Starter Pack Plush Sewing Guide Pattern 1
Starter Pack Plush Sewing Guide Pattern 1
plush
a f r ee b eg in n e rs' g u id e f o r
plush s ew i n g th ro u g h 4 p ro je c ts
i n trod u ction
This project is for a simple chubby animal plush of varying styles and difficulty. It ranges from the most novice
level construction up to something for a confident beginner. As you create the plush and work up the levels, this
will take you through all the techniques I use to make soft toys in my style.
You may find different methods elsewhere, but I try to cover all the options I can to make the kind of round,
squishy plush you usually see from my collections. You'll find this tutorial assumes you're starting from
absolute 0 -- no sewing machine, no tools, no fabric. This is in case you're not sure if you'll like this hobby and
you want to test it out before buying too much.
So if you're someone who learns best by doing, this pattern is for you! Whether that means you need a sample
project to work on as you learn, or you'd rather see practical examples of techniques instead of illustrations.
You'll work up from 1/10 in difficulty up to 4/10. So if you feel pretty good after working through this tutorial,
you can be sure you can handle similar projects with ease!
p ri nt ing th e patte r n
3 4 5
It’s likely your printer will have a To line up the pattern pages, match up You can trace the patterns onto a
margin that ensures your image the corresponding diamond shapes. different paper, or you can also just
doesn’t print to the very edge. Each diamond will have a letter, so cut them straight from the printer
Assembly will be easier if you trim off it’s simply a matter of matching A1 paper -- be sure that each piece is
this blank margin edge. This will give to A2, B3 to B4 and so on. The faint fully taped together along the joins
you pages that overlap slightly during gray lines indicate the border of every so they don’t fall apart when you cut
assembly. If you trim across the gray page, you should be able to line those them.
outline boxes, this will give you pages up as well. When the diamond goes
that don’t overlap but rather butt together, tape it in place.
against each other. If you have many pages, it’s easier
to tape up the pages into rows first.
Then tape the rows together into a full
block.
starte r tool s
If you are completely new to sewing, you may think you have to buy a lot of supplies to get
started. But actually for the most basic start, the tools you need may already be in your junk
drawer, and the materials may be in the bottom of your closet!
Follow the guide below to get started with the bare minimum, then add more supplies as you
feel more comfortable or earn more funds.
fa b r i c : st u ff in g:
There are plenty of Polyester poly-fil stuffing
inexpensive options for is the most reliable option
fabric for beginners. for plush making. It's very
See page 8 for more easy to reuse if you can't
information on choosing buy new.
fabric.
upcycle options:
upcycle options:
• Unstuff old pillows
• Old sheets • Unstuff old stuffed
• Fleece blankets animals
• Old flannel pajamas
extra supplies:
poin t t ur ne r : fabr i c m a r ke r : r u le r :
Something narrow and blunt works A disappearing marker is a huge help A ruler isn't needed as often in plush
best to turn points in plush shapes. when making notes and marks on making as with other projects like
A chopstick is an easy solution, but your fabric. A pencil or piece of chalk clothing. But it's helpful to have
if you can get hemostats those are is a good temporary solution, but around to measure seam allowance or
even better (see below). an air-soluble marker is very highly placement lines.
recommended.
upgrades:
h an d s e wing
foundations
We haven't started sewing just yet, but before we get there we want to make sure you can at
least thread a needle! We'll get to the actual stitches as they come up in the project. This way
you'll have something to practice on and get the concept better. See the list below if you want
to skip ahead.
n ote :
Some prefer to leave the thread
folded over only part way so
you can adjust the length of the
thread as you sew.
You'll need to hold onto the
thread to make sure it doesn't slip
out of the eye.
Whatever method you choose is
3 4 completely up to you and what
makes you the most comfortable.
Insert the trimmed thread through the Bring the ends of the thread together,
eye of the needle. and pull at the needle so the thread is
now doubled over. Knot the end.
leve l 1:
pillow-style plush
If you've never sewn anything before, most
teachers would recommend a very basic
project. Something like a pillowcase, flat tote
bag, or rectangle skirt. But if you've already
made something like that or just really only
want to make plush, this project is for you!
It's a very simple avocato or frog shape
with only 1 main pattern piece. You'll need to
learn a little about making faces, but the steps
will go over lots of options so you can make
something no matter what materials you
have at your disposal.
c hoosing fa bri cs
Plush toys can be made from almost any fabric, but the stretch, thickness, and texture of
the fabric will greatly affect the final look. For the best results, use the fabric suggested by
the designer. For this project I recommend fleece or minky. But beginners might feel more
comfortable with felt or cotton. But this section will show what to expect no matter what
fabrics you try.
fe lt cotton j e r s ey f le e ce m i nky
felt:
Felt is made from pressed fibers that are formed
into a sheet. Because of this, the edges don't fray pros:
and unravel over time. • Polyester varieties are
inexpensive.
It's slightly stiff so it creates plush with hard • Makes great tiny details.
edges that keep their shape well. It really shines • Makes amazing
with in tiny details and sculptural plush. sculptural plush with
It doesn't look as natural with very round, hard edges.
squishable, or soft designs. For that reason I don't • Edges don't unravel.
usually recommend it for my patterns, but it will • Has no grain, can be cut
still work. For better results you can stuff it extra in any direction.
full to make the shapes rounder and less wrinkled.
co n s:
Polyester varieties are cheaper and great for • Wool varieties are
beginners. For an upgrade, check out 100% wool expensive.
varieties (or blends). These have a crisp texture • Creates hard edges that
that's easy to cut and survives wear and tear aren't as soft and round.
longer.
cotton:
Cotton usually refers to quilting cotton or broadcloth. This is
a woven fabric, made by weaving together strands of cotton pro s:
threads (see below). • Usually inexpensive.
