Needlings

Tumbleweeds

2011-05-28T02:58:00.002-04:00

Well, I sure hope no one has missed me over here but I just wanted to pop in and let any of you stragglers know that if you want to find some Needlings blogging goodness - head over to needlings.tumblr.com or facebook.com/needlings.

See you there!
♥
Heather

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-14T14:37:00.001-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day!, originally uploaded by Needlings.

The Tree 2010

2010-12-15T13:12:00.005-05:00

I think all but 5 or so ornaments on our tree are handmade and the others are silly sentimental ones from Christmases past.
My favourite, as always, are my Sugarelf trees, teacups, and birdies. They make me so happy.
I love this time of year - we've finally got some snow on the ground and I'm happy there are some fun holiday things planned in the next couple weeks.
I hope everyone is enjoying their winters (I know that's a lot to ask for some of you snow haters) - talk soon!

MacFair '10

2010-11-17T13:10:00.008-05:00

I'm still working on sewing things for upcoming holiday shows but I wanted to take a minute to show some of the pictures I took at the last show I did, MacFair, at the McMaster University Museum of Art.
This was the third year of the show and my third year participating. My mom had her second year selling her knits so we had a lot of fun hanging out at the museum for those three days last week.

Boo to indoor museum lighting shots. I can't wait to get my camera back from being repaired! Still, you get the idea - it was a lot of crafty fun. :)

Novemberrrr

2010-11-08T17:00:00.005-05:00

The holiday season is here!
At least that's what I'm trying to get in to my head.
I've been getting ready for the holiday shows coming up. This week is MacFair at the McMaster Museum of Art on the 10th, 11th and 12th. Fun show to do so I'm looking forward to Wednesday - not only because my birthday happens to be on Wednesday too. :D

I even managed to finish a group of Christmas tree owls and took some photos so they're all up and available in the shop!

I can't wait until the tree is up and there's snow on that ground and all that. I know, I'm one of those weirdos that loves winter.
Well, back to work!
Hope everyone is enjoying their Novembers so far!

2010-09-12T14:11:00.002-04:00

Just reduced some prices of a few things I'd like to see find homes!

Take a look at the clearance section over in the shop.

This weekend was busy with shows and I still have a couple coming up. Off to do some more sewing!

JuneJulyAugust

2010-08-07T23:50:00.005-04:00

Hello everyone, I hope your summers have been everything you love about your summers.

I had some fun and vacation time, now I'm back in the studio sewing away getting ready for FanExpo in Toronto at the end of the month.

I've managed a big bunch of Happy Ninjas and will be working on a batch of Owl Mamas next week.

There's never enough time.

See you soon!
Love,
Heather

Curious Rabbits

2010-05-24T10:44:00.006-04:00

Hello again friends.

In the midst of packing and getting ready to move next week I made this funny bunny and tiny mushroom.

The rabbit looks something like a smaller simple version of the White Rabbit I made for the Alice in Wonderland show I did last year.

I hope to make a few more of the little ones...and I had so much fun making the little mushroom.

May News

2010-05-09T02:13:00.005-04:00

Hello all.

Well, I will be spending the next few weeks getting ready to move (not far at all, but that doesn't mean packing takes any less time) in a few weeks so I will be spending less time on Needlings work and more time on packing my belongings in various boxes.

I hope to get right back in to sewing right away but I thought I would let you know why I've been a bit more absent than usual lately.

I'm not doing as many summer shows/fairs/etc. this year because we weren't sure when the house would sell but I can let you know now that the next show Needlings will be attending will be FanExpo in Toronto at the Convention Centre in August. My second comic-y one so I'm excited for more costumes and craziness. It's the largest one in Canada and Stan Lee, who created Spiderman and other famous things, will be attending this year so it's expected to be bigger than ever.

So although you may not see me here too often - I've been "tumbling" over on my new tumblr blog if you wanted to see quick links of things I like I'll be keeping that up in between throwing books in boxes and the like.

I'm still around.

