LESSON TEN

Stuff It!

Some sewing projects, like pillows and dolls, need to be stuffed. This is easier than you think. You can buy stuffing at a fabric store or craft store. Sometimes stuffing is man-made. Sometimes it’s created from eco-friendly bamboo or cotton. No matter what it is made of, stuffing is usually white and as light and fluffy as a cloud. You can also make your own stuffing, using small fabric scraps that you might otherwise throw away.

Instructions

  1. 1. When the pillow you are sewing is ready to stuff, take the needle off the thread. Take a small handful of stuffing.
    Image
  2. 2. Push the stuffing all the way inside the pillow.
    Image
  3. 3. Keep adding more stuffing until the pillow is filled up. You want a pillow that feels just right — not too hard or too soft.
    Image
  4. 4. Rethread the needle. Sew the opening closed with the same stitch you used to sew the pillow. This pillow is sewn with a whipstitch.
    Image
  5. 5. At the end of the opening, make a knot and cut the thread.
    Image

STUFFING SKINNY PLACES

When you have to stuff small spaces like a doll’s arms and legs, use something long and thin to help you push. We like using chopsticks or the eraser end of a pencil. Carefully push the stuffing into the small space. Use just a little stuffing at a time. Take your time and your doll will turn out fine!