pammy dawn designs

Gingerbread Christmas Collection

2011-10-18T22:07:00.000-07:00

Fun and fabulous holiday line by Chew Chew's Closet on Etsy. Sassy, sweet, and oh so comfortable! Simply the best.

Spring Wildflowers Collection

2011-03-03T08:14:00.000-08:00

I'm so pleased with the way this photo shoot turned out! Who knew a sprinkler and green umbrella would so make the photos??

Of course there isn't much that wouldn't make this outfit adorable because it is SUPER CUTE! Thanks so much to Darcy for the opportunity to photograph your amazing clothing. Skirt and tops available from the amazingly talented Chew Chew's Closet.

Easter Dress!

2011-02-26T16:03:00.000-08:00

I am so in love with the sweetest Easter ensemble EVER. This twirly, tutu-like skirt is adorable, and perfect in pink and brown - the sweetest little girl color combination (in my humble opinion).

The little top is so soft and sweet, plus who can resist a delectable chocolate bunny? I just want to take a bite....

Darcy at Chew Chew's Closet has really outdone herself with her spring line! I'm in love!!

How to Make Waldorf Doll Dresses

2010-12-09T08:50:00.000-08:00

Looking for an easy and inexpensive way to clothe your Waldorf doll? I dug through a sack of old baby clothes and found some dresses with cute hemlines that I upcycled into doll dresses. Very simple, cheap, and took very minimal time since the bottom edges were already finished.

I used this tutorial from Inditutes to give me an idea of pattern shape. The sizing was a bit tricky however. The first dress was a bit tight on the doll, so I increased the pattern size by about a 1/2 inch all the way around and the second dress was much better fitting and easier to get on the doll.

Materials: old children's clothes or light-weight fabric, 1/4" elastic

Measure your doll, and using the tutorial, create a simple block shape pattern. Be sure that your arm and neck holes will be sufficient to allow the doll to be easily clothed by a child.

Position your fabric or old clothes so that the hemline will be utilized (and you won't have to add a hem on either the sleeves or the dress) by placing the bottom edge of both pattern pieces along the hemline.

Following the tutorial, stitch it all together using 1/4" seams, make the neckline casing for the elastic, and voila! A quick and easy dolly dress.

I made some little matching panties using a simple rectangle of matching fabric. If you have anymore hemline available, cut the rectangle along the hemline so you'll only have to finish one edge. Fold the rectangle in half and stitch. Add an elastic casing at the top for 1/4" elastic. In the center of the rectangle, tack the bottom to create 2 leg openings. They are more of a boxer-short shape than panties, but are very simple and quick.

Waldorf Doll Making Part 4

2010-12-06T16:13:00.000-08:00

Ta da! Here is the final doll (minus clothing... that is yet to be assembled).

Waldorf Doll Making Part 3

2010-12-06T14:37:00.000-08:00

Time for the last leg of my Waldorf Doll adventure (finally!!) - looks like Julia will have her Christmas dolly after all! (See Part 1 and Part 2)

I finished closing all the seams around the neck and arms. Next was to shape the leg seams - thighs and ankles.

I chose a lavender blue embroidery floss for the eyes. It took me a bit to get them right - I started with them smaller, then went back and made them larger. This photo is a bit creepy I think with the pins marking the mouth!

Ah, much better. A few passes with the embroidery thread for the mouth, and now it really looks like a doll!

A bit of pink for the cheeks.

This is the first layer of yarn for the hair - I can't wait to get it all on - 2 more layers and then I'll be ready to make her some dresses.

Waldorf Doll Making Part 2

2010-09-26T10:22:00.000-07:00

Once I finished the head and shoulders, I couldn't wait to keep going! (see Part 1) For the body, I was very happy to use the sewing machine. The kit came with super soft cotton knit screen printed with the pattern for the arms and body/legs. How easy to just stitch it right up along the lines, then cut it all out afterward! I used a triple stitch for stretch, and a ball point needle. For the first time in my sewing life, I had no hang-ups, no fabric got sucked into the machine, and I didn't break a needle or the thread. The sewing gods were smiling down upon me!!

Here is a photo breakdown of my progress:

Finished sewing, cut out the pieces

Turned, ready to be stuffed with wool

All stuffed, pinned at the joints, and sewing the arms to the shoulders

Dolly head and arms connected

Almost fully connected, about to stitch up the arm holes and neck

She is surprisingly heavy from the weight of the wool - not like a doll stuffed with synthetic fibers. I love that she is all cotton and wool - she feels awesome!

Waldorf Doll Making Part 1

2010-09-24T17:44:00.000-07:00

While perusing Etsy one day, I came across some fantastic Waldorf-inspired dolls that my little princess fell in love with, and prompted, "Mommy! I want one!"

I thought, Maybe I can make one myself!

I found a relatively inexpensive kit online at Weir Dolls and Crafts and it has sat, patiently waiting, in my office closet until today.

Now I find I would happily work all night on it without stop until it is complete, but family calls...

Here is a photo process of my Waldorf Doll journey, which so far consists of a blank dolly head... but think of the possibilities!

Prep the cotton tubing

Stuff it

Tie it off

Section off the head

I wanted it to have a nose, even though the kit didn't give directions, I found some easy directions online.

Wrap it tight

Whip stitch it up

Blue Christmas - Dress by Chew Chew's Closet

2010-09-12T10:11:00.000-07:00

Another gorgeous creation by the talented Darcy at Chew Chew's Closet. I love the play of fabrics in the tiers, and each is so tactilely soft that my daughter just wants to wear it all day. The sweet little Christmas buttons give it a touch of whimsy at the bodice, while the eyelet trim around the hem adds precious innocence to the dress. Simple, lovely, perfect for the holidays without being kitschy. Love it!

Mariposa at Rest - Monarch Butterfly Wool Felt Pin

2010-08-31T15:42:00.000-07:00

Mariposa is made-to-order, and hand-crafted using 100% wool felt. Each piece will be hand-cut and stitched, making this butterfly as unique and without duplicate as it's fluttering inspiration. (Photo is an example only, your butterfly wing pattern will be similar, but unique to your pin).

Wing details are carefully stitched to the front and back of the wings, and the wings gracefully arch in a resting position. Below the body in the center is a 1 inch bar pin, securely stitched to a base layer of felt. Nearly life-sized, Mariposa is 3 inches across, and about 1.5 inches tall.

Snow Much Fun Collection

2010-08-30T08:19:00.000-07:00

Darcy at Chew Chews Closet has really outdone herself for the upcoming 2010 holiday season! Her new line of tops, blouses, and skirts feature fun, bright, colorful fabrics, and adorable cuts and designs.

I love the way the snowman pleated blouse has sweet pleated details at the neckline and elastic arms and neck for easy fit and comfort. Layer it with a long sleeve T underneath, or for warmer climates, wear it alone with jeans or leggings.

I dare you to find a cuter holiday outfit than the Snow Much Fun twirl skirt and penguin or snow girl appliqued T ensemble! The skirt features three fun layers, and fantastic colorful fabric. Between the top and bottom fabric layers (made even cuter with the rik rak trim!) is a layer of fluffy green tulle -giving the skirt a tutu like feel. Happy twirling for the holidays!

