Group Custom drawings are coming up! :)

It's almost time for our August 2013 Group Custom drawings!  We will open for entries next Monday, 8/26, and stay open until Friday night at 9pm EST.  Please make sure to read the Group Custom info post, which was just updated today with information about custom fitted/FUSION options! :)

Thanks so much and have a great weekend!

We are re-opening the twinkie tush Wish List today!! :)

It's been a while since we opened the Wish List!  It is one of my favorite things to do and I'm so excited to be opening it today!!  Make sure to read the orignial twinkie tush Wish List post (click here) for all of the details about how to enter!  We will randomly select a winner from the entries, and within 3 months the winner's dream twinkie tush diaper will be delivered, completely free! :)  Make sure you wish for exactly what you most want - anything goes!  Here are some examples of previous Wish List diapers:

Thank you so much for all of your love and support, and for allowing us to give back a little bit in this way!  We can't wait to make the next twinkie tush Wish List diaper!! :)

The official twinkie tush Group Custom info post! :)

Here is the official twinkie tush Group Custom information post!  We will keep this post updated with any changes to the process.  Most recent update is Friday, 9/18/15. :)

*If you are new to twinkie tush, welcome!  Please note that this is not the only way to purchase one of our diapers. :)  Visit our store to see the ready to ship diapers that are in stock right now!

1 – First of all, what are Group Customs?

twinkie tush Group Customs are group orders for 5-15 diapers in the same print, made with outer fabric purchased and sent in by the group (most groups use prints but some use dyed or natural velour).  Each member of the group can purchase as many of the diapers as they’d like, so one person can order an entire “group” of 5+ diapers themselves, but most often we see 1-2 diapers per person in groups.

2 – How do groups form?

Many groups form on our facebook fan discussion page, but they can form anywhere, online or offline, as long as they become organized and can submit a complete group information spreadsheet.  Anyone is welcome to lead a group – it is a relatively straight-forward process.  But the role does require organization and communication.  Please note that once you have taken on the responsibility of leading a group you should be prepared to guide your group through the process as needed, remind them of deadlines, and act as a liaison between twinkie tush and the group as needed.

We are including in this blog post a suggested format for group formation.  However please note that we do not police the forming of groups on our fan pages or elsewhere.  This format is suggested to avoid misunderstandings, but is only a suggestion:

When proposing a group, a leader (the one who suggests the fabric unless other arrangements are made), posts a photo of the fabric and asks for interest.  Since most of the time some replies are contingent on fabric costs, we recommend offering that info up front.  eg “Anyone interested in a large group with this knit fabric?  $4-$7 per person for fabric, including shipping to twinkie tush, depending on eventual number of group members.”  We also recommend offering the following format when posting your fabric photo: “If you are definitely in, please count off here starting with 2” (the group leader would be #1 on the spreadsheet).  That way, comments like “ooh, I like this” won’t be subject to interpretation.  If someone is definitely in, they would say “I like this – I’ll be number 2.” “Me – 3” etc. 

The group leader is then responsible for adding the member’s names to the appropriate lines on the group spreadsheet, unless (s)he elects to have members do it themselves.  We recommend using Google Docs to create your group spreadsheet.  Please note that in excel, your header row will be row 1, so unless you include a column with numbers 1-15 (or whatever size you would like your group to be), member number 1 would be on line 2, member 2 on line 3, and so on.

Once the group leader has added the member names to the spreadsheet based on the members counting off within the thread on facebook (if applicable), members are responsible to fill in their preferences as follows:

1 - Full member name

2 - Member name as it appears in paypal account

3 - Member contact email

4 - Member paypal email

5 - serged or turned preference.

6 – sizing preference (one size, little tush, or teenie tush)

7 - individual choice of cotton velour or organic bamboo velour (more info on this below *and please note that FUSION groups cannot choose OBV.  FUSION groups may elect to remove that column to eliminate confusion, if they desire.)

Here is an example of what that looks like in spreadsheet form:

Again, the notion of counting off is suggested to avoid misunderstandings but is not a required component of Group Customs.

It is very important that a Group Leader also specifies whether the group will be standard cutting, non-specific centered cutting, or specific centered cutting.  There is a price difference (outlined below) for specific (or "fussy") bums and there are different fabric requirements for each kind of cutting.  A group as a whole must either be one or the other - it is not possible for some group members to select specific bums while others do not.  If your bum preference is left blank in a specific bum group you will receive a centered bum of our choice (and, like all other members of your group, you will be invoiced at the specific bum rate).

If your group is a "fussy"/specific bum group the group name MUST include one of those words.  If your group is NOT a specific bum group it is important that you do not use the words specific or fussy in your group name, spreadsheet, or emails.  All groups must also include a single line on their spreadsheets which states whether this is a fitted group or a FUSION group.  Groups now have the option to choose standard fitted (what twinkie tush is famous for!  With premium absorbency this style is what we recommend most for heavy wetters, when paired with a good cover), and FUSION (our now very well-known and well-loved hybrid fitted )

When forming a group a leader should state if he or she has a strong preference for one style (eg "Starting a FUSION group with this print").  Otherwise the group can decide as a whole in whatever way they desire, but there MUST be a line either at the top or bottom of the chart that looks like this:

or this:

If that information is missing from your spreadsheet we cannot move forward with your group.

3 – My group is formed.  What happens next?

Update: September 2015: We are returning to a system of stocking large Group Custom slots on twinkietush.com! We are excited to be able to take on so many more of your groups now!

Simply purchase a large Group Custom slot on twinkietush.com.  After doing so, please send an email to groupcustoms@twinkietush.com. The email subject must include the Group name and all Group members must be cc'ed on this email.

Your Group submission email must contain a link to a google spreadsheet or an attached Excel spreadsheet containing the required information for each Group member that we just discussed above.  The sheet must be C&P-able by us. :)

*Please do not write “TBD” for your sizing, finishing style or cv/obv preference unless you want me to decide for you!  :)

4 – I purchased a Group Custom slot and sent my submission email! Now what?

