Today’s project is a part of the Kids Inspiration & Design Series with The Sewing Rabbit! If you are stopping by from Jessica's site, welcome!
I'd like to introduce you to Jude's newest friend, Dorky Monster.
Dorky Monster is a toy that Jude and I created based off of a doodle Jude drew.
When it comes to drawing, Jude is a slightly reluctant artist. He is easily frustrated when he can't create an image like the one in is mind (something his perfectionist mama totally gets). I have been trying to gently encourage that he tries and it has helped quite a bit with his confidence. The subject of choice? Monsters. Monsters are a bit of a fascination recently, do you remember being both scared and wildly interested in certain things as a child? I sure do. I was both obsessed with and terrified of The Never Ending Story, for example. Monsters are this way for Jude. I think that this particular monster is "dorky" because that makes him goofy and silly and therefore harmless.
When I asked Jude if he'd like to turn his doodle into a doll he was wonderfully enthusiastic. He took his role as designer very seriously: choosing the colors of both felt and thread, overseeing each snip and stitch, and actually doing quite a bit of the work himself. In fact, he cut out the teeth with absolutely zero help from me and assisted in all other stages of production. It was so much fun to work on this project with him.
No sewing machine or fancy skills are required for this little project, making the perfect choice for collaborating with your kiddo. Here's how to make your own.
You'll need:
- A drawing by your child
- Felt
- Embroidery thread
- Poly-fill stuffing
- Scissors
- Embroidery needle
Note: Let your little one help as much as possible, the results will be amazing!
- Have your little one draw the type of doll he/she would like to create.
- Using that doodle as your guide cut out the felt. Hold the felt doubled for the body, arms, legs, ears, ect. Don't get caught up in trying to make it perfect, just cut everything freehand and have fun, it will come out more doodlish that way.
- Apply all of your embellishments (eyes, mouth, ect.) before you sew the doll together.
- Sew the doll together with a simple whip stitch, leaving a hole for stuffing.
- Stuff your doll and sew up the hole.
- Enjoy!
As soon has his last thread was cut, Dorky Monster received the high honor of right-next-to-the-pillow placement. Jude loves his new doll and so do I. I love how cute he is (in that Ugly Doll kind-of way) but mostly I love that Jude and I made him together. I can see the pride in his face when he plays with this toy that he designed and created. And that's something you could never buy at the toy store.
I want to thank Jessica of The Sewing Rabbit so much for inviting me to participate in this series. We had such a blast! Be sure to head over to her site and check out what the other amazing bloggers created with their kiddos.
