Teddy bear or Bunny rabbit

Here's how

STEP 1 Enlarge the rabbit or bear pattern on a photocopier to correct size and cut out. Pin outline onto fleece and cut out twice, adding about 3mm all around. It's more accurate to cut each outline separately, rather than cutting from double fleece. (If you prefer to have seams on the inside, you'll need to add 6mm allowance to the outline when cutting).

STEP 2 Trace the body features onto the Vliesofix, and cut out leaving a narrow border all round. Press the Vliesofix onto the appropriate coloured felt, then cut out shapes accurately. Remove backing paper, and using a hot dry iron, press the shapes into place on the right side of one body.

STEP 3 Using 2 strands of embroidery thread (in either a matching or contrast colour), stitch around the felt shapes in running stitch, blanket or straight stitch. This stitching is both decorative and for child safety reasons. Work the facial features in backstitch, using 2 strands of thread.

STEP 4 With wrong sides together, stitch the front and back to each other around outer edge, using either a machine or running stitch, by hand. (If your seams are to be on the inside, place the front and back, right sides together and stitch with a 6mm seam. Clip curves and corners before turning right side out). Leave an opening along 1 side for stuffing. On the rabbit stitch across the base of the ears to prevent them from being filled with stuffing.

STEP 5 Fill the toy lightly with fiberfill, then continue to sew the seam to close the opening. Trim any uneven edges beyond the seam line.

Source: Better Homes and Gardens magazine, December 2006