frequently asked questions
What is included when I order my Chameleon?
An order includes a Chameleon Body, two Skins, a stuff sack, and printed directions for $75. Tax, shipping and gift-wrap add additional charges.
How do I buy my Chameleon?
Our website will soon accept orders, but please e-mail me at info@chameleoncarriers.com with your order until then. I am currently accepting checks via "snail" mail. You are also welcome to pick up your Chameleon by appointment (we're in Dallas, Texas) when it's finished and pay at that time.
How long does it take to get my Chameleon once I order?
Current production time until your Chameleon ships is about 3 weeks. I will contact you upon order if your wait will vary drastically from this. You are welcome to pay for faster than standard shipping, but I can't produce them any faster. :) Your Chameleon will ship once I complete it and it is paid for in full.
Will a Chameleon fit me (or my husband, etc.)?
Chameleons fit most people. The standard Chameleon straps are long enough to be tied onto a women's size 20. I can make longer straps (I'll have to buy more fabric) for a $10 charge. If you have a very small waist, please let me know and I can trim the waist straps (to decrease excess) when I am making your Chameleon. Please indicate any special needs upon order. One of the great things about a Chameleon is how they automatically adjust to different bodies.
Can I wear a Chameleon while pregnant?
Yes. As you get bigger, the front and hip carry will get harder, but the back carry will still work great. I loved how my older child's weight balanced out the weight of my belly!
How do I cart my Chameleon around when I'm not using it?
Well, you have a couple of options.
- You can fold the Body a few times, roll it until the straps are all wrapped up, and slide it into it's stuff sack.
- You can just cram it all into it's stuff sack.
- You can fold the Body a few times, roll it until the straps are mostly wrapped up, cross the straps (like the ribbon on the back of a present), bring around the other side and tie them to secure the bundle.
- You can wear it like a big belt. I've done this on walks when I didn't want to carry it, but I knew the walk might end up too long for my youngest. Just tie the waist straps so they'll be ready and then do some accordian folding of the Chameleon Body against you until you can wrap the shoulder straps around everything like a belt and tie them. Not the most trimming, but it works! ;)
Additionally, the stuff sack is a great place to store the Skins you aren't using!
Is it hot to wear?
I don't think it's any hotter than holding your child normally is. The fabrics are thick to be strong and last through multiple children, but they are also 100% cotton so they breathe. The Body of the Chameleon covers only the back of your child.
Can I wear it in cold weather?
Yes. You can tie your Chameleon on under a really big jacket OR you can tie your Chameleon on top of your jacket and dress your child for the weather. When we go for walks in the cold, I like to wear a big coat of my husband's on top of both of us so I can dress my child for the indoors in case they are still asleep when we get back.
Can I send a custom Skin fabric?
Yes. I can make you a custom Skin out of a fabric you have and love (like a special T-shirt, sari, silk, etc). Contact me at info@chameleoncarriers.com for guidelines and necessary dimensions.
Is the Body fabric stiff?
It's cotton twill (think jeans) so that it will be strong and secure for a very long time. It should soften up with use and cleaning just like your favorite jeans.
Did you invent the Mei Tai/ABC?
No. The overall style has been around longer than I have! I created the actual pattern of the Chameleon using the basic style, my own ideas and math skills, and a few inspirations from other carriers. :)
Can I buy or copy the Chameleon pattern?
No. My pattern is not for sale. There are lots of different FREE patterns on-line, however, if you like a good project. Have fun and make sure it's really safe before you tie in a child! I hope it's beautiful and that you both love it. :)
I worked really hard on the Chameleon pattern and re-creating a Chameleon for your own profit would be stealing my ideas...that's just wrong and bad karma.
Why are Chameleon's so expensive?
I wish that I could make them for you for less!! The cost takes into account my raw materials cost, my time shopping for materials, my time and skill creating the Chameleon or paying a seamstress to sew it (it's a labor-intensive pattern), both my and my husband's time creating and maintaining this website, and a modest profit to make the the time away from my children worth it. I believe you will love your Chameleon. Please shop around...I'm confident that you'll be back!
Are Chameleons reviewed on a third-party site?
Yes. The Baby Wearer is a site where you can create and view reviews for all kinds of carriers. You will need to set up an account, but it's free and easy!
Do you have a return policy?
Please plan for success with a clean diaper, a full tummy, a good mood and make sure you try your Chameleon a few seperate times to get past the learning curve. Also, a little walk once your Chameleon is securely strapped around your child usually helps. Feel free to contact me with questions, I really want you to love your Chameleon and have a chance to experience the benefits it has to offer! If it really doesn't work for you, please return it to me within 30 days and I will refund your money less any shipping and $5. I will only accept Chameleons in clean, like-new condition.



