Tutorial: Stuffies & Pillows the kiddos can make

What you will need:
Plain fabric (I used a natural colored canvas)
Backing fabric (we used some cotton prints)
Fabric Markers
Sewing pins
Fabric scissors
Sewing machine
Embroidery floss or thread
Hand sewing needle
Stuffing (we use cluster stuffing)

STEP ONE
Have the kids draw their image on the plain fabric, using the fabric marker. I had them lightly use a pencil if they wanted to sketch their design out first.




STEP TWO:
Have them CAREFULLY cut out around their design, leaving a good one inch margin from the design. I have the big kids use my good sewing scissors because the canvas especially is harder to cut out. But please be sure to keep their little fingers safe (or just cut it out yourself.)




STEP THREE:
Pin the design, face down onto the backing fabric, right side facing up.



STEP FOUR:
Trim around the backing fabric to match the edges with the design fabric. I showed them how to trim the corners and the "valleys" of any big curvy areas to help ease the tension of the fabric when it is turned right side out.




STEP FIVE:
Sew, baby, sew! I had the kids sew, leaving a 1/2 inch seam. We left about 2-3 inches un-sewn at the bottom so that we had room to turn it.



STEP SIX:
After sewing, turn the pillow right side out. I used some crochet sticks to carefully push out the corners.



STEP SEVEN:
The last steps are to stuff the pillow to a preferable consistency. We like to use Cluster Stuffing because it is so small and loose and easy for little hands to stuff. It doesn't leave the pillow lumpy. After stuffing is complete, get the sewing needle and some thread (we use embroidery floss because it's easier for the kids to handle and it's sturdier) and hand sew the opening closed.



And VOILA!!! Instant best friend, decorative room accessory or make believe toy!