Wednesday, 23 May 2012

Making Soft Toys 2.


Stuffing


The above images shows how two different types of stuffing can make or break the shape of a toy.  Exactly the same pattern has been used, but the softer ‘kapoc’ style stuffing makes the toy loose it’s body shape compared to the shaped foam body.

Upholstery foam is quite easy to get hold of locally, but I found the best place (and the most generouse) was the scrap store on Union street.  The foam block I bought there was not wide enough to make the alien’s body, and I had to try a couple of different types of glue to stick two blocks together before cutting the shape out.  I found a ‘Bostic’ gclear type of glue containing acetone made an almost instant strong seam. 

I then hand drew the shape of the front, sides, base, top of the head and back on all 6 sides of the foam block and then cut away with scissors until I had the right shape.



It’s a messy process –  blue foam chips get everywhere, but I am pleased witht the shape that a foam body gives the toys.

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