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Christmas Bear | Toy Week Pattern | Chrissy Yeomans & Ann Charles
Easy |
Quick Links: What you'll need Project steps
Transform our classic teddy bear sewing pattern into a festive friend with just two fat quarters.
Let's create a festive version of our classic teddy bear pattern this Toy Week! Our members Chrissy Yeomans and Ann Charles have used two different Christmas cotton prints to show just how versatile the pattern can be. For extra snuggly results, why not try fleece or faux fur to make a cosy companion this holiday?
Note: The instructions below are from the original project, where you can make an elephant as well as a basic bear. The written instructions below and the pattern template are for both animals; to make the bear, cut the pattern along the dotted line to remove the elephant's trunk. In the video I will focus on the bear; in the written instructions, the elephant.
Finished size: 10 x 10 x 9in (25.5 x 25.5 x 23cm). Use a ¼in (5mm) seam allowance throughout, unless otherwise stated.
Difficulty level
This teddy bear toy is a wonderful option for toymaking beginners. You’ll practise key techniques, such as hand-stitching, attaching safety eyes and working with printed pattern pieces. Watch Debbie's video above to make the process even simpler.Top tips
- I have used safety eyes for my elephant, which are ideal for toys made for children. However, if your toy is for a very young child, I recommend strongly that you embroider French knots for the eyes.
- Add stuffing gradually in small handfuls, pushing it gently into limbs and corners with a chopstick or knitting needle. This helps avoid lumpy spots and gives your toy a smoother shape.
- When sewing up seams or closing stuffing gaps, try a ladder (invisible) stitch or backstitch. Both are durable and neat, ensuring your toy holds up to plenty of cuddles.
- Cotton fabrics are easy to cut, sew, and press, making them perfect for first-time toymakers. Once you’re confident, try fleece or faux fur for a softer, more huggable finish.
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You will need:
Equipment
- Sewing machine
- Fabric shears
Materials
- 40 x 18in (102 x 45.75cm) piece of fabric – two fat quarters are ideal
- Approx. 7oz (200g) of toy filler
- Toy eyes or embroidery thread: bought or hand-made appliqué eyes, or even buttons, would look lovely too
- Optional: a ribbon or bow, to wrap around the neck or fasten to the head for extra personality; stabilizer or interfacing
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Project steps:
Step 1
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Step 2
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