Behind the Seams
From Sketch to Squeeze
Every plushie passes through these hands. Here’s how a friend gets made
Step 01
Sketch
Every plushie starts on paper. I sketch the shape, the proportions, and the little details — sometimes from memory, sometimes from a daydream, sometimes inspired by a friend who needs a stitched-up version of themselves.
Most sketches don’t make it past this stage. The ones that do start to feel like real little people, and that’s when I know they’re ready for the next step.
Step 02
Pattern & Cut
From sketch to felt. The drawing becomes a paper pattern, then gets traced onto squares of ethically-sourced wool felt. Each piece is cut by hand — no laser, no die, just scissors and concentration.
By the end I have a small pile of felt confetti on the floor and a precise set of pieces ready to come together.
Step 03
Stitch
Hours of careful hand-sewing. Every seam is closed with a tiny blanket stitch — no machine sewing, no shortcuts. This is where most of the time goes; a single plushie can take six to ten hours of stitching.
I usually have a podcast on. The pup naps nearby. We get through it together.
Step 04
Stuff & Weight
Each plushie gets its character. Polyester fill goes in first for shape, then weighted glass beads for the satisfying squish.
The exact weight depends on the design — some are featherweight pocket-sized friends, some are dense little anchors that want to sit in your lap.
Step 05
The Squeeze Test
Before any plushie goes home, I give it the final squeeze test: arms, legs, belly, head. If anything feels uneven or thin, it goes back for re-stuffing.
If it passes, I sign the tag and tuck it into a little drawstring bag. That’s when it stops being a project and starts being yours.
Want to bring one home?
Each plushie in the shop has been through every step you just read. Pick one out, or save a few to think about.