How to Sew a Patchwork Puppy Pillow

A patchwork puppy pillow is a cosy decorative project that you can make from fabric scraps left over from other sewing. It is a decorative cushion rather than a safety-tested children’s toy. If a child will play with it, check that every seam and detail is securely attached first.

Materials for the patchwork puppy pillow

• fabric scraps;
• basic sewing supplies;
• soft stuffing.

The pattern is simple enough for a beginner sewist.

Cut the ear pieces, including the outer pieces and inner appliqués, then sew them with a zigzag stitch.

Sew the second piece to each ear with right sides together, then trim away the excess seam allowance.

Cut the spots, nose, and other appliqué pieces. You can reinforce the small pieces with fusible interfacing for extra durability.

Cut two head pieces and arrange the nose, eyes, and spot on one of them.

Attach the appliqué with a zigzag stitch and repeat for the paws. Sew each pair of paw pieces together, turn right side out, press, stuff, and close the opening.

For the body, arrange 42 squares measuring 7 cm on each side. Sew them into strips of seven squares, then join the strips into one patchwork panel.

Cut the lower body pieces from the finished panel.

Sew the head and body together, leaving a small opening at the back for stuffing. Embroider the mouth on the face.

Pin the ears and paws to the right side of the pillow. Place the second body piece on top, right sides together, and sew around the edge 5–7 mm from the raw edge.

Turn the pillow right side out, add soft stuffing, and close the remaining opening with a neat ladder stitch.

Your patchwork puppy pillow is ready.

If a child will use it

Secure all seams, appliqués, and embroidered features. Do not use loosely attached eyes, beads, or other small detachable parts on an item intended for a child, and supervise young children when they use it. Follow your equipment instructions while cutting and sewing, and keep scissors, needles, and the sewing machine out of children’s reach.