Some questions about making my own

[jembelina]

I'm thinking about giving these cloth pads a whirl, but as $$ is tight at this time of year I want to try making a couple myself. What kind of fabrics are best to use and how do I know how many layers to use??
Do they haver to have a waterproof backing(I'd prefer not to buy any pul just yet)? And a stay dry top like a nappy? What materials are good at wicking the moisture away quickly?
Also, I am very new to sewing..........I don't have to have an overlocker to make one do I?
ANd last buut not least........do they stay put?? I'm imaging them moving around.

Any help appreciated!

[kat13]

I have made some using the pretty pad pattern, mostly I used sherpa or bamboo velour for the tops (against your skin).
My soaker is attached to flannel (sp?), and I have some with pul and some without. The ones without have microfleece at the bottom and I use those for my mid - light cycle days.

As for absorbancy, for heavy days you could try 5-6 layers of hemp/bamboo fleece, 3-4 for medium flow, and 1-2 for light days. That's worked best for me, but of course it depends on your flow.

HTH somewhat!