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How to Sew an Arm Back Onto a Stuffed Animal

Stuffed animals can lose a limb in many ways -- through horseplay or accidents, or from the normal wear and tear that comes with age. Fortunately, though, a stuffed animal that is missing an arm can be repaired at home with minimal sewing skills. The next time a cherished teddy or well-loved stuffed rabbit suffers an injury, don't throw the toy away. Sew it back together to extend the life of an old friend or a new favorite.

Things You'll Need

Needle
Thread
Soft-bristle brush
Pins
Scissors
Filling (optional)

Instructions

Preparation
- 1
  Inspect the limb for damage. If it shows any holes, sew them up with a small overhand stitch.
- 2
  Check for loss of filling. When the limb is reattached, it should be of the same plumpness as the rest of the animal. If any filling has been lost, restuff with new, clean filling, being careful not to overstuff.
- 3
  Look over the rest of the stuffed animal. Sew any rips and insert more filling if necessary.
- 4
  If the edges of the limb are beginning to unravel, you may sew them up with an overhand stitch.
Reattaching
- 5
  Pin the limb into place on the stuffed animal's body. Be exact.
- 6
  Thread the needle with thread that matches the color of the toy. If you can't find an exact match, choose the color that is the closest.
- 7
  Use a small overhand stitch to reattach the limb. Go around the entire circumference of the limb. Don't make the stitches too loose or too tight -- aim for a medium tension.
- 8
  Secure the thread, then snip away the excess. To make the limb more sturdy, you can go around the edges one more time with another length of thread.
- 9
  Brush the stuffed animal's fur gently. Fluff up the fur around the area where you have sewn to reduce the repair's visibility.

Stuffed Animals