Peace Baby Tunic

2010-08-30T08:10:00.000-07:00

Fantastic detailing and fun fabric make this lovely tunic from Chew Chews Closet a must-have for fashion-forward chicas. My daughter loves how it fits and feels, and we all know that is the most important! It doesn't matter how cute something is, if it doesn't feel great on, my daughter will not wear it for more than a couple minutes.

Adorable over leggings or jeans, layer it with a fun long-sleeve T-shirt, definitely adorable any way you go!

Apple Corduroy Dress by ChewChewsCloset

2010-08-09T22:05:00.000-07:00

This dress is fantastic! The baby wale corduroy is velvety soft, and I love the colorful array of apples. The details in this dress make it quite possibly one of the sweetest little back-to-school dresses I've ever seen. Cinching the back is an attached belt with a natural wooden button closure. Elastic looped natural buttons secure the back of the dress to the neck and open wide enough for easy on and off by a toddler with clumsy fingers.

Superbly made, the stitching is impeccable and reinforced to last for generations of use. I can't wait for the cooler weather so Julia can show it off! Thank you, Darcy, for another amazing creation.

Back to School Essentials

2010-08-09T15:46:00.000-07:00

Today I became a cliche... I dropped off my baby girl for her first day of preschool (yeah - I know, not even Kindergarten yet...) and I cried. At least I waited until I was back in the car. She was totally ready - extremely excited and confident. She smiled, gave Mommy a hug, and went to sit on the carpet with the teacher and the other kids. Apparently she is way more well-adjusted than I am... *pat self on the back*

Here are some of my favorite Back-To-School essentials:

Goodbyn Lunchbox

Back-to-school wouldn't be the same without a new lunch box! Julia loves her Goodbyn purple lunchbox (the main website was back-ordered, so I got hers on Amazon), and so do I. It is made in the USA, and is ecofriendly. It is also convenient and fun. The little compartments keep all the foods separated without having to use baggies or little tupperwares that easily get lost. Pick from a multitude of fun colors, and it also comes with many fun stickers so kids can personalize their box.

Backpacks and Book Bags

Messenger Bag by LilliansBags on Etsy

Carry All Tree Rings Bag by mediumcontrol on Etsy

New School Clothes

And my personal favorite for going back to school.... the new clothes!

Pink and Brown Flowered Corduroy Jumper by ChewChewsCloset on Etsy

Chocolate Suede Desert Boots by Naturino on endless.com

For the Boys...

CSL Boutique Real Tie in Jax by CandyStickLane on Etsy

Awesome Pencils!

Kawaii Koi Pencils by maoiliosa on Etsy

Harvest Pumpkin Winner!

2010-08-02T17:23:00.000-07:00

Thank you to everyone who participated in the Harvest Pumpkin hair clip giveaway. The winner was Rebecca Nunez of Florida.

Here is my daughter (straight from her nap time....) drawing out the winning name. Become a fan to stay on top of discounts and future giveaways!

New! Avocado Wool Pin

2010-07-27T11:49:00.000-07:00

Lush, ripe, ready for guacamole.

Made of layered 100% wool felt and merino wool roving, which was needle-felted to form the mounded two-tone pit and bumpy brown skin.

There are 4 layers of 100% wool felt, 2 deep brown, one dark green, and one avocado green, hand drawn and cut to form the body. The pit was made of merino wool fibers in 2 tones of warm brown, sculpted and needle-felted securely to the body. After securing the layers with cotton embroidery floss, the brown skin was given a layer of merino wool fiber to give it a bumpy avocado texture. Securely stitched to the back is a 1 inch bar pin.

This one-of-a-kind pin measures 2.5 inches tall.

Last Week for the Fall Giveaway!

2010-07-25T23:09:00.000-07:00

Only SIX days left to get in on the action! July 31st is the last day to be entered to win my Harvest Pumpkin hair clip or pin. Comment here with your favorite pammydawn creation or something you'd like to see in the shop.

You don't want to miss it!

Halloween Witch Hat Hair Clip or Pin

2010-07-23T16:40:00.000-07:00

New for Halloween 2010! Halloween Witch's Hat - make it a hair clip or a pin.

By pammydawn

Crooked little Witch's hat made of 100% wool felt and embroidered with 100% cotton green embroidery floss. Whimsical and fun, this clip or pin would be the perfect accessory to put you in the mood for Halloween tricks and treats. Available as a hair clip, or a pin brooch. As a hair clip, the hat encloses a 1.5 inch snap clip, completely hand-stitched securely in place. The hat measures approximately 2 inches tall.

Only 9 Days Left!

2010-07-22T13:36:00.000-07:00

Ooooh! Free stuff!!

Only 9 days left to get in on the action! July 31st is the last day to be entered to win my Harvest Pumpkin hair clip or pin. Comment here with your favorite pammydawn creation or something you'd like to see in the shop.

Don't miss out!

Frog and Water Lily Hair Clip Set

2010-07-20T09:26:00.001-07:00

Freddy Frog Hair Clip or Pin - by pammydawn

Frog and Water Lily Set of TWO - by pammydawn

Bring out your inner PRINCESS!

A lovely blush and cream water lily blossom and lily pad is floating just for you. It is made of 100% wool felt blossoms, each individually cut and assembled like a little petal puzzle. About 2 inches tall and 2.5 inches wide, it will enclose up to a 1.5 inch snap clip, but is also available as a French barrette or pin brooch.

Freddy Frog is made of 100% grass green wool felt and accented with merino wool roving that I needle-felted. Adoring googly eyes are wet-felted natural wool balls, securely stitched to his fat little head. Detailed needle-felted warts and underbelly are in a lime green. He sits atop a deep forest green 2 inch lily pad and rises about 1.5 inches high. Freddy encloses up to a 1.5 inch snap clip, but is also available as a French barrette or pin brooch.

Fall Giveaway!

2010-07-16T09:50:00.000-07:00

Hooray for giveaways! In honor of the approaching autumn months, I'll be giving away a Harvest Pumpkin hair clip or pin to one lucky Facebook fan or Pammy Dawn blog reader.

To be entered in the random drawing, become a fan on my Facebook page and comment on the giveaway entry posting letting me know your favorite Pammy Dawn shop item or something you'd like me to make in the future. You may also comment on this blog entry with the same information. For a second entry in the drawing, blog or link to this page and give me the link in the comments.

Make sure you leave a way for me to contact you in the comment, or become a fan on Facebook so I may send you a happy winnings message! Drawing will take place August 1st. All comments and entries must be posted by July 31st.

Boutique Children's Clothing by Chew Chews Closet

2010-07-14T08:55:00.000-07:00

Dainty Dollhouses Capri Pant and Halter Twirl Top

I challenge you to find cuter or higher quality children's clothing anywhere than from Darcy at Chew Chew's Closet. I'll admit, I'm a Gymboree addict, and love to spend more on my daughter's wardrobe than I do my own, but NONE of her outfits get more comments, smiles, and compliments than the gorgeous ensembles put together by this designer.

Fairytale Princess Personalized Shirt and Knit Ruffle Capris

Aside from the aesthetic quality, the clothing she makes is also incredibly comfortable. Whenever Julia dresses herself, inevitably she comes out dressed in something made by Darcy. It also wears well, and washes well - very high quality. Become a fan on Facebook - she has great sales too!

