DIY Ferret Crinkle Sack with Open Mouth Design: Easy Sewing Tutorial

Updated at: 09/05/2025

Ferrets, with their playful and inquisitive nature, adore enrichment toys that stimulate their senses. Crinkle sacks are a popular choice, providing a fun, textured hiding place and a satisfying crinkling sound that captivates these curious creatures. However, store-bought options can be expensive and may not always be made with the safest materials. That's why we're thrilled to share this easy-to-follow tutorial for creating your own DIY ferret crinkle sack with a unique open-mouth design! This design offers easier access for your ferret and allows for better visibility, making it an even more appealing and engaging toy.

This open-mouth crinkle sack is surprisingly simple to sew, even for beginners, requiring only basic sewing skills and readily available materials. Forget expensive pet store purchases; you can tailor the size and fabric to perfectly suit your ferret's preferences and ensure it's made with durable, ferret-safe materials. Ready to get started creating a fun and enriching toy for your beloved ferret? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Flannel fabric
  • Minky fleece (or fleece)
  • Scissors
  • Pen/Pencil
  • Ruler
  • Sewing machine (hand-stitching possible)
  • Boning (from Amazon or craft store)
  • Crinkle paper (from Amazon)
Safety Guidelines
  • Always supervise your ferret when using the crinkle sack. Ferrets can get tangled or injured if left unsupervised.
  • Use only strong, durable fabric that won't easily tear or fray. Avoid fabrics with small, loose pieces that could be ingested.
  • Ensure all seams are securely stitched and there are no loose threads that your ferret could chew and swallow.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Fabric and Crinkle Paper

    • 24x16 inches).
    • Cut crinkle paper slightly smaller than the fabric, leaving about an inch gap at the opening.
    • Pin crinkle paper to both sides of the flannel rectangle.
    Pin crinkle paper to both sides of the flannel rectangle.Pin crinkle paper to both sides of the flannel rectangle.Pin crinkle paper to both sides of the flannel rectangle.
    Prepare Fabric and Crinkle Paper

  2. Sew the Flannel Sack

    • Sew three sides of the flannel rectangle, leaving the top open.
    Sew three sides of the flannel rectangle, leaving the top open.
    Sew the Flannel Sack

  3. Sew the Minky/Fleece Sack

    • 16x27 inches). Stitch three sides, leaving the top open.
    Cut minky/fleece to a size 3 inches longer than the flannel piece (example: 16x27 inches). Stitch three sides, leaving the top open.
    Sew the Minky/Fleece Sack

  4. Assemble the Sacks

    • Place the minky/fleece sack inside the flannel sack, aligning seams. Leave 3 inches of minky/fleece extending from the top.
    • Fold the extra minky/fleece over the top of the flannel sack, enclosing the raw edges. Pin securely.
    Fold the extra minky/fleece over the top of the flannel sack, enclosing the raw edges. Pin securely.Fold the extra minky/fleece over the top of the flannel sack, enclosing the raw edges. Pin securely.
    Assemble the Sacks

  5. Secure and Finish the Opening

    • Stitch the folded minky/fleece to the flannel sack, leaving a small opening for boning.
    • Insert boning through the opening. Stitch across the opening to secure the boning and close the gap. Add an extra stitch line just below the boning to prevent movement.
    Insert boning through the opening. Stitch across the opening to secure the boning and close the gap. Add an extra stitch line just below the boning to prevent movement.Insert boning through the opening. Stitch across the opening to secure the boning and close the gap. Add an extra stitch line just below the boning to prevent movement.
    Secure and Finish the Opening

  6. Optional: Reinforce Corners

    • Add a small stitch in each corner to secure the inner and outer fabric layers more firmly.
    Optional: Add a small stitch in each corner to secure the inner and outer fabric layers more firmly.
    Optional: Reinforce Corners

Read more: No-Sew Sock Cat Tutorial: Adorable DIY Project

Tips

  • If stitching over crinkle paper is difficult, sew the fabric first, then add crinkle paper with larger stitches to secure it in place.
  • To keep the boning from shifting, add extra stitches next to the boning after it's inserted.
  • Use clips to hold the fabric together while sewing to prevent the boning from moving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Seam Allowance

Reason: Inconsistent seam allowance throughout the project can lead to a lopsided or misshapen crinkle sack.
Solution: Use a seam guide on your sewing machine or carefully measure and mark your seam allowance before sewing.

2. Improperly Secured Opening

Reason: A poorly finished opening can lead to fraying, the opening becoming too large, or the sack falling apart over time.
Solution: Use a zig-zag stitch or serger to finish the edges of the opening and reinforce the seams around the opening with extra stitching.

3. Fabric Choice Issues

Reason: Using a fabric that is too thin or too stiff can create a crinkle sack that is either too fragile or doesn't crinkle properly.
Solution: Choose a medium-weight fabric with some give, such as fleece or canvas, for optimal crinkling and durability.

FAQs

What kind of fabric is best for a ferret crinkle sack?
Soft, durable fabrics like fleece or cotton are ideal. Avoid anything with loose threads or small parts that could be ingested by your ferret. Pre-washed fabric is recommended to prevent shrinkage.
How do I ensure the crinkle sack is safe for my ferret?
Always supervise your ferret with any new toy. Check the seams regularly for any damage and replace the sack if it becomes worn or torn. Avoid using any fabrics treated with harsh chemicals or dyes.
Can I use a different filling material besides crinkle fabric?
Yes, you can experiment with other safe materials such as stuffing, soft shredded paper (ensure it's non-toxic and ink-free), or even clean, soft scraps of fabric. Just make sure it's securely sewn in and won't pose a choking hazard.