Within 48 hours of your email, you will receive an email back from us with group payment links.  Your group payment link email will contain a link which allows all group members to purchase their Group Custom diapers.  There will be drop-down menu within the payment link for one size/little tush and teenie tush options where applicable.  It is important that you choose the correct option based on your preference as stated in your Group spreadsheet.  Group members will purchase their own diaper, including shipping, at this time.  These payments are due within 48 hours of receipt of the payment links.  Any diapers not purchased within the 2 day timeframe will not be made and there can be no exceptions to this policy.  Should multiple group members fail to pay, twinkie tush reserves the right to cancel production of the group’s diapers.

After securing the slot, the Group leader will send us (at the Group's cost) adequate yardage of the chosen print (or velour) fabric and all diapers will be cut from that yardage (please see the fabric requirement charts at the end of this blog post).  This fabric can be sent directly from a fabric vendor, or from a group member.  *Please make sure to include a note, or ask your seller to include a note, along with the fabric which references your Group Name.

*Please do NOT send in group fabric until your group has secured a slot.  We cannot store fabric for potential future groups.  Thank you for understanding.  There is no deadline for a group to send in fabric once they have secured a slot, however all group members must be made aware by the group leader of the fabric arrival schedule.

New in December 2013: We require that group leaders (or the other group member who procures and sends the fabric for a group) to provide tracking information for all group members.  This can be done via PM, email, or in the group formation thread on facebook.  We cannot police this, but we ask that you follow this guideline and remember that your group is dependent on you to send in the fabric so that production of their diapers is not delayed! :)

All materials not indicated on the fabric requirement charts below will be provided by twinkie tush.  Again please note that FUSION groups can only be made with cv, as opposed to obv.  For members of fitteds groups choosing obv we will use the natural color as opposed to dyed obv, and for cv I will choose a color that coordinates with your print.  Only one color of cv will be used per Group (in other words please don't designate specific individual colors on your spreadsheet). It is fine for a Group rep to share a Group's velour preference (eg "we'd really love aqua cv if it works" or "we definitely don't want black" or "something light like pale blue as opposed to dark like navy") but please note that final cv decisions will be made by me.  If you express a preference for a color that doesn't work well with the print we will not proceed with it.  However, if you say "we definitely don't want X color" we will honor that.  Please note that descriptions like “pretty” or “bright” can be subjective.  If you have a specific color in mind it is important that you tell us what it is.  We will do our best to accommodate your request if it is made clear, works well with the print, and is something we have available when producing your diapers.  Any requests made by the Group must be shared with us via email BEFORE we receive your fabric.  If you have not made a request by the time we receive your fabric, I will choose the color that I feel works best with your print! :)

*The best way to communicate a cv color request is to write it both in an email to us AND on your group spreadsheet, in a single line above or below your Group type line.

*Please do not ask for specific snap or thread colors as we are not able to accommodate these requests. Also please note that if a print contains pink or purple we reserve the right to use pink or purple snaps and/or thread.  We try our best to take note of “please do not use girly snaps” requests when they are made, but we are NOT able to guarantee that we will accommodate requests like that.  Thank you for your understanding!

*All fabric submitted for Group Customs becomes property of twinkie tush and may be used at our discretion (for stocking, drawings, giveaways, charity events, or anything else we deem appropriate) once the Group order is fulfilled.

     - Please note that we will price diapers made with remaining Group Custom fabric according to the cost of the fabric (based within our current pricing structure).  This is something that has been requested of us by previous Groups and we recognize that it is the most fair way to handle pricing.

*Once we receive your Group’s fabric, assuming all diapers have been purchased and/or the 48 hour purchase period has expired, we will put your diapers into production.  Group Custom diapers will ship 4-6 weeks after fabric is received (again, pending payment).

5 - What else do I need to know?

Here are some other key points regarding Group Customs:

*The price for each custom slot within a group using a knit or woven print will be $38 + shipping per each one size or little tush diaper within a standard OR non-specific centered bum cut group and $30 + shipping per each teenie tush diaper within either of these types of groups.  UPDATED 1/2015: The price for diapers within a Specific Bum Cut or "fussy bum" group will include an additional $5 fee per diaper, making the costs $43 for OS or little tush and $35 for teenie tush.
For Groups pursuing twinkie tush night-nights: the first fabric requirement chart at the end of this post shows how much velour you will need to send in to cover both inner and outer velours.  The cost per person in that case will be $43 plus shipping.  Should you prefer to only send in outer velour fabric and have us supply your inner velour, the cost per member will be $48 for cotton velour and $50 for bamboo velour.  It is important that you specify that preference in your Group spreadsheet so that we can set up payment links accordingly if your Group wins a slot.  night-nights are only available in our one size (OS) pattern.

*For Groups using woven fabrics all diapers will be turned.  Serged is not available as a finishing style for wovens.  If you write "serged" as your finishing style preference for a woven group please note that it will be made in turned rather than serged.

*Please note that serged/turned and sizing preferences must be finalized prior to entering your Groups.  We will make copies of Group spreadsheets via screenshot after group emails are received and all diapers will be made as dictated by the spreadsheet screenshot.  

*Sometimes fabric that is sent in for group orders contains flaws, printing or otherwise.  We always do our best to spot any flaws and cut around them whenever possible.  However, sometimes flaws are missed.  twinkie tush does not take responsibility for fabric flaws on fabric that has been sent in for group custom orders.

*We reserve the right to refuse any group fabric on the basis of our comfortability with the theme of the print.  Potentially polarizing political statements, nudity, or other themes which we deem inappropriate for use in our product lines may be refused.  If you think you may have a print which is questionable we highly recommend emailing groupcustoms@twinkietush.com before submitting your group.  While we would of course refund diaper payments if a group's fabric is refused, we are not responsible for your fabric payments or the shipping of your fabric.

*Should a Group member leave a Group in the time between winning a slot and paying for the slot, you may replace that member at the Group’s discretion.  If a member is swapped after screenshots have been taken, the new member’s diaper will be made according to the original member’s specifications.  Please make sure to alert us to any changes in the member list by sending an email to groupcustoms@twinkietush.com, ccing all accurate (including new) members.

