If the whimsical charm of axolotls has ever enchanted you, you’re in for a treat! This axolotl plush sewing pattern is your ticket to creating an adorable, one-of-a-kind plush toy that’s perfect for gifting or keeping as a sweet companion. In this guide, we’ll walk through every step of the process, sharing tips and tricks to bring our soft axolotl to life with ease, even if you’re new to sewing plushies.
Downloading the Axolotl Plush Sewing Pattern
To download the pattern, follow the instructions below:
From a phone or a tablet: There should be something similar 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 (there is an option).
From a computer: Click on the photo of the pattern you see below. In the new tab that will open, you press the right mouse button and select the “Save image as …” option. Then, you choose where the image will be saved on your computer.
Materials You’ll Need for Your Axolotl Plush
- White faux fur with a 1.5–2 cm pile (this will be painted)
- A small piece of faux fur with a longer pile for the axolotl’s gill ears
- Oil paints
- Flat, wide paintbrushes
- Polyester stuffing (regular plush toy filling)
- Small bag of weighting pellets (optional, but adds a nice heft)
- Glass eyes on metal loops, 14 mm diameter (black)
- White felt (for eyelids and cute little teeth)
- Merino wool and chenille wire (for shaping the legs)
- Strong thread, regular sewing thread, and a long needle (especially helpful for inserting the eyes)
- Awl (to help place features)
- Strong glue
Step-by-Step Sewing Instructions Using the Axolotl Plush Sewing Pattern
Let’s bring our axolotl plush to life step by step using the sewing pattern. Please note that the seam allowance is approximately 1 cm.
Start by sewing the body. Begin with the darts—these little folds help shape the plush. Then sew the two main body pieces together, right sides facing inward. Leave a small opening at the bottom for turning and stuffing. If we’re new to sewing, it helps to pin everything securely and take it slow around the curves. Once stitched, gently turn the plush right side out.
Now it’s time to stuff the body. Fill it evenly with soft polyester stuffing to give our axolotl its huggable form. If we want it to feel a little heavier and more satisfying in hand, we can add a small pouch of metal pellets at the bottom. After stuffing, sew the opening shut with an invisible ladder stitch. Use an awl or the tip of a needle to lift the faux fur pile around the seams—this gives the plush a smoother, more natural finish.
For coloring, we’ll keep it simple. Use oil paint or high-quality textile paint in a single soft pastel shade—such as pink, lilac, or blue—depending on your chosen theme. Apply the paint using the dry-brush technique: load the paint onto a flat brush, wipe it well on paper until nearly dry, and then gently brush it into the fur. This way, the fibers stay soft, and the plush looks professionally finished. Don’t forget to let it dry thoroughly before continuing.
Next, let’s give our axolotl its sweet little face. Insert the safety eyes or glass eyes into the correct position—here’s a helpful visual guide if you’re unsure how to do it. We’ll secure them in place and then craft tiny eyelids out of felt or use a bit of wool with a felting needle. You can also glue them if that’s easier. For the mouth, trim a little U-shaped curve into the fur pile to create a soft smile. Add some gentle pink shading around it with pastel or fabric paint. Felt teeth make a fun final touch—just cut tiny pieces and glue them in place inside the smile.
Now to the limbs. For the axolotl’s limbs, we’ll use chenille wire as the core and wrap it tightly with merino wool. Wrap the wool evenly to create soft, rounded textures. Shape four little fingers on the front legs and five toes on the back ones. For the glance finish, needlefelt the paws. Once all the limbs are ready, make small holes in the body with an awl and glue the legs in place. If we want them extra secure, we can stitch them through the fabric instead.
Finally, let’s add the signature gills—those frilly “ears” on each side of the axolotl’s head. Cut six soft triangles from faux fur, sew down the middle, and paint them to match or slightly contrast with the body, and let them dry. Then attach three gills on each side of the head. These can be sewn in place for strength. Adjust the angle slightly to give them a lively, fluttery look.
Once everything is attached and dry, our little axolotl is complete, ready to snuggle, gift, or pose for photos!
Final Thoughts: Your Cute Axolotl Plush Is Ready!
That’s it — your soft and colorful axolotl plush is now complete! This project is a wonderful way to practice your sewing skills while creating a toy full of personality. Each step, from stuffing and painting to attaching the gills, brings your little creature to life and makes it truly one of a kind.
If you enjoyed making this plushie, be sure to check out our other free patterns and tutorials on our website — there’s plenty of inspiration for your next creative adventure. And if you share your axolotl on social media, don’t forget to tag us — we love seeing how our patterns come to life in your hands!
Happy sewing and see you in the next project!
Join Us for Exclusive Content and Updates!
Are you seeking more inspiration, free patterns, tutorials, and tips for crafting adorable teddy bears? Join our Facebook page for exclusive updates, and don’t forget to subscribe through the Spotlight form at the beginning of the article—this is your chance to access exclusive content and win teddy bear crafting supplies!