
August Craft Project: The Numeracy Patchwork Ball
This month’s Pattern Club craft project is the Numeracy Patchwork Ball. A soft, colorful toy that supports number recognition, movement, and hands-on play. It’s simple to make and fun to use with your child once it’s stitched and stuffed.
The pattern includes numbered and blank templates, so you can personalize your ball however you like. Use bright solids, fussy-cut novelty prints, or even recycled scraps for a soft toy that invites learning through play.
Make a Learning Toy with Meaning
The ball is made from identical curved panels, which makes it an approachable softie pattern if you're newer to 3D sewing. The curves stitch smoothly when pinned or clipped, and you can stuff it lightly for a round, squeezable finish.
To get the most out of this pattern, we recommend:
- Fairfield World Poly-Fil for even stuffing
- HeatnBond Fusible Interfacing by ThermoWeb to help stabilize lightweight fabrics
You can sew the ball with or without numbers, depending on your child’s age or needs. Add fabric tags, textured pieces, or even crinkle inserts if you want to create a sensory play version.
Bonus Printable: Roll, Find, and Move
Inside the Pattern Club version of the pattern, members will also receive a printable game sheet called Roll, Find, and Move. It’s a simple movement activity where your child rolls the ball, finds a number, and matches it to a playful action like clapping, hopping, or stretching.
We’ve also included an optional animal-counting version for younger children who are still learning to identify numbers.
Want Access?
The Numeracy Patchwork Ball is available now inside the Pattern Club Library. Members receive the full pattern, bonus activities, and a new project every month.
Want to join the club or learn more? Visit Pattern Club to get started.
You can also check out our fabric and supply recommendations below if you’d like to make your own version at home.