Juicy Lemon Apron Dress

Her newest line is for Halloween - and it is ADORABLE. I can't wait for the cool month of October to parade my little spunky witch around! Here she is in the Be-Witched Halloween ensemble:

Be-Witched Halloween T-Shirt and Twirl Skirt

Perky Punkin Personalized Shirt by ChewChewsCloset

Spring Flower Hair Clips and Pins

2010-05-16T14:34:00.000-07:00

Newest blooms for the spring and summer!

Multi-Hued Spring Hydrangea - by pammydawn

Forget-Me-Not and Sakura Blossom Hair Clips - by pammydawn

Blue Nikko Hydrangea - Wool Felt Pin or Hair Clip

2010-04-15T15:15:00.000-07:00

Spring Hydrangea - by pammydawn

Fresh and sweet, new blossoms for spring!

Each bloom contains more than 25 small hand-cut flowers, stitched securely onto multi-colored green leaves. Customize your hydrangea - use as many different colors as you would like, or only one. Please list your color choices in the notes at checkout.

This pin/hair clip measures approximately 2.5 inches in diameter. Colors pictured are Sky and Baby Blue with Royal Blue stitching.

Premium Hydrangea Pin or Hair Clip

2010-04-06T20:10:00.000-07:00

Spring Hydrangea - Premium Wool Felt Pin or Clip - by pammydawn

Fresh and sweet, new blossoms for spring! Each bloom contains more than 35 small hand-cut flowers, stitched securely onto multi-colored green leaves. Customize your hydrangea - use as many different colors as you would like, or only one. Please list your color choices in the notes at checkout. This pin measures approximately 2.5 inches in diameter. Colors pictured are cream and off-white with spring green stitching.

As featured on the front page of Etsy today!

Spring Hydrangea Flower - Wool Felt Pin or Hair Clip

2010-03-27T15:46:00.000-07:00

Spring Hydrangea Flower - by pammydawn

Shown in sage and cream

Shown in pink and baby pink

Shown in lilac and mauve

Fresh and sweet, new blossoms for spring! Each bloom contains more than 20 hand-cut flowers, stitched securely onto multi-colored green leaves. Customize your hydrangea - use as many different colors as you would like, or only one. Please list your color choices in the notes at checkout. Available as a pin brooch, snap clip, French barrette, or a magnet.

Royal Monarch Butterfly Pin or Hair Clip

2010-03-19T16:12:00.001-07:00

Mariposa - Open Monarch Butterfly Pin or Hair Clip - by pammydawn

Mariposa - the inspiration for this mini felt sculpture, is butterfly in Spanish. It is also the home in which I grew up, in the rolling foothills approaching Yosemite Valley. Sadly, you don't see as many majestic Monarchs there as in the past, but it is still one of the most beautiful places I know come Spring and the blush of wildflowers.

Mariposa is made-to-order, and hand-crafted using 100% wool felt. Each piece will be hand-cut and stitched, making this butterfly as unique and without duplicate as it's fluttering inspiration.

Backing this wearable art-work is a 1 inch bar pin, securely stitched to the fourth layer of felt. Nearly life-sized, Mariposa is 3.5 inches across, and about 2 inches tall.

Layered Wool Felt Flower Hair Clip or Pin

2010-03-17T21:59:00.000-07:00

Layered Petal Posy - Wool Felt Hair Clip or Pin - by pammydawn

Organic, free-form blossom, made from hand-cutting layers of 100% wool felt interspersed with needle and wet-felted wool layers to create a textured and full bloom. Nested in the center is a needle-felted crimson nubbin. This luscious 10 layered Posy was inspired by, and made to coordinate with, the English Cottage clothing line created by the very talented Chew Bug Designs.

Hand-made from cream, cranberry, and crimson felt, and as a hair clip, will enclose up to a 2 inch snap clip or French barrette. It would be equally captivating as a lapel pin! If you are interested in any other color combination, please contact me. I have many colors of felt, and would be happy to accommodate your custom desires!

Blue Morpho Butterfly Hair Clip or Pin

2010-03-13T17:07:00.000-08:00

Blue Morpho Butterfly Pin or Hair Clip - by pammydawn

Spring means renewal - what is more representative of renewing life than butterflies? Colorful and the embodiment of beauty, butterflies are a great inspiration for me. Trying to capture their unique wings in wool is an exciting challenge. The newest in my felt butterfly repertoire: The Blue Morpho.

Blue Morpho is made-to-order, and hand-crafted using 100% wool felt. Each piece will be hand-cut and needle felted, making this butterfly as unique and without duplicate as it's fluttering inspiration. (Photo is an example only, your butterfly wing pattern will be similar, but unique to your pin). Backing this wearable art-work is a 1 inch bar pin or hair clip, securely stitched to the third layer of felt. In life, Blue Morpho butterflies are 5-8 inches in width, this representation is nearly 3 inches across, and about 2.5 inches tall.

Spring Facebook Fan Sale

2010-02-21T13:51:00.000-08:00

Spring sale! Only for Facebook Fans - now through Easter (April 4th), fans enjoy 10% off. Become a fan to get the sale code!

SALE!!!

Water Lily Pin Brooch

2010-02-20T16:22:00.000-08:00

Water Lily - by pammydawn - $20 on Etsy

Fresh, lovely, serene.

Layers of white, cream, and yellow 100% wool felt have been needle felted together with merino wool roving. Nestled in the center of the bloom is a golden ball of merino wool. Securely attached to the muted green wool is a hinged bar pin. The bloom measures approximately 4.5" in diameter.

Shamrock Wool Felt Hair Clip, Pin, or Magnet

2010-02-12T11:28:00.000-08:00

Put on a little luck for St. Patrick's Day with a lovely, bright, grass green shamrock. Available as a pin, hair clip, or a magnet.

Shamrock - by pammydawn

Spring Desires

2010-02-11T14:39:00.000-08:00

I'm itching for some Etsy extravagance right now; ahem, hubby? Listening?? These are some of my current Etsy lust-items:

Leather Lust:

Gorgeous Tan Leather Satchel Bag - by SodaKitsch

Koi Cadillac Purse Wallet - by moxieandoliver

Cotton Lust:

The Evolution Dress - by gaiaconceptions

plumavera wrap - by zelaya

Just Plain Fabulous Lust:

Deep Teal Dupioni Raw Silk Wrap - by bonzie

Vintage Lace Silk Top - by prizysebastian

Spring Love Bird Hair Clip or Pin for Easter

2010-02-06T12:19:00.001-08:00

Spring Love Bird Hair Clip or Pin - by Pammy Dawn

Little Love Bird gets a Spring makeover! Spring time little love bird is made of aqua, baby pink, baby yellow, and apple green 100% wool felt with a needle-felted top knot. Layered hand-cut and hand-embroidered felt flapper measures about 2 inches from beak to tail feather. As a hair clip, little love bird will enclose a 1.5 inch snap clip and is also available as a French barrette, magnet, or pin brooch.

Valentine Punky Pirate Princess - Skull Heart Hair Clip

2010-02-06T09:20:00.000-08:00

I ♥ Princess Punky Bones - by Pammy Dawn

Princess Punky Bones has a new sister! For the smaller punk princess, skull and cross bones wears a bow and sits atop a double-decker heart and encloses a 1.25 inch snap clip.

