Make Your Own Teddy Bear

Necessary Materials

• Sewing machine

• Pattern

• Fabric

• Filling

• Thread

• Scissors

• 2 animal eyes

• Embroidery thread and needle

Choose and Prepare Your Pattern

While you can certainly purchase a pattern, your money-saving side might be interested in one of the many free patterns that can be downloaded online. If you have a good thrift store nearby, check there for patterns; you might be surprised what you find. Prepare your pattern by cutting out the individual pieces, following the pattern’s instructions.

Choose and Cut Your Fabric

There are a wide variety of fabrics that you can use to make your own teddy bear, choose from fleece, felt or synthetic fur, for example. Lay your fabric flat and cut out the required pattern pieces. Keep in mind that in many cases, you will need to cut more than one of certain pieces. It may be helpful to label the pieces as you cut to ensure that you don’t become confused.

Start Sewing!

Thread your sewing machine and begin sewing the pieces together according to the pattern’s instructions. When the head is sewn, attach the eyes according to the manufacturer’s instructions and create a nose and mouth with your threaded embroidery needle. Continue to construct the teddy bear, while ensuring that you leave an opening for stuffing.

Stuff Your Bear

You also have options when it comes to filling. Polyester fiberfill is likely the most reasonably priced option, but wool and bamboo are wonderful if you’re creating an heirloom teddy bear. Stuff your bear, using a wooden spoon or towel to distribute the fiber into the limbs; don’t over-stuff. When you’re done, close the opening with a whipstitch or ladder stitch.