Back in August, an editor at the U.K. magazine Mollie Makes emailed me to ask if I would be interested in designing and making a trio of punch needle animal stuffies for their December 2019 cover. I had known about this modern and whimsical craft magazine for years, having drooled over past issues at the news stand and projects on their Instagram feed. I’ll admit I was intimidated- the deadline was tight considering my kids were still home with me for summer break, and I had more than a bit of performance anxiety (what if they’re just “meh” about the final product?). In the end I said yes, and I’m so thrilled with how this project turned out!
The December issue of Mollie Makes includes pattern templates and instructions for making my wintery punch needle trio of a penguin, seal and fluffy snow leopard. This project is suitable for beginner needle punchers who have basic sewing skills and a bit of patience. Once complete, these punch needle stuffies make lovely additions to your winter décor or would be a sweet set of toys for older children.
Find the pattern for my punch needle trio in the current issue (#113) of Mollie Makes magazine which hits newsstands in the UK on November 28th. If you’re in North America, it will be delivered to subscribers and shops in the new year or order individual issues here. For Canadian readers, I’ve spotted Mollie Makes at Indigo Books, Shoppers Drug Mart and Loblaws. Please let me know where else you’ve seen it so I can update this list!
Because punch needle supplies can be hard to find all in one spot, I’ve put together a limited number of kits so you can make your very own trio of winter animals. The kits include a #10 Oxford punch needle, a no-slip hoop, three squares of monk's cloth, cotton-linen fabric backing, seven balls of wool yarn to match the creatures pictured in the magazine, bead eyes and embroidery floss. You'll need to supply your own batting (available at any craft store) and basic sewing supplies such as fabric scissors, a marking pen, and all-purpose thread. I’ve also included a digital PDF copy of my 55-page ebook with the purchase of a kit to get you started with the basics of punch needle.
Please note: at this point the kit does NOT include the pattern and templates. You’ll need to purchase issue #113 of Mollie Makes in order to complete the project.
Ready to get crafting? Shop my Mollie Makes punch needle animal kit here. If you make this sweet trio, I'd love to see pictures! Share your work by tagging me @homedaystudio on Instagram and use the hashtag #stayhomeandpunchneedle. Happy punching!
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This month I was featured in an article by Chatelaine Magazine on bringing punch needle into your home décor. The article touches on the current trend of punch needle, its history, and profiles a number of talented punch needle artists selling patterns, supplies, and finished work. Writer Iris Benaroia interviewed me for the article and included a great little write-up of me and my work. I love the quote she included of me describing punch needle as “the least frustrating craft I’ve ever tried”. Perfectly summed up!
Today I’m sharing a free pattern with you: my punch needle grapefruit! This is one of the first things I made with my punch needle and is a great project for beginners.
When you’re done punching your grapefruit you could turn it into a stuffie like I did (‘cause who doesn’t need a plush grapefruit to snuggle with?) or fill in the background and turn it into a wall-hanging.