It usually has a high thread count, so it's durable. You can also find • Comes in a huge array
it in lots of colors and prints, so it's easy to see why it's popular. of colors and prints.
• Hard-wearing and
Because it's woven, it can fray easily at the edges. So your seams long lasting.
can get weaker if you trim the seam allowance (see pg. 31 for why • Easy to sew.
you'd want to trim your seam allowance). It also doesn't stretch, • Looks beautiful in flat
so the edges look crisp and hard like felt. But because it's thinner accent pieces.
than felt the finished result will show every little mistake.
co n s:
It really shines in flat accent pieces, like inner ears, wings, and • Crisp texture shows
applique (see pg. 24). So you can get the effect of the fun prints every mistake.
without compromising the shape of your plush. • Seams can fray if you
If you do use it in the main body of your plush, be sure to stuff it trim too much.
extra full to really fill in every edge, or else it might look wrinkly • Seams can look
(see pg. 33 for an example). wrinkly if you
understuff.
jersey:
Jersey is the kind of fabric used for t-shirts. It's known as a knit fabric, which
means the fibers are knitted like a sweater (just much smaller, see below). p ro s:
It also means that it naturally stretches. This is one of the harder fabrics to • Doesn't fray.
make plush from, for the reasons explained next. But it's shown here in case • Very squishy,
you want to make a plush from an old t-shirt or a similar fabric. plump results.
Interlock knit, french terry knit, and even some varieties of velour have co n s:
similar weight and stretch and produce similar results. These fabrics are also • Likely needs a
on the thin side and have a stretch of 30%-50%. (See more about stretch stretch needle.
percentages on the next page.) The resulting plush will look a little larger by • Can look lumpy
comparison and might lose some of its subtler shaping details. Mistakes are if not stuffed
also more likely to show and uneven stuffing will be very visible. evenly.
• Might lose
If you're using a machine, these fabrics will behave better if you have subtler details
a stretch needle (see page 12 for more on machine needles). A regular in the chubbier
universal needle will likely skip stitches when trying to sew through knit final shape.
fabrics.
stretch percentage:
pull the fabric A fabric's stretch percentage is a quantifiable way of
without distorting measuring its stretch. You can calculate it by taking 10" of the
fabric and stretching it as far as it can go without distorting it.
Each extra inch equals 10% of stretch. For example, 10" of this
minky stretches to 13". Therefore it has 30% stretch.
fleece:
Fleece is a fabric with a knit base that has a fluffy texture built onto it. It
typically has 20%-40% stretch and is very affordable. It's usually used for p ro s:
warm weather clothing and blankets. That said, heavyweight varieties are • Soft, fluffy
available too but are better for very large plush. Heavyweight varieties tend texture.
to be more expensive and come in fewer colors too. • Easy to sew.
• Comes in many
Meanwhile medium to thin varieties work best for smaller plush so the colors and
project doesn't get too bulky with the detailed parts. This variety tends to prints.
come in more colors as well. • Very soft and
squishy.
Fleece can also be very beginner friendly because it's not too stretchy and • Affordable.
can often be sewn with a universal sewing machine needle. But if you get
skipped stitches you may need to switch to a stretch needle (see page 12). co n s:
The fuzzy texture means it likes to hold onto itself lightly so it won't move • May need a
around as much while you sew it. stretch needle.
• Can pill over
If you're brand new to sewing, you may want to start with felt or cotton, time.
then work up to fleece.
minky:
Minky is a fabric with a knit base that has a short furry texture
built onto it. It typically has 20%-30% stretch and tends pros:
to be more expensive. Varieties of minky are often used in • Very soft feel.
manufactured toys, so plush made with it look very professional. • Professional look.
• Lots of colors & textures.
The most well-known brand is Shannon Cuddle, which has a huge
selection of colors and textures. Other brands have also been co n s:
creating their own versions. They're typically less expensive but • Expensive.
also have less color range. • Shifts out of alignment;
difficult to sew.
Minky can be challenging to sew especially if you're used to the • Sheds fur when you cut
previous fabrics. But if you're not familiar with other fabrics, you it.
may actually be fine with how minky behaves.
It has a short fur that goes in one direction (called the nap). This
• Must cut pieces along
the nap.
fur can push the fabric out of alignment while you're sewing. The
fur also causes shedding, so you'll need to clean up as you go. See • Must be careful when
ironing.
the next page for more tips on working with minky.
fabric nap:
Fur fabrics like minky have what's called a nap (or pile).
This is the direction of the fabric where the fur lies smooth
-- like petting an animal. Petting the fabric in one direction
will make the fibers lie flat and shiny, while the other
direction brings up the fur so it looks ruffled and darker.
For the best results when cutting your pattern pieces, make
sure the nap line goes in the same direction as your fur.
shedding:
Any fabric with a fur-like texture runs the risk of shedding when you
cut it. There are many ways to help keep the mess under control, so
use the one that works best for you. After you cut your pieces you can:
• Hold the pieces over a trash can and manually pull the fur off the
cut edges.
• Then shake the pieces vigorously over a trash can to get the rest
and until they no longer shed.
• Or run a lint roller (or piece of tape) over each cut edge.
• Also keep a handheld vacuum cleaner nearby when pieces leave a
mess.
• pro version: I personally put all the cut pieces into my clothing
dryer with no heat. Throw in a towel or two to shake the pieces
up, then all of the fur goes into the lint trap. I recommend this for
experts only because it will mix up your pieces and you'll have to
sort them again. There's also a chance to may lose 1-2 small pieces.
