When I asked readers to submit blog posts for tomorrow’s Carnival of Breastfeeding on tips for saving money while breastfeeding, Maureen took the time to share a tip for me to post here at Breastfeeding 1-2-3. Maureen raved about the JCPenney Fancy Me Sleep/Leisure Bra:
After several bouts with mastitis aggravated (I believe) by the ubiquitous underwire nursing bra, I sought out a less binding, and less expensive option – one that I could throw in the wash without fear of the “hand-wash” only label. I found the JC Penney Fancy Me Sleep/Leisure Bra to be perfect. Comfortable, easy to …read more

Welcome Carnival of Breastfeeding readers! This month’s participants each review one or more breastfeeding products (see the links at the end of this post).
Medela Sleep Nursing Bra Review
I ordered a Medela Sleep Nursing Bra when I was pregnant because I was looking for a soft, comfortable nursing bra without hooks or snaps. I was not disappointed! The fabric is 95% cotton, 5% spandex, and it comes in nude or white. The cups cross slightly in front, allowing for easy opening by pulling one cup to the side to reveal the breast. The ultra-lazy (me!) can pull up from the …read more

Josie Mercier offers a free pattern for knitting your own nursing tank top! This cute and clever design also doubles as a nursing bra. It would make a great project for expectant mothers or experienced knitters looking to make a baby shower gift beyond the basic baby blanket or booties!
For other do-it-yourself breastfeeding and baby gift projects, see:
~ Pullover Crew Neck Baby Bib
~ Baby Bib with Neck Ties
~ Ring Sling
~ Nursing Necklace
~ Nursing Pads
~ Baby Booties
~ Cloth Diapers
~ Nursing Pillow, Nursing Shirt, Nursing Bra and Pumping Bra, Cloth Diapers, and More
Hat tip to Lil Irish Lass for the breastfeeding tank …read more

Jan Andrea offers an amazing collection of free patterns and instructions for sewing your own breastfeeding accessories. Click on the links to:
Sew your own nursing pillow (like a Boppy or Brest Friend)
Make your own nursing shirts from regular t-shirts
Convert a regular bra into a nursing bra (particularly helpful for hard-to-find sizes)
Convert a regular bra into a hands-free pumping bra
She also offers patterns for:
All kinds of slings and baby carriers, including no-sew ring slings and ring-less slings or tube-style pouches
Breastfeeder’s diaper bag/purse
Cloth diapers and cloth menstrual pads
I wish I’d known about all of these sooner! Now I can’t wait to get …read more