Ava Mei Tai
by Rebecca Mitchell
(Big Bear, CA)
"Ava" Mei Tai
This carrier was inspired by my newly adopted baby daughter Ava.
The fabric is Henry Alexander "Ava". I used red hemp silk for the lining and also for a layer on each strap applique. There is a strong middle canvas layer with the hidden X-box strap construction.
The straps are black brushed canvas. So soft and yummy. I decided to make them a little narrower than average at 3.5 inches. I used natural fleece for padding. I appliqued 3 different flowers on the straps and also hand appliqued "Ava" at the end of one of them. I lined the hood silk with interfacing to make it sturdy for my large flower applique. It worked beautifully! I also sewed boxes on the waist strap instead of rows to hold the fleece padding in place.
I used the OliviaBoliva Tutorial only for directions on how to assemble. I needed to save time on figuring it out myself. For the shape of the body I layed my daughter down on the canvas layer and decided what shape and size would best fit her. Then folded it in half and began my journey.
This carrier is beautiful in person and is soo comfy for both of us. It hits behind her knees perfectly and I have gotten so many compliments on it. Thanks for looking!!!!!
