I have a couple of little friends in my life that have a g-tube. Their moms asked if I could make the little wrap around pads that help absorb any moisture or leakage where they connect. I couldn't find a tutorial for any, so, I made one and wanted to share it here in case someone else might find it useful.
Supplies Needed:
Flannel - Cut to approximately 2 3/4 - 3" Circles (2 for each pad)
Terry Cloth or other absorbent fabric (cotton fleece, hemp, bamboo) - Cut to the same measurement as your flannel (1 for each pad)
Snaps or velcro for closure. I have used Size 20 KAM Snaps, because this is what I had available from other projects, but a Size 14 or 16 would work well also. I typically order my snaps in bulk online, but many stores like JoAnn have started carrying them in the area where they sell cloth diaper materials.
I've sewn these in several sizes now, with the last ones I made for a little guy, so I cut 2 3/4" circles.
2 circles of flannel, 1 of absorbent fabric.
Lay your flannel circles right sides facing and place the absorbent circle on top.
Cut a slit through all 3 layers, straight up the middle of the circle about 2". (This may vary based on the size you are making. You'll want to stop your cut about 1' from the top.)
Stitch the 3 layers together around the slit you just made.
**BE SURE to snip the corners of your stitching here so the pad will lay flat when turned.
Now, it's time to turn your pad right sides out. This can be a little fiddly, so just take your time with it and you'll have a nice smooth result. I also suggest carefully pinning as shown below.
You're ready to top-stitch your layers together, starting along the center opening.
Then you will either serge or zig zag the outer edge all the way around.
I found that I liked my 3 step zig zag stitch best for this, even more than the serged ones. They seemed smoother, and more neatly finished.
Apply your closure and you're done!
I personally prefer using snaps on these since velcro can be scratchy and irritate this sensitive area if it gets flipped.
Before you know it you'll have a pile of these little pads and make some people very happy...What a treat that is!
And this is a PERFECT way to use up fabric scraps! All of these were made from trimmings of other projects...bibs, lounge pants, pillowcases...that would never have been useful otherwise. LOVE THAT! I can assure you I will now have a use for these small fabric pieces!
If you run into any questions making these, just
email me, I'm happy to help.
Update with photo of one of the pads in use.
You can learn more about what a g-tube (Gatrostomy Tube) is
here.
