Patchwork Hacky Sack Free Pattern

Learn how to sew soft hacky sack snowballs that are fun to toss, easy to make, and perfect for using up fabric scraps. This is one of those quick projects that doesn’t take much time but ends up being used over and over again.

If you’ve got leftover fabric pieces and want something simple to sew, this is a great option. These little fabric balls are soft, lightweight, and safe for indoor play—making them perfect for kids, classrooms, or just a bit of fun around the house.

They’re also a nice break from bigger projects. You can sit down, sew a few in one go, and actually finish something start to finish.

You’ll notice in the photos and steps that a fuzzy fabric is used to give these a soft “snowball” look. That’s totally optional. This project works just as well with any fabric you have on hand—cotton, flannel, or even scraps from other projects. The steps stay the same, so feel free to use what you already have and make them your own.

This hacky sack snowball tutorial is totally given credit to my Sister-in-law Amber. She passed these around at our Christmas party this year and they were a hit….with the adults.

Materials needed:
white fleece – you can go with the fuzzy fleece too or a fake fur
template for the hacky sack ball

polyfil stuffing

Download the pdf file for this project here

Hacky Sack Snowballs

1) Cut out the hacky sack templates

2) Cut out two pieces per snowball using the templates

3) Pin the center of the rounded end to the center of the valley

4) Continue pinning around the sides. The centers should match up just like you did in step 3

5) Sew all the way around the piece, leaving a 2″ opening

6) Turn right sides out and stuff firmly with polyfil

7) Stitch the opening closed with a ladder stitch (quick ladder stitch tutorial just in case you need help with that)

These are so fun to make and the more you have the funner it is.

Perfect for indoor fun…when it’s too cold to go outside and play in the snow. They are pretty family room friendly as they are soft, but if they get in the hand with the ‘tough’ kids you might run into a couple of problems.

Really though, I’d actually rather get hit with one of these in the face then a real snowball! (does anyone else have a target on their upper body with a snowball?!)

Tips for Best Results

• Use tight seams so the filling doesn’t work its way out
• Clip curves carefully so the shape turns nicely
• Don’t overfill—leave just enough room so they stay soft and flexible
• Try different fabric types for variety (cotton, flannel, etc.)

You can also make a few in different sizes to see which ones you like best.

What to Use for Filling

The filling you choose will change how your snowballs feel and behave, so it’s worth thinking about what you want them to do.

Here are a few options:

• Rice or beans – gives a little weight and a classic “hacky sack” feel
• Polyfill (stuffing) – softer and lighter, better for younger kids
• Fabric scraps – a great way to reuse tiny pieces from your stash
• Plastic pellets – adds weight without bulk

If you’re making these for younger kids, stick with softer fillings and make sure everything is securely stitched.

This is one of those projects that checks all the boxes—quick, easy, and a great way to use what you already have. You can make a handful in an afternoon and have something fun and useful right away.

Whether you’re sewing for kids, using up scraps, or just want a small project you can actually finish, these hacky sack snowballs are a good one to keep on your list.

More Fun Sewing Project for Kids

Square Fabric Blocks

Using 5 quilt block squares and some polyfil you are set to sew. These soft play blocks are a favorite of all kids.

Fish Tosh Game

Make simple fabric fish and a buck for a fun toss game.

Tic Tac Toss

This game of tic tac toss is super simple! Sew up some circles – and you are set to begin the fun.

Looking for other snow fun projects? How about a snowman pillow and quilt.

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