DIY gift for kids to make

I think my oldest, Will, might turn out to my crafty buddy. Last year he saw a version of these "monsters" in a craft book for kids and became super passionate about making them. He wrote out a list of at least 15 people he wanted to give them to as Christmas presents. I think we ended up finishing about 5, but i loved his enthusiasm and i loved that he could be involved in the whole process. 

Here's one he made for his dad for father's day

For Ben's birthday, Will set out to make one for his little buddy. Here's how your little kiddo can make one too!

1) Dig through old knit shirts and felt scraps until your kiddo finds the perfect material for his or her "buddy".

2) Help him draw an outline.

3) Draw and cut out shapes for eyes, mouth, patches etc.

4) Sew OR hot glue. We decided to sew this time because Will was interested in using my machine. He loved pressing the foot and helping me lead the fabric through.
**However, hot glueing (inside out) works GREAT too and is faster/easier in some ways.

**The first year we were a little more detail oriented and Will got to practice using a needle and embroidery floss to stitch around the eyes, mouth and pirate patch. This takes a LONG time, so we gradually ditched this step, even though it is cute.

5) Stuff it- one of his favorite parts! (In the ones we made last year we added dried beans after we stuffed
6) Then glue or sew the bottom shut.

7) Give it to the birthday boy

8) If the recipient doesn't act interested, shove it in their face while making obnoxious monster noises! :)

 linking to: jaqsstudio