Make Your Own Nursing Vests

It is very simple to make your own nursing vests, but if you’re not confident enough to do it yourself, you can purchase a (properly finished) version of this design through MilkChic.

Cropped Nursing Vest

This is the simplest design to make. It results in a cropped vest which goes under anything. It is less versatile than the full length version as it doesn’t cover your belly, but works well for a pull down style feed.

1. Buy a vest top with a neckline you like.
If you are big busted and need to wear a fuller cupped bra than you are used to, you may want a slightly higher neckline to ensure your bra is covered.

2. Mark the cutting line.
Wearing your bought vest top, mark a cutting point level with the lowest part of your breast (where your bra ends).

3. Cut a straight line as marked.

4. Finish. (optional)
You can finish the cut edge neatly but it is not necessary for a functional nursing vest – most jersey fabric will not fray.

Fig. 1: Cropped Nursing Vest

Full Length Nursing Vest

This is slightly more complicated to make. The final vest has 2 access vents under the bust and looks a little strange at first glance (see photo of an unfinished make your own vest!) but is incredibly versatile under clothing and works for all feeding styles.

1. Buy a vest top with a neckline you like (read guidelines above).

2. Measure up
Wearing the vest top without a bra, mark a point about 7.5cm / 3″ below the nipple. Cutting below the nipple line gives extra fabric to cover your breast while baby latches on.

3. Cut access slits
Cut 2 curved slits as pictured. The centre part of the curve should be at the line marked in step 2. The uncut section in the middle should be at least 5cm / 2″ wide.

4. Finish (optional)
You can finish the cut edges neatly but it is not necessary for a functional nursing vest – most jersey fabric will not fray.

Fig. 2: Full Length Nursing Vest