by Lesley Hill November 24, 2019
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.
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!
January 10, 2020
Hi Anne- Thanks for your message and I’m so glad to hear this! Would love to see a picture if you get the chance. :) Here’s to many more punch needle projects!
Best,
Lesley
January 10, 2020
I bought the kit and the magazine. This was my first attempt at punch needle. I just finished all three of these and I’m thrilled with the result.
Thank you!
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by Lesley Hill February 15, 2020
by Lesley Hill January 13, 2020
by Lesley Hill January 09, 2020
To kick off 2020, I’m sharing my punch needle evergreen pattern with you! When you're done stitching your tree you can turn it into a stuffy like I did, or fill in the background and turn it into a wall-hanging. This beginner pattern is great for using up yarn scraps, and is a fun addition to your winter decor now that the holidays are over.
Lesley Hill
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