*Please make sure to note that, as indicated on the charts below, special cutting needs mean larger yardage requirements. If you require any sort of special cutting at all (centered bum cuts, a fabric element right side up OTB, more floral OTB, etc.) that constitutes special cutting and will require more than the standard amount of fabric. We do our best to keep the fabric requirements low and reasonable so that you aren't spending extra money on extra fabric that we won't need. But that means that we can only work with what you send in and while we always try for amazing cuts, our focus is on fulfilling your group order with an appropriate buffer. If you are concerned about getting a specific cut of any kind it is important that you follow the SPECIAL CUTTING chart.  That said, please remember that while we will do our absolute best to accommodate special cutting requests when appropriate quantities of fabric are sent, we cannot guarantee that your diaper will look exactly as you may have envisioned it.  We go out of our way to exceed expectations, but we are limited by the constraints of a function-based pattern, and the element of subjectivity.

Below are the aforementioned fabric requirement charts.  I believe that we have now covered everything you need to know in order to get started with twinkie tush Group Customs!  Thank you so much for taking the time to read this, and have fun forming your next group!  We can’t wait to make your diapers for you!

For knits that are 55-57" wide, please send in the following amounts for standard cutting:

5 diapers - 2 yards *must be continuous
6 - 2.5 yards *must be continuous
7 - 2.5 yards *must be continuous
8 - 3 yards *must be continuous
9 - 3 yards *must be continuous
10 - 3.5 yards *must be continuous
11 - 3.5 yards *must be continuous
12 - 4 yards *must be continuous
13 - 4 yards *must be continuous
14 - 4.5 yards *must be continuous
15 - 5 yards *must be continuous

Should you require special cutting with a 55-57" wide knit, please follow the knit columns on the special cutting chart, adding 1/2 yard to the total (eg a group of 12 using a 56" wide knit and requesting centered, non-specific bums would need to send in 5 yards).

Our August 2013 Fan of the Month: Bonita Kazmir!

We are so excited to introduce you to our August Fan of the Month, Bonita Kazmir!  Bonita is a long-standing member of the twinkie tush community and an incredibly sweet and generous mama.  Thank you so much, Bonita, for sharing your story with us! <3

Read about Bonita below and read about the Fan of the Month feature here!  We are now open for entries for September!! :)

The beautiful Bonita, Corbin and Piper!

1. What is your full name?

Bonita "no one needs to know my middle name" Kazmir



2. Where are you from? (City/State/Country) Where do you live now?

I grew up in Baytown, Texas (east of Houston), and live there now after a stint in the city and a time in the boonies.



3. How many children do you have and what are their ages?

I have 2 skin kids Corbin, who will be 2 on the 16th and Piper, 10 months and 2 rat terrier children I'm obsessed with, Nibbler (6 years) and Laika (4.5 years).



4. How/when did you find twinkie tush?

When I was pregnant with Corbin in 2011I frequented the Cloth Diaper board on The Bump. Every Wednesday everyone would go crazy trying to stalk TTs. I finally figured out what TTs were and got a used one shortly before Corbin was born. It ended up being perfect for him as he has extremely sensitive skin and was allergic to suede cloth and disposables. We are pretty much 100% TT for both kids.



5. What is your favorite twinkie tush print of all time?

When in Venice, the various colors of scorcher, countess/marchioness/josefine... I could go on. Oh and my name sake, of course. 

(When in) Venice

Countess

Josefine

Marchioness

Scorcher

Bonita

6. Do you have an ultimate ISO print?

OS When in Venice (pictured above)

Oh and Tainia's Hulk custom

7. What is your favorite personal non-parenting related, non-work related hobby?

I read a lot and enjoy crocheting. I am currently learning a new language, and really enjoy it.



8. What makes you feel most inspired or grounded? How do you take care of yourself and your spirit?

I am most inspired and grounded by my closet friends. It might seem cheesy, but every single one of them is an amazing person who has qualities that I strive to have in myself. I try to be very giving. That makes me feel best about myself and my spirit.



9. What is your favorite activity to do with your child(ren)?

There isn't much I don't enjoy doing with my kids. Anything water related is fun for all of us, swimming, the beach, sprinklers haha. We visit aquariums a lot too, they love watching the fish!



10. What is/was your favorite place to visit?

My favorite place to visit is anywhere with a beach! I love everything about the ocean.



11. What is your favorite book? What about your favorite movie?

I don't really have a favorite book. It's usually whatever I'm currently reading haha, which today is the first in the Game of Thrones series. My favorite movie.... Again I don't have one. I love historical fiction/romance Gone With the Wind, Sense and Sensibility... Etc.



12. What is something surprising about you, that people might not guess upon meeting you?

I think, because my children are so close in age, many people are surprised that I struggled with infertility. It changed my ideas of being a woman, my body and what amazing blessings children are.



13. What twinkie tush attribute and/or philosophy do you most appreciate?

I love how giving TT is. Gretchen and crew honestly care about the people buying their products, they take the time to answer questions, no matter how mundane they may seem. When someone needs help, they always try to lend a hand in any way they can.



14. What would you tell someone who has yet to try a twinkie tush diaper?

Just do it already! Besides being an amazing quality, they are adorable and you can't find better customer service.



15. Tell us your funniest cloth-diapering or parenting story!

When Corbin was about 3 months old he was fighting nap like a champ and winning. I took him into our bed so maybe he'd fall asleep next to me. He cried. Next thing I know, my husband walks in, lays on the other side of him, used his fingers to close Corbin's eyes and said "Go to sleep."

Guess who didn't open his eyes back up for 2 hours.



16. Tell us about one of the most meaningful parenting experiences you have had.

I think the most meaningful was when we brought Corbin home from the hospital. We struggled to get pregnant with him, I waited all those long months feeling 97 months pregnant in the Texas summer and he came at 38w exactly. All of the preparation for his arrival. We came come, laid him to sleep in the pack and play, sat down and looked at each other and my husband asked "Now what?" We are still figuring it out as we go. :)

***

Thank you again Bonita!! It has been so wonderful getting to know you and your beautiful family!

Group Customs are OPEN for submissions! :)

Submissions can be sent to groupcustoms@twinkietush.com!  We will be following the same process we have for the last few months, as outlined here. :)

Submissions will close this Friday at 9pm EST, and drawings will take place on Saturday!

Thanks so much!!

Diaper of the Month Club memberships being listed tonight!

Tonight at 8pm EST we will list more Diaper of the Month Club memberships at our Hyena Cart store!!

