It depends on the project’s feel, support, and care needs. Here are popular options:

• Polyester fiberfill: Soft, springy, and lightweight; often used for plushies and pillows. Many products are machine washable, but it’s best to check packaging.
• Shredded foam or foam sheets: Offers more structure and support for cushions and seats.
• Plastic pellets/beads: Adds weight and drape to dolls or doorstops; place in a sewn pouch and keep away from small children.
• Paper shred/raffia: Great for gift baskets and decorative stuffing.
• Batting/wadding: Smooth padding for quilting or upholstery layers.

Walmart carries small bags for quick makes and bulk options for larger projects, with pickup and delivery available in many areas.

If you’re out of standard fiberfill, these alternatives can work:

• Fabric and yarn scraps: Snip into small pieces for a smoother fill.
• Quilt batting offcuts: Wrap or shred to pad soft items and edges.
• Upholstery foam sheets: Cut to shape for cushions and bench pads.
• Shredded foam: Reuse clean pillow or cushion fill for adjustable loft.
• Paper shred/raffia: Ideal for baskets and packaging, not plush toys.

Avoid food-based fillers (like rice or beans), which can attract moisture or pests. For weighted projects, consider plastic pellets secured in a fabric pouch to reduce leaks. Testing on a small section can help you dial in the feel.

Knitted and crocheted toys benefit from fillings that hold shape without showing through stitches.

• Polyester fiberfill: A go-to for its light weight and bounce. Add in small tufts and pack evenly to reduce lumps.
• Weighted pellets: If you want the toy to sit upright, place pellets in a sewn pouch and insert centrally.
• Lining tip: A thin fabric liner (such as a stocking) can help keep fibers or pellets from migrating.
• Care: Cleaning depends on the yarn and filler. Spot clean when possible, or follow the gentlest care directions for both materials.

Most white craft stuffing on this page refers to synthetic fiber fills.

• Polyester fiberfill: Fine, fluffy fibers processed to create loft for pillows, plush toys, and general crafts.
• Hollow fiber variants: Fibers formed with a hollow core to enhance resilience and bounce.
• Format options: You’ll also see preformed batts, foam beads, shredded foam, and dense foam sheets for more structured projects.

These materials are typically lightweight and easy to shape. Care and washability vary, so it’s a good idea to check product packaging before laundering finished items.

There’s a wide range to match different projects:

• Polyester fiberfill: Classic loose fill for plush toys and pillows, from small bags to bulk boxes.
• High-density foam sheets and rolls: Cut-to-size support for chairs, benches, and cushions.
• Shredded foam (including memory and latex types): Adjustable loft for pillows, pet beds, and bean-bag–style seating.
• Plastic pellets and beads: Adds weight for dolls, weighted blankets, and crafts.
• Batting/wadding: Thin padding for quilting and upholstery.
• Crinkle paper and raffia shred: Decorative basket filler and protective packaging.

Many items are available for pickup or delivery, so you can stock up in the format that fits your project and timeline.