Neil's paternal grandmother made several bibs from this pattern when he was just a wee tot, and they performed valiantly through both Mr. Reflux and his younger brother Mr. Wreak Havoc. They've moved on to a neighbor family now, and are still going strong. Not only can baby bibs be oh-so-cute, but they have a crucial purpose that's often overlooked -- they save clothes from food, spitup, dirt, and more. It's much easier to carry and change bibs than multiple outfits, too -- this is very helpful information that most new parents figure out quickly!

The booklet inludes patterns for infant and toddler bibs (6 months - 3 years) and 22 applique designs, as well as a contoured burpcloth (also very useful for the aforementioned RefluxBabe). This easy-to-sew appliqued bib is made from two layers, one of terry and the other a cotton print or flannel, with velcro or snap closures. If you want to take a shortcut, a standard bath towel will make 4 toddler size bibs or 6 infant size. The easy, fun applique designs for everyday and holidays will keep mealtime fun for baby and everyone else.

As a sidenote, I've noticed that older generations seem to particularly adore babies wearing bibs. I'm not sure why, but I appreciated that quite a bit when my kids were small!

The pattern calls for 1/2 yard of terrycloth for a toddler bib, 3/8 yard for an infant bib, and 1/4 yard for a burpcloth. You'll need the same amount of cotton backing fabric, and 1 3/8 yards (infant), 1 3/4 yards (toddler), or 1 1/2 yard (burpcloth) of double-fold bias tape, either purchased or homemade. Transfer Web is useful for positioning appliques, and tear-away stabilizer placed under the applique can make satin stitching easier. Velcro, buttons, or snaps can close the bibs, and you'll need scraps of various fabric for the appliques.