Looking to give your plush toys or stuffed animals a little extra character? Choosing the right animal eyes can take your handmade creations from simple to show-stopping! Whether you're sewing a cuddly teddy bear, crafting a whimsical unicorn, or stitching a ferocious dragon, this guide will help you find the perfect eyes to bring your plushies to life.

Types of Animal Eyes

Before diving into the shopping links, let’s talk about the different types of animal eyes available and how they’re used:

Plastic Safety Eyes: Perfect for toys meant for kids, these are durable and come in a variety of sizes, colors, and designs (like cat eyes or glittery effects). They’re secured with a washer on the back to ensure they stay put.
Glass Eyes: Known for their realistic appearance, these are a popular choice for collector’s items and art dolls. They often require glue for attachment.
Fabric Eyes: For a softer, more whimsical look, you can sew or applique eyes made of felt or other fabrics.
Embroidered Eyes: Ideal for completely child-safe creations, these are stitched directly onto the fabric for a seamless and secure finish.
Button Eyes: A classic and charming choice, buttons offer a vintage look. Just make sure they’re firmly sewn if the toy is for a child.
3D Printed Eyes: These customizable eyes let you create unique designs, from multicolored swirls to intricate patterns.

How to Attach Animal Eyes

Attaching animal eyes varies depending on the type you choose. Here are the basics:

Plastic Safety Eyes: Make a small slit or hole in the fabric where the eye will go. Insert the post through the fabric and attach the washer on the inside. Make sure it’s securely fastened before continuing.
Glass Eyes: Use a strong adhesive like E6000 or epoxy glue to attach the eye to the surface of your plush.
Fabric or Felt Eyes: Hand-stitch or machine-sew these directly onto your plush. A fusible webbing can also help keep them in place while sewing.
Embroidered Eyes: Transfer your design onto the fabric using a disappearing marker, then stitch the eyes using satin or backstitches.
Button Eyes: Sew the button onto the plush, ensuring the thread is pulled tight for security.

Top Picks for Animal Eyes

Here are fantastic options for animal eyes that you can purchase online from Amazon and Etsy.

Amazon Finds

24mm Glitter Safety Eyes – Add a bit of sparkle to your creations. Buy here.
Mixed Color Cat Eyes (12mm-20mm) – Perfect for fantasy creatures. Buy here.
Round Black Safety Eyes – A versatile choice for any plush toy. Buy here.
Googly Eyes with Washers – For a playful touch. Buy here.
Realistic Reptile Eyes – Great for dragons or lizards. Buy here.
Puppet Safety Eyes – Cute cartoon like eyes. Buy here.
Plastic Craft Eyes – Adorable caricature eyes. Buy here.
Glow-in-the-Dark Eyes – Perfect for Halloween plushies. Buy here.

Etsy Shops

Feltavenue https://www.etsy.com/shop/Feltavenue
MisterEyes https://www.etsy.com/shop/MisterEyes
MegansCreativeDesign https://www.etsy.com/shop/MegansCreativeDesign
bekkasupplies https://www.etsy.com/shop/bekkasupplies
TheEyeLady https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheEyeLady
Veract www.amazon.com/Veract
GlassEyesOnLine https://www.etsy.com/shop/GlassEyesOnLine
HandmadeByStigz https://www.etsy.com/shop/HandmadeByStigz
lovabubs https://www.etsy.com/shop/lovabubs
verycraft https://www.etsy.com/shop/verycraft
ZyZuLineDesign https://www.etsy.com/shop/ZyZuLineDesign
CraftsArtSupplies https://www.etsy.com/shop/CraftsArtSupplies
LemonTreeSupplies https://www.etsy.com/shop/LemonTreeSupplies
MimiCreativityArts https://www.etsy.com/shop/MimiCreativityArts
HotMessCraftMama https://www.etsy.com/shop/HotMessCraftMama

Tips

Tip #1: Always test your eyes on a scrap piece of fabric before attaching them to your project to ensure they’ll look just right.
Tip #2: Keep extra washers or adhesive handy—you never know when you might need them.

Happy stitching, and may your plush creations gaze lovingly at their new owners!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting Sew Cute Patterns!

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Where to Buy Animal Eyes for Your Plush Creations