The Original - Princess Punky Bones 2 inch clip - by Pammy Dawn

Spring Pansy Hair Clip or Pin

2010-02-05T15:58:00.000-08:00

New for Spring! Delight in the little things - who can resist a pretty little pansy? Nothing makes you feel as lovely as fresh spring blooms - adorn yourself or your little one with a pretty pansy to welcome spring.

Pretty Pansy Wool Felt Hair Clip or Pin by Pammy Dawn - $7

Little Love Bird Plush Holiday Ornament

2009-09-16T17:45:00.000-07:00

Sweet little love bird is made of chocolate brown, golden brown, turquoise and apple green 100% wool felt with a needle-felted top knot. Layered hand-cut and hand-embroidered felt flapper measures about 2 inches from beak to tail feather. Atop Little Love Bird is a wool felt loop to attach your favorite hanger... ribbon, thread, wire... (not included). The ornament has been lightly stuffed with 100% merino wool giving the body a plush rounded figure. The back of the ornament is plain chocolate felt, design only appears on the front.

Any of my store designs will work as a plush ornament. Contact me for details!

Wool Felt Magnets

2009-09-14T18:12:00.001-07:00

All Pammy Dawn creations are now available as magnets! I'm always on the lookout for new venues for my designs, so I was thrilled this last week when a customer requested my Fall Oak set be made into magnets.

I was interested to see how a magnet would work in my designs because I'm opposed to using glue on my felt creations. Everything is hand-stitched so I didn't want to glue a magnet to the back of them. I discovered that I could encase the magnet with a web of stitching WITHIN the felt body and the magnets still performed magnificently.

I chose large button magnets for their strength. The best part of not gluing the magnets to the back is that they will last much longer. Glue tends to lose strength after a while and peel off, causing the magnet to become a choking hazard. With the magnet enclosed within the felt, there is much less danger, and no harmful glue chemicals. I'm very excited to see how this avenue fares in the online market.

I ♥ Happy Customers

2009-09-09T23:09:00.000-07:00

The last two weeks I've been dragging bottom a bit - my 27 second grade students are a bit overly exuberant (putting it mildly), I caught a cold from one of them, Hubby has been working late, and my three-year-old munchkin keeps me on my toes daily. I can hear the violin music already - enough moping! I'm sure there are many with much heavier burdens than mine, but it's only human to wallow a bit now and then....

So I was just grouching along today, finally getting home from school (tomorrow is Back to School Night) at 10:00 PM, and wanting to just veg in front of my computer screen for a bit.

How surprised was I to open my email and discover the loveliest little piece of email joy - a happy customer completely made my day! I'm always so thrilled to hear back from customers, and it definitely perked me up to read her lively and lovely message. She gave me permission to share it with you - enjoy!

"Oh, my GOODNESS, Pamela!

Like, seriously!!!

I received my package and I am literally in seventh heaven -- I am ECSTATIC about the pins and I never knew I could love something so very much. You are a GENIUS with felt and a needle, for real! They are all perfect and I adore them one and all. I have placed them all on a large hobo bag that I got on sale at Target and they just make the bag POP. They look so sweet and adorable and awesome, and they really give the bag some much-needed character. The bag is soon to be my go-to bag for everything, so I'll be showing off your pins a LOT. :)

I'm going to take a picture of the bag with all the pins and post it as an appreciation photo on Etsy for you -- that way you can see your work in action! So I'm gonna hold off on leaving you feedback until I get that picture uploaded so I can post it along with the feedback.

I can't thank you enough for your attention to detail and amazing workwomanship! I really appreciate your work and I'm so thankful that I came across your Etsy shop. :)

So look for my feedback and appreciation photo in the next few days, k?

Thank you again and I'm sure I'll be back for more pins in the future! Yay! :)

Love,

Jen"

How can you not grin after reading that? Thanks Jen for brightening my day!

Matryoshka Doll Hair Clip or Pin

2009-09-07T10:55:00.000-07:00

The next installment in my holiday line of Heritage Hair Clips is a Russian Matryoshka doll. She is made of 100% wool felt and accented with merino wool roving that I needle-felted. About 2 inches tall, the doll encloses up to a 1.5 inch snap clip, but is also available as a French barrette or pin brooch. Like the traditional doll, she is completely customizable! Any color combination you can dream up, I have available for you!

Scarlet SALE

2009-09-03T07:28:00.000-07:00

For a limited time, all RED items in my store are reduced in price!

Hair Clip SALE! Fall Promotional Sale

2009-08-19T09:36:00.001-07:00

As a promotional for my new site on Facebook, I'm offering a discount through my Facebook site. Valid now through September 1st!

Visit, become a fan, SAVE!!!

American Girl Doll Slippers

2009-08-17T14:57:00.000-07:00

Julia loves her new American Girl doll, "Ruthie," recently acquired for her birthday, and her grandma and I have been making clothes and accessories for her. The cute green plaid flannel jammies were made by Grandma, and I thought Ruthie needed some fuzzy little slippers to wear to bed.

I used my baby shoe pattern that I previously posted about, and shrunk it on the scanner. I left the back part of the pattern off and curved the top down to meet the sole. I cut another strip of wool felt to make the back strap and needle-felted natural wool roving for the fluffy trim and in the footbed to make them nice and cushy.

If only I could make them in my size - they look comfortable!

Little Love Bird Hair Clip or Pin Brooch

2009-08-16T22:56:00.000-07:00

As a hair clip, little love bird will enclose a 1.5 inch snap clip and is also available as a French barrette or pin brooch.

Swedish Dala Horse Hair Clip or Pin

2009-08-16T22:51:00.000-07:00

Traditional Swedish Dala Horse in red, yellow and blue wool. The body of the horse is 100% wool felt with details needle-felt using 100% merino wool roving.

Available as a hair clip or pin brooch, Red Dala Horse measures about 2 inches from nose to rump. It encloses a 1.5 inch snap clip.

Partridge 'n a Pear Holiday Hair Clip Gift Set

2009-08-16T22:43:00.000-07:00

I've been focusing on some new holiday designs and here is one of the first of my new holiday line.

"On the first day of Christmas, my true love gave to me a partridge in a pear tree....." Well, not a pear TREE, but how about a Partridge AND a Pear? This lovely, unique gift set is made of 100% wool felt in lovely green, brown, and yellow with golden brown needle felted merino wool details.

Each pear and partridge are tiny works of art - the details are hand "shaded" with tiny wool fibers, so each set will be unique. Each measure between 1.5-2 inches and will enclose either 1.25 or 1.5 inch snap clips.

Also available as French barrettes or pin brooches. Please indicate your preference in the notes at checkout. Gift set will come in a gift box ready for gifting.

Needle Felted Ball - Jingle Frog!

2009-08-13T21:02:00.000-07:00

Ribbit! I had a blast making this fun wool felt project. I imagine there must be a faster way to make wool felt balls, but I just figured out a way to make them on my own, and built up some arm muscles in the process.

I was envisioning a baby toy or rattle for the frog, so I scavenged the house for a large jingle bell, and found none. I had some teeny tiny jingle bells, so I put 3 tiny bells inside an aluminum cap for cloth-covered buttons and began winding wool roving around and around. Occasionally, I'd tuck wool fibers in using my felting needles, tiny, barbed needles used to mesh the wool fibers together into a felt.

