How to make your own Hobby Horse!

Now let’s start building! First, we’ll create the basic shape of your horse’s head.

Think of this like making a soft toy — you’re going to cut out two identical shapes, one for each side of the horse’s face.

Step One

• Download or draw a simple horse head pattern. You can sketch your own or download a printable one (you can download by clicking here).
• Fold your fabric in half. This way, when you cut, you’ll get two matching shapes instantly.
• Trace the pattern. Use a washable marker or chalk to lightly outline the horse head onto your fabric.
• Cut carefully. Cut through both layers along the outline, making two identical pieces.
• Cut two small ear shapes. Use the same or a different fabric for a fun contrast.

Step Two

Sew or Glue the Head Together

Sewing Method:

• Place both fabric pieces together, with the patterned or “good” sides facing inward (the part that will show once turned inside out).
• Pin around the edges, leaving the bottom (neck) open.
• Use a simple stitch — straight or backstitch — and sew all the way around the edges. Go slowly around curves like the nose or ears.
• Leave a 3–4 cm gap at the bottom for stuffing and the stick.

Hot Glue Method (if you’re not sewing):

• Lay both pieces down just like above (good sides in).
• Run a thin line of glue along the edges — not too close to the edge!
• Press together firmly section by section.
• Let it cool and dry fully before moving on.

Step 3 – Add the Mane and Ears

For the Mane:

• Cut strands of yarn about 15–20 cm each.
• You’ll need around 30–50 pieces, depending on how thick you want the mane.
• With the horse head still inside out, place yarn strands along the top seam (where the mane should go).
• Pin them in place, then sew or glue the yarn so it’s trapped in the seam.
• When you flip the horse right-side out, the yarn will hang like a real mane!

For the Ears:

• Ears usually go about halfway between the top and eye level.
• Take the two ear shapes and fold the bottom slightly to give them shape.
• Stitch or glue each ear to the sides of the horse head.

Step 4 – Stuff Head and Insert Stick

Carefully push the head through the opening to flip it right side out. You can use a chopstick or pencil to poke out the nose area fully.

Stuff It:

• Use your fingers to fill the head with stuffing.
• Pack it evenly — not too loose or too tight.
• Shape the nose, cheeks, and neck so it looks natural.

Insert the Stick:

• Take a smooth wooden stick and slide it up into the neck opening.
• Push it in deep enough so the head feels secure.
• Fold the fabric around the stick and sew or glue it closed tightly. You can even tie a ribbon around it to make it extra strong.

Step 5 – Add Personality and Style

This is where your horse becomes your horse. You can customize your horse the way you want by adding decorative elements and then you can assign a favorite name to your hobby horse.

Here are few ideas for customization.

• Eyes: Use buttons, felt, or even googly eyes.
• Nostrils: Draw or stitch little curves near the nose.
• Bridle or Halter: Use thin ribbon or lace to “dress” the horse.
• Bridle or Halter: Use thin ribbon or lace to “dress” the horse.
• Extras: Ribbons in the mane, flowers, glitter glue accents.

That’s it! You’ve turned fabric and yarn into a real, rideable, loveable hobby horse. Now you can:

• Practice tricks and jumps.
• Ride around with friends.
• Give your horse a name and backstory.
• Even start training for your first competition!

Where to buy hobby horses

Downloadable Colouring Pages