First Released in 2009
This is the pattern that started it all for Rustic Horseshoe! Loosely modeled after my childhood stick horse, but designed with more durability in mind.
Patches adorn my relic where her throat split open and the dowel ripped the fabric at the top and pushed through. All that is left of the yarn mane are mangey patches.
The patches my mom hand stitched on her are treasures, as is the bridle she made for her when the original one fell apart. She may have been store bought, but these things make her priceless.
This pattern has been updated at least three times as I honed not only my sewing and designing skills, but also my pattern writing skills. It remains a popular pattern and a staple in my shop.
Includes:
Full Size Templates
Two Sizes
Donkey Variation
Unicorn Horn
Easy to Follow Bite-Size Instructions
Photos Accompany Each Step
Skill Level - Beginner
Skills and Techniques Used
- Fundamental Sewing Basics
- Sewing Curves
- Sewing Simple Gusset
- Clipping Curved Seams
- Applique (optional for fabric eyes and markings)
- Attaching Safety Eyes
Photo Gallery
Materials and Tools Needed
- 1/2 yard duck canvas (alternative fabrics: minky, quality cotton, old military uniforms, etc)
- ~3/4 skein yarn
- 7″ length of 1″ wide cotton webbing
- 3″ wide by 60″ total length of fabric for halter, about 1/3 yard fabric (alternatively use decorative trim)
- ~16 oz fiber filling
- 1 pair 30mm oval safety eyes (alternatively make fabric appliqued eyes)
- 1″ x 36″ wooden dowel (standard size)
- 7/8″ x 24″ wooden dowel (toddler size)
- Heavy upholstery thread OR 5/8″ staples OR 11″ zip tie
- Optional dowel caps or wheels
- Notions: scissors, thread, sewing machine
Why Make a Stick Horse?
Heirloom quality toy
Inspires active play and imagination
Makes a memorable and fun gift
You will tap into your own creativity when you make it
Sewing and crafting are therapeutic
Great decor in a nursery
Wonderful addition to any toy room
Fun decor in your living room
Sell finished horses at handmade markets
Make a party herd and give them out as favors
Make a herd and host a stick horse race or stick horse games
You’re never too old to ride a stick horse
It is difficult to accurately describe the skill level needed for each project as the skill level itself can be quite subjective. Each traditional skill level has a wide spectrum of ability associated with it. I have tried to assign a general skill level to each pattern, however, please review specific techniques used in the pattern to determine if it is a good fit for you to try. Keep in mind I write my tutorials in bite-sized easy to follow steps, each accompanied with photos.
I aim to have each pattern attainable for a confident beginner and some have variations that may be more advanced, but they are optional. You’ll be provided with all the instructions, tips and material list to create a plush toy just like those pictured in the tutorial…I keep nothing secret. Each pattern and tutorial provide the blueprint for you to make it just like I have. An easy to make pattern doesn’t have to be simplistic looking…it can look amazing!