A lot of sewers have tackled this easy project. I turned mine into a game. I was enamored with the idea of creating some of these super simple bean bags, but I wanted more than just a few bags to keep the busy boys, well, busy.
I created this mat to toss the bags onto. The mat was made with 6 different 8.5 inch squares. I appliqued a number in each square so we can keep score (I always use double-sided fusible web to hold the applique in place while I sew). Keeping the numbers low (1, 2, and 3) allows my 5-year-old to total the points on his own. This game will help him start learning simple math.
These bean bags are so simple to make. I bought a Central Park by Kate Spain charm pack during my last visit to a local quilt shop and the size is perfect for this project. I was nervous to use my coveted charm pack for the bags (I confess to hoarding gorgeous fabric), but I just love how they turned out. I used the same fabric for the backs as I used for the binding, but I could easily have used more charms.
These bags measure 4.5 inches square. I filled them with about 2/3 cup of cheap white rice. This amount filled the bags about 3/4 full. I used almost 2 lbs of rice to fill 6 bags.
I just can't get enough of these.
And since I can't stand when accessories stray from their toys, I added a few extra details to transform the mat into a carrying case for the bean bags: a tri-fold style, side flanges with hook and loop tape, a hook and loop closure, and a convenient handle for easy transport.
Now the game can stay together and we don't have to go searching for the bags before we can play.
This was just one of the ideas I came up with for a bean bag game. There are so many other ways to go with this (a bullseye style mat and nesting baskets to throw the bags into were a few of my other ideas). I think this game might just be my go-to gift for little ones now.
Great idea!!!!!
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