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We dare you to forget how darling these elephants are! Maker Team member Lucy of @moseycreative knows the way to a child's heart - and an adult's too. Her playful style and knack for color elevate these stuffed animals and make them perfect for gifting, ornaments, decorations... well, just follow along and see for yourself!
Welcome to my new Felt Elephant Tutorial, where creativity and cuteness collide! Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a curious beginner, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of bringing this charming pachyderm to life. Get into a peppy crafting mood by listening to “Baby Elephant Walk” on repeat, and let’s get started!
Skill Level: Beginner
Time: 1.5 - 2 hours per Elephant
Additional Supplies:
Felt Elephant Pattern and Placement Diagram (click to download)
Felt Elephant Cut Template, for electronic cutting machines (click to download)
Iron
Bakers Twine - optional
Directions:
1. Print and/or trace the Elephant Pattern above onto freezer paper (dull side), then iron the shiny side to felt. Cut all pieces.
Alternatively, use the Cut Template with an electronic cutting machine.
2. Clip or pin one elephant to its background, then whipstitch in place using one strand of coordinating thread (or two strands of embroidery floss.)
3. Whipstitch ear to body using the Placement Diagram as a guide.
4. Use the Placement Guide to backstitch an eyelid and eyelashes.
5. Repeat steps 2-4 to create a mirror image of the elephant.
6. Clip or pin two elephants together, right sides facing out. Blanket stitch around the perimeter beginning at the legs and bottom half of the elephant. With approximately 4" left to sew, stuff with polyfil to desired plushiness.
7. If you would like to hang your elephant, cut a piece of ribbon or baker’s twine 3-6" long and knot the ends together. Use the Placement Diagram to place the loop near the elephant’s neck with the knot tucked inside. Secure with a few stitches, then continue using blanket stitch to close the elephant.
8. Just before closing, add a bit more polyfil if needed.
9. To tie off, create a knot and then poke needle into the elephant (near knot) and back out at a random point. Trim thread close and the loose ends will disappear within stuffing.
“I meant what I said, and I said what I meant. An elephant’s faithful, one hundred percent!”
– Horton the Elephant, Horton Hatches the Egg by Dr. Seuss
Repeat the tutorial with different color combinations! To make elephants in various colors, select felt in two shades of the same color (one light, one dark) and coordinating thread for both.
Whether you use them as party or baby shower decorations, a gift to a loved one, or to practice color names with the toddlers in your life, your felt elephants are sure to bring smiles for years to come!
