Okay, so I’ve been wanting to make one of those “talking” pet toys for a while now. You know, the kind where you press a button and it plays a pre-recorded message? Figured it’d be a fun little project, and my dog, Buster, would probably get a kick out of it. Or, at least, be thoroughly confused. Either way, entertainment!
Getting Started
First things first, I needed a toy. I grabbed one of Buster’s old plushies that he’d already ripped the squeaker out of – perfect! It already had a hole, which would save me some work. Then I needed the guts: a recordable sound module.I ordered on online. Pretty cheap, like five bucks. You could find in some toys store I think.
The Surgery
Once the sound module arrived, it was time for “surgery.” I carefully opened up the seam of the plushie a bit more, just enough to stuff the module inside. Pro tip: use a seam ripper if you have one. Makes things way easier and neater than scissors.
- Open the plush toys
- Get the sound module.
Recording the Message
Next, I had to record the message. This took a few tries, I recorded my voice with “Hey, Buster! Good boy!”. It is funny.I tried to be a good * I recorded the voice, I need to test it.
I held down the record button on the module, spoke clearly into the little microphone, and then released the button. Played it back to make sure it sounded okay. Took a couple of attempts to get the volume and clarity right.
Putting It All Together
- record button on the module
- spoke voice
- released the button
With the message recorded, I carefully stuffed the module into the plushie, making sure the button was positioned where it could be easily pressed through the fabric. I didn’t want to have to dig around for it every time.
Sewing It Up
Last step was sewing the plushie back up. I’m no expert with a needle and thread, but I managed a decent-looking (and hopefully strong) stitch. Just a basic whip stitch did the trick. I double-knotted the thread at the end to make sure it wouldn’t unravel.
The Big Reveal
And that was it! Time to give it to Buster. He was initially suspicious, sniffing it all over. Then I pressed the button, and his ears perked right up. He started nudging it and pawing at it, trying to figure out where the voice was coming from. It was hilarious! He hasn’t quite figured out how to press the button himself yet, but I’m sure he’ll get there eventually. Or maybe he’ll just enjoy the mystery of the talking toy. We’ll see!