Please see this blog post for pricing and info about the club!

Thanks so much! :)

Our July Fan of the Month: Rachel Levy Constant!

     We are so excited to introduce our July 2013 Fan of the Month, Rachel Constant! :)  Rachel, thank you so much for being our FotM and giving us a peek into your life!  It has been wonderful to get to know you better!  From your beautiful adoption experience through your husband's clearly awesome taste in cloth diapers, I have loved reading about you. :)  We are so glad that you and your beautiful family are part of the twinkie tush community!

     Read about Rachel below, and read more about the Fan of the Month feature here!  We are now OPEN for entries for August FotM!

     About Rachel! <3

     What is your full name?

Rachel Levy Constant. I was named for my mother's grandmother Rosie and my parents chose not to give me a middle name. I always wanted a middle name, so after I got married, I decided my maiden name should be my middle name.

Where are you from? (City/State/Country) Where do you live now?

I grew up in Bergenfield, New Jersey (USA.) We live in Wildwood, Missouri now (a west suburb of St. Louis) but are in the midst of relocating to Brentwood, Tennessee. We close on our new home there on July 31st.

 How many children do you have and what are their ages?

We have two human and three canine children. On the human side, Jacob is six and Ava was 14 months on July 2nd. Our canine kiddos are almost 14, six and three.

How/when did you find twinkie tush?

I found Twinkie Tush just over a year ago. Ava was a bit of a diaper princess when she was born...she absolutely could not stand to be in a dirty diaper! We went through a ridiculous amount of disposable diapers in the first few weeks because the minute her diaper was wet or dirty, she pitched a fit until we changed her! I really wanted to cloth diaper Ava,  but couldn't plan ahead for it because we were adopting her and our adoption moved at warp speed.  In addition to the amazingly quick pace in which our match happened, Ava was 4.5 weeks early. We switched from sposies to a mass market cloth diaper at first, but quickly learned she was allergic to suedecloth. At around this time, I found out about TT through the Facebook page of someone I knew who used cloth. I purchased my first TT, Village Square, on Spots Corner and I very quickly became addicted. I bought as many as i could right away on Spots and the fan page because it took a long time before I was able to score at stocking. My stash of TTs is now a bit out of control, but I can't stop buying them!

What is your favorite twinkie tush print of all time?

My most favorite has to be Je T'aime, though I admittedly have several other favorites (like A Thousand Ships, When in Rome, Duchess, Daydream, Flatline, Buttercup and the mini group we named Ava!) There are more, of course! I feel bad singling any out because they're all so amazing and beautiful!

Je T'Aime

Do you have an ultimate ISO print?

I have been very fortunate that so many amazing TT friends have answered my ISOs. Charlotte and Be Still My Heart are probably the two elusive prints I'd love to have in my stash! 

Charlotte

Be Still My Heart

What is your favorite personal non-parenting related, non-work related hobby?

It's been awhile since I really took much time out for me. I keep trying to start new hobbies (like Pilates, knitting, couponing or sewing lessons) but stuff always seems to get in the way of my continuing. The one consistent hobby I have had since childhood is reading. When we move (and we've done that a ton,) I usually get a library card before I get a driver's license or even unpack! I can't even embrace reading on my iPad because I like the feel of a book in my hands and the ability to turn pages. It's just amazing to lose myself in a good book and I confess, I get sad when I finish one and the characters are gone from my life. I also love cheesy reality television! We need a Real Housewives of Cloth Diapering! 

What makes you feel most inspired or grounded?  How do you take care of yourself and your spirit?

Another set of tough questions. I'm not particularly religious...at least I haven't been since 9/11, so I don't rely on faith to renew my spirit. I think seeing the world through my children's eyes is what really inspires me. It's really exciting to see them take in and embrace the things we take for granted.  I love when people compliment my children or comment on how happy they are. I feel like that validates some of the choices and sacrifices I have made to stay home with them. As far as taking care of me, making sure I make a little time for myself is key. With the move happening so soon, it's hard to do, but I love being able to soak in a bubble bath or go for a relaxing pedicure. I am also a big fan of naps. A little pampering goes a long way to rejuvenate my soul.

What is your favorite activity to do with your child(ren)?

We do most everything as a family, from grocery shopping to running errands. With  the nearly five year age gap between Jake and Ava, we haven't really found any one particular thing that we all enjoy doing together for fun. That said, I think my favorite thing to do is to spend time with my children and my parents. I love to see the close relationship they have, even though they are separated by miles. My folks moved from New Jersey to Florida two years ago, and their house has a pool. It's awesome to go there and relax, swim, and just watch them interact together, whether it's drawing pictures, planting flowers, reading books or baking.

What is/was your favorite place to visit?

In my pre-mom days, I traveled a ton for both business and pleasure and I definitely miss exploring new places. I absolutely love Paris, but I need to also give a shout out to Sedona and Alaska. Both just blew me away by how serene and beautiful they were. I can't wait to start traveling the world with my children. I hope they are bitten by the travel bug as well!

What is your favorite book?  What about your favorite movie?

I'm sure you've figured out by now that I have a really difficult time identifying one favorite anything! As for books, some of my favorites include Requiem for a Glass Heart by David Lindsey, Valentine by Tom Savage, The Lost Recipe for Happiness by Barbara O'Neal and most recently, The Racketeer by John Grisham. i tend to read mostly fluffy fiction with some mysteries/thrillers thrown in and I've been known to read more than one book at a time. I also reread books (I need to reread Valentine and Requiem now that I think about it!) When I find an author I like, I generally try to read as much as I can by him/her.

Favorite Movie: I'm sure it's no surprise that I have more than one of these, too! I went to high school in the 80s (yes, I am old) so I love the movies I grew up with like Sixteen Candles, The Breakfast Club and Say Anything. I'm a sucker for movie musicals like Grease, West Side Story and Bye Bye Birdie, and I love romantic comedies (old and new) like An Affair to Remember, Roman Holiday, The American President, When Harry Met Sally and Serendipity. Clearly I have a problem!

What is something surprising about you, that people might not guess upon meeting you?

