An Opinionated Amphibian
This guy originated with a pattern from Ann Wood Handmade. She featured this project in a holiday email, and I felt like my life needed this rather judgemental-looking frog in my life. He was slow-stitched using recycled home decor fabric scraps, threads, and buttons, and sports a cozy scrap wool felt scarf. I sourced most of the supplies at Scrap Creative Reuse, and maybe spent a total of $6 to make him.
I admit that it took me a bit to get into the project. At the outset it felt pretty straightforward, but as I worked, it became more frustrating than I imagined and I had to set it down for a few weeks. Once I collected my nerve once more and moved into the rhythm of slow stitching, the project became easier and enjoyable. In the end, I learned that taking shortcuts in construction is unwise (one leg was subjected to the seam ripper). I also discovered that inserting stuffing, hiding knots and finishing seams are art forms of their own. Hand sewing is a funny process. It can be very soothing, but if you try to work fast you will tangle your threads, drop needles, miss-stitch areas and get quite frustrated. The process teaches steady and slow movements and quiets your mind.
This guy enjoyed the holidays seated on our mantle and acted as our Judgmental Amphibian on the Shelf. He has since made himself a rock chair in my studio where he provides his amphibian critiques.
Frog Work in Progress
Frog in the Studio
An Elvish Green Owl
This Green Owl was hand-sewn using fabric scraps from an elvish dress my daughter made for Halloween one year along with a home-decor remnant scrap. I did purchase the stuffing and the buttons for the eyes. The owl pattern also came from Ann Wood Handmade.
Owl hangs out in my studio and is much less opinionated than Frog.
Owl work in progress
