Hand stitches are used in the making of soft toys and stuffed animals.  Here are some basic hand stitches you may need in the toy making process.

Ladder Stitch

A ladder stitch is used to stitch an opening closed.  A gap is left open so that the plush toy can be stuffed. It can also be used to attach parts to the soft toy. 

The first step in the ladder stitch is to hide your knot. To do this, send your needle up from underneath the folded edge of the seam and pull until the knotted end of your thread is nicely concealed inside the folded crease of the seam.

Backstitch

Backstitch creates a continuous line so it's ideal for creating facial features, like a smile or eyebrows.

Chain Stitch

Chain stitch is great for creating thicker lines, perfect for facial features as well, like a smile or eyebrows if you'd like them to be thicker.

Running Stitch

A running stitch can be used to sew a pleat in a skirt.

Satin Stitch

Satin stitch is useful for filling in small areas with embroidery.  First backstitch around the outside edge of the shape and then satin stitch over the stitching.

French Knot

The double-wrap french knot creates a prominent raised dot, which is used for adding a center to some of the toy's pupils.

Cross Stitch

Cross stitch is used as an alternative to the french knot to add a twinkling center to some of the toy's pupils.

Blanket Stitch

This edging stitch is used to secure appliqued fabric pieces, such as outer eyes and pupils.

Whipstitch

A whipstitch can be used to stitch the outer edge of the fabric.  The fabric must be the type that won't fray, such as felt of fleece.