There are lots of reasons to make your own menstrual pads: environmental benefits, save money, you can make pads to suit your own needs, they are very comfortable to use, and above all they look beautiful and it’s great to make and then use them.
You can make your pads any size you like, to suit your needs. Here are some patterns though if you need a little help to start with.
Once you have decided on the size you’d prefer, cut the following layers:
Bottom layer - I used flannelette (bought a big sheet from local mill shop)
Waterproof layer - I used Naprap bought mail order from www.pennineoutdoor.co.uk
It’s washable and breathable. This is optional but I like the security of having it there.
Top layer - you can use cotton flannelette or fleece. The cotton is good but can wick blood to the edges of the pad. Fleece lets the blood straight through and onto the absorbent inner pad so I prefer this; it also seems to wash better.