But it works very well if you sew a lot of plush like I do.
ironing:
Most minky is made from polyester which means it shouldn't be
ironed with anything hotter than a medium-low setting.
Many brands of minky warn that the fabric should not be ironed. This
is due to the iron crushing the fur and completely flattening the fluffy
texture. Also if it's ironed above a medium-low setting it could melt.
If you need to iron your minky for something like fusible web applique
(page 24), try to only use the tip of your iron on the appliqued pieces
and a press cloth to protect any scorching.
A spritz of water from a spray bottle also helps a lot, because steam
and moisture allow heat to travel more efficiently than through air
alone.
sewing:
The soft, furry texture of minky causes it to slip around while the pieces are
held together. If this gives you issues while you're sewing, consider the steps
below for an easier time.
• Use a lot more pins than usual to really hold the minky in place. Space
them as little as ½" apart and alternate them. Pin one from the top side
and another from the bottom. This will hold the minky securely as you're
sewing the seam.
• Use a walking foot. A walking foot is a type of presser foot installed into
your sewing machine. On its default setting, a sewing machine will push
the fabric through using small teeth beneath the presser foot called feed
dogs. A walking foot feeds the fabric from the top as well to help ensure
even stitching.
• Basting. Basting is a temporary stitch meant to hold pieces in place until
the permanent sewing is done. You can baste your minky pieces together
by hand where you have more control. Then sew them permanently by
machine. The basting stitches will hold everything in place as you go. You
can remove them later if they show on your finished project.
fab r ic a natomy
stretch
crosswise grain:
Goes perpendicular to the
selvage. In knit fabrics, this selvage:
is the direction of stretch. The machine finished
edge of the fabric.
Each piece has 2; one
nap
on each side
lengthwise grain:
Goes parallel to the selvage.
In fur fabrics, this is the
direction of the nap. 'right' side:
The ‘pretty’ side of the
fabric, with the fur or
print.
nap or pile:
In fur fabrics, the direction
the fur goes when brushed;
like petting an animal.
'wrong' side:
The ‘ugly’ side of the
fabric, with no fur or
width of fabric: design.
The distance between the
selvages. Commonly
45”, 54”, or 60”
cut edge:
The end cut off the bolt
(big roll) of fabric.
patt er n a natom y
test square:
Measure this square
to ensure your printer
printed at the proper
scale.
applique markings:
Markings to help with face and
applique placement.
stitching line:
The dotted line indicates
the stitching line. You can
cut along this line if you stretch line:
prefer to make up your This line should go along
own seam allowance (see the stretch of your fabric
the next few pages for (if your fabric stretches).
this example).
cutting line:
Cut along this line to get
the pattern template with nap/grain line:
seam allowance included. This line should go along
the nap of your fabric
or along the lengthwise
grain.
label:
The name of the
pattern template,
how many pieces to placement lines:
cut, and what seam Markings to help with
allowance is included. placement of other pieces
or openings for turning.
c ut t in g the fa br ic
Use your printed sewing templates to cut the pieces from your fabric. This can be done a
number of ways with slight variations. See the options below that work the best both for what
materials you have and also what makes you the most comfortable.
1 2 3
Grab your fabric and place it on your Check that the stretch line is Secure your pattern template to the
work surface so the right side is matching the stretch of the fabric. fabric. If you have pins, weave them
facing down. Also check that the nap line is through both layers. You can also
Place your pattern template on top so matching the fur of the fabric (if your use small heavy objects as pattern
the right side is facing up. fabric has fur). If it doesn't, it should weights.
match the lengthwise grain. Alternatively, you can hold the pattern
Note: felt fabric has no grain, so you with your hand and use a fabric
can place the pieces however you like! marker to trace around the template.
4 5 6
Cut out the pattern piece around the If you need more than one of a piece, If you're using fuzzy fabric, remove
template. remove the template and place it the excess fluff using one of the
again. If your piece is asymmetrical, methods on page 11.
be sure to flip it over for the second
piece.
1 2 3
Begin by cutting off the seam Trace this seam line onto the Cut generally around the traced line,
allowance from the paper pattern wrong side of your fabric using a at least ¼" from the tracing.
template. disappearing fabric marker.
4 5 6
Later when you align this piece with When you're sewing 3D pieces, you Then bring it out through the seam
its partner (page 29), you only need have to be careful to match up the line on the other piece. This will
to sew along the seam line. No need to seam lines. It helps to stick your pins ensure they stay together while you
think about seam allowance. into the seam line on one side. sew them.
cutting layout:
If you haven't already, print pages 83-85 for the sewing templates for the Level 1 project (see page 3
for help).
Use the illustration below as a visual checklist to help with cutting out all the pieces for your project.
¼ yd.; 9” long
belly
6" wide
15" wide
front back
¼ yd.; 9” long
avocado pit
CATo:
o:
A2 A2
NAP
avo
5" wide
appl i qu e
and other face alternative s
Nearly every plush calls for a face of some kind, and there are many methods to do it! My
personal favorite is applique, which is the method of applying small pieces of fabric to your
larger main fabric as a decoration. It's what you'll find in all of my plush patterns.
However, that can be a hard technique for an absolute beginner. So this section will go over
some alternatives that you can try first. Then afterwards it will explain applique for when
you're ready to give it a go.
buttons
add sew through
buttons to eyes of button
finished
plush
1 2
Buttons are a very simple and classic First off, finish your plush, both Sew the button to the plush through
way to make eyes for your plush. It's sewing and stuffing (page 27-35) the eyes several times for lots of
easier to add them after the plush Then mark where you would like strength. Tie off the thread several
is complete so you can ensure the the eyes to go with a disappearing times for a good hold, then trim the
placement is perfect. marker. thread.
