Pattern review: Retro Mama Tilly and Tommy Elephant Softies

Another one of my previous creations rather than something I sewed this week. Although, I have been cutting a lot of fabric for these, ready to sew for my markets in September and November. 

I thought it was time for another softie or soft toy pattern rather than a dress!

 

To give you a reference of size with a then Miss 3

Retro Mama Tilly and Tommy Elephant Softies

If you want a little toy to quickly whip up as a new baby gift – this is for you! It would be a lovely gift on its own or with a little outfit or quilt. And if you have never made a toy before, this is a wonderful pattern to start with. 

It is quick to put together with just two body pieces, the ears and tail. It does use quite a bit of toy fill and you need to be careful when you are stuffing the trunk and the little legs. I try to aim for a light to medium stuffing so it is more like a lovely soft pillow. This is better to keep the shape than stuffing it firmly. 

Lots of fun colour combinations

The pattern provides great advice on terms and techniques, general tips and direction of the pattern (with the grain of the fabric). As with all my toys, I like to use a triple stitch to ensure the stitching never comes undone. 

This is a fun pattern that allows you to play with your fabric choices – I have tried cord for the ears which added a lovely texture for a baby (pictured in the above pink and brown spot elephant) and I’m planning to try some other variations too. You do need to be careful about heavily patterned fabrics as sometimes the little eyes get a bit lost on the background!  

On display at my markets

Will I make this again? - absolutely. I make lots of these for markets, they are very popular. 

Will I make this to sell for Lil Pip? – I already do!

Using the Dena Fishbein, Happi Animal Circles fabric

Pattern: The Retro Mama Elephant softie is available via Etsy or blog

Fabric: Various – the fun circle fabrics (above) are Dena Fishbein, Happi, Animal Circles in Blue and Pink  

Difficulty (1-10 scale with 1 being easy and 10 hard): 2 or 3 basic beginner level or easy make for a seasoned pro!

Time: I usually make a few at a time so do all my cutting, then sew it all together, stuff them all and sew the eyes at the same time. It would probably take just 30 minutes - 1 hour in total.