FAQs| Have a Ball Baby

FAQs

Did you invent these carriers? TOP

No I did not! These carriers have been around as long as there have been baby's begging to be picked up. I have made my own tweaks and design changes to MY pattern(s), so yes, these are my personal design, but I did not invent any carrier I carry.

Having said this, let me add: I do not own the mei tai, pouch or any other baby carrier, but my pouch, mei tai and podeagi patterns are MY intellectual property and I am rather protective of them since I had to think and actually get off my hiney to design them. That made me rather tired, so please understand that I am protective of my designs.

Why not just buy a carrier from the store? Aren't those better quality? TOP

Well, first off, to each their own. The reason I like Mei Tais, pouches, ring slings and wraps better than a "store bought" carrier is because they last longer (birth to 4 years approximately), they are more versatile, and by that I mean that you can carry your baby in the front, side or back and several positions in between AND they are prettier. I'm a mom, but I still like to look somewhat fashionable!

In terms of quality... each carrier is made by one woman (okay, maybe two--- we are a busy business now!) who checks every stitch 3 times over. It is made with you in mind and quite often in a limited quantity. I find that to be a nice quality!

Also, there is a huge difference in comfort. These carriers will be more comfortable for you and your little one for longer periods of time. Don't believe me? Try one on!

Yikes! Why such a high price? TOP

Okay, go check the price on a Baby Bjorn.(A Baby Bjorn is a high quality carrier and I am in no way shape or form knocking that brand, or any other.) We've already gone over the versatility and the fact that wraps, mei tais, ring slings, pouches, etc can be worn longer. I like the idea of spending $50 (just an arbitrary number) on something and using it for 3-4 years as opposed to buying something for $50 and using it for 3-4 months.

Now, let's talk numbers. Each individual carrier costs between $20-$60 (in materials) to make depending on the cost of the fabric. Let's estimate low and average that to $25.

I spend an average of 2 hours washing, cutting, sewing and ironing each carrier. If I were paid an average wage as a seamstress (or if I pay a seamstress to sew this carrier) I'd be making (or paying) $10 an hour. So far this carrier has cost me $45.

That doesn't include any extra bells and whistles a customer might need, which costs on the average another $2. Then there is shipping. That will run about $7.

Plus, there is the time I spend with each customer (sometimes hours), having and maintaining my website and writing fun and informative pages like this one.

I won't continue to add this up, but I think you see where I'm going with the math. Remember, I am also spending time away from my kids to do all of this and that isn't always fun.

I'd also like to do a little more than break even and in retail, prices are AT LEAST quadrupled from the manufacturing costs (which are all the things I listed above).

So, as you can see, this price is not high at all.

Now, just for fun, let's do a little cost comparison. A basic Baby Bjorn costs about $70. My most expensive carrier costs $120. Let's say your baby runs on the small side and you can use that Bjorn (or other carrier you bought at a big box store--- NOT knocking any of them) every day for 6 months. Daily your Baby Bjorn cost you $.38 to use.

Now, let's look at an $80 mei tai. Let's say you use it every day for 3 years. It cost you $.07 every day to wear that mei tai. But, let's try this. Say you don't even touch the mei tai until your child is 6 months old, then you use it every other day for the next 2 years. It will have cost you about $.21 each day to use it. Over time, what looks like the better deal to you?

What if I don't like it or my baby doesn't like it? TOP

I hate to say this, but sometimes it happens. Everyone is different.

But...

Before you decide that this carrier is not for you, let's really try to learn how to use the carrier. The first time I used a mei tai, I hated it. Really. But, the 5th time I loved it and never wanted to use anything else. Give yourself some time to figure out the best way for you to wear it. Make sure it's snug enough and nothing is bunched up or twisted.

If your baby is fussing, bounce her, walk with her in it. Make sure she isn't tired, hungry or needing a new diaper. That will make a big difference. Give her time to get used to it too. I have never met a baby who outright hated a carrier, but I have seen babies fuss when they (and their parents) weren't used to the carrier.

I must add, I also think our initial attitude plays a role. If you think a baby carrier is worthless, it will be for you. So, with anything new, have an open mind when trying. You CANNOT know you love OR hate a carrier based on ten minutes or less of wearing.

Remember, I want your carrier to work for you! Please email myself or any customer service rep if you need help with your carrier. We are always happy to assist you!

If you are a local customer, I will PERSONALLY help you wear your baby (even in a carrier I didn't make) because I know how important hands on help is. I didn't have it when I was a beginning babywearer and I understand how much it helps. There are a lot of organizations out there that are willing to help anyone learn to babywear, please contact me for help finding someone.

