Any Tips for a First Time Plushie/Doll Maker?

[mystarstyle11]

Well, I designed my own little doll and I was hoping for some tips beforehand so I don't mess up TOO badly. Also, any tips for making your own patterns? I know it's mainly a trial and error, but anything other than that? I just want to thank everyone in advance for (hopefully) the help they give. =) PEACE!

[DorkyGemo]

Use small stiches if your sewing by hand, Try to use thread close to the fabric color (unless you plan on having the thread visible), and if you want rounder/smoother corners, Clip of the extra fabric in that area. If your creating your own patterns, I'd suggest taking a look at other patterns. That way you'll get an idea on how to construct it.

Hope that helps a bit~

[mystarstyle11]

Yup! Thanks. =)

[PaulineMcArthur]

My biggest tip  for a first time Plushie Maker - PINS PINS PINS and MORE PINS! I obviously realised from experience that lopsided ears/arms/legs, aren't always as cute as you'd think!

Also, tack your arms, ears or legs in place when you are sewing bodies inside out, turn and check they are right way round BEFORE you secure them. I hate unpicking legs that face backwards!

[mystarstyle11]

Thanks! Luckily, my mom has a billion pins, so that shouldn't be a problem. Money shouldn't be a problem either because she's paying me $10 just to vacuum her room! =D WOO YEAH!

[Fenn]

I wish someone would pay me for all the hoovering I do - I'd make a fortune 

Try starting with 'flat' patterns - 2D plushies, if you see what I mean. That way you can make more or less anything and all you have to do is cut out 2 shapes. It helps, cos you get practise at stitching small corners and stuff before things get too complicated 

[sirensrising]

When you're stitching by hand, what sort of stitch do you use?

[mandamouse123]

I generally use a blanket stitch for 2-D stuffies and a really tight whip stitch for 3-D ones.  I'd also recommend felt and embriodery thread if sewing by hand for your first creation- its much easier to manipulate.

[Allerian]

I generally use a blanket stitch for 2-D stuffies and a really tight whip stitch for 3-D ones.  I'd also recommend felt and embriodery thread if sewing by hand for your first creation- its much easier to manipulate.

Amen to this.  While I have designs on doing 3D plushies in the future, for starters I've been making the little felt cats that were on the cover of Craft magazine.  My technique has improved dramtically over the past couple days of trying - especially once I stopped tacking everything with glue as they suggest.