Helpful Hints For Crocheting Toys And Other Stuffed Items.
Crocheting your toy or other stuffed items.
Generally toys should be made using a smaller hook than indicated for specific yarns. This makes for a tighter fabric so stuffing won't show through any "gaps".
Examples:
Use size F/5 for worsted weight yarn
D/3 or E/4 for sport weight yarn
How you stuff is the key!
How you stuff your crocheted toy makes a big difference in its overall appearance.
There are many brands of polyfill and each has it's own texture.
Some are light and airy and some are denser. I prefer the lighter varieties as they make the toy softer and doesn't clump up as the denser brands seem to do.
Use small pieces of polyfill at a time (the size depends on the size of the toy you are stuff). Make sure to work the stuffing into any corners/curves as well. Using large chunks of polyfill to stuff your creation will tend to give it a lumpy, uneven appearance.
Stuff evenly and consistently.
Adding Embellishments
Safety Eyes:
Add safety eyes to animal before stuffing.
Double or triple check the placing of the eyes before attaching the backs. They cannot be removed once attached.
Same applies if using animal noses as well.
Embroidering:
Some sort of embroidering is necessary for most stuff toys. Eyes, nose, mouth embroidery are often called for. Any yarn or embroidery floss can be used in desired colors. If you are not great at embroidery you can substitute store bought animal eyes and noses.
Other Embellishments:
Nothing gives your work a personal touch as adding embellishments. These can give your project a unique look and puts a part of your personality into it.
A few different types of embellishments to consider are:
ribbon
bows
flowers
bead (assorted shapes and sizes)
fabric paint
craft jewels