You can take advantage of all the Grab your hand-sewing needle and
fun colors and shapes there are. The thread and double over the thread for
downside is they can be dangerous if extra strength.
they're removed by young children, Begin by starting a knot where you'd
which is why safety eyes exist as a like the button to be secured.
good alternative.
safety eyes
mark where you cut a very
would like the eyes small hole to
start
1 2
Safety eyes are a craft accessory First off, complete sewing your plush Make a small hole in the fabric where
made to resemble a round solid eye. but do not stuff it yet (page 27-32). you marked. This is a good job for
The "bead" half has the rounded eye Mark where you would like the eyes pointed embroidery scissors.
shape on the end, and the "washer" to be on your finished plush using a If your scissors aren't as small or
half attaches to the back. The nature disappearing marker. pointed, use them to carefully make a
of the construction ensures that it very small clip in the fabric.
cannot be easily removed, compared
to something like buttons.
Different colors and shapes are
available for other eye looks.
3 4 5
Insert the bead end of your safety eye For an extra detail, you can add a Use the opening for turning to flip the
into the hole you've made. It should circle of felt underneath the eye. plush toward the inside to expose the
be flush and even with the fabric of (Another non-fraying fabric, like back of the safety eye.
the plush. fleece, could also work). Push the washer onto the safety eye
This not only adds extra color, but so it's secure. It may need some extra
also makes the eye look bigger. force so prepare to get some leverage
Another bonus is it gives a strong on a table or another hard surface.
foundation if you're installing the You could also use pliers if you're
safety eye onto thinner fabrics like comfortable with them.
cotton.
6 7
When complete, the washer should be If preferred, you can cut off the excess
fully secured on the back of the eye post of the safety eye using wire
and not move. cutters or another strong cutting tool.
Again, this is only recommended if
you're comfortable using wire cutters.
applique
Applique is my personal favorite method of adding faces to plush. It's done by sewing small
pieces of fabric to your main project. This can be as simple as a few circles for eyes, or as
complex as multiple layers of base colors, shadows, highlights, and details.
hand sew
pin pieces or glue in place
in place lightly
3 4 5
Grab the front piece of your plush Or if you don't have pins, you could Thread a needle with matching thread
(A1 or A2). Align the felt pieces on it also use a small bit of glue. (pg. 6) and stitch the outer edge of the
where you'd like the eyes to be. You For best results, hand sew any items applique to your main fabric. Use one
can also use the guidelines on the that you've glued down. There's a of the 3 stitches shown on the next 2
paper for help. chance glue could gum up a sewing pages.
To hold them in place, you can use machine.
pins.
3 4
Bring the needle up again, about ¼” Repeat steps 2 & 3 until the end of the
away from the first stitch and ⅛-¼” seam. You can also take two stitches
inside the applique shape. at once for a faster result.
blanket stitch:
• This stitch has
more of an
old-world charm
to it and is highly
visible when
complete.
• It really pops
when you use 1 2 3
embroidery
Bring the needle up at the Pierce the tip of the needle Pierce the tip of the needle
floss rather than beginning of your seam, ¼” away and ⅛-¼” inside just outside the applique
regular sewing just outside the applique the applique shape. Do not shape, perpendicular to the
thread. shape. pull the needle through. edge.
4 5 6
Make sure your working Finally, pull the needle Repeat steps 2-5 for the
thread is going under the through. The working entire shape.
needle. thread should create a line
around the edge of the
applique.
running stitch:
1 2 3 4
Bring the needle up at the Bring the needle down Bring it up again about ¼” Repeat steps 2 & 3 until the
beginning of your seam. about ¼” away. away. end of the seam. You can
also take two stitches at
once for a faster result.
adhesive
side
1 2 3
Grab your fusible web adhesive. Take your fusible web and align it Cut generally around the shapes
Note that it has two sides. The rough over your applique templates so the you've just traced.
and bumpy side has the adhesive paper side is facing up.
web. The smooth side has the paper. Take a pencil and trace the designs
you need onto the paper side.
4 5 6
Take your fusible web pieces and Grab your iron and press it according Wait for the pieces to cool.
align them onto the fabric you're to the manufacturer's directions. It's Cut out the pieces along the lines
using. usually medium heat for about 5 you've traced.
Place it with the adhesive side facing seconds per area. Continue until all
down on the wrong side of your the pieces are fused.
fabrics.
pull away
align template
peel template while holding
away over main applique
paper fabric
backing
7 8 9
Remove the paper backing from each Grab your main project fabric (in this Hold the applique piece in place with
of the pieces you've cut. This should case, the front piece, A1 or A2). one hand while carefully pulling away
leave the adhesive behind on the back Align your paper pattern template on the template with the other.
of the fabric. top so both right sides are facing up. Keep the applique fabric in the same
Align your first applique piece on top spot and this will align it on the fabric.
within the applique guideline.
repeat with
smaller pieces next
10 11 12
Grab your iron once again and fuse You can also use a scrap piece of Repeat this process with your other
the applique to your main fabric. cotton as a press cloth. This will help applique pieces.
If you're using a furry or delicate protect the fabric while you're ironing. If your plush has layers within the
fabric, try to use only the tip of your eyes, work from the largest piece up
iron on the applique pieces. to the smallest.
needle needle
should land should swing
right outside into middle of
shape shape
sew in place as
desired
13 14 15
You can now sew the pieces in place When using a zigzag stitch for When the needle swings to the left,
however you prefer. Refer to pages applique, set your machine to a make sure it's inside the applique
22-23 for some hand sewing options. medium width. piece.