Now, if you are asking this for a returns reason, please please please read my policies page.

I could make that for less! TOP

That is true, you could.

Will I be offended if you do? No, I will be thrilled that you made something beautiful to hold your baby close in.

However, bear a few things in mind. These do take some time to sew, especially the first time. Also, you MUST make sure it is sewn securely. Please, for your baby's safety (and my peace of mind). Please go to my education page for some useful links with FREE baby carrier patterns.

Finally, as I said before, I will not be offended at all if you make your own and in fact I am happy to give you information on where to find a good pattern for whatever baby carrier you want to sew but I WILL be offended if you copy my design (UNLESS it is ONLY for do it yourself purposes and not for selling to others. There is a BIG difference.). I put many hours and a lot of fabric into my specific design, please respect that.

I hate to add this, but unfortunately I must. When I say do not sell carriers you have made with my pattern, I mean do not take ANY compensation for them. This includes reimbursement for fabric, time and trading for other products. I feel bad saying that, but because my generosity has been abused more than once on this issue, I feel like I need to be specific. My pattern is copyrighted and if you don't respect my wishes, please respect that. Okay, done with the cranky and back to the fun!

What fabric do you use for your pouches? TOP
In the winter we use a high quality anti-pill fleece. And no, it isn't Malden Mills. Sorry. But, it is good stuff. I have my same pouch I used 2 years ago still and other than the lovely spit up stains I can see when inspecting it closely, it still looks awesome and easily packs a teensy 7lb newborn as well as my wiggly, wild mohawked 26lb 2 year old.

Can you help me get the right size for my pouch? TOP
Yes, please email us. We are happy to help.

What ages can a pouch be used for? TOP
I have used my pouches since my son was a newborn. I have put hours-old babies in a pouch. I have also tossed my then 3 year-old 35lb nearly as tall as me (I am only 5'1" peeps) daughter into a pouch. You will be able to use it for longer than your child will want to be in it, in my experience.

What makes a Ball Baby Mei Tai different from other mei tais? TOP

Well, first off this is a wide strapped mei tai. The body is shorter and wider than a lot of mei tais out there and our strap angle helps to hug your baby close. Our Overall has one huge difference that you don't see a lot of different mei tai makers do: They are made from a patterned fabric so everything is the same pattern.

Also, I make them and I rock. And I'm super humble too.

What fabric do you use for your mei tais? TOP

This is a two parter, so get ready...

For my PANEL mei tais I use twill and duck canvas for the body and straps (like your pants are made out of) and for the purty panel I use a high quality quilters cotton of your choice. That makes 3 layers on the body (where the baby chills) of the mei tai: Twill, more twill, and a square of cotton.

For my OVERALL mei tais I use a canvas fabric. About the same weight as the twill, perhaps even a bit lighter with some prints. Still very strong and comfortable. If you want to feel the weight, go to your local fabric store and feel the rolls of home decorator fabric. That's what I use. I only use TWO layers with a regular Overall, so for summer this is a very light mt.

For the reversible Overalls I use the 2 layers of canvas PLUS a hidden layer of twill or canvas so your overall is completely reversible. Still very lightweight.

Isn't that fabric stiff? TOP
It can be. Sometimes a few extras washes will soften it up. I liken it to a pair of jeans. A bit stiff at first, but when it's broken in... Well best feeling ever! Seriously, I want strong sturdy fabric so your mei tai will last you for many years and lots of use and abuse. Also, I feel that stiff and sturdy is always better than floppy and flimsy.

What are your dimensions? TOP

Well, I am 5'1", about 100 lbs on days when I eat only half the bag of Doritos... I'd call myself curvy with a hint of J-Lo junk in my trunk... oh, I'm sorry, you were asking about my mei tais!

The straps for a regular BBO are 64" long, 6" wide (top) and about 26" long and 3" wide (bottom). My XL straps are about 70" long and same width on top and same bottoms. XL straps are ALWAYS $10 extra. The body is 20" tall and 16" wide which in my opinion makes a comfy pouch for a newborn and and nice wide base for a toddler.

I see that you don't make sleeping hoods on your mei tais. Will you make one on mine? TOP
Nope.

Why not? TOP
Because I don't wanna. In all seriousness, I like my pattern just the way it is. Maybe when I'm not knee deep in orders I will try something fun like adding a sleeping hood, but at this time, I have not desire whatsoever to try. But, there are many other great mei tais who have sleeping hoods... (and you CAN ask me where to get one of these carriers!)

