- Machine sew as much as possible; or if handsewing, use a backstitch. This keeps your seams nice and secure. If rips or tears occur on the plushie after play, repair seams with a ladder stitch or sew on patches. Polyester fiberfill is not delicious!
- Put plastic pellets in a fabric bag for safety, and to keep them from coming loose inside the toy.
- You can use plastic safety eyes for children aged 3 or older. When using safety eyes, reinforce the hole that you made with fray check or discs of felt.
- For toys for babies/young children, don’t use glue, paint, small removable parts, or plastic pellets. Sew on face details with applique or embroidery. Avoid using long pile furs for children under 3 years old.
- Avoid using objects that are harmful when swallowed, such as magnets.
- Safety regulations and product labeling for soft toys for babies and children vary by state and by country. It is especially important to know these rules when selling plushies intended for children, as you may be liable for damages if your product was incorrectly advertised.