If working by machine, a zigzag stitch When the needle swings to the Repeat this with all of your applique
will secure the fabric and prevent the right, make sure the needle is on the pieces using matching thread.
edges from fraying in the future. outside edge of the applique piece.
See the next steps for help with that.
1 2
For larger pieces, like animal spots, Trace the cat's avocado pit or the When complete, you should have a
stripes, or other markings, you may frog's belly outlines onto fusible web ring of paper instead of one big shape.
want the piece to blend into the as usual. However this time, cut out
project. For that, it's better to use the the middle, about ⅜" inside the traced
same fabric as your project. line.
Up next is a tip you can use for these
larger pieces.
fuse to peel
away sew to
fabric as project as
usual paper
backing usual
3 4 5
Fuse this to the back of your accent Cut out the accent fabric and remove You can now fuse the fabric to your
fabric. the fusible web paper. project and there will only be glue
around the outer edge. This will help
prevent the glue from distorting the
shape of your project.
Sew the frog belly or avocado pit to
your plush front (A1 or A2) using
one of the previous sewing methods.
sew desu ne?
| www.cholyknight.com |
// ©2022 Choly Knight // Items sewn using this pattern may be sold. Credit to “Choly Knight” or “Sew Desu Ne?” is appreciated.
You may not reproduce, share, freely distribute, or sell this pattern as your own in digital or printed form.
starter pack plush 27 free sewing tutorial
asse mbly
We're finally assembling the body of the plush! But first, a quick primer on how it's going to
happen.
•
project.
Seams can be made in The distance between the edge
different ways depending and the stitching is called the seam
on different desired results allowance. When the sewing is finished, the
or for strength. But this fabric pieces are now joined at the
seam. The raw edges are inside the
is the most common for project and on the outside is a clean,
plush making. neat line.
note:
• If you're sewing with a
machine, be sure to back
stitch at the beginning
and end of your seam.
• This is a feature on
lift presser almost every machine
foot and that will sew in reverse.
pivot
leave open • This locks the beginning
for turning and end of your seam
4. sew the body and keeps it from
unraveling.
a. If using a machine, set it to a straight stitch and a medium stitch
length.
Sew around the outside of your plush using the regular ¼" seam
allowance. Be sure to pivot at the corners.
To pivot, stop with your needle at the corner of the shape and
keep the needle down. Then lift up your presser foot and turn the
fabric.
Lower the presser foot and continue sewing as usual.
b. Sew around the entire plush shape except for the opening for
turning at the bottom.
back stitch:
• The hand-sewing
version of a back
stitch is different
from the machine
version (see the
previous page).
• This hand
stitch is a good 1 2 3
replacement for
Bring the needle down Bring it up about ¼” away. Bring it back down again,
a typical straight at the beginning of your going backwards, just
stitch on a seam. beside where you did the
machine. first stitch.
4 5 6
Bring the needle back up Bring the needle back Repeat steps 4 & 5 for each
again, going forwards, down again, going stitch until the end. You
about ½” away. backwards, just beside can also take two stitches
your previous stitch. at once for a faster result.
clip inner
curves
1) clipped 2) flips
inner inside and
clip very curve spreads
close to apart
corner
ladder stitch:
• A ladder stitch is
also called a slip
stitch, invisible
stitch, or hidden
stitch.
• It's used for
sewing from
the outside of a 1 2 3
project invisibly,
Make sure the seam Bring the needle up from Weave the needle into
which means allowances in your project the inside edge of the the fold of one side of the
that there's are folded under. We’ll need opening. Pull the thread opening, taking a ¼” long
no machine to stitch into those folds through, and the knot will stitch.
later. be left inside the plush.
replacement for it.
• Here it's used
to close up an
opening in a
plush, but you
can also use it to
attach pieces. See
page 46 for how
that's done.
4 5 6
Go directly across to the Repeat steps 3 & 4 along Pull at the thread after
other side and take another the opening. each stitch to close up the
stitch. opening.
7 8 9
Take a stitch into the Insert the needle near the Pull the thread through.
threads from your project. knot and bring it out 1-2” Pull at the thread while
Loop the thread around the away. cutting close to the plush.
needle to create a knot. The thread will sink back
inside, completely hidden.
finish ladder
stitching bring needle pull at
out 1"-2" away thread while
clipping
you
did it!
congrats!
You've completed
Level 1! Give yourself
a big hand and see if
you're ready for
Level 2!
leve l 2 :
3D pillow plush
As a step up from the last pattern, this plush difficulty:
still has the simple round body shape but is
made more 3D with the inclusion of several
darts. This one has a lot so you're sure to get
a bunch of practice!
Meanwhile separate ears are now included makes:
so you'll learn how to incorporate those into One plush: about 5½" tall, 5" wide, and 4"
your seams. And finally you'll get some more long.
practice with the ladder stitch showing how
to attach pieces from the outside. There are
templates to make a simple pig or a cute pug. new skills to learn:
□ Darts
□ Basting
□ Sewing extras into seams
□ Ladder stitching separate pieces together
PIG:
ears are sewn into
PUG: ears are folded
the seams over & ladder
stitched in place
muzzle is
attached by
hand with a
ladder stitch
cutting layout:
If you haven't already, print pages 86-87 for the sewing templates for the Level 2 project (see page 3
for help).
Use the illustration below as a visual checklist to help with cutting out all the pieces for your project.
