
This is also a REAL, REAL catch up blog. I wrote the first blog for this pattern almost exactly a year ago ... phew! Where did that year go! Click here to read it.
That blog was kind of an overview. Today, I'm sharing pictures of some of the actual sewing. I did my best to make these pieces manageable for most people to make. You can't believe how intricate the patterning can get for a factory made toy. But, those machine operators do one operation over and over and get really good at sewing teeny tiny things.
I call this photo beaks and cheeks!
All the small activity items are made out of felt or "Alova", a brand name for brushed tricot, which is used a lot in the toy industry. Like felt, the cut edges don't ravel, but it holds up better and, I think, looks better. But, can be hard to find.
Since the fabrics used do not fray all these small items are sewn with tiny (1/8") seams to the outside. This gives more defined shapes and is WAY easier ... no turning. It is important to sew the tail and the ribbon tether back and forth several times to make it not come apart with possible rough play. |
An opening needs to be left for stuffing and for a small squeaker. These ones from Amazon are the right size.
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The bird eyes are also embroidered. The wings need to be sewn by hand because there is a rattle in the body and crinkle paper in the wings.
This one from Amazon should fit. Etsy.com is also a great place for hard to find crafting supplies. |
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And for a little extra thing. I want to show how I miter a corner when sewing double fold bias tape . The is the clear vinyl pocket on the floor mat that you can put a safety mirror in.
A 4 x 6 safety mirror like this one, will fit in this pocket. Also 4 x 6 photographs will fit. |
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So ... to get a clean miter, sew to the end, pick up the needle and the presser foot.
It really works!