Here are my last few tumblr posts and reposts (ie: stuff I liked that other people posted).
It's fun! Follow me and I'll follow you to see what you like too!

Happy Work Weekends

2010-04-03T20:46:00.012-04:00

Hello friends!

So since you may be wondering - Comic Con was a lot of crazy fun and I'm so glad we did it! Three long days of hanging out people watching. We saw lots of interesting things including crazy costumes and lots of TV cameras.

You can see a few more pictures from the weekend if you click here.

My table partners were Jen of SparkleGirl.etsy.com who brought her nerd friendly superhero pouches, pillow cases and bags, and Lisa from Bellisal.etsy.com who brought her fun prints, buttons and t-shirts. I had a great time sharing the table with them and I'm happy to say we have a few collaborations planned for the future too.

Our table on Saturday:

A couple costumies:

Direct Energy Centre hallway right outside the convention:

Darth something? (kidding)

Happy Needlings bucket:

Table on day one:

I hope everyone is having a good long weekend!

I spent the week recovering from Comic Con and taking another little trip in to Toronto to check out the One of a Kind Show so I'm making this weekend a work one.

Good work though, don't worry.

I've been working on some new little guys and finishing up a couple more Owl Mamas to be sent to KoOKY store in Chicago, IL.

If you're close by Michigan Avenue - you can go check them out in person! Looks like there are lots of other amazing plush from fellow Plush Team member Tyler Poncho so it would be worth the trip, I only wish I could go check it out myself.

Talk to you soon!

Love,

Heather

One Week Away!

2010-03-19T21:43:00.003-04:00

One week away from what? Comic con of course!

Lots of sewing and tagging going on around here lately. The robots in the photo above are almost all done and I have plenty more things on the to-do list for the next week. Nothing quite like a deadline to motivate me.

I'm excited to see what it's all about and hopefully see some crazy costumes and other hilarity over the three days.

Of course there are always Owl Mamas on my to-do list. I'll be making more for Young Blood in Atlanta as soon as I'm home from comic con. You wouldn't believe the amount of rickrack I have hanging around. I love it. It really is one of my most favourite things.

Spring is also on that list.

Thursday Work

2010-03-04T18:53:00.004-05:00

Packing owls for various shops and still working on that little stack of them in the back there.

The days are getting away from me closing in on comic con and hoping I have enough stuff and enough time to keep making things. I never think I have enough time. I'm the type that leaves way too early for things...or conversely way too late. I guess they say creative types have issues with time. Well, that's me.

I hope you are all seeing and liking the little beginnings of spring happening. I love this time of year. I don't even mind all the mud.

February Shop Update!

2010-02-28T22:27:00.003-05:00

February Shop Update, originally uploaded by Needlings.

Look! I managed to make a few new things for you!

It's been a busy month with some sadness, we're moving soon and we lost our sweet Domino after almost 20 years of kitty life, but I'm one month away from comic con and I have lots of work still to do!

It will be hectic amidst packing but I hope to get a lot done over the next few weeks. Hopefully with a few things to show you again next month.

See you soon!
♥Heather

February

2010-02-07T14:04:00.004-05:00

Hello everyone!

I can't believe it's February already and Toronto Comic Con is only a month (and some) away. So many things to make!

I spent practically all of January making Owl Mamas for the shops in Canada and the U.S. that carry them and I still have a few yet to restock. Lots of owl parts currently floating around my work table.

I did however manage to make this new Needling and I hope to have a few more new things for a mini shop update closer to the end of the month. I'll update you with a date when I'm feeling more committal.

Oh, I also set up a springform account so you can ask me questions if you'd like. You don't even have to tell me who you are! But please do because I'm sure you're lovely.

Talk soon!

Love,

Heather

January Shop Update

2010-01-25T23:03:00.007-05:00

A month's worth of new stuff...

all in the shop today!

Happy January!

Toronto Comic Con

2010-01-20T18:01:00.003-05:00

Just confirmed that I'll be at Toronto Comicon in March at one of the Artist Alley tables!

