How to Make Stuffed-Animal Chair

Designer Kelly Behun transforms unused stuffed animals into a plush chair.

Stuffed-Animal Chair

Upcycle old stuffed animals or Beanie Babies and make a delightful children's chair with this creative craft from designer Kelly Behun.

Tools and Materials

Stuffed animals or Beanie Babies
Small craft scissors
Chair or pillow of choice
2 1/2- to 3-inch straight corsage pins
2 1/2- to 3-inch heavyweight sewing needle
Sturdy thread
Hot glue gun and hot glue sticks (optional)

Stuffed Animal Chair How-To

Gather stuffed animals and/or Beanie Babies of various sizes, being sure there are enough to completely cover the surface of chair or pillow.
With a small pair of scissors, carefully remove all tags from stuffed animals.
Position animals and fasten into place with long straight corsage pins. Start along the outer edge and work your way inward, in layers, using the larger animals first. (Tip: Vary the orientation of the animals so they are not all facing the same direction.)
Using a long heavyweight needle and sturdy thread, stitch animals to chair or pillow. Hot glue can also be used. (Tip: If it is difficult to push the needles through the stuffed animals, try using a thimble.)
Fill in any remaining spaces with smaller animals, attaching them in the same manner as above. (Tip: Some animals, once sewed down, may also need to be stitched to each other, but do leave some arms, legs, tails, etc., free to move around.)
Once completed, double-check that no glue is visible (if hot glue was used) and that all straight pins have been removed.

Resources

Corsage pins available from Jamali Garden Supply or your local floral supply store; all other tools and materials available at your local crafts- and sewing-supply stores; plush sharks available from The Jungle Store, Stuffed Safari, and The Big Zoo.

Get the Full Article

How to Make Stuffed-Animal Chair

Related Videos 23 Videos