Babywearing RING SLINGS
Words Kellie Rakich Photo Sarah Walker
Ring slings are often touted as being one of the best options of carrier for newborns, and beginner babywearers. Once mastered, they are quick to slip on and off; easy to thread and tighten; and best of all, they are usually no larger than an A4 booklet when folded up, so are able to be popped into most regular size handbags.
personal preference. Here are descriptions of the two most popular styles.
THE HISTORY The modern-day ring sling is the brainchild of Rayner Garner; a Hawaiian man who created a carrier that had two rings and padded edges, for his wife to use for wearing their baby. That was in 1981 - and today, nearly 40 years later, the modern babywearing movement has several different types of ring slings, in a variety of fibres and styles, for parents and caregivers to choose from.
Pleated: The pleated shoulder style is extremely useful for beginner ring sling users, as it fans out over the shoulder, and doesn’t require much adjustment.
THE BASICS A ring sling is a piece of fabric around 2 metres in length, with two specially made rings at one end. It is designed to be worn as a one-shoulder carrier, with the child positioned on either the front or hip of the wearer. The fabric is fastened by threading the end through the rings and is secured by the tension created from the weight of the child bearing downwards, thus stopping the fabric from slipping out of the rings. THE SHOULDER STYLES There are several different shoulder styles of ring sling, which provide wearers with options for comfort, depending on 32
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Gathered: The gathered shoulder style is a simple ‘gathering’ of the fabric, which allows the wearer to widely distribute fabric. This is especially useful for carrying heavier children.
THE FABRIC Ring slings, like other woven carriers, have a multitude of fabrics and blends available; all of which is personal preference. 100% cotton is a common option available, and is popular for several reasons; it’s a breathable fabric that is supportive, easy care, and able to be sustainably produced. Cotton blends using fibres such as linen, tencel, hemp, and wool are also popular options. These blends create further choice that recognises differences in climates, as well a support for heavier children. OTHER BENEFITS Ring slings are extremely portable, as previously stated. They’re a convenient carrier that is easily transportable, as well as being relatively quick to use. This comes in handy for situations such as inclement weather, whereby you need