Mark your calendars!

I've never been to a comic book convention and never showed my stuff at an event this big so I'm excited to see what it's all about.

And even more happy to have two months to get lots of stuff made!

Plush Team Swap Goodies

2010-01-19T18:18:00.001-05:00

The Plush Team put together a fun plush swap this year and I just have to share the amazing goodies I recieved from Chelsea of Love and a Sandwich!

Not only did I get this amazing little monster who is completely adorable in a yummy fuzzy rainbow sherbet way in a happy christmas parcel with a little monster drawing on the front...

Chelsea did this amazing drawing of both our owls hangin' out, that I just love!

AND

monster buttons!

I'm pretty sure we can all agree my swappee is totally awesome.

Thank you so much Chelsea!

Plush Team for Haitian Relief

2010-01-14T19:14:00.002-05:00

In an effort the help raise money for the victims of the Earthquake in Haiti, many of the group of plush artist I belong to, Plush Team, are donating plush sales at the Plush Team store on Etsy. 100% of the proceeds will be donated to the American Red Cross.

Teeny Tiny Mini Mallow by Scrumptious Delight

My Owl Baby Pins are up as well as some other things great little guys from Plush Team members that will pop up in the team shop over the next few days.

Owl Baby Pin by Needlings

If you'd rather donate directly to the American Red Cross, you can do so through this link or by texting “HAITI” to 90999 to donate $10 (USD)

Just Peeking In

2010-01-12T10:26:00.003-05:00

Another one for the shop update on the 25th!

Now back to non-update work...I have a bunch of things to make to replenish Young Blood in Atlanta with various Needlings goodies and lots of paperworky jobs to finish (which can be a nice break if planned) before I can just make things all willy nilly.

I think I can do it though!

I hope you're all having a good week.

Happy Tuesday!

January Shop Update - Monday, January 25th

2010-01-10T01:15:00.007-05:00

New year, new ideas, new things.

So, in an attempt to keep myself making new things instead of just filling orders on a monthly basis - I'll be doing shop updates this year! The first one will be Monday January 25th so mark your calendars!

In addition to the new Owl Mamas in the photo above; here's a sneak peek at some of the things that will be part of the first update of the year on Monday January 25th when everything will be available for purchase in the shop.

I hope to add a few more to the list by then so back to work I go!

Collecting

2010-01-05T01:57:00.007-05:00

I was never really much of a collector of things. We moved a lot when I was growing up and although I, of course, always loved my plush toys, I never sought to accrue them and have to move them all around with me.

Since I started designing my own plush, I've been exposed to this wonderful world of plush art and now find I am never surprised to find works I have to own by talented plush artists.

Here's a little shot of me nerding out with some of my handmade plush collection that's come to be over the past few years - the newest addition being this adorable rosebush given to me by the endlessly talented and sweet Christine of Sugarelf as a completely unexpected and loved Christmas gift. Isn't it beautiful? I have a little collection of her sweet little birds and you can even see a pink owl of hers in the back there that's another one of my favourites.

Surrounding my messy jewelry box, there's also a little Cutesypoo coconut bun, Follow the White Rabbit doll ("Madawaska" with the little nest on her head), and a Mint Conspiracy Petunia monster.

I really want to find a better way to display everything since they're taking over my dresser top and workroom with every (great) addition.

And below, a Fantastic Toys Christmas Fawn that I was lucky enough to win in Tim's blog giveaway. It definitely felt like Christmas when I received it. I've been a fan of his fawns and now I finally have one of my own! Lucky me!

So I guess it's official.

Now I'm a collector.

Happy New Year!

2010-01-03T17:07:00.002-05:00

Power Failure, originally uploaded by Needlings.

It's 2010!

Our power went out on January 1st so we stumbled around until we found all the candles in our house and sat around them for an hour until everything powered back up. It was fun.

I'm spending the first week of the month making a huge bunch of my Owl Mamas to be sent out to various shop locations that need refilling or have ordered more.

