How to Make a Weighted Stuffed Animal?

Stuffed animals are not only for cuddles, they can be weighted too!

A weighted stuffed animal can be a great sleep aid for people of all ages. They can provide extra comfort and security and some people even say that they help reduce anxiety.

If you would like to make your own weighted stuffed animal, follow the steps below.

What You'll Need

Steps to Make A Weighted Stuffed Animal

1. Choose your fabric. The best fabrics for weighted stuffed animals are ones that are soft and durable. Fleece, microfiber, and velour are all good choices. Avoid using fabrics that are too stiff or slippery, as they can be difficult to work with.
2. Cut your fabric into two even pieces. You will need one piece for the front of the animal and one for the back.
3. Sew the two pieces of fabric together, leaving a small opening at the bottom. This is where you will insert the stuffing later on.
4. Cut out your felt eyes and nose, and glue or sew them onto the front piece of fabric. If you are using buttons for eyes, make sure to sew them on securely so they don't fall off later.
5. Now it's time to stuff your animal! Fill it with as much stuffing as you like, making sure to really pack it in so it's nice and plump. Once it's as full as you want it, sew up the bottom opening.
6. To add weight to your animal, use either rice or dried beans. Sew a small pouch out of fabric and fill it with your chosen weighting material. Make sure to double-sew the pouch so it doesn't leak!
7. Finally, give your animal a big hug to help distribute the stuffing evenly, and enjoy!

What Are The Benefits Of a Weighted Stuffed Animal?

Most parents are familiar with the benefits of weighted blankets for their children. However, weighted stuffed animals are also gaining in popularity. Here, we will discuss the benefits of weighted stuffed animals and how they can help your child.

1. Weighted stuffed animals offer many of the same benefits as weighted blankets.
2. They provide a sense of security and comfort to children by applying pressure to the body which simulates a hug.
3. This pressure can have a calming effect on children who experience anxiety or who struggle to self-regulate their emotions.
4. Additionally, the pressure from the weighted stuffed animal can help children focus and pay attention during activities such as story time or homework by providing proprioceptive input.
5. Proprioceptive input is essential for regulating the body’s response to stimulus and organizing behavior.
6. When proprioceptive input is lacking, it can lead to problems with self-control, sensory overload, and poor concentration.
7. Weighted stuffed animals are an easy way to provide this much-needed input in a fun and comforting way.

Bottom Line

There you have it—your very own DIY weighted stuffed animal!

These make great gifts for children or adults with sensory processing disorders, and they can also be used as stress relievers or bedtime companions.

Experiment with different fabrics, weights, and stuffing materials to create a one-of-a-kind friend that's perfect for anyone in your life.

Checkout our top picks of weighted stuffed animals in the market below.