib.
When choosing a cradle of this model, try to ensure that the bed has high sides so that the baby does not fall out of it. This purchase is very profitable, since it can be used until the baby turns 3 years old.
Portable
A portable cradle for a newborn, or a carrier, as it is popularly called, perfectly copes with the tasks of a cradle and a stroller at the same time. The carrier is very compact and is a cradle with two handles, like a bag. The carrier is based on a plywood frame covered with fabric and leather.
The carrier can be located anywhere in the house, while occupying minimal space. Many models have a leather hood that completely covers the upper part of the baby's head. Thanks to this, the carrier can be used instead of a stroller on walks or attached to a stroller base.
If necessary, the carrier quickly turns into an envelope for winter walks. Simply fasten the zipper and attach the leather pocket. It protects the newborn's feet from freezing.
The carrier is a wonderful budget gift for a young mother. If giving a stroller or bassinet to another person is too expensive, a baby carrier will be a great solution.
Carrycot stroller
A cradle stroller for newborns is another type of cradle on wheels. It is a stroller device on which a cradle with high sides is installed. In such a stroller the child will be warm and comfortable.
Some models offer removable bassinets that can also be used as carriers. Transformable strollers also have this function: you can remove the cradle from them and install a seat for an older baby.
When choosing baby strollers-cradles for newborns, you should pay attention not only to the sleeping place for the baby, but also to the convenience of the handle. It should be well attached and regulate the direction of movement.
Car seats
This cradle for newborns is becoming increasingly popular in connection with the publication of a decree of the Government of the Russian Federation on transporting children in a car. Children under 12 years of age must ride in a special car seat, and the youngest passengers must ride in a car seat.
It is a chair that is tilted at an angle of 45 degrees. This cradle for newborns is intended for infants up to 9 months.
Rocking chair
Another convenient type of cradle is a rocking cradle. It consists of a wooden or plastic frame, a special support and a chair attached to them, in which the baby sits, like in a swing.
There are also rocking chairs on wheels. Sometimes these cradles are accompanied by an electronic device to perform certain functions.
The rocking chair allows you to make rocking your baby a real pleasure, and all family members can take part in it.
Jetem dream
Today, many manufacturers offer rocking chairs and cradles for children to young mothers, but one of the leading places is occupied by Jetem dream. Cribs and rocking chairs from this supplier are always of high quality and have received many positive reviews.
The materials from which the Jetem dream rocking cradles are made are of extremely high quality. Among the advantages of Jetem dream cradles are the following characteristics:
- Jetem dream models with system vibration, electronic devices;
- removable hood with toys, so the child can sleep during daylight hours;
- The Jetem dream model comes with a mattress in a cover;
- fabric components are easily removed and washed.
The Jetem dream newborn cradle will last a long time due to its high quality. If there is a choice, it is better to choose cribs from Jetem Dream.
Cradle made of slats
For those who like to make wooden structures, there is another option for an original baby crib. It consists of two semicircular planks, for which several boards were first glued together, and then they were cut out from the resulting shields according to a pattern. The next step will be to connect them to each other with a number of identical slats, screwed on with screws on both sides. The bottom of the crib is made flat.
For beauty, stars were cut out on the sides with a jigsaw. All slats must be thoroughly cleaned so that the crib is smooth and safe for the baby.
Carrycot for newborns
It’s easy to make a crib like the one in the photo below with your own hands. The wooden part of the structure is represented by two identical frames, which are connected at the central side points with bolts. They are held in an upright position by metal folding drawers, screwed to the top of the structure.
If you want to attach a canopy, you will also have to make a corner from slats with a central round stick for putting on the fabric. This design easily folds in half and can be taken with you outdoors or to the country. The cradle itself is made of thick fabric; satin or linen are suitable. A children's mattress is placed on the bottom.
Fabric pendant
You can sew a cradle for newborns with your own hands (photo below) from thick fabric, securing it to a floor beam or ceiling using strong ropes. So that the child can be rocked to sleep, a spring is attached at the junction of all the cords. Be sure to properly strengthen all the knots so that the child is safe and does not fall out of the bed.
