Some time ago I picked up a few printed napkins with the idea of using them as fabric for sewing projects. Napkins and tea towels are great for small sewing projects when you can’t buy yardage in a pattern you love — I use them all the time. One of the prints I bought seemed perfect for a baby bib, so I turned it into a simple bandana bib that’s both attractive and absorbent. Below is an easy method to make your own DIY bandana bib for babies and toddlers.
Materials and Tools
- Printed napkin, tea towel, or fabric square about 16 × 16 inches
- Snaps and fastener kit with pliers or a stainless steel snap set
- Scissors
- Pencil or sewing chalk
- Straight pins
- Iron and sewing machine
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Lay the square fabric flat and cut diagonally from one corner to the opposite corner to create two right-angled triangles. Use one triangle for the bib.
2. Fold and press a 1/4-inch seam allowance along all three raw edges, pinning as you go. If you’re using a finished napkin with sewn edges, only the cut edge requires hemming. For the two pre-finished edges, add a couple of backstitches near the cut edge to secure them against fraying.
3. Topstitch close to the folded edges to create a neat, durable finish. This also helps the bib hold its shape when washed.
4. Measure and mark placement for the snaps. From the center point of the straight top edge, measure 6 inches to mark the inner snap positions on both sides (12 inches apart total). For the outer snap positions, measure 7 inches from center on both sides (13 inches apart total). Attach the snaps using your snap and fastener tool, following the manufacturer’s instructions for a secure fit.
5. Optionally, tie small knots or create tiny decorative tabs at each end for added detail. Trim any loose threads, press the finished bib, and it’s ready to wear.
Optional: If you want extra absorbency, add a backing layer — for example, a square of flannel or terry cloth cut and layered beneath the printed fabric before sewing. Stitch around the edges to join the layers. A single-layer napkin bib works well for light dribbles and is quick to make, but a double layer is more functional for heavy drooling or feeding.
Sewing Emma Spear / Photography Brittni Mehlhoff
P.S. If you’re curious about the items pictured: the lion toy is from Maileg, the ribbed onesie is from Mebie Baby, the overalls are Nui, and the blanket is from Rylee + Cru.
Have a favorite napkin or tea towel that would make an adorable bib? What other small projects could you make from fabric scraps like that?