There are probably a few surprises in my closet. On the professional side, I am an attorney, though I am not currently practicing law. I'm admitted to practice in three states, and I passed the bar in each state on the first try. I actually started out as a public defender and even visited death row in Alabama while interning at a death penalty and prisoners' rights resource center in law school. I'm not sure what I want to be when I grow up, though, although I really want to write a novel. On the personal side, few people would believe I have actually been sky diving (and loved it!)

What twinkie tush attribute and/or philosophy do you most appreciate?

I have always loved supporting small businesses, preferring to spend my money with mom and pop shops over big box stores. Once I found TT, I was delighted to have an alternative to mass produced, machine made cloth diapers. I love the idea that the diapers are handmade and that my business helps a family and not a corporation. Even more important to me is the fact that if I have a question or concern, Gretchen takes the time to respond to me personally. It seems like customer service is severely lacking in this day and age, so I truly appreciate the ways that Gretchen and Mike try to go above and beyond to make customers happy, to explain what's new and what's coming. I may not always like the answers I get, but I am getting answers directly from Gretchen and not some random person who is paid to give a form response but has no investment in a company/store's products or services.

What would you tell someone who has yet to try a twinkie tush diaper?

You are seriously missing out!  I find our Twinkie Tush diapers to be the most absorbent ones in our stash. Between the absorbency, the amazing prints, the ability to have diapers made in fabric I love and unrivaled customer service, I'm hooked!  Wait, maybe I should keep it a secret. We don't need more competition for cute prints on Wednesdays!

Tell us your funniest cloth-diapering or parenting story!

Not long after we switched to cloth diapers, I left the kiddos home with my husband. I left a stack of diapers for my husband to use on the baby. (I didn't have very many TTs at the time and deliberately tried to rotate the diapers so as to avoid excess wash wear on them.) When I got home, I noticed the stack of diapers I left out was untouched. When I asked Andy why he hadn't used them, he told me he only liked the Twinkie Tush diapers and I hadn't left any of those in the pile! To this day, he still only uses Twinkie Tush!

Tell us about one of the most meaningful parenting experiences you have had.

Wow, this is a tough one. Our road to parenthood was not easy. It took nearly two years to get pregnant with Jake, and we were actually about to start fertility treatments when I found out I was pregnant with him. We always knew we wanted more children, but after two and a half years of trying, a miscarriage, a surgery and two unsuccessful rounds of fertility treatments later, we decided to just embrace life as a unit of three. I always felt like something was missing, but it wasn't until the end of 2012 that we started thinking seriously about adoption. My husband had lost his mother and his father had recovered from a quadruple bypass all within a few months. There's nothing like major life events to light a fire under you!  The first time I held my children was incredible, for sure, but holding Ava for the first time alongside the selfless woman who hand picked us to be the parents of her baby was absolutely breathtaking.  

Thank you again, Rachel!  We are so glad to have you as our July twinkie tush Fan of the Month!

July 2013 Photo Contest!

Here we go! :)  Below are details about our July 2013 Photo Contest!! :)

We are holding a photo contest this month – it begins today!  I know I say this every time, but photo contests make me so happy!  There is nothing more rewarding than seeing the diapers I designed and my team and I made by hand, now in action and being loved by you and your little ones!  Words can’t express how much it means to me, and I know this contest is going to be one of our best!!

Here are the photo contest details:

The contest will be open for submissions from today, 7/1, through Sunday 7/28.  That gives you almost 4 full weeks to get your entries in!  :)  The winners will be announced on Wednesday, July 31st, at 10pm EST. Please read below for important details on how to win. There will be a first place and a second place winner as follows:

- First place takes home their choice of:

(a) a FREE custom twinkie tush diaper of their choice (based on availability of desired fabric, and SYOF is of course an option as well). Shipping of the diaper is also free. (Please note that the custom diaper will ship 4-6 weeks after a final print decision is made or SYO fabric is received.)

                OR

(b) an ULTIMATE Dibs Pass, which entitles them to select a single diaper during previews and take it home FREE, with free shipping as well.  This ULTIMATE Dibs Pass would be valid on any preview day in August 2013.  (Please note that occasionally there is a print offered that is not able to be claimed by a dibs pass.)  More info about Dibs Passes is below.

- Second place winner will receive a standard Dibs Pass which will allow them to select a single diaper to purchase at regular price on any one preview day in August 2013 without having to attend the stocking.  (Please note that occasionally there is a print offered that is not able to be claimed by a dibs pass.)  In addition, the second place winner will receive a twinkie tush accessory prize pack, featuring a replacement soaker in their choice of cv color and a set of 6 twinkie tush wipes, a brand new addition to the twinkie tush line-up which have not yet been released in our store!

- We will also draw an additional standard Dibs Pass winner at random from all photo contest participants at the close of the contest!  This random.org Dibs Pass will be valid on any one preview day in August 2013.)

So now that we’ve covered prizes, here is the process:

To enter, simply submit a photo of your little one(s) in a twinkie tush diaper or twinkie tush wool. Hair clips and headbands by Hello Charlotte James for twinkie tush, twinkie tush/Hazelbee dress collaborations and/or T shirts by Peanut & Pumpkin for twinkie tush are of course welcome to be part of the photos, however a twinkie tush diaper or twinkie tush woolies must be featured.

Feel free to be as creative as possible - extra consideration will always be given for creativity! (Try to play off the "theme" of your diaper or woolies - you can use accessories and props to really amp it up - a guitar, an alien toy, a bouquet of flowers....) A simple approach is fine as well - creativity is just one of the things that will be considered.

Photos can be sent to photocontest@twinkietush.com. By submitting a photo you are giving twinkie tush permission to use your photo to promote or represent twinkie tush diapers and/or twinkie tush wool on this blog, the twinkie tush shops on Hyena Cart and Big Cartel, twinkietush.com, twinkie tush advertisements on HC and elsewhere, and the twinkie tush facebook pages.  Please do not submit a photo if you do not agree to these terms. :)

Submissions will be closed on Sunday 7/28/13 at 11:59pm EST. On Monday 7/29 we will upload all submissions to a photo album on the main twinkie tush facebook page called "July 2013 photo contest!" At that point, the contest really gets exciting!

First place will be awarded to the photo *in the "July 2013 photo contest" album* that we feel best reflects the spirit of twinkie tush and the spirit of the individual diaper(s) pictured. Creativity, photo composition, brand reflection and of course FUN are some of the things that will be considered. :) Mike and I will choose the first place winner, and we will announce the winner at 10pm EST on Wednesday, July 31st.

