Just started to learn to sew as an expectant father (to make blankets and clothes) and remembered my favorite interaction design computer science researcher, Takeo Igarashi, and his awesome work on Teddy3D, and later, Plushie.
Plushie is based on the Teddy3D software, which lets you create 3D models by using a 2D drawing interface. Plushie takes it a step further and simulates stuffing and creates a sewing pattern for you to make stuffed animals from.
They have a demo video on the page showing a workshop they did with kids designing and sewing plush toys. Definitely worth a look!