B1 B2 B2
NAP
B3
B3
19" wide
STRE TCH
ears
⅛ yd.; 4.5” long
B4 B4 B4 B4 B5
pug:
B1 B2 B2
NA P
NA P
B5
14" wide
17" wide
fold
along
point of line check from
dart up seam both sides
lines
transfer ear
placement lines
leave open
for turning
6. sew the ears
a. Grab your ear pieces (B3 or B4). Take two of them and align them with right sides facing and raw
edges matching up.
b. Sew the ears together along the long curved edge. Leave the straight edge free. When complete, use
that free edge to turn the ears right side out.
c. Transfer the ear placement lines from the paper pattern for the front (B1). Mark along the edge of
your front piece using a fabric marker.
leave
line open for
up back turning
pieces
line up center
bottom points
9. align the back to the front
a. Grab your front piece from before (B1) and also your sewn back pieces (B2).
Since these are both 3D shapes, they're not going to line up as nicely as the flat shapes from Level 1.
We're going to use alignment points to help out.
b. Take your back piece along the top of the seam and align it with the center top of the front piece. The
center top is also marked on the paper pattern in case you want to transfer the marking. Pin these
layers together.
c. Grab the seam along the bottom of the back piece and line it up with the bottom center dart on the
front. Pin these layers together.
Start pinning the rest of the edges of the plush together until you've worked all the way around.
sew
make sure ears around
are secured inside entire
shape
flip right
side out
10. sew the back to the front
a. Before you sew, double
check to be sure the
ears are tucked
tip:
securely inside the • Sewing through the layers of the ear and body can be difficult
plush. for some sewing machines.
b. Sew all the way around • If yours has trouble, you may want to try using a stronger
the plush, removing the needle.
pins as you go. • Also try loosening the top thread tension of your machine by
c. Turn the plush right 1-2 numbers. Check your machine manual for how to find the
side out through the top thread tension.
opening in the back. • In both cases, it never hurts to just go very slowly. You can
make progress by turning just the hand wheel (the spinning
wheel to the right of the machine). It's slow but it's safe.
dart troubleshooting:
c. d. e.
c. If that doesn't work, ladder stitching can also fix the problem.
Begin by pushing in the fabric how you'd like it so it looks less pointy.
d. Then start ladder stitching on each side of the dart where you pushed it in. Work all the way up to
the point of the dart.
e. When you pull at your stitching, it should help even out the point. You can continue with small
stitches until the surface looks how you want it.
stuff lightly
sew into
stitching ladder stitch move & adjust
guides muzzle to face as needed
congrats!
You've completed Level 2!
Give yourself a big hand!
Take a well-deserved
break and see if you're
ready for Level 3!
le ve l 3 :
flat-bottom plush
In yet another increase from the last pattern, difficulty:
this plush keeps the simple round body but
adds some more shaping. Now the bottom is
flat to teach some curved sewing skills. The
curved sewing also brings up working with
notches and alignment points. makes:
There are also proper arms, feet, and tails One plush: about 5½" tall, 5" wide, and 4"
for the new pair. To attach them, you'll be long.
introduced to gathering and the gathering
stitch. With these new techniques, you can
make a sweet penguin or rabbit. new skills to learn:
□ Curved sewing
□ Matching notches and points
rabbit: □ Gathering; gathering stitch
penguin:
arms
attached
with ladder beak is closed up
stitch with gathering
stitch
legs sewn
into bottom
seams flat bottom
C9 C9 C10
⅛ yd.; 4.5” long
C11
NAP
NAP
C9 C9 C10
8" wide 7" wide
3 darts total
fold
along
point of blend
dart stitching
into fold
trim
away seam
allowance
two feet
total
stuff
lightly
leave
open for
turning
two ears
total
leave
open for
turning
align accent
fabric with
main fabric leave
open for
turning
open up
bottom of plush
line up notch
with front dart line up side seams
with circles
sew around
bottom piece
14. sew the bottom
a. First, line up the center notch from the bottom piece (C5) with the center dart on the front piece
(C1). Pin the fabrics together.
b. Next, line up the side seams with the open circle markings on each side of the bottom piece. You
may need to bend and stretch your fabric to make it fit.
If it gives you trouble, see the next page for some help and also more information on this technique.
Line up the back seam (C2) with the closed circle marking on the bottom piece. Pin the fabrics
together.
c. Sew the bottom to the plush all the way around the piece.
s eam lin e s vs . fa b r ic e dg e s :
Two pattern pieces with different curved shapes might share the same measurement along the seam line. But the curved
shapes will cause the outer edge of the fabric to be a different measurement. Take for example the penguin body and
bottom. The seam line around the body is about 9.6" all the way around the opening. But the actual outer edge of the
fabric is more like 8.8". It has a slight inner curve so the fabric edge is shorter, though just by a little.
Meanwhile the bottom piece (C5) is also 9.6" along the seam line. But because it's an outer curve, the actual outer edge of
the fabric is 11" around. So if you try to get the pieces to line up around the outer edge, the fabric will fight you because the
outer edges are over 2" apart in length -- even if the seam lines are the same
If you have stretchy fabric, you can just stretch the fabric to make up the difference. (Remember minky has about
20%-30% stretch, see page 10.) But if you're using non-stretchy fabric like cotton or felt, it will be a lot harder. Also if the
curves are very different the difference in length will be much bigger. Below are some tricks you can try to get past this.
clips:
fabric can now
spread better
clippin g e d g es to m a ke u p fo r le n gt h :
Just like on page 31 where we clipped the corners and curves, this time we're going to clip the fabric before we sew instead
of afterward. If you make small clips into the seam allowance, you can spread apart the fabric. Then you can treat the fabric
like it has a longer edge length. It will be closer to the original seam line length and it won't fight you as you line up your
pieces.
