Sewing dolls and stuffies is so much fun! Today we have some extra tips and tricks to help you get great results!
Did you know we have doll and stuffie patterns in the shop? We carry the entire line of Petit a Petit dolls (and clothes!) in addition to our Ocean Friends bundles from Project Under the Sea!
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#1 – Cut carefully and use an accurate seam allowance.
Small differences can make a big difference in your finished project! This is especially true when working with little pieces.
#2 – Stay organized!
Label or clip pieces together as needed. Mark the wrong side of the fabric so that pieces are not accidentally flipped. Shapes for stuffies are often much different that those of garment sewing and can get mixed up more easily.
#3 – Shorten the stitch length.
It can be more difficult to change direction with small pieces so a shorter stitch length helps. It also makes for a more sturdy finished project that holds the stuffing inside and can handle a bit of wear and tear.
#4 – Reinforce seams at pressure points.
Baste small into place to make sure they don’t slip as you sew. Stitch back and forth over joining points like arms or necks. This will help make your project a little more durable.
#5 – Clip corners and curves.
Bulky seam allowances inside a stuffie will give them an odd shape. Clip or notch the seam allowance on curves, being careful not to cut into the stitching. You may also be able to use pinking shears to simultaneously trim excess seam allowance.
For sharp, inner corners, be sure to notch well, again making sure that you do not accidentally cut into the stitches.
#6 – Use a point turner.
It is important to get those seams pressed outwards after turning. The curved end of the point turner is extremely helpful for rounded shapes- legs, arms, heads, etc. The pointed end is really helpful for smaller details and corners.
#7 – Use small pieces of stuffing.
It’s tempting to grab a handful of stuffing and work quickly, but using smaller pieces is better. They get into the narrower spots and create a more even result through the entire project.
#8 – Shape as you stuff.
Some fabrics continue to stretch with stuffing so you can easily change the shape of the project with careful placement. Arranging the stuffing and applying light pressure to areas can completely reshape the stuffie, so use this to your advantage!
#9 – Consider alternatives to fiberfill.
You may not have any on hand or may choose to try something different. You can cut scrap fabric into tiny bits to use as stuffing instead, making it a very eco-friendly project. Perhaps you wish to add dried lavender. Adding flax seed is one way to make a reusable hot/cold pack. The starfish softie pattern was based off of party favors made with rice and tea leaves inside.
#10 – Be creative!
There are so many fun variations that can be added to your projects, whether it is adding heat transfer vinyl, trims, embellishments, or any other extra details. The sky is the limit!