Second place will go to the photo in the "July 2013 photo contest" album that receives the most "likes".  Please note that "likes" on photos outside of the specified album will not count as votes for that photo. You, and your friends and family, may "like" multiple photos if you choose (you don't have to pick just one). Comments are welcome of course, but will not count towards a photo's "tally". Since it is possible to "like" and then "unlike" something on facebook, we will go with the count as it is at exactly 10pm EST on Wednesday, July 31st.

An important note: you cannot win both first and second place ;) While the number of "likes" a photo has will neither ensure a first place win nor preclude it from taking said prize, fan feedback is something that Mike and I may take into consideration to at least some extent in making our decision on a first place winner. In the event that we choose the "highest likes" photo for first place, that photo is no longer eligible to take a second place win. In other words if photo A has the highest number with 200 likes and photo B has 199 likes, and we choose photo A as our first place winner, second place will go to photo B. If we choose photo B, or any other photo in the album, as our first place winner, second place will go to photo A.  Please feel free to ask questions about this if it is at all unclear! :)

Please note that only one (1) first place and one (1) second place prize will be awarded.  Should you collaborate with another family to enter a submission you would need to settle the allocation of the prize between yourselves in the event that you win.

Please note that you may enter only one (1) photo per household for this contest. Also note that photos must clearly show your twinkie tush diaper(s) and/or twinkie tush wool and must not be offensive in any way (obviously). Please send full size/high res images rather than "email" or "thumbnail" sizes.

If there is a problem with your submission you will receive an email response with suggestions on how to resubmit if applicable. If your submission is accepted you will receive a confirmation email within 48 hours. If you do not receive a confirmation email within 48 hours please email again to confirm receipt, in case for some reason your initial email did not come through successfully.

We are looking forward to your submissions! Thanks so much!! :)

More info and links!

About twinkie tush Dibs Passes and Ultimate Dibs Passes

Past photo contest albums on facebook:

March 2013 Photo Contest

November 2012 Photo Contest

Website Landing Page Photo Contest

June 2012 Photo Contest

February 2012 Photo Contest

November 2011 Photo Contest

August 2011 Photo Contest

May 2011 Photo Contest

March 2011 Photo Contest

It's so amazing to watch your little ones grow through these contests!  After putting all of those links together I am now 100 times MORE excited for this one! <3

twinkie tush Game Night!

I am so excited to announce twinkie tush Game Night!  We have always loved to get our game on – our first ever custom slots were awarded via our first trivia event, back in Februrary 2011.  Since then we have held tons of drawings and contests, including my personal favorite, Harry Potter trivia!

Tomorrow night we will hold an official Game Night on our main facebook page, consisting of twinkie tush trivia and more!  It promises to be a ton of fun, with the grand prize winner taking home a free custom diaper or Ultimate Dibs Pass (read about Dibs Passes here). 

Here are the details!

Game Night will begin at 8:30pm EST tomorrow night (Wednesday, 6/26/13) at https://www.facebook.com/TwinkieTush.  Everyone is welcome to play but we ask that you play fairly and politely.  (I'm sure it goes without saying that any disrespectful or disruptive comments will be deleted.)  The event will take place in 8 rounds, as follows:

Round 1 will consist of 1 question. Assuming there are at least 30 correct responses, the first 30 people to answer correctly will advance to round 2. I will "like" the first 30 correct responses - if I have "liked" your response, you advance.

Round 2 will consist of 2 questions. For each question, the first 10 people to get it right will advance to round 3. I will "like" the first 10 correct responses - if I have "liked" your response, you advance.  If you advance via the first question please do not answer the second question, as you have already secured your spot in round 3.

Round 3 will consist of 2 questions. For each question, the first 7 people to get it right will advance to round 4. I will "like" the first 7 correct responses - if I have "liked" your response, you advance.  If you advance via the first question please do not answer the second question, as you have already secured your spot in round 4.

Round 4 will consist of 1 question. The first 10 people to answer correctly will advance to round 5. I will "like" the first 10 correct responses - if I have "liked" your response, you advance.

Now we’re into single-player advancement!

Round 5 will consist of 5 questions.  Each question will be asked one at a time. The first single player to answer correctly in each case will advance to round 6. 5 players will advance to round 6.

Round 6 will consist of 3 questions.  Each question will be asked one at a time. The first single player to answer correctly in each case will advance to round 7. 3 players will advance to round 7.

Round 7 will consist of 2 questions. Each question will be asked one at a time. The first single player to answer correctly will advance to round 8. 2 players will advance to the 8th and final round.

Round 8 will consist of one final question. The first single player to answer correctly will win the grand prize!

Here are the prizes we will award at the conclusion of Game Night:

The Grand Prize winner receives a FREE custom slot for a single diaper, OR an Ultimate Dibs Pass for a single diaper.  Free shipping anywhere in the world is also included with this prize!

The second place winner receives a standard Dibs Pass to be used any time in July or August 2013!

We will also draw a winner via random.org from the pool of 30 who made it through the first round of trivia!  Those 30 names will be entered into a list, which we will post, and then we will use random.org to draw a number between 1 and 30.  The winner of this random drawing will also receive a standard Dibs Pass to be used any time in July or August 2013!

I’m so excited about twinkie tush Game Night and can’t wait to watch the fun unfold!!  So study up on your twinkie tush trivia, and please feel free to reach out to us via email, facebook, or this blog, if you need clarification on any of the above before tomorrow night! :)  

Below are some sample questions to help you practice:

- What diaper is featured on the "little tush" page via the shopping links on twinkietush.com?

- In what month and year did we first introduce the twinkie tush Wish List?

- What is this twinkie tush print called? 

Thanks so much!  See you at Game Night!! ;)

June 2013 Fan of the Month: Andrea Frazier!

Meet our June Fan of the Month and an incredible part of the twinkie tush community, Andrea Frazier! :) We are so thrilled to introduce her and her beautiful daughters to you! Thank you Andrea, for sharing your amazing spirit of positivity and generosity with us this month and always. <3

1. What is your full name? 

 Andrea Michelle Frazier

2. Where are you from? Where do you live now? 

 I am from Charlestown, Indiana (USA) and live currently in Charlestown, Indiana

3. How many children do you have and what are their ages? 

 I have 2 beautiful girls: Dakota is 6 years old and Morgan is 2 years old.

