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Stuffed-Animal Care

TIPical Mary Ellen : Episode TIP-739 -- More Projects »
Sewing expert Jan Zallee tells how to take good care of stuffed animals.

  • First determine if the stuffed animal is an antique or a valuable collectible. If so, take the stuffed animal to a professional for care.
PHOTO

Figure A
PHOTO

Figure B
  • Make a small incision on a seam and remove all of the stuffing (figure A).

  • Wash the empty bear covering (figure B) by hand with a delicate detergent. Let dry and use a brush to re-fluff.

  • Stuff the newly clean bearskin with new filling. Use a chopstick to stuff in the filling.

  • Sew on a pompon for a new nose, and sew back on any eyes or buttons. Another option is to embroider some new eyes.
    • PHOTO

    Figure C
    PHOTO

    Figure D
  • Sew up the incision you made earlier with a ladder stitch. Sew or glue on a cute heart appliqué to show where the stuffed animal had "heart surgery" (figure C).

  • Restuff hay and sawdust-filled carnival animals with polyester fiberfill to make them more cuddly.

  • Finally, dress the bear in a new suit of clothes (figure D). Outfits can be purchased for your favorite stuffed animals at a craft store.
    • Also in this Episode
    TIPical Mary Ellen : Episode TIP-739
    •Decorating Clothes
    •Stuffed-Animal Care
    •How to Get a Good Night's Sleep
    •Tip of the Day
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