When it would get a bit lumpy, I'd stop wrapping and begin needle felting, jabbing the needle repeatedly and rotating the ball as I went to ensure an even felt. I did this about 3 times before I wrapped the ball with green roving (I used a natural wool roving for the center as it is cheaper than the dyed wool).

After felting the green roving evenly, I formed little green balls for the eyes and attached them, then created little balls of the same, slightly darker green wool for little warty spots on his back. A bright yellow ball of fluff was added for the eyes, then a chocolate brown for the center of the eyes. I decided I wanted him to have a protuberant nose, so I sculpted a mass of green wool to his face until I had a gradually sloping face.

Lastly, I twisted some chocolate brown roving into a long string and needle felted it in place as the mouth. It rattles quite satisfactorily, and even rattles continuously if you roll it across a table because the loose bells inside the button cover tumble as it rolls.

I'm not sure who I'm going to give it to yet, or if I'm going to sell it, but it was fun to make!

How to Start a Hair Clip or Bow Business - The Best Felt and Hair Clip Supplies

2009-08-12T09:02:00.000-07:00

Whether you only make hair clips and bows for your own daughter or you want to sell them online, going to Michaels and Walmart (or JoAnns, or wherever) for your supplies can get old, and EXPENSIVE.

When I first started my online business, I went to Michaels and Walmart for my supplies because I wasn't sure how my business would grow, and I didn't want to invest a bunch of money all at once. However, I would find that the supplies I needed were not constantly available, and I was paying for the "middle-man" mark-up, and all the extra packaging that went along with it.

Maximum savings is always achieved in BULK. Storage is definitely a factor - where will you put all your extra supplies? My office is a bit over-crowded, much to the chagrin of my lovably OCD hubby. So investing in a storage system is a good idea.

The categories of supplies you'll need are as follows:

❀Tools

❀Raw Materials

❀Hardware

❀Packaging

Assuming you already have the tools you will need for crafting (good sharp scissors, needles, etc.) your next basic materials will be your raw materials and hardware.

What kind of hair clips/bows will you make? Basic craft store felt is easily available (and pretty cheaply) at the craft store, but it is not very durable. Recycled and synthetic vegan felt is also available, but I haven't researched where to purchase that particular type of felt. I find that 100% wool felt is my choice, but there are also some excellent wool blend felts available in many lovely colors.

Some sellers on Etsy have done the bulk purchasing for you, and offer reasonable prices, but you are sometimes limited by quantity. However, it is a good option for someone starting up.

My favorite suppliers of felt are right here in the USA, small businesses with awesome customer service, and very fast turn-around. Weir Dolls has lovely felt, and also low shipping costs.
If you request it, they will send your package via first class mail, and refund you the extra shipping charges. I always go here first to save on shipping. Their color options are not very wide, but they have a decent selection. You can also find thread, wool roving, fabrics and other great supplies here while supporting another small business.

My second choice for felt supplies is another USA small business.
A Child's Dream Come True has a great selection of lovely wool felt, roving, you name it, but the shipping costs are a little high. When I need felt, I make sure I purchase many squares at once to spread the shipping cost out over a larger number of squares. If I need just one square of felt, I would use Weir Dolls.

Hardware choices are many, but I go for simplicity in ordering when I'm looking to purchase my supplies. You also want to make sure you aren't buying some nasty lead-coated metal clips or something.

I went through the expense of having these hair clips XRF tested, and they have been certified lead-free. I sent 3 sizes of snap clips and 3 sizes of French barrettes from Trimweaver and each came back as having NO LEAD at all. They offer bulk discount on hair clips, ribbon, and many other supplies.

After you've made your lovely creations, and are fortunate to have a sale, how are you going to package and ship them? I started out using some little boxes from Oriental Trading, but they were a bit irritating because I had to fold and glue them before I could mail out my packages. I discovered craft boxes from Paper Mart to be the best deal I've seen. You'll need a place to store them because they come in bulk, but the plain brown kraft jewelry boxes are 100% recycled content, and make packaging secure and gift-ready.

Bubble mailers from places like Office Max and Walmart are ok if you want to pay a bit more, but we're talking about something your buyer will potentially throw away - so I wouldn't want to spend too much. There are instructions online for making your own bubble mailers, but who has time for that??

I found Shipping Supply Co. has excellent prices and you get it FAST. The only problem is storing a huge box of bubble mailers. If you can work out where you will store your supplies, this place is a great one-stop for your shipping supplies.

Hopefully my trial and error will be helpful to other mommies wanting to start up a hair clip business, or just make fun clips for your family and friends. Happy crafting!

I ♥ Etsy

2009-08-11T11:22:00.000-07:00

Not only do I love selling my felt creations on Etsy, but I confess to spending a decent portion of my sales supporting the other artists on the fabulous marketplace! You can find ANYTHING on there, and the best part is that each purchase directly impacts a single artisan and their family. I feel great after each expenditure, knowing that my money is supporting a small-time business.

Most recently, I purchased decor for the "play room," which is currently bursting at the seams and needing storage overhaul, but one project at a time, right? The Disney theme began at an auction last year for the Make A Wish Foundation at which my first live auction participation also became my first live-auction purchase (I prefer to consider it a WIN).

An original Cinderella lithograph and segment of film from the Disney movie Cinderella coordinated gorgeously with the already blue walls.

I found a lovely photograph featuring the castle at Walt Disney World in Florida (someday I hope to actually see it in person...) from Steve Allat.

So the pair look lovely framing the play room window, but the walls are lacking. Enter vinyl wall decals!

I'm excited to receive this castle decal to decorate the wall above the guest bed in the play room (the room does double-duty I'm afraid... my apologies to those guests who are not Disney fans. Actually, if you dislike Disney, perhaps you aren't a welcome guest after all!!) from The Overloaded Noggin.

I also can't help but purchase adorable clothes for my daughter, whose closets are already full and bursting, but I can't resist a good sale! My most recent acquisition (which I am soooo excited to receive) is a darling autumn outfit from Candy Stick Lane. I'm planning on her wearing it for Thanksgiving, and any other function between now and the Christmas season. You won't find a nicer Etsy artisan or a cuter shop than Renee at Candy Stick Lane!

I could fill my blog with photos of the myriad of adorable children's clothes on Etsy, and perhaps I will once I'm finished purchasing ALL OF THEM! But I would feel a bit remiss if I never showered myself with Etsy treasure once in a while, so here are a few of my own little pleasures purchased this summer.

I have quite a developed and oft-indulged addiction to reading (hey, if you have to have an addiction, at least it is one that helps my brain rather than deteriorates it, right?) which prompted my hubby to get me a Kindle for my upcoming 30th birthday (ouch - I just admitted that in print....). Every new toy deserves its own accessory, so I found this awesome padded purse/bag dedicated to my Kindle and accessories from Borsa Bella.

Adding to my summer wardrobe was also high on my Etsy priority list. I've made a few purchases from Ahpeele for various seasons of style, and I love the quirky fun and super comfy tees. This particular shirt has been one of my favorites all summer.

Another awesome tee, which incidentally, I believe led to me getting CARDED the other night at dinner, an occurrence which has not taken place in I can't remember how long, is printed by rainbowswirlz.

Fun, soft, and whimsical, I couldn't care in the least that it may be a bit juvenile; I♥ this shirt!