4. How/when did you find twinkie tush? 

 I found Twinkie Tush last summer I believe it was. A dear friend of mine had been cloth diapering for awhile and kept telling me I needed to try some fitteds and most definitely a Twinkie Tush. At that time Morgan had been having some issues with a red bum and I needed something more breathable. She added me to the b/s/t page and my first Twinkie Tush was scored there at an auction. I quickly learned it was the most absorbent diaper ever! My next score was a new serged Scarlett. It was at that time I knew I was hooked. It was so cool to have not only some awesome girly prints, but also a diaper that I could trust. I remember commenting on how gorgeous Scarlett was but also how I wish everyone could FEEL the diaper in their hand.

5. What is your favorite twinkie tush print of all time? 

 My favorite print has to be Buttercup! I just recently was given the opportunity by a cool mama to score this diaper in a mini group :)



6. Do you have an ultimate ISO print? 

 I have been very lucky that several mamas have offered me all my major ISOs. A recent Twinkie Tush I have seen that I love though is Beloved. I am a sucker for most florals but that print makes me smile :)



7. What is your favorite personal non-parenting related, non-work related hobby? 

 I have recently had the opportunity to pick up sewing! It’s allowed me to have some “mom time” as Dakota calls it and also allows me to be creative with fabrics and patterns. I’ve been mainly creating dresses, skirts and shirts for just my girls but recently a few mamas have asked me to create some first birthday dresses!

8. What makes you feel most inspired or grounded? How do you take care of yourself and your spirit? 

 I am most grounded by my faith. After Morgan’s traumatic birth, I had to find a way to really ground myself and allow myself to believe in something bigger than a medical opinion. I had always been a person that believes in something bigger, as my grandmother had sometimes taken me to church as a young child. But, as a mother, I had to believe my perfect child was going to have someone else on her side…not just doctors and nurses. Even though I had always tried to see the positive and good in things, it was at that time (now that I look back over almost the last 3 years) that I had to have faith that Morgan would prosper and grow like any other child. As a mom, I would make sure to know everything and do anything I could to help her get there. I believe that everything happens for a reason. We just aren’t privy to know exactly what those reasons are sometimes.

9. What is your favorite activity to do with your children? 

 My absolute favorite things to do with both my girls involves outdoors. We are an outdoor family for sure. If we aren’t taking a walk outside, then we are gardening or having a little picnic. Morgan loves to practice walking around the house and Dakota loves to look for butterflies. My girls are water bugs too :) In the summer months, we are always either at the pool or at the river. Cook outs and swimming usually consume our weekends during the summertime. 

10. What is/was your favorite place to visit? 

 Just last summer we took a family trip to St. Pete Beach, Florida with the girls and loved it. Both of them loved the beach and the ocean. The resort we stayed at was very kid-friendly and I wish we could have stayed longer. It was the relaxing part of our vacation before visiting Disney :)

11. What twinkie tush attribute and/or philosophy do you most appreciate? 

 I love everything about Twinkie Tush. I love that I’m getting a top-notch product while also supporting a hard working family too. The customer service of Twinkie Tush is superb. When you email Gretchen, you know you are going to get someone who cares and who loves their product just like you do! I am lucky enough to not only own many Twinkie Tush diapers but I also own some wool. Just like a Twinkie Tush diaper, their wool is outstanding quality and far superior to many others. Twinkie Tush has created a community of not just diapers but moms and dads that are willing to go above and beyond for each other. In my journey to surround myself with positive people and positive ideas, I have found that Twinkie Tush is definitely a place that exudes this mentality. Being a part of this community is more like being a part of a great family :)

12. What would you tell someone who has yet to try a twinkie tush diaper? 

 I would tell someone that hasn’t tried a Twinkie Tush diaper that they are missing out big time! I have tried many diapers over the last 3 years but the quality, absorbency and overall effectiveness of a Twinkie Tush cannot be matched. I would also tell them to not be scared that it’s a fitted! So often I found myself doubting that Morgan could go coverless and Twinkie Tush diapers proved me wrong. They are THAT good. And if you aren’t sold on all those awesome qualities, then the prints produced each week will definitely make you want to buy one to try out :)

13. Tell us your funniest cloth-diapering or parenting story! 

 Some of my funniest stories about cloth diapering all revolve around taking Morgan to appointments with all sorts of doctors and when they go to check her out they notice the cloth diaper and ask “Is that a diaper?”. They are amazed that a diaper could be so gorgeous and functional! I love those moments because it’s then that I can tell them what it is and show off my other diapers. This exact thing happens at baby showers and birthday parties also. People cannot believe that these are real cloth diapers :) And for those that cloth diapered in the olden days, they are amazed at how easy these diapers really are to use.

14. Tell us about one of the most meaningful parenting experiences you have had. 

 The most meaningful experiences have been the birth of both my beautiful girls. With Dakota, I was able to birth completely natural with my mom as my doula. When she was born, I never even looked to see if she was a girl…I just knew it. She was 8 lbs 4 oz and 21 inches long with a head full of dark hair. I had waited until I saw her to name her. She was cleaned up by the nurse quickly and I was told she had a tight knot in her cord and should have had issues, but she never did. That was miracle #1. With Morgan, my birthing experience was quite the opposite of this laid back, serene moment. She was taken by emergency c-section at 37 weeks because she had stopped moving. She was born a healthy 7 lbs 6 oz and 21 inches long with yet another head full of dark hair. I had already named her Morgan Elizabeth as I wanted a family name for her. Morgan was my dad’s and sister’s middle name and Elizabeth was my mom’s middle name. She was quickly taken by ambulance to Kosair Children’s Hospital as she was not “pinking up” as they say. It was determined that Morgan had mysteriously lost a lot of blood somehow in utero and had incurred a brain injury but she had survived without any damage to anything else, even her major organs. That was miracle #2. Both of my girls have taught me very valuable lessons to live by: never take anything for granted for we are only promised the very present. I like to always tell people that miracles do happen because I have 2 of them :)

For more details about the twinkie tush Fan of the Month feature, or to learn how to become a twinkie tush Fan of the Month, please see this blog post.  Entries are currently open for July! :)

May 2013 Fan of the Month: Kylee Durant

We are so excited to present our first ever Fan of the Month, the lovely Kylee Durant!  A long-time twinkie tush supporter and a bright and encouraging member of the twinkie tush community, we are thrilled to have gotten to know her so much better through this feature!  Read her interview below!

