Free Patchwork Bear Pattern

Pattern Description:

The patchwork bear pattern creates an 11-inch cuddly teddy bear using fabric scraps. It features movable arms and legs, button joints, and embroidered facial details. 

Designed for personal crafting, the pattern allows customization of colors, textures, and accessories, making each bear unique. Simple yet charming, it’s suitable for both beginners and experienced sewists.

Materials Needed & Measurements:

Materials Needed:

• Fabric scraps – Choose soft cotton, felt, or other fabrics you like; the pattern works with different textures.
• Thread – Strong sewing thread; matching or contrasting colors depending on your design.
• Needles – A standard sewing needle and a longer one for attaching limbs.
• Buttons – Small buttons for the joints of arms and legs.
• Embroidery thread – Black or brown for facial features (nose, mouth).
• Stuffing – Polyester fiberfill or cotton for stuffing the bear.

Measurements:

• Finished Height – Approximately 11 inches tall when assembled.
• Pattern Templates – Divided into two pages for printing and cutting; pieces include the head, body, arms, legs, and feet.
• Seam Allowances – Usually about ¼ inch, with openings left for turning and stuffing.

Abbreviations in the Patchwork Bear Pattern

• RST – Right Sides Together (placing two fabric pieces so the front sides face each other before sewing)
• RS – Right Side (the front side of the fabric)
• A / A1 / A2 – Arms (left/right or first/second arm)
• L / L1 / L2 – Legs (left/right or first/second leg)
• ¼ inch – Seam allowance (standard notation for sewing)

Instructions for Making the Patchwork Bear Pattern:

Prepare the Pattern Pieces

• Print the bear pattern templates at 100% scale.
• Cut out each template piece carefully: head, body, arms, legs, feet, and ears.
• For added stability, glue the “feet” template to lightweight cardboard before tracing onto fabric.
• Label each piece for easy identification: H=head, B=body, A=arms, L=legs, F=feet, E=ears.

Cut the Fabric

• Place fabric right sides together (RST) if using two layers.
• Pin the template onto the fabric and cut around it, leaving a ¼ inch seam allowance.
• For a patchwork effect, you can mix different fabrics for each body part or even patch pieces within a single part (e.g., front and back of the torso).
• Mark any placement points for buttons or embroidery lightly with chalk or a fabric pencil.

Sew the Limbs (Arms & Legs)

• Place two pieces for each limb RST.
• Sew along the seam line, leaving a 3-4 inch opening for turning.
• Clip curves carefully to reduce bulk and turn the piece RS out.
• Lightly stuff the limb with polyfill or cotton. Use a pencil or dowel to push stuffing into the corners.
• Close the opening with a ladder stitch for a neat finish.
• Repeat for all limbs (A1, A2, L1, L2).

Sew the Body

• Align the front and back body pieces RST.
• Sew along the edges, leaving openings for attaching limbs and head.
• Clip curves, turn the body RS out, and lightly stuff.
• Stuffing should be firm enough for shape but soft enough to cuddle.

Assemble the Bear

• Attach limbs and head using the long needle and strong thread.
• Sew joints with buttons for arms and legs. This allows a slight movement/flexibility.
• Ensure all stitches are hidden inside the bear body for a clean look.
• Attach ears to the head and position them symmetrically.

Add Facial Features

• Use embroidery thread for nose and mouth: simple stitches like satin stitch or backstitch work well.
• Optionally, add small stitched eyes or use safety eyes for a more realistic look.
• Embroider lightly so the stitches are neat and proportional to the head.

Finishing Touches

• Make sure all openings are fully closed.
• Check for loose threads and trim them.
• Adjust stuffing for balance and shape.
• Optionally, sew a small “handmade” tag on the foot for a personal touch.

Tips for a Patchwork Look

• Mix colors and textures to make each bear unique.
• Use small scraps creatively for the torso, arms, or legs.
• Don’t worry about symmetry; minor irregularities add charm.
• Experiment with mini accessories, such as a scarf or bow, to enhance character.

Care Instructions

• Spot clean gently with a damp cloth; avoid machine washing unless fabric and stuffing are washable.
• Keep away from small children if buttons are used for joints.

By following these steps, you’ll have a charming patchwork bear, around 11 inches tall, with movable limbs and a cuddly shape. 

Each bear can be customized with fabrics, embroidery, and accessories, making it a perfect gift or keepsake.

Download Free PDF: