Treasured Friends

Breathe new life into your preloved fabrics by creating 25 stylish new characters by hand. Featuring traditional teddy bears, Christmas mice, miniature dogs and charming rag dolls.

This brand-new craft book from Sandra Polley features adorable homemade teddy bears, dogs, cats and mice, all created using preloved fabrics that you already have to hand.

Each character is bursting with personality and charm. Using preloved fabrics such as repurposed clothing, put your own spin on the projects and make these new friends as personal as you like. Simply add your own tartan or floral, and create the perfect gift for a friend or a toddler’s birthday.

Projects range in skill level from beginner to advanced, and most can be hand- or machine-sewn. Sandra’s helpful instructions guide readers through selecting the correct fabric, stuffing and equipment.

About the author

Sandra Polley has had a passion for crafts since childhood, particularly knitting and sewing, and is the author of two knitting books, Knitted Teddies (2019) and Knitted Toys (2010). After retiring in 2024, Sandra returned to sewing toys again. Driven by her love of upcycling and recycling, she has designed and built up a varied collection of her little ‘creatures’. Sandra lives in Leicestershire with her husband and her Border Terrier, Rosie. Her small, close family also live nearby.