Art Nest's Forest Fawn Stuffie

Art Nest's Forest Fawn Stuffie Pattern is now available in a PDF format that will be e-mailed to you - no more shipping costs!

Description
This Forest Fawn Stuffie pattern includes a supply list, full sized pattern pieces and step-by-step photographed instructions for hand-stitching your own forest fawn. I recommend using wool felt for fawns! [click on the above link to read more]


These fawns are perfect for nature tables and would be so cute this Christmas for stocking stuffers or ornaments...Simply lovely!

A Week in Review

I've been painting portraits, sewing shirts, re-taking photos of B (click on picture to enlarge?), playing at the park, and glad to be back online!!

Remember Newsies? My aunt was on the set designing team (she's an architect) for the film and I could sit for hours listening to how she and her team recreated the early 1900 New York streets...she was also always happy to tell me just how polite and talented Christian Bale was (is) and how she knew he would have a bright future in the industry.

I recently had the opportunity to design and create my own version of newsboy outfits for a local dance production. Above is the progress so far...I wish that boys still dressed this dapper! Can you tell that my daughter is modeling - she was being such a stinker...she's actually on the cell phone...it was the only way to keep her still long enough~

Today I had an 'ah-ha' moment with the zipper installation. I really can't tell you how much easier the 'right way' is. I decided to forget the band at the top...it wasn't functional - and you know at the Art Nest I'm trying to live and create more simply. I now need to work on polishing the details: 1) lining up the zipper in the center 2) sewing closer to the zipper 3) what is my new fascination with zippers anyway?!
I carved the little bird stamp by hand several months ago and she's appearing on lots of my creations these days. I have recently been neglecting my block prints - my first love. Poor, lonely printing supplies~

I've never sewn a zipper in. I've never lined anything. I've never sewn a purse. So, let's just say that this little clutch project was very educational. I had grand plans of hand embroidered sparrows in the corners of the clutch but after I took a wrong turn with the zipper installation, I decided to just finish the project and started re-evaluating my strategy.
I do love the color combinations (plum zipper + mustard fabric = breathless me).
I learn the best by trial and error. I've always been that way. I am excited to start another clutch tomorrow...this time armed with new blueprints and a bit of experience.

I've recently invested in some new watercolor paint brushes. It is important to keep brushes separated by the medium they are intended for. As I was contemplating how to store my new brushes and paints, I knew I did not want to use a plastic bin or another ugly coffee mug. I decided to make my own custom tote. After an entire day of tedious sewing, I am pleased to share the results with you.
To the right, there is a brush storage pocket that is specifically measured to fit my brushes. On the left, a paint storage section that holds 15-26 tubes of watercolor paint. A striped flap folds over the top of the brushes to prevent them from slipping out. The interior is canvas and the pockets are Heather Ross fabrics. The outside is my favorite part: a found tea towel and hand stamped art nest label. The gray and cream stripes are so dreamy and complimented the light colors of the the interior. I used four D-rings and created canvas belts to keep the the tote snugly rolled. Creating this paint and brush tote was a very rewarding experience. I know that it will accompany me in all my artistic endeavors!
On a side note: the background for these photographs is my painting table. Years ago I literally pulled the table out of a pile of clutter on the side of the road. My father had it refinished as a surprise. I was so touched my his encouraging gesture!

This is the third doll clothing swap I have had the pleasure of hosting. I've enjoyed hosting these swaps and have met several wonderful, talented people doing so. A doll clothing swap is a fun way to add unique outfits to your 18" doll collection. Not sure where to begin? Look through your fabric store's pattern books. Simplicity offers some adorable retro patterns. I highly recommend using a pattern to ensure the proper fit for your partners doll. If you are interested in joining, please read the following information below:

• This swap is for 18" American Girl type dolls.


• All clothing must be sewn. Please no knitted outfits.


• You will create 2 outfits. Each will be sent to a separate swap partner.


• I am defining 'outfit' as a dress, shirt & skirt, or shirt & pant.


• You can display the outfits you give and receive at this Flickr Group


• Sign up is now - May 15th, 2009


• Mail out is June 1st, 2009

I know the above dates sound far away but I want to make sure you have plenty of time to plan and sew your doll clothes. You can sign up here:

doll_clothing_swap[at]yahoo[dot]com subject line: spring 2009

Please send inquiries to the above e-mail address. Merci!

PS: Feel free to use the image above as a button to advertise the swap on your blog!