This post is part of my Beginner’s Guide to Woven Wraps series. In it, I address commonly asked questions about woven wrap sizing and how it works with different carries!
Woven Wrap Sizing
If you are beginner it’s a good idea to start with a simple, base size 6 (4.6 meters) wrap, as the carries are easier for beginners to master. Once you master longer carries, you might see the need to try out other sizes/carries, and you can go for a shorter wrap if you want!
WOVEN WRAP SIZING EXPLAINED
Here are the sizes for woven wraps – so if you see a listing somewhere and it has the “meters” and not the size, refer to this and it will help you know which size it is!
Size 1 = 2.1 meters = 82.7 inches
Size 2 = 2.7 meters = 106.3 inches
Size 3 = 3.2 meters = 126 inches
Size 4 = 3.6 meters = 141.7 inches
Size 5 = 4.2 meters = 165.4 inches
Size 6 (most people’s base) = 4.6 meters = 181.1 inches
Size 7 = 5.2 meters = 204.7 inches
Size 8 = 5.7 meters = 224.4 inches
(source: purple elm baby)
WOVEN WRAP SIZING AND CARRIES
I get tons of questions on woven wrap sizes. All you need to know is that the size you need or want depends on two things.
1. The wearer/child being worn
2. The type of carry you want to do
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:
(source: sweet baby wraps)
VIDEO TUTORIALS
I have several video tutorials for doing different wrap carries on my Instagram/ IGTV channel! Click here to see those!
MORE BABYWEARING CONTENT
I hope this post about woven wrap sizing was helpful to you! Be sure to check out my Babywearing Beginner’s Guide and my Beginner’s Guide to Woven Wraps for lots more information!
Woven Wraps FAQ’s
GENERAL:
What is the average price range of woven wraps?
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.