For best results, I like to make sure the fabric that has the shorter fabric edge length is on top when you're sewing the
pieces (especially on a machine). This edge will need the most stretching, so it's better to have it in a place where you can
hold and manipulate it. So if you're aligning a straight edge with a circle, the straight edge should be on top so you can bend
and stretch it as you pin or sew.
stuff ladder
firmly stitch
closed
leave
open for
turning
gathering
stuff
lightly sew gathering stitch:
stitch around edge
• A gathering stitch is
a long stitch made by
weaving the needle in
and out along the length
of fabric. The stitches
should be about ⅜-½"
long.
• Because of the long
17. stuff the beak length, it makes it easy
to pull at the thread,
a. Stuff the beak (C10) lightly with stuffing. which bunches up the
fabric (called gathering).
b. Grab a hand sewing needle and thread. Sew a gathering stitch
around the raw edge of the beak, about ¼" in from the edge.
ladder stitch
pieces together
stuff
lightly with
stuffing
ladder
stitch to
body
a. Ladder stitch the wings/arms (C6 or C8) to the stitching guides on the plush using the same
process as explained on page 46 in Level 2. Sew around the top half of the wing/arm.
b. Continue sewing around the underside of the arm in the same manner. This should create wings/
arms that stick straight out.
c. This is also where you can start to use the ladder stitch to your advantage. If you ladder stitch more
of the underside of the wing/arm to the belly, it will cause the wing/arm to point downward instead
of outward.
You can move the arms in different directions in this manner to create different poses or
expressions.
→ If you are making a penguin, congratulations, you're done! If you're making a rabbit, move
ahead to the next step for the tail (C7).
sew gathering
stitch around tail pull at thread
to cinch up tail
note:
• Gathering up a circle is
a quick way of making
a sphere. It's not the
prettiest, but it's fast and
it gets the job done.
24. gather the rabbit tail
a. Grab your tail piece (C7). Also grab a hand sewing needle and thread. Sew a gathering stitch
around the outside edge of the tail piece, about ¼" in from the edge.
b. Pull at the thread to gather the tail, and you'll see it starts to make a cup shape. Stop when you get to
this point.
align tail
onto back
of rabbit ladder
stitch tail
to rabbit
le ve l 4:
sitting plush
This project retreads similar techniques but difficulty:
they're a little harder, so the curved sewing,
ladder stitching, and darts get a bit trickier. It
still has the same round body, but the legs are
part of the bottom corners rather than sewn
on separately. makes:
This pair has your choice of a unicorn or One plush: about 5½" tall, 5" wide, and 4"
dragon, so there are many more pieces to long.
contend with, including wings, horns, tails,
and bangs. So you'll find the overall time
needed is a little longer too. new skills to learn:
□ Curved sewing
□ Whip stitch
□ Matching notches & numbered points
□ Needle sculpting
needle
unicorn: sculpted
horn dragon: horns attached
with ladder
stitch
wings attached
with ladder
stitch
muzzle
attached
with ladder
stitch
arms attached
with ladder
stitch
cutting layout:
If you haven't already, print pages 90-93 for the sewing templates for the Level 4 project (see page 3
for help).
Use the illustration below as a visual checklist to help with cutting out all the pieces for your project.
unicorn:
wings & inner ears
D4
D1 D3 D3
19" wide
NAP
D5
D2 D2
D4 D4 D10 D10 D8 D8
D5 D5 D5
NAP
18" wide
15" wide
applique face
onto front piece
transfer
numbered line up
transfer markings
numbered numbered
markings markings
1
1
1 1
1
2
2 2 2
2
line up
inner curves
sew along
inner curves
repeat for
1 both legs
2
1 1
2
2 2
blend
fold along stitching
point of dart into fold
3 darts total
a. Grab your ear pieces (D4). Take one from inner ear fabric and one from your main fabric. Align them
so right sides are facing and the raw edges match up.
b. Sew the ear pieces together along the upper curved edge. Leave the straight edges along the bottom
open for turning the ear.
c. Turn the ear right side out through the opening along the bottom.
d. Fold the ear so the inner ear fabrics are facing each other. Use the fold line shown on the paper
pattern as a guide for where to fold. When complete, the open edges along the bottom should be
even with each other.
baste along
bottom edge
leave open
for turning
trim
seam
allowance
at corners
baste
match up between ears
notches
turn
right
side out
blend
stitching
into fold
9. sew the back dart
a. Grab your back piece (D3). Sew the dart found in the bottom corner. See the guides from page
38-40 for help with sewing them.
Start by folding your fabric along the point of the dart with right sides facing.
b. Sew from the opening of the dart into the fold of the fabric.
c. Repeat for both of your back pieces.
open up
leave pieces
line open for
up back turning
pieces
center
align front top notch center
to back top notch
match up legs:
1 points 1 & 2 points
at leg 1&2
2 1 1
1
2
2 2
bottom
11. align the front to the back dart
a. Grab both of your front and back pieces so far. Align them with right sides facing. Before you pin,
note that there are certain crucial points that should match up. We'll go over them in more detail in
the next few steps.
b. Pin the front to the back, matching up the center top notch with the back seam.
At the body, points 1 and 2 from the inner legs, body front, and body back should also align.
The center bottom dart on the body front will also match the back seam.
c. Pin the front to the back and the aligned points should look something like the third photo.
center
top notch
1
2
2 2
sew sew
around leg between
legs
stuff rest
of body
ladder
stitch
closed
stuff legs
firmly
fold along
applique point of dart
nostrils
blend
stitching
into fold
fold horn
lengthwise
stuff
lightly
leave open
leave open for turning
for turning
trace seam
line from sew all
paper pattern around shape
trim seam
allowance at cut through
corners back layer of
wing only mirrored pair
of wings
align stitching
stuff lightly guides ladder stitch
wing to back
congrats!
You've completed Level 4!
You should be super proud!