I also have plans to start doing monthly shop updates this year so watch for that closer to the end of the month - more new things!

I hope everyone's year is going well so far.
Talk soon!

Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, Happy New Year

2009-12-24T22:46:00.000-05:00

etc., etc.!

I hope everyone is enjoying some good happy times as the year ends!

See you in the next one!

2010!

Love always,

Heather

needlings.etsy.com

♥

Our Tree

2009-12-18T20:19:00.001-05:00

Our tree, originally uploaded by Needlings.

It's finally up and it finally really feels like Christmas around here.

I love handmade ornaments, not surprisingly. We cover our tree with Christmas happys made by real folks and that makes me happy. We've collected quite a few over the years including ones I've made at various stages as well.
A lot of my newer favourites came from various loved etsy favourites - especially those little green trees with ribbon and happy faces from sugarelf.etsy.com. They're adorable.

I really feel lucky.
Happy holidays sweet people!

Makers' Market Holiday '09

2009-12-09T01:11:00.001-05:00

Makers' Market Holiday '09, originally uploaded by Needlings.

My show season wrapped up on this past Saturday when I participated in the last Makers' Market of this year on James North at Christ Church Cathedral downtown Hamilton.
It was so much fun - I loved hanging out in this amazing building all day. The photo above shows just a little portion of the view from behind my table.
So many great people and a great day all around. It really felt like the beginning of the holiday season for me.

I'll be spending the rest of the year finishing up orders and working on large orders and of course participating in end of year holiday family things and other funness. We got our tree which came from a local farm and we even got free homemade apple cider to take home with us. It was very sweet. The tree is currently residing in the garage until I manage to clean up my work area which I will be sharing with said little tree shortly. I'll be sure to document its illustrious arrival.

It snowed for the first time of the season so I corned it up and watched, "White Christmas," my favourite Christmas (and otherwise really) movie.
I've made my poor family suffer through an obscene amount of viewings over the years but I think they still like it!
It's hard to believe the year is almost over. I'm excited for the year to come.
I hope everyone had a good November and feels ready for winter.

Love you,
Heather

Merryberry Market

2009-11-29T11:45:00.001-05:00

Merryberry Market, originally uploaded by Needlings.

I spent the evening of this "Black Friday" past participating in a local market to raise money for Westdale Children's School. We had so much fun and spent the night drinking apple cider and listening to little kids play various instruments inside a cozy wood adorned hall in Westdale. I loved it! It got me started thinking about Christmas spirit so all we need is some snow and it will truly feel like (almost) December.

It's a busy sewing weekend for me staying caught up with orders and making a few more odds and ends for my table to replenish what sold in the past shows in order to get ready for the last Makers' Market of the year downtown on James North on December 5th. This will be my last show for the year after a little flurry of them so it will be a little bit of a relief to concentrate on some other Needlings things.

Wish me luck!

I hope everyone had a lovely November!

Show Season

2009-11-20T16:36:00.001-05:00

MacFair '09, originally uploaded by Needlings.

This photo is from MacFair which took place last week at the McMaster Museum of Art November 11-13. A day after my birthday!
It was so fun to have my mom there with me for her first show (there's her table of pretty scarves and cowls next to mine) and it was a great start to the season.
Tomorrow is the first Makers' Market holiday show at St. Paul's in Westdale and the following weekend brings two more shows, before the last holiday Makers' Market at the Cathedral on James North on December 5th.
Busy busy busy!

So my exciting news that leads me to have only excitement about the upcoming holiday busy-ness is that I am now a full-time all-the-time Needlings maker! I feel so lucky and happy and ready.
I hope to keep you all more updated on the future goings-on with myself and Needlings. And most of all I hope you all are happy and well.

Go Ask Alice

2009-11-14T17:46:00.002-05:00

A fun Alice inspired plush and doll show in Santa Barbara opens on December 5th which will display awesome wonderland-y doll and plush from artists from all over including my own Alice and White rabbit!

You deserve a better update - it's coming soon. I miss you.

