This is probably the most involved tute I've done so far.
The basic instructions are 1.) make the little footballs 2.) stuff 'em. 3.) tie them together.
The little footballs are what take so long. let's get started with them.
Here's the pattern. It doesn't have to be the same size. This is probably the smallest one I've made so far. It just needs to be the same general shape.
Cut the pieces diagonally out of the fabric.
You need 3 pieces for each of 12 footballs. 36 pieces total.
Take 2 of each group of 3. Sew them together. Leave a 1/4" space and back stitch on either end.
Chaining them all together takes less time and saves thread.
Cut them apart. Pin one side up. This will keep it out of the way when you are sewing the third football piece on.
Lay the 3rd piece on and sew down. Leave 1/4" and backstitch on both ends.
Chain them together.
Pin together the 2 sides that you've already sewn.
Sew the 3rd size together. Leave 1/4" and backstitch on either end. Also, leave a space in the middle. backstitch on either side of the gap.
Chain them together.
Clip them apart. Snip either end. Make sure you don't clip your stitches.
Turn them inside out. push the corners out with your finger. Stuff!
I used recycled stuffing from a black pillow. It got black fuzzies all over my pink footballs!
Try not to loose any.
Whip stitch the holes closed. You can do this on the machine but it came out sloppy when I tried to. It took a lot longer to hand sew them.
Footballs! Now the fun part. Assembly!
With a big needle and about 8 inches of yarn, start tying them together. Push the needle through the 2 bottom sides.
Tie 4 together to start.
Tie them with a square knot. I did 2 square knots on top of each other just to make sure.
Tie 3 to the first 4.
And 3 more to them.
Tie on 2 more and attach it to the other side. You will make a ring with 8 flappers.
Tie the flappy pieces together and you are done!
