New plushie question help? (eyes 10/16/13)

[Sarahlacewing]

Ok so I am working on a plushie project (my first) and it is going reasonably well so far.  That being said, I am having a terrible time with the head.  My previous methods for pattern making are not working and I can't find a free pattern that is similar to what I need.

It's a trex head, but it's cartoon trex so larger.  Basically rounded head and longer snout.  Any advice?

[kaoskat]

Not a clue! but I know we have alot of plushie makers so hopefully they can help.

[Sarahlacewing]

Thanks Kaoskat!

So far I have tried-
Two profile pieces and an addition to form the top and bottom of the head.
Separate head and snout combinations with a various number of pieces for each.
Making the shape in tin foil and covering it with tissue paper.
Staring at plushies around my house.
Staring at patterns.

I've tried this pattern by IsisMasshiro
http://www.deviantart.com/art/Plushie-patterns-124468186

[TwistedWindSox]

One thing I have done before is make the shape of whatever you're making out of upholsery foam (the green stuff at jo-annes or other craft/fabric stores) and then use duct tape to make the pattern (make sure you add seam allowances when you cut out the fabric!) and then put the foam back in the head after you sew it up. The head is still soft, but it holds it shape rather nicely You can sculpt upholstery foam with scissors or an electric carving knife pretty easily.

Hope you find something that works!

[Dainty]

Here's what I do-

Make the head out of newspaper, just ball it up into the shape and tape it all together. Then, cover it in plastic wrap and then tape over the plastic wrap. The plastic wrap keeps this layer of tape from sticking to the paper. Then, draw lines where you want the seams to be and cut the pieces out! :--) anywhere where there is still a raised/curved part, make a slit from the highest point to the end of the piece to make a dart.

I hope that makes sense.

[Sarahlacewing]

Thanks guys! This is great advice.  I am going to give it another go tonight.

[TwistedWindSox]

Good luck!

[Sarahlacewing]

Ok head came out much better thanks to all of your help.  Thank you! Now I am moving on to eyes.  I can embroider a little.  But I am not sure what is the best way.  I dislike button eyes.  There are some cute acrylic ones out there but I have small children.  Does anyone have advice on what types of eyes there are and which fabrics they work best with.  Also where I might buy them.

[TwistedWindSox]

You could make eyes from layered felt
Cut out a base in whatever color (white usually), and then the iris on top of that, and the pupil and reflection on that. Then you stitch it down starting with the top layer, sew that to the layer below that and so forth, then sew the edge of the lowest layer to the head. You can add extra details (shading etc) if you want with markers or fabric paint.

[Sarahlacewing]

You could make eyes from layered felt
Cut out a base in whatever color (white usually), and then the iris on top of that, and the pupil and reflection on that. Then you stitch it down starting with the top layer, sew that to the layer below that and so forth, then sew the edge of the lowest layer to the head. You can add extra details (shading etc) if you want with markers or fabric paint.

I was considering this! Do you happen to know if felt can be lightly hand washed, or do I need a special felt?

[TwistedWindSox]

You could make eyes from layered felt
Cut out a base in whatever color (white usually), and then the iris on top of that, and the pupil and reflection on that. Then you stitch it down starting with the top layer, sew that to the layer below that and so forth, then sew the edge of the lowest layer to the head. You can add extra details (shading etc) if you want with markers or fabric paint.

I was considering this! Do you happen to know if felt can be lightly hand washed, or do I need a special felt?

I'm pretty sure it can be washed, but I think the colours may run if you get them wet, if you are using felt not made from wool. You could try rinsing it super thoroughly first before cutting it and sewing it together.