Welcome to the gentle, handmade world of L'Atelier d'Elisabeth, created by designer Elisabeth Jus. Her instructions explain, step by step and with full-size patterns, how to bring lovely fabric soft toys and dolls to life - sewing that's accessible to beginners and more experienced stitchers alike.

Her menagerie is full of charm: Anatole the donkey, Lucky and Minette the cats (even sweeter as a pair, with their tails intertwined), Paco and Valentine the rabbits dressed in their little outfits, Betsy the bear cub and L'ours de mon enfance, a jointed teddy bear with a retro charm. Not forgetting Madame and Mr Souris in their matching outfits, Mr Hérisson with his pumpkin, the lovely Gwendoline doll, Mme cocotte's family of hens, and the Chouette cale-porte owl doorstop in felt or fabric, as decorative as it is useful.

Each creation is designed to be made at home, with clear instructions and patterns included - perfect for giving, or treating yourself to, a fabric companion full of personality.