Can I have a custom Mei Tai or pouch made? TOP

Yes. It is an additional $20 for being a custom (I fear change, but money helps to soothe me). I order the fabric myself (that is included in the price unless you choose crazy expensive fabric, then you will be paying for some of that too). It goes into the line and everyone is happy! Custom panels are the same deal.

I will do a custom reversible Overall, unless what you pick sucks together. Then I will just say no because I want you to look pretty. Sorry, tough love there.

Let me define "sucks" from my above paragraph: If it makes me dizzy or need to vomit, I will veto your request. If I look at it and say, "eh" I will most likely allow it because frankly, I have ridiculous taste (hello, I like zebra prints with skulls) and I can't punish you for liking things that are different from my taste. With that in mind, I can't make any promises that you won't see your finished creation and also say, "eh". Frankly (and not to be mean) that will be your own issue to take up in therapy or art class, whatever. But, I do promise that I won't allow you to create a custom that will make you (or me) look bad.

Can I just borrow one of your mei tais and use it as a pattern? TOP

Sure. While you're at it, could you go to the gas station, fill up my car and take off without paying? I kid, but I don't.

If you want to copy my pattern for your own personal use (as in, YOU use it), hey no biggie, just show me some pics! (Pssst! got to sleepingbaby.net for the pattern.) But, if you want to copy my pattern, make some mts for friends and family, sell a few here and there... well, that's called stealing. Stealing is always wrong, even if it is from a housewife in Idaho.

Now I'm not going to send the police after you (and remember, I know a few cops), but there's this thing about karma...

Your Overalls are cute, but can you add some feature/change this carrier to copy another brand of carrier? TOP

First, reread the above question answer. If you are still wondering, no I can't and won't. I make my mei tai and that's the only kind I make. I'd love to help you with a custom, but I can't and won't hurt another mama by ripping her off.

The babywearing business is a very friendly business and we (for the most part) hold ourselves to a high ethical standard. This is good for you and good for us. Good for you because you get a huge variety of carriers to choose from. Good for us because we can work as a huge team and help spread the babywearing love.

On a personal note, it's good for me because I can sleep well at night knowing I've dealt honestly with others.

I found a carrier that looks like yours that is way cheaper. What's the deal? TOP

Remember, I LOVE deals and am very into bargains. Having said that... take what I'm about to say with a heaping bucket of salt. Please.

You get what you pay for. You might find a great deal on a carrier, but is that carrier made with high quality products?

Are the important parts of the carriers (ie, the parts that actually keep your baby from falling) stitched securly?

Have the carriers been tested for safety?

How ugly is it? (Hey, that's important to me, I'm vain!)

Have you found feedback from others who have owned this carrier?

Is this carrier a "knock off" of another name brand (like mine)?

I'm not asking this to keep you from buying somewhere else, I want you to think about safety for your baby. If you feel good about a deal and feel it is safe, then go for it! You get that deal!

WARNING! RANT ALERT!

Specifically on knock offs. I have a huge problem with them. Knock offs usually sell for less than the original and then hurt both the original by decreasing sales AND the actual knock off because the mama making them is working hard for little pay. Knock offs can put others out of business and usually then go out of business themselves. I love to give my kids piggyback rides, but I'm not too impressed with adults who want to ride on my shoulders too. There, Rant ended, now back to your regularly scheduled semi-sarcastic faq.

Do you ship internationally? TOP
I ship to anywhere in the world that can have a package delivered.

I'm local. Can I get my carrier locally? TOP
Click on Local Delivery when ordering. I'll contact you and we'll set things up. Or, check our Where to Buy page for some local stores. Everyone, buy as local as you can, help small businesses grow!

Why is there such a long wait? TOP

I think we've discussed this before, but let me repeat myself because this question is asked constantly.

I'm a mom first and a businesswoman second. My kids need me during the day, which means I only allow myself to work a certain amount of time. My time with my family is very valuable to me and no amount of money is worth missing my babies grow up... especially since I am doing this business so I can be with them while they grow up! I make each carrier when it is ordered and not a moment sooner. Then it is hot and fresh when you bite into it... oh, sorry, drifted off into a Wendy's commercial. Mmm, biggie fries with cheese sauce (shut up, it's good!).