Colourful Owl Babies! And thank yous.

2009-10-21T22:09:00.001-04:00

Colourful Owl Babies!, originally uploaded by Needlings.

I've had these little other coloured Owl Baby Pins floating around on my table at various markets this fall but now they're all available in my shop.

I have lots of work over the next few weeks to get ready for the three day show that is MacFair at the Museum of Art at McMaster University mid November so I will be busy busy but I hope to keep you informed of that work along the way!

I just want to take a blog minute to say thank you so so so so much if you've ever bought/read/commented/enjoyed any work I've done. I feel so lucky to have had such nice people saying so many sweet things to me over the past couple years with Needlings. It's all endlessly encouraging and means the world to me.
I love you.

Supercrawl

2009-10-16T02:37:00.001-04:00

Supercrawl Makers' Market Oct 9th, originally uploaded by Needlings.

It was a fun night at Supercrawl on James North in Hamilton last Friday - even if it was wet and freezing cold! It was so nice to see that so many people came out for it even though the weather was a nightmare for an outdoor event.

One more outdoor market this Saturday in the same spot downtown and then I'll be indoors for the rest of the year at a few holiday shows/markets in November and December. It's certainly easier to predict the weather inside.

Currently working away on various things and spending lots of time getting ready for the holiday season.
I hope everyone is having a great fall. I love this time of year.

August Work

2009-08-16T00:12:00.001-04:00

I've been spending the past week working on a stack of Owl Mamas - some of which will be sent to Young Blood in Atlanta and the rest of which will be used to stock up my table for my upcoming markets and to be listed in the shop.

After feeling a bit bored of stitching 18 tiny beaks and double the eye shimmers - I decided to take a break to sew up this little mushroom. He's in the shop and now I feel sufficiently prepped for more owl work.

See you on the other side (of the owl pile)!

Oh and here's Mip the cat enjoying some sun, just because.

It's August!

2009-08-04T13:09:00.001-04:00

Custom Owl Mama, originally uploaded by Needlings.

I know every month at least 10 people I come in contact with say, "Can you believe it is [insert present month] already?!" And I say, "no!," every single time.

But they do tend to come one after another so you'd think we'd all get the hang of it.

Anyway, it is indeed August already and, probably mostly thanks to some wonderful trips, June and July hardly felt like they happened at all.

I've finished this little custom Owl Mama and listed her in the shop as another owly option and really need to get to work on a batch of them for the coming markets/shows/consignment/etc. because I'm currently Owl Mama-less! I might fit in something fun and different before starting another batch but we'll see. It's a supply and demand thing (yeah, I took high school economics).

I'm so excited that my mom will be not only hanging out with me for MacFair at the museum of art at McMaster University in Hamilton this November but that she will actually be selling her wares! Her first show - and then of course I'll be there too, hopefully at the table next to hers.
She's excited too - we've been hashing out ideas for displays and I even managed to acquire some free baskets they were going to toss out at the bookstore I work part-time at so I think it will be nice and will surely suit her.

Well, there are still a few months in between to figure it all out but we all know how that goes.

Enjoy the rest of your summers!

Love,

Heather

Wanderer Returns

2009-07-25T11:59:00.001-04:00

White Rabbit, originally uploaded by Needlings.

Hello everyone!
I'm back home after the most amazingly fun trip visiting old friends in Iowa City. Lots of fun reunions and happy times with lovely people.
I even checked out White Rabbit which is a cute little diy/vintage shop that opened in Iowa City shortly after I moved away.
It's really pretty cute and I got myself an "I ♥ Iowa City" t-shirt and an adorable headband I've already had a few uses out of. That was the extent of my shopping across the border but the hanging out with friends was the priority and it was so wonderful.

So, home now and back to work.
The next half of the year looks busy for me so no more wandering with at least one show a month so I hope to fit everything in and hopefully keep you updated along the way.
I hope everyone had as lovely a July as I did!
Love,
Heather

Mortal Plush: I AM NOT YOUR TOY

2009-07-10T20:59:00.001-04:00

MORTAL PLUSH: I AM NOT YOUR TOY, originally uploaded by Licorice Tree / Tobiah P. Mundt.

