Tutorial: How to Wear an Onbuhimo (Part 1, Front Carry, Hip Carry)

There’s not a whole lot  of information out there on one of my favorite carriers, so I thought it would be helpful if I shared our methods of using one.  Here is the Front Carry and the Hip Carry.

Step One:
With your tot positioned tummy to tummy, drape the ohbuhimo across baby’s back. Each strap should go over the corresponding shoulder. So far so good.

Step Two:
Cross shoulder straps in back, making an “X”. Make sure you don’t drop your kid.  It might be helpful to twist the straps at the “X” in order to keep the straps from digging into your sides.  This is especially helpful with a really heavy tot like mine.

Step Three:
Thread each shoulder strap through the opposing ring at the hip. Baby should be straddling the onbuhimo with the rings and seat of the carrier going between the legs. This is kind of a crappy picture, but you get the idea.

Step 4:
Gently bounce a bit to settle your baby into the onbuhimo, making sure the kid is supported at all times. It’s not as scary as it sounds–just use your common sense.

Step Five:
Tie a square knot to secure the onbuhimo. That’s it!

For the hip carry:

Step One: Follow steps One through Four for the Front Carry.

Step Two:
Scoot baby onto hip once a comfortable position is established.

Step Three:
With one arm behind your back (like you do most things these days!), tie a square knot to secure the onbuhimo.

Easy peasy. It will take you a few times to really get your mojo down so be patient. Once you figure out what is comfortable for both you and your baby you’ll be whipping these things on in no time. Check out The Store for my revolving selection of handcrafted onbuhimos.

Next up: The Tibetan Back Carry.