What is your full name?

Kylee Ann Durant

Where are you from? (City/State/Country) Where do you live now?

I am originally from Cedar Springs, Michigan, USA. Our family currently lives in Bamberg, Germany at USAG Bamberg, as my husband is an Active Duty US Army soldier.

How many children do you have and what are their ages?

I have three wonderful children. Reagan is 6.5-years-old, Colton is 4-years-old, and Theodore (Teddy) is 19 months.

How/when did you find twinkie tush?

After not knowing much about cloth diapering when we started with Colton, I decided to really do my research when I found out I was pregnant with Teddy. I discovered the amazing world of fitted cloth diapers when I stumbled across the Twinkie Tush page and blog on Hyena Cart. A lot of my fellow cloth diapering mommy friends on the social media page I frequented could not rave about them enough. This was June 2011. Coincidently, I was put on strict bed rest for the remainder of my pregnancy at about this time. That was a very tough period of time for me emotionally, as well as physically. I clung to little things that helped me get through the daunting amount of days and weeks ahead of me. The excitement of previews every Tuesday and stockings every Wednesday were something I looked forward to. Cheesy? Maybe. But I think any mama who has ever been on bed rest for an extended period of time can relate!

What is your favorite twinkie tush print of all time?

Davenport is my all time favorite. The perfect floral for a boy!

Do you have an ultimate ISO print?

My ultimate ISO print is Sanctuary. I love it!

What is your favorite personal non-parenting related, non-work related hobby?

I am a book worm :) Reading is my passion. I love historical non-fiction/fiction. I try to read at least 3 books a month.

What makes you feel most inspired or grounded? How do you take care of yourself and your spirit?

My faith grounds me the most. I seek out uplifting and encouraging books, blogs, and devotions on a daily basis. I love that social media gives me the opportunity to experience so many great resources. Being a mother and a wife is hard work! Life is hard work too. I also thrive off of face-to-face interaction with women who are going through the same life experiences as me, including being a military wife. I am an active member of my local PWOC (Protestant Women of the Chapel) chapter on my military post. 3 hours child-free with other ladies who just want to do life together. It is refreshing and encouraging.

What is your favorite activity to do with your children?

Living in Europe has afforded us an amazing opportunity to travel…a lot! We love to travel as a family and share the amazing world that we live in with our children. We always experience amazing adventures and they love experiencing new cultures and languages (and food)! So far we have been to 10 different countries in just over a year!

What is/was your favorite place to visit?

My favorite place that I have visited would have to be Scotland. The people, the scenery, and the food! Although, driving on the other side of the road (and car) is pretty interesting :) We hope to go back before our time in Germany is over.

What twinkie tush attribute and/or philosophy do you most appreciate?

Honestly, all of the ethos that Twinkie Tush embodies are what keep me as a loyal customer and huge fan. Specifically, the sense of community is what I really appreciate. Gretchen and Mike have created a community and a fan base that seems more like a family than a following. We are interested in more than each other's stashes and scores. We are interested in helping one another and caring for one another. Our TT community has experienced several losses and personal hardships. Gretchen and Mike are the first to step in to offer their help, and without hesitation. Gretchen has an amazing gift. She creates diapers that are not only high quality, but small pieces of art because she uses the best fabrics and the highest quality materials. Instead of choosing to merely profit off this gift, TT chooses to bless others by using their gift for the greater good. This is a lesson I teach my own children. Use your gift for the greater good. Twinkie Tush has nailed this.

What would you tell someone who has yet to try a twinkie tush diaper?

I have tried many types, styles, and brands of cloth diapers over the past 3+ years! Some work out, and some don't. Some grow with your baby to a certain point and you have to move on to another option. The only brand that I have continuously used since Teddy was only 2 months old till now is Twinkie Tush. The absorbency and quality are unmatched. And in exchange for a premium fitted diaper, you are supporting a wonderful family that reaches beyond their home into the lives of others; supporting the cloth diaper community any way they can and spreading positivity into 5,000+ other homes with families just like theirs.

Tell us your funniest cloth-diapering or parenting story!

Shipping our diapers to Germany was hilarious! The military gave us two shipments when we sent our personal belongings over here: an advance shipment and a large, household goods shipment. I chose to send my diapers in our advance shipment so I would have them as soon as we landed in Germany. The military hires professional packers to pack up your things. I wish I would have snapped a picture of their faces when they got to Teddy's diaper stash :) Confusion, side-eye…it was so funny! But after the initial shock wore off, I was able to explain cloth diapers and how to use and care for them. A hilarious moment turned into a teachable moment. It was great. We are moving again this summer to a new base in Germany, so it will be interesting to see if we get the same reaction from German packers :)

Tell us about one of the most meaningful parenting experiences you have had.

I think the birth of all three of my children would have to be the most meaningful parenting experiences I have ever had. Reagan was our first and we were team green. When she was born, the doctor turned her towards me first so I was able to announce to the room (and my husband) "it's a girl!". My son Colton was born at Fort Campbell, KY only a week and a half after moving there. My husband was at the firing range and had to be driven at top speed in a humvee to make it to the hospital. That pretty much describes Colton's personality: top speed :) Theodore is a miracle baby. We were told that we could loose him at any moment at 22 weeks. After 3.5 long months of bed rest, we welcomed him into this world with tears of praise and thanksgiving. He defeated the odds stacked against him. I consider all of my children precious gifts and I could not imagine life without them. Parenting is hard work, but the ultimate reward is the "I love you" 's and kisses at the end of the day. It makes all the hard times worth it.

Kylee, we can't thank you enough for sharing so much with us, about yourself and your family, and for being a part of the twinkie tush community.  It is such a privilege and a pleasure to get to know you better!

For more details about our Fan of the Month feature, including information about how to become a twinkie tush FotM, please see this blog post.