7 Steps to Making a Plush Toy

flannel

Flannel can be used for your adorable plush doll or bear.This fabric is very easy to buy as it is usually available in a variety of prints and colours.

It's affordable and easy to sew as it has little or no frayed edges/corners.However, this is not as fluffy as Sherpa fabric.

cotton

Cotton is also readily available in a variety of prints and colors, such as flannel.It's also affordable, but not as fluffy as other fabric types.This fabric type is not commonly used on most plush animals.

wool

The extra fluffy fabric makes each plush animal huggable and cuddly.Its edges won't fray, so it's also easy to sew and use.It also comes in a variety of color options.However, if you want it to look furry, this is not the best option for you.

felt

This fabric type is likely to be as affordable (almost) and easy to work with as cotton and flannel.It is also very convenient to buy.However, it does not work well in polyester felt pellets.This fabric is not that soft for a plush toy.

Faux fur

If you want a realistic store bought plush, this fabric is for you.It easily hides imperfect sewing/stitching as its long hair covers every edge stitch. However, if you are not a professional animal plush maker, you may find this difficult to work with.Its sheds get crazy, so your workspace and clothes could be covered in fur.It's also expensive and can be difficult to sew.

old cotton shirt

If you don't have time to buy fabric, you might want to use your old cotton shirts.Find a t-shirt with a soft fabric that still looks good and in the color you want.Never use sheer or sheer fabrics such as chiffon or lace as they may show the filling.

4. Create a schema

You have two options to make the pattern.One is to manually copy your design onto a larger sheet of paper.The second is to take your design to a local print shop and have them enlarge your draft.

5. Cut out the pattern and sew

Next, cut out the patterned fabric with scissors, then fold and secure with pins.Cut out each pattern one by one, and carefully place the pattern pieces on a clean table or flat surface.Next, place each pattern on the fabric and make traced lines.Then, use the pattern to cut out the fabric.

Stitch the pieces together (two pieces at a time), tuck the raw edges in, and secure the fabric inside-out with straight stitches.Then use the tracing line to carefully use the basic running stitch.You can also use embroidery stitches or straight stitches.Don't sew the top hole yet, because you still have to put the filler.

6. Fill it with your stuffed animals

Polyester filler

Polyester fill is a synthetic material that can be used in cushioned stuffed toys.It is soft, very fluffy, durable and widely used in stuffed plush toys.It's made of polyester and is readily available at your local craft store.

dry polyester filler

This type of fiberfill is also suitable for stuffed animals.However, it is not treated with silicone fibers, so it has a rougher texture.It packs well and can easily fill small spaces.

Poly Granules and Bean Bag Fillers

Poly pellets and bean bag fillers are also great options for filling.If you can't find the stuffing, you can also try dry rice, large plastic beads, dried beans, fabric from old t-shirts, and old stuffing from pillows or stuffed animals like bears.

7. Sealing and suturing

After filling, seal each edge, then sew/sew the hole.Then, start hand sewing details like eyes, nose, body shape and clothes.If you don't want to sew, you also have the option of using hot glue for smaller pieces.However, parts tend to be more durable when they are stitched.