This post is part of my Beginner’s Guide to Woven Wraps series. In it, I share the different ways to use a woven wrap to carry your child. There are several different types of carries you can learn! I share my favorites and some example photos below!
Woven Wrap Carries (How to Use Them)
Photo: semi-front wrap cross carry with a pond finish (size 6 wrap)
So, there are several different carries for woven wraps. Like A LOT. But the single most used one I believe is the Front Wrap Cross Carry (FWCC). I have shared how to do it many times on my Instagram, and you can see a video on my IGTV channel here. It’s fairly simple once you practice a few times!
WOVEN WRAP CARRIES
There are three types of carries to use the woven wraps for…I name a few of my favorite carries for each type, but know there are TONS of different ways to use a woven wrap.
1 // front carry
front wrap cross carry (fwcc)
semi-front wrap cross carry (semi-fwcc with a twist)
rebozo (this is super similar to a sling, but you use a wrap to “create” a sling type carry instead!
Photo: double hammock back carry tied at waist (size 6 wrap)
Photo: semi-front wrap cross carry (size 3 wrap)
WOVEN WRAP CARRIES CHART
Here is a list of carries that coordinate withs size. Most of the wraps in my stash are my base size (6) and that’s everyone’s base, typically unless you prefer a 7 for more length, or a 5 if you are petite. The shorter wraps, like 2’s, 3’s, and 4’s are for specific carries. They are measured by meters, so here are the conversions here:
The range really is from about $100-$700 for machine woven wraps.
Where can I get one?
I wrote a post on where to buy woven wraps. See it here!
How long can you use them? What is the weight limit?
Woven wraps can be used pretty much right out of the womb. (If your baby has a special medical situation, is under five pounds at birth, or born premature, however, I would consult your doctor first!) As far as maximum age, I believe most wraps can be used with kids until around 45 pounds.
Are they more comfortable than soft structured carriers?
So, I feel like wovens are way more comfortable, but that’s because it’s like a big blanket that you mold to your baby and around baby. That being said, as far as long-term support, soft structured carriers are a great option too. It’s all about preference.
I joined a few facebook pages and noticed that they’re hard to buy. Thoughts?
So, if you’re after a wrap that is made in very small quantities (we’re talking like 2-3 wraps per release) then they will be hard to buy… additionally, addressing the next question – they’re expensive because a lot of people may want them and are willing to fork over a pretty penny for one.
For example, I once bought a SSC Tula for around $1200, even though it was only worth $360. There was a limited quantity made, and a lot of people wanted them!
Why are they so dang expensive?
See the above answer!
I am having a c-section and I wanted to know if you can use a wrap after surgery?
Yes, you absolutely can. A fwcc shouldn’t bother your tummy. I think wovens would be more comfortable than SSC’s because those have a waist strap.
It seems like wraps are sturdier than stretchy wraps. Is this true?
Do they hold better than Moby wraps? I feel like baby slides a lot.
Yes, ABSOLUTELY. And for this reason, I don’t like or wear stretchy wraps. Wovens are more comfy, supportive, and grippy. They don’t slide around. I just do not like stretchy wraps. At all. They last for maybe two months then baby get too heavy.
Are they super hot in summers? How do you stay cool while wearing woven wraps?
Not if you get the right blend! See my above explanation on wrap fibers!
The cool thing is that different fibers mean different levels of support. For example, hemp or linen blend wovens can be light and airy; great for summer or hot weather. Wool wovens can be cozy and heavy; great for winter!
SIZING:
What are the pros to smaller than your base size wraps? (shorties)
So, there are a few reasons to try out a shortie. A shorter wrap (size 2 or 3) doesn’t drag on the ground, so if you are out and about it means you won’t drag your tails on the ground when putting baby up.
Another reason you might want a shortie wrap is if you want to do a carry like a ruck or a rebozo. These carries only require one “pass” meaning, one layer of wrap. If you have a super long wrap it will hang down and be in the way.
Are woven wraps good for short women?
I’m going to say yes! You can choose a wrap that’s smaller (size 4 or 5) and it means less tails, and you can customize carries for your height too. I don’t think it would be an issue for short women!
CARRIES:
If I’m trying a woven wrap for the first time, which carry should I start with?
Yay! I’m so excited for you to dive into the woven wrap world! Definitely start with a Front Wrap Cross Carry (FWCC), as it’s the easiest to master, and it is actually how you start many of the other woven wrap carries.
Sitting always feels awkward in a woven, is there a trick?
Baby probably isn’t high enough up on your torso. Once they reach a certain size sitting won’t be comfortable. I found sitting with my newborn was amazing, but now that Norah is almost six months old it isn’t very comfy. She expects me to move.
I can’t get it tight enough – I feel like she will fall out – help!
So, you need to really pull tight when tightening the wrap… there should be NO slack at all. Think of it like you are wrapping them in a swaddle. You want it to be tight – you really can’t tighten too much.
Can you wear them as a sling?
You can! It’s called a rebozo carry, with a size 2 or 3 wrap!
Do you use woven wraps outside or do you prefer buckle carriers?
I love wearing my wovens both inside and outside! I wear them at home a lot because I don’t like to get the tails dirty, so some stay home, but many of them I take out with me too! Usually the darker colored ones.