TEST SQUARE
2” LEVEL 1
measure this square to
be sure you’ve printed
pg. 1-3
at the proper
proportions
NAP
STRE
TCH
Start
er Pa
c
w w wP A T T k Plus
.c h o
l
E R
N
h
y
knig
avo c
ht.co
FRO ato m
Cut 1 NT/B
Cut 1 from ligh ACK (
from t gre A1)
¼” se dark gre en fabric
am a e
llowa n fabric
nce
open
ing fo
r turn
ing
pg. 2/11
STRETCH
AVOCATO PIT
applique
trace & cut 1 in
brown
FROG BELLY
applique
trace & cut 1
in white
CAT EYES
applique
trace & cut 1 each in
white
FROG EYE
applique
trace & cut 2
in black
CAT PUPILS EYE SHINE
applique applique
trace & cut 1 each in trace & cut 2
black in white MOUTH
applique
trace & cut 1 in black
pg. 4/11
LEVEL 2
M pu
UZ g
Cu (B ZL
ac t 5
ce 2 f ) E
pg. 4-5
n r
t f om
ab
m
ric zz
u
le
pla
ce m e nt
center top ¼
all ” s
ow ea
an m
NA
ce
P
t
ea
en
r
em
pla
ac
rt
ce
rt
pl
da
m
da
r
ea
en
t
STRETCH
P A T T E R N
www.cholyknight.com
FRONT (B1)
Cut 1 from main fabric
dart
dart
¼” seam allowance
dart
pg. 5/11
g ) ric
pi (B3in fab ce
¼” seam allowance
NA
A R malowan
EAR (B4)
E rom al
f m
t 4 sea
pug
u
C ¼”
cente
r top
opening for turning
NAP
SNOUT
applique
trace & cut 1 of pink
NOSTRIL
applique
trace & cut 2
of black
STRETCH
Starter Pac
k Plush EYES
applique PUPILS
P A T T
w w w.cho E R N trace & cut applique
lyknight.c 2 of white trace & cut
om
BACK (B2) 2 of black
Cut 2 from
ma
¼” seam all in fabric
owance
WING (C8)
Cut 4 from main
penguin
allowance
pg. 6-8
¼” seam
fabric
allowance
bunny ¼” seam
FOOT (C5)
fabric
Cut 4 from main
Cut 4 from main fabric
¼” seam allowance
BEAK (C10)
bunny
penguin
NAP
NAP
ent ear p
la cem lacem
ear p ent
rt
rt
da
da
nt
e
b ea k p la c e m
w
in
NAP
t
en
g
pl
em
ac
ac
em
pl
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t
in
P A T T E R N
www.cholyknight.com
FRONT (C1)
Cut 1 from main fabric
¼” seam allowance
STRETCH
dart
ent
foot placem foot placement
s
eam
ides
s
STRETCH
g in
bunny
NAP
TAIL (C7)
¼” seam allowance
¼” seam allowance
BOTTOM (C3)
Cut 1 from main fabric
Cut 1 from main fabric
center
for turn
cente
rb
fron
t
ack
NAP
opening
ms
de sea
si
STRETCH
BELLY
¼” seam BACK (C2)
in white
applique
PENGUIN
allowance Cut 2 from main fabric
trace & cut 1
¼” seam allowance
ta
ent
(C7 il
rabbit
placem)
NAP
tail (
C 11) pla
ceme
nt
pg. 7/11
pg. 8/11
EYE SHINE
applique
penguin trace & cut 2
BLUSH
TAIL (C11) applique
NAP
in white trace & cut 2
Cut 1 from main fabric
Cut 1 from accent fabric in pink
¼” seam allowance
EYE
applique
trace & cut 2
in black
LEVEL 4 EYELID
applique
trace & cut 1
pg. 8-11 each in black
EYE
applique
trace & cut 1
uide
each in dark
cutting g
accent color
de
p la ui
ce m e nt g
unicorn
NAP
WINGS (D11)
Cut 4 from accent fabric
¼” seam allowance
NOSTRIL
applique EYE SHINE
trace & cut 2 applique
of black trace & cut 2
in white
pg. 9/11
2
1
MUZZLE
BACK (D7) ARM (D5)
Cut 1 from accent Cut 4 from main
fabric
INNER LEG (D2) ¼” seam allowance
fabric
¼” seam
Cut 2 from main fabric
¼” seam allowance allowance
cement
center
bangs pla top
t
ea
en
rp
m
rt
rt
ce
lac
da
da
pla
em
r
en
ea
t
NAP
nt
me
muzzle place
arm
ent
cem
pla
pla
cem
arm
ent
2 2
pg. 10/11
NAP
MUZZLE
(D6)
Cut 1 from accent
fabric
¼” seam allowance
g in
STRETCH
for turn
dragon
opening
TAIL (D13)
Cut 2 from main fabric
¼” seam allowance
NAP
nt
e
w in m
g p la ce
NAP
ai
Cut 2 from main fabric
¼” seam allowance lp
la ce m e nt
dar
t
2
pg. 11/11
unicorn
TAIL (D10)
Cut 2 from accent fabric
ide
¼” seam allowance gu
ng
tti
cu
id e
gu
p l a c e m e nt
Wut 4 f seam
STRETCH
dr GS ma owa
C ¼”
IN rom all
ag (Din fa nce
on 14 bric
)
NAP
NA
P
¼” seam allowance
NAP
dragon EAR (D4)
HORNS (D12)
fold line
Cut 2 from accent fabric
¼” seam allowance
NAP
ce ric
Cu ¼” s
an fab
un N c(cent fance
HO
t 1 eam
w
lo t
)
fro
ico D9 abri
al cen D8
R
NAP
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Cu BA un NA
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