by Jennifer Long of Sew A StoryThis month I’m sharing a fun and beginner-friendly project that brings learning and sewing together. The Numeracy Patchwork Ball is soft, colorful, and perfect for introducing numbers through movement and play. I designed this pattern to be sewn in three different sizes and filled it with thoughtful touches that make it great for children, classrooms, and quiet-time activities.I used a few Therm O Web staples in this project to give it just the right amount of softness and shape. I’ll walk you through how I put it together and how you can personalize it for your own family or learning space. Information about the pattern can be found at the end of this post.
Materials You’ll Need
Fabric and Supplies:
(1) Created With Love 5-Inch Stacker
5” WOF strip of Licorice Confetti Cotton for numbers
HeatnBond Lite Fusible Web for raw-edge appliqué numbers
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Appliqué Numbers
Download and trace the number templates onto the paper side of HeatnBond Lite. Fuse to the back of your accent fabric, then cut out each number.
2. Apply the Numbers
Fuse each number onto a coordinating 5-inch square. Stitch around the edges with a blanket, zigzag, or triple stitch to secure them in place.
3. Add Structure
Fuse each fabric square to a 5-inch square of HeatnBond Fusible Fleece. This gives the ball a soft, quilted feel that holds its shape nicely.
4. Cut Your Shapes
Use the included templates to cut 12 pentagons from the prepared squares for each ball size.
5. Assemble the Ball
Sew the pentagons into two halves following the layout. Then join the halves together, leaving a small gap for turning.
6. Finish the Ball
Use a turning tool or hemostat to turn the ball right side out. Fill with fiberfill and hand stitch the opening closed.You can repeat the steps to make a small, medium, and large ball set or just focus on one. Each ball uses the same method.
Optional Ideas
You can customize the ball by:
Adding a loop to hang it from a hook
Using high-contrast fabric for vision development
Creating themed color sets or adding alphabet letters instead of numbers
Try the Pattern Club Free
You can access printable templates, SVG files, and bonus project tips with a free month inside the Sew A Story Pattern Club.Join HEREUse code: PATCHWORKCLUB
Let’s Sew Together
I believe that sewing projects can support both creativity and learning. I hope this one gives you a fun way to connect with the children in your life through color, texture, and play.
Therm O Web Products:
