Craft Book Review – Stitched Toys by Kate Haxell

Stitched Toys: 20 Stunning but Simple Designs by Kate Haxell; published by Octopus Books; 128 pages; MSRP $19.99; Amazon Price: $13.59* .

If you’re a quilter and have a room full of fabric, a sewing machine, and are looking for some lighter, quick projects during the hot summer months, I highly recommend Stitched Toys. Chock full of toy patterns for the under-8 years old set, these easy stash-busting designs require little more than fabric, simple sewing, and, occasionally, embroidery thread. Simple but sweet is the name of this game, with blocks for toddlers, an embellished fabric snake, a rabbit pajama case, and a giant quilted snail cushion for all ages. There’s a total of 20 delightful toys, with easy to follow instructions, colorful illustrations, templates, and guidelines for simple embroidery, appliqué and patchwork.

Some projects may be easy enough for your older child to help make for the younger children, such as the “Rag Doll” or “Cool Cat”. An excellent way to introduce them to sewing and even, in some cases, hand sewing skills.

Once the basic sewing is done, these are nice “in front of the TV” or “sit on the deck” hand projects, to embellish as much or as little as your creativity calls for. Stitched Toys might just be what you’re looking for to fill some long summer hours with a bit of fancy handwork practice! And if your handwork isn’t perfect? Believe me when I tell you that the lucky recipient of these toys won’t care one bit!

*Amazon price is subject to change.