Some of my favorite printable animal sewing patterns are the ones that make people stop and ask, “What animal is that?” This little collection brings together two of my own designs, a mole and a desman. Both have unusual noses, compact bodies, and plenty of personality.
Interestingly, these two animals are actually relatives! Both belong to the mole family, although they look quite different. I love turning such unusual creatures into handmade toys, and today I’m sharing two free patterns with detailed sewing tutorials.
Mole Pattern
This little mole is one of my favorite unusual characters. He has a rounded body, tiny glass eyes, expressive paws, and a funny little nose that gives his face so much personality.
I made him from short-pile mohair, which creates a beautifully soft, natural appearance and allows the small facial details to stand out.
What makes this mole special is the combination of traditional teddy bear making techniques and sculpting. His head and limbs are attached with discs and cotter pins, allowing them to move. I also used wool felting to shape his mouth and eyelids, while his nose was made from modeling clay.
Skill level: Intermediate to advanced.
This project is especially interesting if you already have some experience making stuffed animals and want to experiment with more detailed facial features.
Download the Pattern
Notice that seam allowances are not included.
To download the pattern, follow the instructions below:
From a phone or tablet: There should be a similar option for mobile devices with Android or iOS. Click on the image. Save it by holding your finger on the image and selecting the “Save Image” option. Then, go to your photo gallery and print it (an option available).
For the complete process, including materials, joint attachment, sculpting, and finishing techniques, visit my Stuffed Mole Sewing Pattern: Craft Your Way to Mole Magic.
Desman Pattern
Have you ever heard of a desman? This unusual semi-aquatic mammal is related to the mole and has a wonderfully distinctive appearance, especially its long, curious snout.
I couldn’t resist turning this fascinating little animal into a soft toy!
For my desman, I chose viscose fabric with a 6 mm pile. Its soft texture works beautifully for such a small animal, giving the finished toy a delicate, natural appearance.
The character’s face is where the fun really begins. I used tiny black glass eyes, faux-suede ears, a separately sculpted nose, and fine whiskers made from fishing line. Gentle shading around the face helps bring out its unusual features.
Skill level: Suitable for different experience levels, including adventurous beginners.
Unlike the jointed mole, the desman has a more straightforward body construction. However, shaping the nose and finishing the face still require patience and attention to detail.
Download the Pattern
Notice that seam allowances are not included.
To download the pattern, follow the instructions below:
From a phone or tablet: There should be a similar option for mobile devices with Android or iOS. Click on the image. Save it by holding your finger on the image and selecting the “Save Image” option. Then, go to your photo gallery and print it (an option available).
For the complete materials list, sewing instructions, and finishing techniques, visit my Desman Stuffed Animal Pattern and Tutorial.
FAQ
Are these printable animal sewing patterns really free?
Yes! Both the mole and desman patterns are completely free. You can save and print the pattern images without purchasing anything. Each design also has its own detailed tutorial to help you complete the toy.
Do these patterns include step-by-step sewing instructions?
Yes, the instructions are available in the individual tutorials linked above. The mole tutorial explains the more advanced techniques, including movable joints and facial sculpting. The desman tutorial covers assembling the body, shaping the nose, and adding the finishing details.
Before You Go
If you’re looking for something different from the usual teddy bear or bunny, I hope these two little creatures inspire you!
I particularly enjoy creating animals that aren’t often seen in handmade toy collections. Their unusual shapes and expressive faces offer so many creative possibilities.
Choose your favorite, save the free pattern, and enjoy bringing your own little character to life. Happy sewing!
If you enjoyed these unusual little animals, you might also love my collection of 5 Free Miniature Teddy Animal Patterns to Sew, featuring a tiny mouse, elephant, rhino, tapir, and teddy bear. Each comes with a free printable pattern and a detailed sewing guide.
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