(BTW - this is not me in the photo, if it were,

I could totally agree with the waitress that

carding was absolutely necessary)

So bohemian and comfortable, I love sliding my feet into these wonderful sandals by Sandali. They fit as if molded for my feet, were very reasonably priced, and the rich lovely color goes with everything. I fully expect these sandals to last forever, they are so well-made.

A peek into my shopping habits on Etsy - I hope you've enjoyed it! Now get out there and shop!!!

Crimson Peacock Pin Brooch

2009-07-30T00:24:00.000-07:00

I *love* this new pin design - I don't want to hand it over! Last week I had a request for a custom peacock in red hues. I tried a few variations on the tail design and color combinations, but I decided the lavish color combination of gold and crimson was really striking.

The crowning glory is the crimson glass seed beads on each feather and the crown. His wing is satin stitched hand embroidery, and each feather is free form hand-cut. I really had a lot of fun on this one!

Octopus Hair Clip Request

2009-07-27T22:42:00.000-07:00

Red the Octopus has a mini-me version! I recently had a request for his reincarnation as a hair clip, but in orange rather than red.... so I guess he has actually spawned, rather than cloned.

As a finger puppet, Red was about 4 inches tall. The hair clip is roughly 2 1/4 inches tall from head to tentacle and houses a 1.5 inch snap clip.

Handmade Mary Janes

2009-07-16T08:58:00.000-07:00

Completed! I had to run to Michael's last night for more thread, but I finally completed the pair. I think I'm in love with them.... I wish my daughter was still small enough to wear them (but then I remember that she can now use the toilet by herself... I guess that's a good trade).

Size 6-9 months, velcro closures, completely hand-stitched! 100% wool exterior, and silky soft 100% cotton interior - they are just beautiful! Love them too? Get them here: pammydawn

Apples 'n Chocolate - Wool Felt Baby Shoes

2009-07-15T09:03:00.000-07:00

I'm in the process of making another pair of baby shoes, but I ran out of brown embroidery thread. I thought I'd post some photos in the interim!

I'm so pleased with how this pair is shaping up. I broke the tension knob on my sewing machine yesterday, so this pair is completely hand-stitched, lining and all.

The exterior is 100% wool felt and are size 6-9 months (approx. 4.25"). Apple green for the body, and chocolate brown for the sole. For the lining, I used an upcycled natural 100% cotton baby onesie. It is butter-soft knit cotton in a natural cream color. My daughter actually never wore this particular onesie; it still had the tags on it! I was about to take it to GoodWill, but decided it needed a new life as shoe lining instead.

After placing the lining inside the shoe and stitching the strap in place, I used a blanket stitch around the top opening to secure the lining and give the shoes a decorative edge. I hope to finish them today after purchasing additional embroidery thread!

Red Cherry Mary Jane Baby Shoes

2009-07-14T14:24:00.000-07:00

Red Cherry Baby Shoes - $22 by pammy dawn

I was curious to make a pair of fabric baby shoes, but wasn't sure how to create a pattern. I had a pair of crocheted and felted baby shoes that were a bit irregular, so I cut them apart and traced the pieces. I added about 1/4 inch all the way around to allow for seams. After cutting out the pieces using 100% wool felt, I hand-stitched them together, trimmed the edges and flipped them right-side-out.

The shoes resembled little ballet slippers, minus straps. The seams on the inside were a bit bulky, so I decided to line them with some lovely cotton cherry fabric I had by designer Robert Kaufman. I also fashioned straps of the same fabric and applied velcro tabs for closure. I think they will look darling adorning some sweet baby feet!

Sweet cherries for sweet baby toes - 100% wool exterior, 100% cotton fabric lining and strap. Velcro closures for easy fitting. Sweet and soft, the cotton lining is pink, red, and green swirling cherries by Robert Kaufman. Hand-stitched exterior, machine-stitching and hand-stitching on lining and straps. Approximately 3.75 inch footbed, about size 3-6 months.

Death's Head Hawk Moth Custom Pin

2009-07-09T17:04:00.000-07:00

Nearly 5 hours of work, but I think worth it! I'm pleased with how the custom Silence of the Lambs icon turned out.

Four layers of felt make up the body and wings which were hand-cut and stitched. Details were embroidered as well as needle-felted using wool roving and other wool fibers. Its wings span approximately 4 inches from tip to tip.

Inspiration image from Silence of the Lambs

Death Moth Custom Felt Pin

2009-07-09T11:26:00.000-07:00

Custom creations are exciting and fun, and I always love a new challenge. After my butterfly was featured on the front page of Etsy yesterday, I was contacted to create a custom "Death Moth" pin.

Death's Head Hawk Moth

Image from the movie, Silence of the Lambs

Silence of the Lambs! Love it! I've immersed myself in images, trying to decide the best design and colors to use. I also did some research on the moths, just out of curiosity. Fascinating creatures!

The caterpillar looks incredibly like the massive 3 inch tomato worm I plucked from devouring my Romas yesterday.... blech.

Death's Head Hawk Moth Caterpillar

Tomato Horn Worm

As soon as I have finished the moth pin, I will post photos! Off to create!

Etsy Front Page - Mariposa Monarch

2009-07-08T15:44:00.001-07:00

What an excellent Wednesday! My "Mariposa" Monarch pin appeared on the front page of Etsy this morning, and as a direct result of that appearance, I've been featured on a wonderful blog.

emmy-ray not only has a great blog, but also creates gorgeous jewelry. A big thanks for featuring my work on your site!

Til Death do Us Part Bangles by emmyray

Peppermint Candy Hair Clip

2009-07-01T15:05:00.000-07:00

Peppermint Hair Clip or Pin Brooch - $8.00

Refreshing and calorie-free! Peppermint pinwheel candy hair clip is 100% wool and encloses a 1.25 inch snap clip. I was envisioning this clip as part of my holiday set, but I think it could work for everyday as well. Customize the color to match any outfit!

How to Make a Custom Felt Hair Clip

2009-06-30T15:43:00.000-07:00

Feeling crafty? You can create your own felt accessory to match any outfit.

Basic materials needed:

-design with multiple copies

-small craft scissors (sewing scissors are best

- they need to be SHARP)

-pins

-embroidery thread

-needle

-bar pin or hair clip

-felt (wool or wool blend are best, but craft felt can also be used)

Simple designs are best, the more intricate the design, the more cuts you'll need to make. You can use clip art or draw your own. I like to sketch my own designs and scan them so I can shrink and enlarge as needed. If you're making a hair clip, keep in mind the size of the hair clip you'll be using when you create the design. You'll want to have a finished product about 1/4 to 1/2 inch larger than the hair clip.

I began with sketching the squirrel, then scanning it and printing multiple copies. You'll want a copy for each piece you need to layer. Cut out each individual piece and decide which color felt you want to use for each. You may choose to embroider the details rather than cut felt. Be creative! Try using buttons, sequins, or fabric for additional details.

Once the pieces of your design are cut, pin each piece to the felt and carefully cut them out using the sharpest, smallest scissors you have. I like to use small Gingher scissors. Be sure to have a back and front to sandwich the hair clip between.

Before you begin to stitch the pieces together, check to make sure they fit together neatly. Start by stitching the detail pieces to the top of your design.

