Picture yourself in a coastal cottage, with hand-sewn fish hanging by the window.

Moreover, each one has its own personality depending on the fabric you choose like stripes, chevrons, or tiny dots.

They’re quick to sew, addictive to make, and soon you’ll have a whole shoal swimming across your craft table.

Materials Needed

• Fabric scraps in different patterns - cut into rectangles 10”×4” (one rectangle makes one fish)
• Polyester stuffing (about 30g per fish)
• Wooden buttons (0.5” diameter) for eyes - 1 per fish
• Twine or rope - cut into 10” lengths for hanging
• Paper to create a fish template (about 9” long × 3” wide)
• Sewing machine or hand needle with strong thread
• Fabric scissors
• Pins or clips

Step-by-step Guide

Step 1: Draw and cut out a simple fish shape on paper. Think elongated oval with a pointed head and split tail.

Step 2: Fold your fabric rectangle in half with right sides facing. Then place your template on top and trace. Cut out the fish shape so you have two identical pieces.

Step 3: Pin the two pieces together, right sides in. You sew along the edge, leaving a 2” opening near the belly.

Step 4: Turn the fabric right side out. Next, sse a pencil or chopstick to push out the corners of the tail neatly.

Step 5: Stuff the fish with polyester filling until plump but not too firm.

Step 6: Insert one end of the twine into the opening before closing. Stitch the opening securely by hand or machine.

Step 7: Sew or glue a wooden button eye onto each side of the head.

Step 8: Hang your fabric fish in groups for a rustic display, or use them individually as toys, sachets, or quirky ornaments.

Tips:

I once filled mine with dried lavender instead of polyfill, suddenly my fish became natural wardrobe fresheners.