A pouch sling is very versatile; there are a variety of wearing positions.  Here are some basic instructions:

First of all, the unfolded sling resembles a large tube (Fig. 1).  Fold it in on itself to form the pouch (Fig. 2).  The curved seam always acts as the "seat" and is positioned where baby's bottom will be, depending upon which wearing position you choose.  For the Cradle Carry and Kangaroo Carry, the padding should be on the outside edge.  Place the sling over your head and over one shoulder, like a sash (Fig. 3, 4).  Pull the edges apart to access your pouch (Fig. 5).

Cradle Carry (birth +):

The seat seam should be centered in front of you (lined up with your belly button).  Holding baby sideways (Fig. 6, 7), lower her bottom into the pouch so that she is "cradled" (Fig. 8).  Baby's arms can be tucked inside the pouch (Fig. 9) or outside for more freedom of movement (Fig. 10).

This position works extremely well for newborns and up.  Most babies eventually outgrow this position; your baby will let you know when he is no longer comfortable in this position.

Kangaroo Carry (3 months +):

Follow the same procedure as for the Cradle Carry, except face baby straight ahead rather than sideways, and criss-cross his legs "Indian style"; then lower him into the pouch so that he is sitting, facing forward.  Wait until your baby has good head control before using this position.

Tummy-to-Tummy Carry (3 months +):

The padding should go on the inside edge (Fig. 11).  The seam should be centered in front of you.  With baby facing you, place her high up on your shoulder and tuck her legs up (Fig. 12).  Feed her feet and legs behind both layers of the sling (Fig. 13).  At the same time, open the pouch and lower her bottom into the pouch (Fig. 14).  The padding should go behind her knees (Fig. 15).

Wait until your baby has good head control to use this position.

Hip Carry (5 months +):

Follow directions for Tummy-to-Tummy Carry (above), and then slide baby over to your hip (Fig. 16, 17).  Baby's arms can be tucked inside (Fig. 17) or outside for more freedom of movement (Fig. 18).  For a more snug fit for this position, pull the top layer of the sling down over your shoulder (Fig. 19).

Back Carry (12 months +):

From the Tummy-to-Tummy or Hip Carry (above), slide baby all the way around to your back (Fig. 20). 

This position should not be used for young babies; it is not safe until baby is toddler-age.  My baby is only 6 1/2 months here, but please be aware it was for the purpose of demonstrating the position only; I do not carry her in this position yet and do not recommend that a baby this young be carried in this position.

Breastfeeding With Your Sling:

It is relatively simple to nurse your infant while holding him in the Cradle Carry in your sling.  Maneuver your baby so that he is facing you in the Cradle position, pull down the inner edge of the sling (the edge closest to your body) and latch baby on to nurse.   

 

Click on images to enlarge.