This post may contain affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something we earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Powerful Mothering is supported by its audience, thankyou!
Your toddler needs new toys, but traveling to the store with a toddler can be a challenge, and they grow out of them so quickly.
You can save time and money by creating toys (or activities) for your toddler right in your own home.
Though it may seem challenging, with a little bit of creativity and these simple steps, you’ll be on your way to making new toys in no time!
Gather necessary sewing materials
You’re going to need a large, open space to work, and remember, bigger is always better. Before you even start, always observe proper safety tips and set up the right environment.
The more space you have, the more you’ll be able to finish. You also want to be working on a solid, surface that can take a little bit of a beating (IE not your new mahogany table!) to make cutting easier.
You’ll also need a sewing machine. Many projects are no-sew (like this project) or can be done by hand, but a sewing machine will make your project go faster and make your work much easier. Sewing Makes Me Happy’s guide to beginner machines has a great list of sewing machines for people just starting out.
Find ideas and patterns for desired toys
There are tons of awesome patterns out there. If you search the web, there are many different toddler toy pattern websites available to you.
This one is even an adorable apron to keep your toddler clean during those awesome creative finger painting sessions! Keep searching around, there are thousands of great tutorials out there.
Repurpose or purchase material
Many items make ideal sewing materials. That shirt that doesn’t fit anymore, that set of jeans with a hole in them, or even old socks and gloves.
Clothes with holes in them can provide good fabric for projects, and as long as the rest of the garment is in good shape.
You can also purchase your fabric online, or go into your local craft and hobby store. Fabric is usually sold by the yard, and know that most patterns tell you how many yards of fabric you’ll need.
Give yourself plenty of time to practice
There is a learning curve to creating your own toddler toys. Some of them are more challenging than others, but know that it’s okay if you’re first one doesn’t turn out just like the picture.
Keep practicing, keep working towards it, and you’ll find that in no time you’ll be making all your own toddler toys. You could even get them involved with the process and start making toys they really enjoy!
Making your own toys can be an incredibly rewarding challenge. At the end of the day, you’ll feel excited that your toddler is playing with your handmade toys and they will be excited to play with toys they got to see created.
Laura Brooks blogs at www.sewingmakesmehappy.com and helps spread the word about sewing.
Leave a Reply