Introduction
Bean bags are very popular toys and have been around for a very long time. One of the greatest things about them is that they are simple to make and can also be very durable. Bean bags can be used for many games and also make great toys just on their own.
Instructions
Making proper plans for making a bean bag is very important for success. You want to make sure that you do everything in the proper order and use the right materials so that you will have the best bean bag possible. Follow the next few easy steps and your bean bag will be a great toy that will last for a long time to come.
Steps
1. Get the right supplies
A good bean bag has to start with the right supplies. Many people still use beans for their bean bags, but there are other fillers that work just as well or better depending on what you will be using the bag for. Some other common alternatives to beans for bean bags are rice, beads, and plastic pieces. Each has its advantages and disadvantages for bean bags. Rice is a great alternative to beans if you want the bag to be suppler, but rice also breaks easier than beans and may not be as durable. This is a good alternative if you don’t necessarily want the bean bag to last for a very long time. Plastic beads and chunks are safer to use than beans or rice, especially in humid climates. Many argue that they are cleaner because you won’t have small pieces breaking off and falling through the seams of the bean bag. A humid climate is bad for beans and rice because they could actually sprout and start growing if left alone too long in the humidity.
2. Make a plan
You also need to know what you would like your bean bag to look as a final product before you even begin making it. This is important and will allow you to think through the process that is needed to compete it successfully. Determine how big you want it to be and what shape will be the best for your particular needs. You also need to decide on colors and textures at this point in the process.
3. Put it all together
Assembling the bean bag may be one of the easiest parts of the project. Of course you still need to be careful and follow the plan you have made and things should go well. Be sure that you assemble things in the right order so that you don’t have to undo or redo certain parts of the bean bag because of a simple mistake. You want to be patient and not rush the process or the bean bag will not be as durable as you hope. You want to make sure that your stitching is even and that you are consistent over the whole project. Periodically check on your work and make sure you are doing things the same. If you need to take a break, then take one so that you can stay focused on the end result.
Conclusion
Perhaps the most important part of making a great bean bag craft is having fun! Don’t do it out of some sort of obligation and make one even if you don’t want to. Find ways to be creative and make the process fun for you and anyone else that will be participating. This can be a great family activity or a nice relaxing project on a rainy day. No matter why you are making the bean bag, make it fun for you.
Brooke says
Thanks so much for the information. I made a series of bean bags for the kids in my sons class at school. I opted against the rice/plastic filler and bought 2 cubic foot of bean bag filling online. I managed to make 10 bean bags from it.