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!
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