How to Make Adorable Fabric Carrots: The Perfect Decoration

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s dive into the making process! I’m breaking this down into manageable steps so even beginners can follow along. The beauty of handmade items is their uniqueness, so don’t worry about making “perfect” carrots—the slight variations make them charming.

Step 1: Create Your Carrot Pattern

First, we need to create a simple carrot pattern. I make carrots in various sizes, but my standard template is roughly 8 inches tall and 4 inches wide at the top, tapering to a point at the bottom. The shape is basically an elongated triangle with a slightly rounded top.

To make a pattern, I simply draw the shape on paper, cut it out, and use it to trace onto my fabric. If you’re making multiple carrots, a cardboard template works wonderfully and saves time. For a natural look, I vary my patterns slightly—some taller and skinnier, others shorter and plumper.

Pro tip: If you’re making a set, create 3-4 different sizes for a more organic, garden-harvested look. My smallest carrots are about 5 inches tall, while my largest can be up to 12 inches.

Step 2: Cut Your Fabric

Place your pattern on the orange fabric, trace around it, and cut out two identical pieces for each carrot. Remember to leave about a 1/4 inch seam allowance all around. For a standard carrot, I cut two identical carrot shapes.

For the carrot tops, I cut leaf shapes from green fabric. I usually make 3-5 leaves per carrot in varying sizes and shapes. Some are long and pointy, others more rounded—variety makes them look more natural. The length of the leaves typically ranges from 3-6 inches.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try using different shades of orange or green fabrics for more visual interest. I’ve made beautiful sets using fabrics ranging from burnt orange to bright tangerine, and from sage green to emerald.

Step 3: Sew the Carrot Body

With right sides facing together, pin your two carrot pieces along the edges. Using a sewing machine (or hand stitch if you prefer), sew around the edges leaving about a 1/4 inch seam allowance. Make sure to leave a 2-inch opening at the top for turning and stuffing.

I usually sew with a straight stitch, but if your fabric is particularly prone to fraying, a zigzag stitch works well too. Take your time around the pointed bottom to ensure you get a nice, defined point.

Now turn your carrot right side out through the opening you left at the top. Use a pencil or chopstick to gently push out the point at the bottom and smooth out the seams.

Step 4: Stuff Your Carrot

This is where your carrot starts coming to life! Gradually fill your carrot with stuffing through the opening, working in small amounts at a time. Make sure to push the stuffing all the way down to the pointed end first, using a pencil or chopstick to help pack it in.

The key to a natural-looking carrot is varying how firmly you stuff different areas. I like to stuff the bottom quite firmly for a defined point, then make the middle section very plump, and the top just a little less stuffed. This creates a slight taper that mimics a real carrot’s shape.

For added weight and stability, you can fill the bottom 1/3 of your carrot with dried beans or rice before adding the fiberfill on top. This makes them sit nicely in baskets or on tables without toppling over.

Step 5: Create the Carrot Top

For the leafy greens, fold each leaf piece in half lengthwise with right sides together. Stitch along the edge, leaving the bottom open, then turn right side out. This creates a nice finished edge for each leaf.

Once you have all your leaves prepared, gather them together at the base. I arrange mine so they fan out naturally, with some standing upright and others falling to the sides. When I’m happy with the arrangement, I secure them together with a few stitches at the base.

For extra texture, I sometimes add some thin strips of green fabric or twine amongst the leaves to look like carrot stems. This little detail really elevates the final look.

Step 6: Attach the Greens and Finish

Now for the most satisfying part—bringing your carrot to life! Tuck the raw edges of your gathered leaves into the opening at the top of your carrot. Pin in place, making sure the leaves are arranged how you want them.

Hand stitch the opening closed, securing the leaves as you go. I use a ladder stitch (also called a slip stitch or invisible stitch) for this part to make the seam virtually invisible.

For extra security and a finished look, I often wrap some twine, thin ribbon, or embroidery floss around the base of the leaves where they meet the carrot. This not only covers any visible stitching but adds an authentic touch, as if the carrot tops have been bundled together after harvesting.