Once the front is completely stitched to your liking, including embroidery and embellishments, you are ready to attach the hair clip or pin.

Decide which direction you want your clip to open and make a small slit to slip the bottom prong of the hair clip through. If you are using a bar pin or French barrette, you'll need to flip the piece over and stitch the pin/French barrette securely to the back of the design. Stitch across the clip to hold it in place.

Lastly, stitch around the outside of your creation. Knot your thread carefully; you don't want it to unravel in your child's hair!

Voila! A completely unique hair clip or pin for you or someone you love. Feel free to leave comments if you need clarification on any of the directions listed here!

To purchase the squirrel, please visit Pammy Dawn!

Name that Squirrel!

2009-06-26T14:56:00.000-07:00

After a month or so of much-needed vacation, I've finally felt like creating again! My fall collection needed a nutty squirrel, so here is the first sketch, yet to come to fruition. Now comes the task of choosing felt colors, textures, and naming the critter.

I'd love to hear from you if you have any fabulous suggestions! If I pick your name, I'll link to your blog/website in the final listing on my shop, Pammy Dawn. Please be sure to leave your shop link when you comment if you have any burgeoning ideas!

Foxy Loxy - Red Fox Hair Clip or Pin Brooch

2009-05-04T15:15:00.000-07:00

Foxy Loxy - Red Fox Hair Clip or Pin Brooch

Finally having some free time this week, I wanted to do some new designs inspired by the requests I've gotten recently. The first is a curled red fox, Foxy Loxy. I think my favorite part of this design is the tufty wool tail. Foxy Loxy is about 1.75 inches across and houses a 1.5 inch snap clip. He is a rusty pumpkin orange wool felt with cream accents.

Mother's Day Blog Sale

2009-04-17T08:28:00.001-07:00

Monarch Butterfly Pin for Mother's Day

In honor of Mother's Day, I'm offering a 10% discount code for followers of my blog! Discount will be valid now until May 10th, 2009. To redeem, make a purchase in my Etsy store and enter "MomBlog 10" in the notes at checkout. I will send you an adjusted invoice on Paypal reflecting the 10% discount. Don't forget to also let me know if you want pins or hair clips for your unique creation in the notes section! Happy shopping, and HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

Celebrate motherhood! A huge thank you from my darling inspiration and me. Happy Mother's Day!

Etsy Front Page - Woodland Butterfly Pin

2009-04-11T12:22:00.000-07:00

I was so honored to be part of this fabulous treasury, "Green Angel," that made it to the front page of Etsy on April 10th! Thank you so much to kaleprimitifs for including my Woodland Butterfly pin!

Mother's Day Gift Guide - For the New Mommy

2009-04-04T20:45:00.000-07:00

Second in my series of Mother's Day gift guides, this guide is geared toward the NEW mommy. My daughter is now 2 1/2, but these are things I would have loved to receive as gifts for my first Mother's Day. Some are practical and others whimsical, but all are fabulous.

Every new mom needs a brag book to show off the beautiful bundle. This one is lovely, and nice and small for the purse. As if your purse or diaper bag wasn't crowded enough already, but photos are essential!

Brag Book Accordion Album - $9 by junesgallery

My daughter was always pulling my hair while nursing, so I would have appreciated a necklace designed especially for the purpose of keeping her occupied during nursing. This one is particularly nice because it is all natural.

Wooden Grabbing and Nursing Necklace - $12 by stonesofhealing

One of the first gifts I bought myself after my daughter's birth was a necklace declaring to the world her name stamped in silver. I love the thickness of this particular necklace set, and the unique stacked look for either a first and middle name, or for showing more than one child's name.

Personalized Double-Disk Mom Pendant - $48 by westbyron

So, the most vivid part of new motherhood in my memory... sleep deprivation. The art of napping was never so finely tuned as in those first few months of my daughter's life. Any time of day, this might help catch some much needed zzzz's.

Pink Chocolate Fully Adjustable Eye/Sleep Mask - $12 by BibBon

Returning to work can be quite traumatic for the new mommy (unless you are lucky enough to get to stay home, and even then, this would be lovely) so displaying baby prominently on your desk can lessen some of the separation anxiety. This picture frame is so beautiful, it wouldn't even need to be for baby.

Shabby Cream Ornate Picture Frame - $12 by scavengerhunt

Mother's Day Gift Guide - For the No-Frills Mommy

2009-04-03T16:46:00.000-07:00

As spring is underway, Mother's Day approaches. Every mother is unique, so why shouldn't her gift also be? I've put together a list of handmade items I myself would LOVE to receive for Mother's Day... (ahem, honey? Take note....) No budget busters here - I'm keeping my list to $30 and under.

Who can resist a massage? Uninterrupted of course, complete with candles.... soft music.... what? Oh yeah - gift guides - I'll remove myself from my mini-fantasy. This gift certainly does NOT break the bank, but does require a little something extra - someone else's hands that is.

Lime Light Massage and Body Oil - $4.00 from vistahsoap

I must admit that I am a sucker for anything this particular shade of green, and this has just the right amount of funky.

Green Shining Pompon's Scarf - $20 by Starpompon

A minimalist at heart, I tend toward very understated jewelry. My favorites tend to be small silver pendant necklaces and dainty drop earrings. I love the sweet delicacy of this necklace by CopperFrogStudio. I also ADORE the slightly larger version of this design (however, I promised $30 budget limit, so we'll stick with the mini).

Poppy Drop Necklace - $22 by CopperFrogStudio

In a similar theme as the Poppy Drop Necklace, these understated earwires are simple, yet stunning.

Kalabu - $22 by soulyyours

The geek in me thinks this is just the coolest thing - how fun to display this at a small gathering. Perfect for moms that need a little vino wind-down at the end of the day (and who hasn't been there before??).

Balancing Wooden Wine Bottle holder - $15 by SmileMoon

Waking up in the morning can be difficult, especially if you've spent half the night answering "Mommmmmmy!" summons. Scrub awake with yummy lemon - sure to invigorate and liven the senses.

Natural Lemon Sugar Scrub - $20 by nettiescrub

Chocolate Brown Crocheted and Felted Wool Baby Booties Mary Janes

2009-03-16T18:32:00.000-07:00

In my ongoing crochet quest, I searched and searched for a cute pattern for baby Mary Janes. More than 3 of my girl friends are pregnant and having girls, so I thought these would be fun shower gifts. I finally found a pattern that I liked at Michaels, of all places, in a baby book of crochet projects.

I had to tinker with the pattern a bit for sizing because I planned on washing the booties to "felt" them (make the fibers dense and fabric like, losing the crocheted look). First I tried enlarging the pattern, but the resultant shoe was floppy and oddly shaped. I finally just increased my hook size by 2 sizes and lengthened the strap a bit. I washed the booties in ultra hot soapy water (the sanitary setting in my washer) and checked on them frequently for amount of shrinkage. After they came out, they were so tiny! I had to stretch and shape them up a bit, and they ended up at about a newborn to 3 month size, perfect for a baby shower. I have yet to stitch on the velcro closure for each strap, but I anticipate that step to be pretty quick.

If you'd like any tips, I'd be happy to share what worked best for me. Leave me a comment on this post for further information on felting!

Easter Bunny Giveaway WINNER!