The cradle is sewn from rectangular pieces of fabric, and attached to wooden round sticks with sewn wide loops. A mattress is placed at the bottom of the crib. If desired, also sew a canopy, which is simply hung on a spring in the center.
Jetem Dream bassinets are bestsellers
The company producing cradles for newborns, Jetem Dream, occupies a leading position in the market. The thing is that the main models of such designs are distinguished by high quality, safety and a huge number of positive reviews from young parents.
Jetem Dream cradles are made from natural materials, have an attractive appearance and are additionally equipped with an electronic mechanism that sets the cradle in motion. All fabric covers, a hood and other components of the cradle can be easily removed and cleaned of dirt.
Bassinet beds are intended exclusively for newborns. When the baby reaches the age of 4-5 months, he will begin to move and pull himself up very actively, thereby risking falling out of the cradle.
Jetem Dream – without ceiling mount
Macrame cradle
Many women are fond of weaving cords, so it is not surprising that the cradle for a newborn baby was made using the macrame technique. For this work you will need natural, durable cotton rope. The main threads are attached to selected hoops made of wire.
The bottom of the bed is best cut from plywood. Since the child is quite light, you can take the thinnest plywood - 4 mm. First of all, the cords on the upper hoop are fixed with knots. Next, the selected pattern of knots is made around the circumference using a working rope.
When the required height of the crib is reached, attach the lower hoop and weave a tightly mesh for the bottom. When the product is ready, insert the cut piece of plywood. Be sure to clean the edges with sandpaper; it is best to cover it with acrylic paint. Lastly, work on the bottom decorative fringe and make strong ropes to attach the crib to a hook on the ceiling.
Features and Benefits
The cradle-crib has a number of advantages over a regular crib. Such models are compact and mobile, which is undoubtedly very convenient.
Typically, a child's bed has dimensions of 50 cm by 100 cm. Cradles are equipped with locking mechanisms, have wheels and sometimes devices for storing the baby's things.
Due to the small space of the cradle, the child sleeps more soundly and is easy to move in the crib to the desired place. For example, during sleep, the crib can be moved closer to the parent’s bed or moved around the rooms with you.
In addition, a special mechanism helps to rock the baby to sleep faster or can temporarily replace the playpen while doing household chores.
Perhaps the only drawback is the short service life of the furniture. After all, the child grows and by the age of 3 months he makes attempts to rise and rolls over. Therefore, after 3-5 months, such a crib will no longer be safe.
Despite the undeniable advantages of a cradle-crib, under no circumstances should you leave a newborn in it without adult supervision.
Cocoon cradle for newborns
It’s easy to sew a comfortable portable cradle with your own hands, which is popularly called a cocoon, since it seems to hug the baby from all sides. You can take it with you on the road, on vacation in nature, or put it on the bed next to your mother.
Despite all the apparent complexity, sewing such a cradle is not at all difficult. You will need thick cotton fabric of one or two colors, a zipper, tape for tightening the corners of the cocoon, padding polyester, foam rubber and batting. If you have a sewing machine and very basic sewing skills, then feel free to start sewing such a cocoon, you will definitely succeed.
Pattern-drawing of a cocoon
The figure below in the article clearly shows all the necessary dimensions for sewing a fabric cocoon for a child. Using this pattern, two identical parts are cut out of fabric. On the wrong side they are sewn along the edges, leaving only the flat lower part unsewn. The soft bottom of the cocoon will subsequently be inserted through this hole. This pocket will be closed with a snake, which needs to be sewn onto its edges.
Next, you need to roll up a “sausage” from padding polyester and insert it along the entire perimeter of the cradle, pressing it tightly against the side seam. Then only on the front side a seam is made along the line marked in blue chalk. All that remains is to cut the foam bottom to the required size, cover it with a layer of thin batting both above and below, and then insert it into the pocket reserved for this purpose in the center of the cocoon and fasten it with a zipper. A wide satin ribbon is sewn onto the edges of the thickened sides to tie a beautiful bow. This closes the cocoon from below.
The article presents several interesting examples of making cradles for newborn babies. Choose the manufacturing method you like and do the work yourself. Good luck!
