If you’re looking for a charming new project, this free hedgehog stuffed animal pattern is just what you need. There’s something incredibly satisfying about crafting a little woodland friend with your own hands, especially when it’s as cuddly and adorable as a hedgehog plush.
This pattern, combined with some sewing tips we’ve gathered from years of experience, will guide you step-by-step to create a soft, squeezable hedgehog that’s perfect for gifting, decorating, or simply adding to your collection of handmade stuffed animals.
Keep in mind, though, that this hedgehog pattern is better suited for crafters with a bit of experience, as it has some details that may be tricky for complete beginners.
Download Your Free Hedgehog Stuffed Animal Pattern
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).
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 Hedgehog Plush
- Viscose Steiff Schulte with a 6 mm pile.
- Hedgehog mohair fabric with short pile.
- Strong threads match your fabric color and a hand-sewing needle.
- Small size black glass eyes on a metal loop, like 8 mm or black beads.
- Pins.
- Scissors.
- A long needle for setting eyes.
- Waxed thread.
- An awl.
- Use 12 mm diameter discs, 4 pieces for the arms.
- Use 18 mm diameter discs, 6 pieces for the head and legs.
- Use T-shaped cotter pins, 5 pieces.
- Washers,10 pieces.
- Have pliers ready.
- Use synthetic filler for stuffing.
- Use small metal or glass pellets for weight.
- Get a thin piece of fabric for paws and inner ears.
- Polimer clay for the nose.
- A small piece of felt for the eyelids.
- Fishing line for whiskers.
- Glue.
- Paints.
Hedgehog Sewing Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Cutting and Preparing Fabric Pieces
Cut each piece carefully — precision is key to how your hedgehog will look in the end. Leave a seam allowance of about 5–7 mm around each pattern piece.
2. Sewing the Head
First, stitch all the darts (usually marked in green on the pattern).
Next, sew the face piece to the back of the head (the spiky part) along the marks from A–A1 to B–B1.
Join the two assembled parts together, leaving a small opening for turning the right side out.
Sew the ears separately.
3. Sewing the Body
Attach the belly piece to the back piece, then sew the two halves of the body together. Leave an opening for stuffing. Turn the body right side out and gently shape the corners and curves with a wooden stick.
4. Making the Limbs
Sew two mirrored parts for each arm and leg. Then, attach the feet.
5. Stuffing and Shaping
Stuff the head and limbs with polyester filling, insert the discs with cotter pins, and stitch the openings closed.
After stuffing the limbs, trim the fur slightly and embroider the fingers. Make small pulls on the feet to shape realistic little soles like a real hedgehog’s.
Shape the face by pulling the fabric around the eyes and mouth area — this will give your hedgehog a sweet smile.
Attach or needle-felt the eyelids, embroider the brows, then secure the sculpted nose. Sew on the ears.
Attach the head and limbs to the body, stuff the body, add some weight if desired, and sew the opening closed. Gently pull out the fur from the seams and brush your plush — but be careful not to brush the spiky back and head, or you might damage them.
6. Final Touches
Trim a little fur on the hands and feet for extra detail.
Add whiskers made of fishing line — you can glue them in or stitch them on with a simple method.
Finish by shading around the eyes, nose, inside the ears, and on the paws and soles for more character and a lifelike look.
FAQ: Common Questions About the Hedgehog Stuffed Animal Pattern
How long does it take to sew the hedgehog?
Depending on your experience and pace, sewing the hedgehog can take anywhere from 4 to 8 hours.
Can I use felt instead of viscose?
We wouldn’t recommend it. You’ll spend time, energy, and materials sewing, but the result will be very different from what you see in the photos, which can be disappointing. That’s why for each pattern, we provide a list of EXACT materials so your hedgehog turns out just as intended.
Can I resize the pattern?
Yes, you can print the pattern at a different scale to make your hedgehog bigger or smaller. However, keep in mind that changing the size affects the proportions and overall look. For a larger size, you’ll need plush and mohair with longer pile, bigger eyes, and different materials — it’s almost like designing a new pattern. If you’re ready to take on that challenge, then definitely go ahead!
Is this pattern suitable for complete beginners?
This pattern is best for crafters with some basic sewing experience, as a few parts can be a bit tricky for absolute beginners.
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