2009-03-09T08:40:00.000-07:00

Drum roll please...... and the winner is...... Sandra from Amy Rose Designs! Thank you to everyone who visited and entered my giveaway. I especially appreciate all the excellent feedback and ideas that were given. I can't wait to come up with some designs for some of the suggestions!

Amy Rose Designs has a fabulous shop on Etsy; here are a couple of my favorite items from her shop.

Easter Bunny Hair Clip Giveaway!

2009-03-05T10:45:00.000-08:00

How to celebrate the coming of spring.... hmmmm. I've been so excited that the weather has started to warm, and our yard is starting to blossom, that I've decided to do a SPRING GIVEAWAY!!

I've participated in giveaways on other blogs before, and the process was quite fun and exciting. Last fall I hosted a giveaway of my fall hair clip set on Steals and Deals, and also hosted a giveaway on Handmade Showcase for my Harvest Pumpkin hair clip.

The creation I've decided to GIVE (yes! absolutely free!) is my Sweet Bunny.

The winner may choose the type of backing: pin brooch, snap clip, or French barrette.

Entry period is from now until 11:59 PM Sunday, March 8th. The winner will be posted and contacted on Monday, March 9th.

How to Enter:

1. Visit PammyDawn and check out the creations.

2. Leave a comment on THIS blog post telling me either your favorite item in my shop, or something you would like to see in my shop (I love making new things!).

3. In your comment, you must leave a way for me to contact you, or your entry will not be valid.

4. Anyone is eligible, NO purchase necessary.

5. Any rude or inappropriate comments will not be accepted.

6. The winner will be chosen by random number generator from mathgoodies.com. If I am not able to contact my 1st winner, a second winner will be chosen from the remaining random numbers.

7. After the winner is chosen and contacted, the Sweet Bunny will be mailed via USPS within 7 days.

8. All comments are moderated by me, so expect some delay in the posting of your entry comment - it will not appear until I deem it appropriate and valid.

9. Only one entry per person.

Spring Green Etsy Front Page

2009-02-27T10:45:00.000-08:00

I just created this piece yesterday, so I was completely taken by surprise when it appeared on the front page of Etsy this morning. It's always exciting to see something you create make it to the front page!

Spring Flower Bud - Tulip Wool Pin Brooch

2009-02-26T12:01:00.000-08:00

Spring Bud - Tulip Wool Felt Pin Brooch

Tulips are my favorite flowers. They are so fresh, vibrant, and I love their clean smooth lines. The inspiration for this pin is a tulip bud before it opens completely.

Fresh for spring - Spring Bud is made of 100% wool felt, hand-cut and stitched in 3 layers. Securely stitched to the back is a 1 inch bar pin.

Spring Bud measures about 3 inches tall.

Sweet Easter Bunny Hair Clip or Pin Brooch

2009-02-25T16:50:00.000-08:00

Sweet Bunny Wool Felt Hair Clip or Pin Brooch

Hopping in for spring - sweet bunny measures about 1.5 inches and encloses a 1.25 inch snap clip.

Warm brown, baby pink, and cream 100% wool felt has been lovingly hand-stitched to create this sweet little companion. His fluffy tail is made of un-dyed natural lamb's wool.

Mariposa Monarch Pin with Needle Felting

2009-02-16T15:47:00.000-08:00

After completing my first Mariposa pin, I found I wasn't completely satisfied with how the body turned out.

My newest tools cluttering my creation station are felting needles - barbed, nastily sharp little probes that when jabbed repeatedly into wool fibers, mesh them together.

They are fantastic! You can practically sculpt with these bad boys! Not to mention how satisfying it is to plunge an extremely sharp object into a pillow like substance, but I recommend its stress-relieving qualities.

I think I am pleased with the more life-like appearance of his body now - here are the before and afters.

Before: rolled felt body, wound with embroidery thread

After: needle-felted body

Crocheted, Felted, and Needle-Felted Mini Purse

2009-02-15T18:51:00.000-08:00

It started with a small obsession for crocheted scarves, and grew into a curiosity for more crocheted accessories. Since becoming reacquainted with my crochet hooks this winter, I've been searching for more projects to get my fix.

This little bag is so simple, yet so cute! I started with 100% merino wool yarn - (this is a great project for a beginner too!) and the whole bag is single crochet in a round (except for the base, which is also single crochet, but each row is turned). I also decided my purse needed an internal pocket. I crocheted a square, turned the bag inside out stitched the pocket to one wall using the same merino wool yarn.

After I was finished crocheting the purse, I put it in a laundry bag, and put it in the washing machine on HOT with a little bit of soap. It really shrinks a lot!! The fibers mesh together in a process called fulling or felting. It comes out wet and pliable so you can mold it into a more purse-like shape. I put mine under a ceiling fan on high speed for a day and it was completely dry by that evening.

Of course I couldn't leave it alone at that point! I got out my new TOYS - felting needles, and some wool, needle-felted some little fuschia flowers and stems, popped a button on one side and attached a felt strap. Voila! So much fun!

For the Memory of Cora Paige

2009-02-14T08:09:00.000-08:00

Cora Paige, a beautiful 11 month-old girl, lost her battle with cancer. Her family wishes to build a playground in her memory. Many of the wonderful shops on Etsy have dedicated the proceeds of listings for this purpose. Spend your dollar here to help heal a family aching for the loss of their precious baby girl.

Cupcake Hair Clip with a Cherry On Top!

2009-02-06T08:31:00.000-08:00

Cherry Cupcake Hair Clip or Pin Brooch

Who can resist a delectable dessert - especially one that has zero calories?!

This adorable cupcake pin or hair clip is created using 100% wool felt, and 100% cotton thread. As a hair clip, it encloses a 1.25 inch snap clip, and is about 1.5 inches across.

The unique cherry bead on top came from another delightful shop on Etsy -
CandyLandBeads and is made from polymer clay.

This hair clip has SMALL PARTS - while the bead has been securely stitched to the cupcake, it is NOT recommended for children under the age of 3 due to choking hazard. Please supervise your child while wearing, and do not let any age child place the cupcake in their mouth.

I only have 5 of these beads, so order yours while supplies last!

Etsy Front Page - Woodland Butterfly

2009-02-05T09:05:00.001-08:00

Woodland - Majestic Green Swallowtail Butterfly Pin

This beautiful treasury made it to the front page yesterday! I wish I had been home to see it.

Etsy Front Page - Superbowl Sunday

2009-02-05T08:54:00.001-08:00

Football Fanatic Hair Clip or Pin - $8.00

Woodland - Majestic Green Swallowtail Butterfly Pin

2009-02-01T21:59:00.000-08:00

Woodland - Majestic Green Swallowtail Butterfly Pin Brooch - $28.50

The inspiration for this mini felt sculpture is the Majestic Green Swallowtail Butterfly. I took some artistic license in the coloration of the wings. So it follows that this pin is truly unique.

Woodland is made-to-order, and hand-crafted using 100% wool felt. Each piece will be hand-cut and stitched, making this butterfly as unique and without duplicate as it's fluttering inspiration. (Photo is an example only, your butterfly wing pattern will be similar, but unique to your pin).

Backing this wearable art-work is a 1 inch bar pin, securely stitched to the fourth layer of felt. Nearly life-sized, Woodland is about 2.5 inches across, and about 2.5 inches tall.