How to Make Toys From Cloth for Toddlers

Measure and cut two 7-1/2-by-14-1/2-inch fabric sections to create an activity book. Fold both sections in half and press. Measure and cut one 7-by14-inch sheet of batting. Remove the button, button flap and a zipper from worn-out clothes. Center and sew the button and button flap to the left side of one fabric section. Sew the zipper to the right side of the same piece of fabric. Sew the edges of both fabric sections, right sides together, leaving one end open. Turn and stuff the book with batting. Fold and sew the open end. Close the book, activities together, and stitch along the pressed fold. Use nontoxic markers to write the child̵7;s name on the front cover.

Turn mittens into hand puppets. Use nontoxic markers to draw eyes on the topside of the mittens about where the middle finger joints would be. Draw lips along the fingertips and the tip of the thumb. Cut and sew felt to add a tongue and teeth. Complete the hand puppet with yarn or strips of felt for hair. You can also use this technique to make finger puppets. Cut the fingers out of old gloves, draw a face and add yarn for hair.

For a no-sew option, use felt to make clothes for a toddler̵7;s favorite doll or stuffed animal. Lay the stuffed animal, face up, on a piece of felt. Measure half way down the arm and use pinking shears to cut out arm holes. Put the arms through the holes. Wrap the felt around the stuffed animal. Trim the front edges to slightly overlap across the chest. Follow the shape of the shoulders to trim and shape the neckline. Trim the bottom to the desired length. Make a doll̵7;s dress by laying the doll face down on the felt. Follow the steps to trim the felt to fit the back, neck and length of the doll. Add a button and cut a hole for the buttonhole, if desired.