DIY Cut and Sew Ornaments
Whether you’re just trying to flex your sewing muscles again, learn how to sew for the first time, or you’re a handmade product maker looking add a quick and easy item to your sewing repertoire, a cut and sew project is just what you need!
Won't it be fun this year when someone compliments your new ornaments, and you can proudly say, "Thanks, I made them"? And while you're basking in your handmade glory, they ask if you're selling them? Suddenly, you start thinking about all the local Christmas markets filled with unique products and gifts. Before you know it, you're right there too, wowing your community with your creative, handmade talent! Or maybe you just say “no” and enjoy some cookies.
(Here's your reminder that it’s OKAY to say "no" to doing things for other people and "yes" to cookies.)
Before we get into more details, here is the TLDR:
Cut out the pieces
Sew and stuff
Show them off
These don’t have to be ornaments! You could also use this fabric for…
Pet toys
Quiet (and not plastic) toys
Ice/heat pack covers
Anything else your heart desires!
Here’s what you’ll need:
1/2 yard of fabric (I used minky but follow your heart)
Scissors
Needle and thread
Fabric clips or pins
String or ribbon (if you’re following the ornament route)
Stuffing
OPTIONAL:
Sewing machine
Fabric turners (these will make your life much easier)
Once you have the fabric, you’ll see directions right on it!
Cut along the dotted lines.
Align pieces with printed sides facing each other,
and secure with pins or clips.
Stitch together using a 1/4” seam allowance, leaving a small opening for flipping.
Flip inside out through the opening and fill with your chosen stuffing.
Stitch the opening closed.
display or gift your adorable mini plushies!
Keep following along for pictures, tips, and the step where you turn these into ornaments!
Cutting and prepping the pieces:
Once your pieces are cut and ready to sew, place them right sides together (the side with the design, like the truck, should face inward). When aligned properly, the pieces should look like mirror images when laid flat.
To turn your creation into an ornament, take a loop of yarn or ribbon and place it between the two fabric pieces, with the loop side inside and a small portion of the string sticking out above the fabric. This will create the hanging loop once your ornament is sewn and turned right-side out!
While I usually skip pins or clips when sewing (I like to keep things fast and loose), this project is an exception! Clips are especially handy here, particularly for securing the string in place if you’re making an ornament. To make things even easier, mark a 1-2 inch section on the edge that you won’t sew yet—this opening will let you turn your project right-side out once it’s stitched.
This is an inexpensive fabric clip option (and also the same ones that I used!)
Sewing notes:
If you don’t have a sewing machine, no worries! You can hand-stitch your pieces together instead. While the recommended seam allowance is 1/2 inch, the extra white space around the design gives you the flexibility to create a smaller border—or even no border at all—depending on your preference.
Trimming and turning:
Here’s a step I often skip when impatience takes over—but it’s worth doing, especially if you’re sewing a tighter border. Trimming away the excess fabric around your stitches can make a big difference, helping your finished piece look smooth and polished. It’s optional, but your future self might thank you!
Quick turners are a must-have if you often sew projects that need to be turned inside out. This handy tool features a tube that fits into your project’s opening and a stick that effortlessly flips the fabric right-side out. It’s a simple concept, but it saves so much time and frustration!
Finishing:
For the cleanest, most polished finish, I recommend hand stitching with a ladder stitch. This technique creates an almost invisible seam, perfect for closing up your project. Just be sure to use a thread that matches your fabric for a seamless look!
TA-DA!
You’re done! Now it’s time to gift, sell, or just enjoy your creations!
One last step - if you loved this project will you tag me on instagram? I love seeing your creations!
Looking for more? These mini cut and sew plushies are also perfect for DIY ornaments, pet toys, or just a fun way to practice your sewing!
OH and one more thing! I have a fabric design - maybe you’ve boosted your sewing confidence and you’re ready for the next project… or maybe you've had enough and you’re just going to get the pre-made blanket ;)
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase—at no extra cost to you. There’s no obligation to use these links, and I only recommend products I personally use and love!