number beanbags

I have seen number beanbags before, so I am not claiming to be the one to have thought of this fabulous idea, but just thought I would share a tutorial on how mine were created...

1.) Choose fabric scraps from around the house or search a fabric store for the perfect combinations of fabric for your beanbags. I have a ton of scraps so I just tried to pick one from every color in the rainbow since these were a present for my 2-year old niece.

Next make a pattern out of cardboard for your beanbags slightly bigger than the finished size you want them to be. My pattern was approximately 4 1/2 x 4 1/2. Use the pattern to cut out your squares...

2.) Use Avery iron-on transfer paper to print out the numbers as a mirror image. Cut out each number leaving a white edge all around. Iron a number on one square of each color...

3.) Put the 2 squares right sides together and sew 3 sides. Make sure to leave some room at the bottom of the beanbag to fold inside. Cut the edges with pinking shears...

4.) Turn the beanbag right side out and push the extra length inside the beanbag. Iron it down for easier sewing...

5.) Stuff each open-bottom beanbag with navy beans (or whatever bean works for you)...

{WARNING: When choosing a 4-year old helper to stuff beanbags, be aware that she just may spill the beans all over the place and cause a slight delay in the progress of the project.}

6.) Sew the ironed open end together. I sewed this side twice to be sure it was secure...

7.) Lay all of your beanbags out and stare at them for awhile...

8.) Find a cute bucket at Hobby Lobby (or anywhere that sells buckets). Make a cardboard tag with the child's name printed on it and hang it from the bucket with a scrap of fabric...

9.) Give it to your sweet niece (or whomever you love and adore) for her birthday and watch her take them in and out of the bucket 25+ times just for fun...

These beanbags make a fun and educational gift! Little ones can learn sorting, colors, numbers, and all kinds of things from them. Of course, you can also explore your options and iron-on the letters of their name, the entire alphabet, shapes, etc.

I will be joining these fun parties this week. So many amazing ideas floating around out there, you will definitely want to check out the inspiration and link up your latest project!

Happy Tuesday!