Create a Cushion From Recycled Stuffed Animals!

Is your house overflowing with stuffed animals that your kids have outgrown or forgotten?
Here's one way to recycle them.

Step 1: Collect

Collect stuffed animals that your kids no longer use, are too worn or that they're happy to recycle. (please don't use their favourite ones!)
We have way more in the house than I can handle so came up with this idea of how to use the ones they're no longer interested in.
My girls now give me toys they're no longer interested in so I can turn them into something new!
If you don't have kids then check your local secondhand stores, & flea markets, as some shops and people give these away.
My girls have these given to them almost every time we go to a flea market, or second hand store, as well as gifts on birthdays, Christmas, etc.

Step 2: Wash & Bleach!

Gather all your stuffed animals, dump 'em in the washing machine for a good wash. I added a small amount of bleach to the water to get rid of any germs. Even if the stuffed animals are from around your house you would be surprised how dirty they can be. Hang 'em up on the line till they're dry and you're ready to start.

Step 3: Materials

You'll need:
Scissors
Needle & thread (any colour will do)
Pins
Net bag of some kind (I used a laundry net with a broken zipper)
Cushion cover

Step 4: Disembowel

*Warning!* I do not recommend that you do this step in front of your kids.

Snip a hole in your stuffed animal and pull out the stuffing. I found it was best to cut and pull one animal at a time.

Step 5: Watch Out For

Watch out for this type of stuffing. It's messy and not worth your time. Toss it.

Step 6: Stuff It

Stuff your net bag (a laundry net in my case) as you go. The less stuffing you use the softer your creation will be.

Step 7: Sew

When your net is as full & firm as you'd like it to be, fold the top over, pin it together, & sew it shut.

This is a good time to get your kids help if they're interested in sewing. As you can see, it doesn't matter what the stitches look like. :)