I'd been kicking around the idea of making a costumed toy, but wasn't quite sure how to go about it. After many sketches and researching of resources, I came up with the newest addition to my Etsy shop. I'm thinking about doing a whole line of different costumed kids. For now I'll start with this cutie. 
My fab friend Therese will openly tell you that she's not the craftiest girl in the bunch, but I do think her creativity shines through in the wonderfully staged photos (complete with captions) below of her garden gnome Burt, and his night on the town!
Looks like fun in there.
A cozy joint.
Should I or shouldn't I?
Gin is my friend.
Will work for tips.
Get me outta here.
Gotta go.
Nite, nite for Burt
The big reveal lunch took place yesterday. Below are my two crafting pals: Shelley (left) and Jessica. I call it the "confusing reveal" because despite taking a lot of heat for being so confused about the challenge initially, I was the only one to make two crafts to actually swap. Hmm...maybe I wasn't as dim as the other two bulbs that day. (KIDDING, of course!!!!) :)
Actually, it really came down to 1.) this was our first time--mistakes our bound to happen, and 2.) we had no clue what we were doing. So, with that said, below are pics from the Neighborhood-themed Craft Challenge. I made bracelets using Shrinky Dinks, colored pencils and jump rings. Each "charm" has a different drawn picture: a bird, a lemonade sale sign, a house, a mailbox, a tree, and a bag of sugar (think borrowing a cup from your neighbor).
Shelley made the bird paintings. They were a three-in-one series, that I believe she was calling "There goes the neighborhood." They were made with ink and water (Shelley, correct me if I got that wrong).
Jessica made the multi-sided house. The roof lifts off and can be turned to showcase a different house front on each side. It was made from wood, paper, and metal.
I really thought it was great to see how each of us came up with something completely different and really creative. I'll be assigning the next craft challenge in the coming week. I think we've worked out all the kinks now, but we're going to give it another trial run or two before we start opening it up to the masses. (Be thankful for that! =)
Despite not having children, I really adore Charlie and Lola. They started as children's books created by Lauren Child who is both the author and illustrator. They've since developed into a TV show on Playhouse Disney.
Charlie and Lola are brother and sister and live in England. Like my own big brother, Charlie is really good to his little sister and helps her with growing up...but in a cute, silly sort of way. As far as the art goes, I really love how Lauren Child incorporates real objects, such as fabric and toys, into her illustrations. It gives it a lot of depth. But when it comes down to it, Charlie and Lola just make me smile.
The title would suggest I'm throwing a hush-hush bash, but that is sadly not true. (Hmm, but something to definitely consider for the future!) Instead, this is the name of an art exhibit by Elizabeth McGrath. Her style is a little dark but still very childlike. I'd love to see a children's book with these illustrations.
Bad news: Craft swap got cancelled today. BOO! Due to scheduling conflicts, the lunch had to be rescheduled for Thursday. Therefore, the reveal will have to wait just a little longer. Sorry!
In the meantime, the following are some fabrics I'm thoroughly enjoying from this Etsy shop. Not sure what I could/would do with them, but I find them tons of fun.
My project for the Craft Challenge Swap is now complete. And while I'd love to show you pictures or give you details, I must wait until after the big reveal lunch. So until then, here are some hints about my project. Feel free to make guesses in the comments.
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