Resources

This list contains links to many of the products I use.   

Safety Eyes

Safety eyes come in a variety of sizes!  The most used size in my patterns is the 30mm round size.  I offer hardware kits in my shop on Etsy which include the eyes.  

Eyelashes

Synthetic/Plastic Eyelashes. When it comes to eyelashes, it really is simple to add this layer of cuteness!  You can use the eyelashes made for people or the plastic ones made for dolls (pictured here).  Both of the links below are eyelashes suitable for 20mm to 40mm eye sizes.

Embroidered/Thread Eyelashes.  If you have an embroidery machine and want to make eyelashes using thread, these are fantastic!  You can grab the embroidery file here. These were enlarged to 140%. 

These were made by D.A.S.I.E. maker Jeanie and I absolutely love how they look on my designs! She sells them already made for you, contact her via email at Thatswhatshesews@gmail.com

Feather Eyelashes are quite lush!  Learn how to make them here.

Dowel End Caps

I have yet to find a 1.5 inch wooden ball with a pre-drilled 1 inch hole…so I make them and offer them in my shop on Etsy.  I also offer the brown plastic chair tips I use on the opposite end of my dowel.

 

Fiber Filling

I only use Poly-Fil fiber filling, I love the way it stuffs out.  However, there are many options for filling, but I can’t recommend what I haven’t used.  Amazon links are below, you can also find them at Wal-mart and local craft stores.

Duck Canvas

I love to use 9oz+ duck canvas for my ride-on toys and faux taxidermy pieces.  In order to get the variety of colors I use, I have to go to a few different sources.

Minky and Faux Fur

I am quite partial to Shannon Fabric’s Cuddle Minky® and Faux Fur…these fabrics are so soft and work so well for plushies! There are many independent and reputable shops to buy from. One I purchase from frequently Cali Quilt Co. Teresa Coates from Shannon Fabrics has also shared here list of favorite shops here.

Cotton Fabric

I often use quality cotton fabrics for the step by step process photos in my patterns since it shows works well for this purpose…I also like it because it adds a layer of visual aesthetics! There are a lot of possibilities…just pick a good sturdy cotton that will hold up well to stuffing (quilting quality is best).

Dowels

Your best bet is to visit your local hardware or craft store for a wooden dowel.  Some people use PVC pipes instead of wooden dowels, which are available at your local hardware store.

However, you can find some on Amazon (and can cut them to the length desired).

Yarn

I generally stick with three different types of yarns (linked below), but there are obviously many different options.  If you are curling or brushing your yarn, choose a synthetic…wool isn’t suited for these techniques.

  • -Caron Simply Soft
  • -Lion Brand Thick & Quick
  • -Vanna’s Choice

Interfacing and Adhesive

These are the interfacings, adhesives and stabilizers I use most.

Awl and Needles

-The AWL is used to easily and neatly create holes to place the safety eyes.

-I generally use the Schmetz sewing needles on my sewing machine, the 80/11 size is the one I use most.

-I’m also partial to a curved embroidery needle for a lot of my hand stitching.

-The Dritz 5″ needles are great for soft sculpting.  The 3″ size also works great for smaller projects.

Easy Accessories & Embellishments

Australia Patch! Jackie Hillman offers small Australia patches with a heart in the center sized to fit the foot of my Kwirky Koala…saving you time and teeny tiny sewing if you’d be making your own via machine applique as shown in my pattern. 

She can make them in a variety of colors, just ask! Contact her via email at StitchinInTheUSA@gmail.com to ask any questions and to place your order.

Sound Boxes!  Find a variety of sound boxes to tuck into your plushie, stick horse (or other ride-on toy), etc. Options include horses, dogs, cats, elephants, dinosaurs and more! Find them at the Zoo Factory.

Books

Abigail Patner Glassenberg’s book Stuffed Animals from Concept to Construction was most helpful in guiding me to better visualize, draft and construct muzzles and gussets.  It is a great book that is useful to any sewist of stuffed animals even if you aren’t designing them yourself.  There are also some cute projects to try.

This is a great image to Pin!  Pin this now and save it to refer to when you’re ready to start your project.