Summer

I know I haven't posted in a while again.  But I have had computer burn out a little bit and it's just simply Summer!  So I have been enjoying that. 

I also have a kitten which of course takes up more time than you might think.  Above are pictures of Penelope with Buster.  He loves kitties, and she growing and getting into all the sorts of trouble kittens get into.

I also wanted to let you know that I am going to do the class in October.  I think that's best since people are outside and on vacation...and classes are just fun in the Autumn.  At least I think so.

I hope you are all enjoying your Summer as well!  I will return soon!

Hugs, K. <3

Inside And Outside

First of all I want to apologize to you, I know I haven't been making my usual "indepth" posts about things and some of you have sent me e-mails wondering why I have stopped.  I will be back to making those posts soon, but for right now I have been working virtually around the clock to get pieces done for this upcoming show in Philly in May, so I just haven't had time.  I keep thinking of topics I want to talk about, but I end up falling into bed in an exhausted heap instead.  Now on to the post...

Sometimes I forget that not every artist does the basics in the same way.  I know that many artists hand sew some of their smaller pieces like I do, and others can sew them on a machine.  Even for those who do it by hand, I really have no idea how they do it.  I have rarely watched other artists work.  But I thought I would show you the "inside" of one of the little 7 inch bears I am working on, it's not something I have ever thought about showing before.  I suddenly thought you might like to see it. 

When I hand sew I don't do it the same way I would if I were sewing with a regular fabric like cotton or something.  I don't take a few running stitches at a time.  Each tiny stitch is done one at a time, pulled through securely and then I move on to the next.  It's a lengthy process, but I like the results.  I am sort of picky about stitches showing.  You can't stop it 100 percent, but I certainly try. 

I have discovered an interesting side effect of hand sewing.  You get into a rhythmic pattern and it's almost like a form of meditation because you achieve something akin to a zen state. 

Now for the "outside" part...I have a sneak peek for you.  I got the box of mohair for the class today.  Isn't it beautiful!  It's this perfect old gold distressed short mohair.  I can't wait to get started making it and taking pictures so you can see what I will be teaching!  Unfortunately it might take a little time since I need R's help.  I can't put the bear together and take the pictures of me putting it together to show you how, since it will require more than 2 hands! 

In the mean time...the pink bear in the first picture and a squirrell are waiting for me to finish them...hi ho hi ho...off to work I go!

A Class Act ~ I Need Some Feedback

What I am about to tell you has absolutely nothing to do with the bear in the picture.  He is the bear I am currently working on...he isn't done, I am still detailing him and of course he needs to be dressed.  But I know you guys like pics so I thought I would take one real fast to add.  Besides you won't get to see him finished anyway since he is going to Philly for the show.

Now on to what I did want to talk about...yesterday I called and ordered a bunch of mohair.  I have had an idea in the back of my mind for about a year now, and I finally got around to figuring out all the details of making it happen.  In the next week to two weeks I am going to make a bear that I intend to teach as a class online.  I have taught quite a few classes at show in the past and they were always so much fun!  But I know that people can't always get to a show to do a class, especially if they live in another country.  This is something you can do in the comfort of your own home at your own pace.

I am going to design a bear pattern specifically for the class, and you will get a kit and online detailed instructions with pictures on how to make it.  It will still be the standard distressed, traditional style that I make.  I just want to do a pattern that is especially for the class.  You will be able to ask questions and we will have some discussion, etc.  I will give you all the details on that when I formally announce it.  There is also going to be a fun surprise too...but you will just have to wait and see.

Now what I need before I start designing is some feedback from you guys.  First of all would you like to take a class like that?  Also what size bear would you want to make if you did?  Do you prefer presewn parts in a kit/for a class or would you rather sew them yourself?  Anything else you might want to suggest would be appreciated.  I will take any and all comments under advisement.

Again, the bear I will teaching is NOT the bear in the pic above! Just wanted to make sure no one thinks it is!

Thanks a lot!  Hugs, K. <3