If you’re printing a template, you can also adjust the size of the bear by enlarging or shrinking the image before you print it. [3] X Research source
Make sure that your template includes the seam allowance. If not, cut about 1⁄2 in (1. 3 cm) outside of the lines all the way around the template to provide a seam allowance.
You can keep the pattern and use it again to make more bears if desired.
This gap in the bear’s leg will be necessary to turn the fabric right side out and to insert the stuffing into the bear’s body. [9] X Research source
Remember to leave the unpinned area on the leg open so you can invert the teddy bear when you are done. Remove the pins as you sew.
Be careful not to cut through the seams when you do this. Only cut notches in the fabric along the seams.
You can use polyfill fiber stuffing, cotton balls, scrap fabric, or even yarn to fill the teddy bear.
Tie a knot to secure the thread at the end of the seam and cut the excess thread about 1⁄4 in (0. 64 cm) from the knot. Make sure that you remove the pins after you finish sewing.
For example, you could draw 2 circles with dots in the center of them and raised eyebrows for a look of surprise, a big toothy grin for a happy bear, or a straight line for a neutral expression.
You may want to sew the buttons onto the fabric before you sew the 2 pieces together. This will enable you to tie knots on the back side of the fabric, which will make the buttons more secure. Try using 2 like-sized buttons for the eyes and a larger button for the nose.
If using hot glue, let the glue gun warm up for at least 10 minutes before using it. Be careful not to get any of the glue on your skin since it can burn you.
For example, you could glue 3 buttons in a vertical row on the bear’s stomach to give the appearance of shirt buttons. Or, get a heart-shaped patch and glue it onto the bear’s chest where its heart would be.
