Welcome to the Sewing Resource Library!
Whether you're new to sewing or a plush-pro in progress, this page is packed with my favorite tools, fabrics, tips, and sewing shortcuts. These are the go-to resources I use in my own studio β plus a few magical extras to make your sewing journey easier and more fun. π§·πͺ‘
Some of the links below are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them (at no extra cost to you).
π§° Section 1: Start with the Basics
πͺ‘ Sewing Starter Kit: Essentials I Love
Sewing Machine β I recommend the Brother CS6000i or Singer Heavy Duty 4423 for beginners. Reliable, affordable, and perfect for plushies.
Fabric Scissors β Sharp scissors = clean cuts. These Kai 8-inch shears are excellent.
Pins & Clips β I prefer quilting clips over pins for plush toy projects.
Seam Ripper β Mistakes happen β and this seam ripper has your back.
Thread Snips β Quick and handy for trimming loose threads.
π§΅ Section 2: Your Sewing Machine How-To
π§΅ Get to Know Your Sewing Machine
Feeling overwhelmed by all the buttons, feet, and bobbins? Donβt worry β hereβs a quick breakdown of what you really need to know:
Threading the Machine β Most manuals have diagrams, but you can also search "[Your machine model] threading tutorial" on YouTube.
Winding the Bobbin β Use the top spindle. Go slow at first β too fast and itβll tangle.
Adjusting Stitch Length β A longer stitch (3β4 mm) is best for plush fabric.
Tension Troubleshooting β If your stitches look wonky, check this first!
Presser Feet Basics β Use a standard foot for most sewing; try a walking foot for fleece or minky.
π₯ Watch my favorite beginner-friendly sewing machine tutorial here
Optional: Add an image block with a photo of your machine or a labeled diagram of a basic sewing machine.
βοΈ Section 3: Favorite Fabrics & Where to Find Them
π§Έ Fabric Favorites (Plushie-Approved!)
Fleece β Cozy, easy to sew, and budget-friendly. Find it at Joann or Fabric.com.
Minky/Cuddle β Ultra soft but slippery! Use a walking foot. Check out Shannon Fabrics.
Wool-Blend Felt β I love Benzie Design for quality felt that wonβt pill or stretch.
π Section 4: Tools That Make Sewing Easier
π Tools I Canβt Live Without
Rotary Cutter + Mat β Speeds up cutting time and works great on curves.
Wash-Away Wonder Tape β Holds seams in place without pins. Get it here.
Loop Turner β Makes turning tiny arms and legs 1000% easier.
Stuffing Tool β I use a chopstick, but this polyfill tool is amazing.
π¨ Section 5: Customize Your Patterns
π Pattern-Making & Customization Supplies
For those who want to make patterns or personalize your projects:
Freezer Paper β Great for tracing, then ironing onto fabric.
Iron-On Transfer Sheets β Print faces, eyes, and soft book pages!
Printable Interfacing β Adds structure and stability to plush details.
π Section 6: Classes, Books & My Patterns
π Learn & Create More
Online Plush Toy Class β Try this beginner soft toy class with video support.
My Patterns β Find all my sewing patterns here: Sew Cute Patterns Shop
Sewing Books I Love β βSewing School,β βThe Doll Makerβs Handbook,β and more.
π§΅ Browse Plush Patterns
π See All Sewing Books
π¨ Section 7: Printables Library
π¨ Free Sewing Printables
Looking for extras? Grab my free printable resources below:
Sewing Checklist
Soft Toy Face Templates
Sewing Journal Pages
Printable Sewing Tags
Some of the links above are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my tiny sewing empire and helping me keep the thread rolling! π§‘