Making a homemade plush toy can be a fun activity for an adult or a child, and the toys can be kept or given as gifts to loved ones. Making stuffed bears and dolls requires only a few basic sewing materials and tools, and even novice sewers can come up with something cute and cuddly. With a few tips and some know-how, making a plush toy can be a simple and rewarding activity.
Lay a piece of one foot fleece on a flat surface. Fold the fabric in half width-wise so you now have a double layer of fabric. This will help in making two identical toy pieces when you begin cutting.
2
Draw an animal shape on the top layer of fabric with a piece of chalk. For a basic bear shape draw an oval body with rounded legs and arms, and a circle head with two half-circle ears. For a more challenging animal shape, consider purchasing a stencil from a craft store in the shape of the animal of your choosing.
3
Cut out the traced shape. You should now have two identical pieces of fleece cut out.
4
Sew the two pieces together with a needle and thread. Make a stitch along the entire perimeter of the animal shape, leaving a one inch opening at the bottom of the toy.
5
Turn the toy inside out so the rough edges of the seam is on the inside and the outside has a smooth seam. Fill the toy with stuffing, which can be purchased at most craft stores. Stuffing comes in either acrylic or cotton material, and the cotton option works well for children's toys as it has less chemicals. When the toy is stuffed, stitch up the leftover hole.
6
Sew two buttons onto the face of the plush toy for eyes. Buttons can also be used for a nose, or can be sewn on in a U shape to make a smile. Pieces of felt from a craft store can also be cut to make different face features, or consider using pieces of remnant fabric to cut out eyes, nose and mouth.
Tips & Warnings
Add felt pieces to make lips, ears and a stomach for the toy.
