Even a beginning sewer can sew nursing clothes for herself or as a baby shower gift. While special nursing clothes are certainly not necessary (and can be very pricey!), these patterns provide a frugal option for nursing mothers. In addition to the free instructions for breastfeeding projects available here on Breastfeeding 1-2-3, I have compiled a list of sources for sewing patterns for breastfeeding clothes.
Nursing Clothes Pattern Retailers
Blessed Designs – click on “Nursing Patterns” in the sidebar and you can find patterns for nursing lingerie (nursing sleep bra, nightgown, camisole and tummy cover), a hoodie sweatshirt and jacket, and …read more

Last week I listed five tips for nursing in public. One of those suggestions was to come up with a combination of clothing that makes you feel most comfortable breastfeeding in public.
5 Alternatives to Regular Nursing Clothing
While it’s great if you can afford nursing clothing (see Where to Find Nursing Clothes) and can find styles that you like, there are other options.
1. Layer a button-down blouse over a tank top. When you lift up (or pull down) the tank top to nurse, the sides of the open blouse will offer coverage.
2. Layer a regular shirt over a loose-necked tank …read more

Shopping for nursing clothes can be difficult, especially if you want something both stylish and affordable (is that too much to ask?!) Some women forgo nursing clothes altogether (they’re certainly not necessary) but some enjoy the added comfort of nursing clothing for breastfeeding in public. Personally I liked wearing nursing clothing in the early months, but eventually transitioned into regular clothing as I became more comfortable with breastfeeding in public. Only a few times recently (weddings, funerals especially) have I wished for a nursing dress!
If you’re in the market for some nursing clothes, there are several sources out there.
In Stores
If …read more

What did nursing mothers say was the gift they’d love to get or loved getting? Approximately one in three respondents said nursing clothing (for all of those interested in nursing clothing, check out the link to the Motherwear line in the bottom right of the sidebar!) One in four said a baby sling and one in eight said a nursing pillow. This chart illustrates the final results:

If you missed yesterday’s Carnival of Breastfeeding, check out several breastfeeding bloggers’ ideas for the Best Gifts for the Breastfeeding Mother.