Another Review at MyShelf.Com

Cuddle Buddies
Animal Softie Pattern
Kirstyn Cogan

C&T Publishing (distributed in the UK by Search Press)
11 April 2016/ ISBN 9781617453465
How-To Books / Toy Making

Reviewed by Rachel A Hyde

 

When is a book not a book? When it has an ISBN number but is actually a booklet and pattern inside an envelope! This latest innovative offering from Stash Books is a set of patterns for five special toys.

I say special because this is a rare example of large sized fabric toys that are suitable for very young infants. You won’t find any plastic push-on features on these cuddly animals, just a soft huggable body and simple lines. Choose from cat, dog, panda, rabbit or pig with a basic body shape that can be adapted for whatever animal you choose. Undo the string on the card envelope and inside are the paper patterns and booklet. Helpfully it also gives you an idea of what you will need to buy on the outside plus height (18”) and a photo of all five with a toddler. The booklet has larger clear photos of back and front views of the toys, plus a list of what you need and detailed instructions. These tell you how to make copies from the patterns depending on what you are making, plus all making up and embroidery/appliqué instructions, as well as some useful drawn diagrams. Each animal has a short section to itself after you have done the parts common to all toys, and each has its own unique tail, ears and features, plus a simple tank top. The result is a set of uncomplicated, safe soft toys that can be dressed up a bit for older children or left plain for toddlers. This pattern is rated on the envelope as “Confident Beginner” and is suitable for this level; it would make a good early foray into the wonderful world of soft toy making. A really useful pattern for anybody who wants to make loveable safe toys for young children.

If you cannot find a good range of toy making materials locally, try www.searchpress.com for a list of suppliers.

UK Reviewer: Rachel Hyde's work can be found in Sewing World, Sew Hip, Popular Crafts and other magazines.
Reviewed 2016
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