Getting foam into the shoulder straps is the step a lot of carrier makers dread. Foam grips fabric, so when you try to work it through a narrow strap, it bunches up, stretches, and can even tear.

The trick I use is simple: slip the foam into a plastic umbrella bag or bread bag first, then pull the bagged foam through the strap. The plastic slides easily against the fabric, so the foam goes in smoothly and keeps its shape.

What you’ll need

• Your strap foam, cut to your pattern piece
• Your strap casing, ready for foam
• An umbrella bag or a bread bag (umbrella bags are the long, skinny plastic sleeves some stores set out by the door on rainy days, and you can also buy them in packs online)

How it works

1. Slide the foam into the bag so the whole piece is covered.
2. Pull the bagged foam through the strap until it’s where it needs to be.
3. Hold the foam in place through the fabric and slide the bag back out.

Not sure which foam to use for your straps? My All About Foam guide walks through the options. And if you get stuck, our Facebook group is full of makers who are happy to help.

[LET’S SEW!] → Shop the Patterns