I know you said no cutsies, but I want my carrier now now now! TOP

First of all, as I tell my 5 year-old, temper tantrums get you nowhere in life. (Showing a little leg will, but that is a lesson for another day...) I know you're excited, and believe me, I am too. I can't wait to send you your carrier. I hope to hear about it and see pictures. But, I used to work at a movie theater and let me tell you, I learned some important things there. First off, order the large. Just do it because we won't stop offering it. Second, you NEED a coat buffer between you and those seat because I have seen things in theaters that make my skin crawl. Oh, and take some Lysol to spray too. You'll thank me later. Third and most importantly I learned that letting people cut always leads to doom, mayhem and teenagers trampling me. So, for my safety, you just can't cut.

I suggest you join one of the support groups at thebabywearer.com during this time. The women there have been through it and will help you to survive the wait. (Or, pay me an extra $40 and I'll sneak you in through the emergency exit...)

The carrier I ordered was "instock" so it will be here tomorrow, right? TOP

If you have magical fairy powers, yes.

For the rest of us mere mortals, we have some hurdles in front of us. First off, as I have stated, A carrier listed as instock is not ready to go. The fabric is available and I am waiting for the order to slice into that fabric. I always have a huge line of orders to fulfill and again, as I have also said before, I am a mama first and a businesswoman second. I only work so much each day because I love my babies and I want to play with them while they still want to play with me! (But SAME DAY carriers will ship immediately.)

Finally, I have no control over the postal service, so I get it out the door, but sometimes the postmen take a little extra time. I like to just be grateful that they bring me my mail because they work very very hard, so don't yell at your postman please.

Hey, I live by you/know your mom/saw you in a grocery store/totally talked smack about you in high school or at church but pretended to like you to your face. Can I get a discount? TOP
Um, no, no, no and maybe. I'm kidding, super no, you dirty smack talker!

I am or I am related to (as in immediate family) to police officer, fire fighter, soldier, paramedic or teacher. Can I have a discount now? TOP
Nyaaa--- Yes! Email me.

Do you have any job openings? TOP
Nope. We are staffed with a huge file of applications right now. Sorry.

How do I get into the babywearing business? TOP

I can't answer that for you.

Not because I'm stingy with information, but because I feel that it is a very personal journey for each person. I had to find my way and I am grateful for that opportunity because I've learned a lot from it. I do not want to take that opportunity from you. But, I will strongly urge you to go to my education page and look into the sites listed there. You will find all the information you need to learn about not only babywearing but some interesting information on babywearing businesses.

I will tell you that there are lot of small businesses you can do from you home with less risk than a baby carrier business. Really. The best businesses I have seen found a hole in the market, came up with something different and worked with other businesses in an ethical manner (okay, not all of them on the last part, but the ones I personally am pulling for). Baby and maternity clothes, bedding, etc... there is a whole world of products out there! Find one you are passionate about, create something amazing (and tell me so I can cheer you on) and succeed! Oh, and I wish you luck and success on your journey.

Hey, I almost forgot... how do I use this thing? TOP

Go to my instructions section. If you are still having trouble, email me. I am working on getting more photo instructions up and running, but for some reason the kids insist on eating and having clean clothes to wear... the nerve.

Update: I am making dvds and online videos for ya'll. Happy now?

How do I care for my mei tai or pouch? TOP

For use:

ONLY use as instructed as per my instruction and policy pages.

Carriers are not meant to be used as a substitute for a car seat or a bike seat.

Sword fighting, creamed corn wrestling and waterskiing are all bad plans when babywearing.

Oh, and riding an ATV is also a bonehead move.

Basically, use common sense and if you don't have any, ask someone else to loan you theirs before you do anything too adventurous while wearing your baby.

For washing:

Hand washing is best.

If that is just too much work (and believe me, I get that), Wash on COLD and DELICATE.

LINE DRY. The Dryer is not your friend.

I would use woolite or something else colorfast for your carrier. Wash your carrier alone (or with your "delicates" if you must fill that machine)

Spot clean as much as possible, wash as little as possible to prolong the life of your carrier.

Can you tell me about your wrap to mei tai conversions (aka BBOifying a wrap) TOP
Yes, go to the product page in the store and there is a link with the answers to the most common questions. Just what you wanted, more sarcasm to sift through!

I hear you are making a sleeping hood. Tell me please! TOP
Okay, here is what I can tell you. Yes, we are still testing. No, I can't make one now. No, it won't affect your current carrier in any way. Yes, the headrest it totally detachable and can be used on other baby carriers. No, I am not sure when it will come out (but the more time I spend answering this question--- that I get at least 20 times a day--- the longer it will take me to sew people!)