The Mortal Plush opening at Art Whino Gallery in D.C. is tonight and I am there in the form of those two little gals on the wall!
It's so exciting to see the photos taken by organizer and participator, Tobiah Mundt aka Licorice Tree of so many amazing pieces by awesome plush artists!

Back to work! Only two more days of work time before I'm off on my adventure (or vacation).

Finished!

2009-07-05T12:10:00.001-04:00

Bookmarks!, originally uploaded by Needlings.

Well, here are the finally finished bookmarks. They're all up in the shop and ready to go!

I have lost my voice and may make a trip to the doctor this week to see how I can get rid of this strep throat in time for my trip to Iowa next Monday! Wonderful timing, right?
Anyway, I'm sure I will survive and be back to normal soon - in the meantime - I have lots of stuff to finish for various deadlines that happen to spring up right before I leave, while I'm away, and soon after I return. Show applications, magazine submissions, crafty whathaveyous, etc. I have a list somewhere to consult just in case my brain forgets something!

Oh, and before I forget to tell you - myself and the Etsy Plush team has a feature in this summers' issue of "Stuffed" print magazine. I just recently acquired my hard copy of the magazine and it is just beautiful and I'm so proud to have my little photo of my owls in it and see all the amazing work sent in by my Plush Team members and other wonderful plush artists. Worth taking a look at if they happen to carry it at your local bookstore! Or even order it, it's that great!

I hope everyone had an amazing weekend

and is fully enjoying their summers!

Talk soon.

Love,

Heather

Happy Canada Day!

2009-07-02T00:13:00.001-04:00

New bookmarks in the works..., originally uploaded by Needlings.

Yep, it's July 1st yet again so happy birthday Canada and happy day to the rest of you!

I have been spending the past couple days "assembling" a batch of Owly Bookmarks to add to the one lonely one in my shop - so far so good.
All the little owls are stitched so I hope to finish them off tomorrow or soon after.

In the grand tradition of being sick on holidays - I woke up yesterday with some throat scratchies that have caused me some hold ups but I still hope to be able to get my sewing work done before my regular schedule resumes on Saturday.

That's all for now! I hope everyone had a lovely day.
Here are a couple photos from today's home time:

Backyard lavender harvest.

Mip the cat.

For the Bookish

2009-06-27T20:56:00.001-04:00

Bookmark, originally uploaded by Needlings.

A new little bookmark is now available in the shop for those of you, like myself, who appreciate a nice little book accessory every once in awhile.
I plan on making more to hang out on my table at my markets this year and more bookish items for the shop as well.

On the topic of books, I've been searching around for the perfect copy of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland to inspire me a bit while I brainstorm for a couple pieces I'll be making for an Alice in Wonderland inspired gallery plush show in a few months.
It's always been one of my favourites - I think it will be fun picking some fun Wonderland-ish characters to create myself.

I hope to have more work finished to show you for the shop before heading off to Iowa mid-July...
...unless I fall down a rabbit-hole myself.

Happy June.

I'm home!

2009-06-17T15:52:00.000-04:00

After over 30 hours of driving and a couple weeks worth of large family visits...
I made it home.

It was fun to see family and I didn't even mind the driving most of the time.
We divvied it up on the way there but since we stopped overnight to do a little Quebec City sight seeing (amazing!) on the way hom - I drove the whole way home.

It was nice to get away but at the same time I am so happy to be home. Back to work and sewing and all that good stuff.

And now here's a sunny (ish) ferry view photo as promised - it rained nearly the whole time!

Makers' Market 2009 Number Two

2009-05-28T23:19:00.001-04:00

Makers' Market May 23rd, originally uploaded by Needlings.

Last weekend was my second market of the year. It was the first time the market had been held at this location (in Westdale - a cute little part of Hamilton close to McMaster University, where I graduated from a few years ago) and as a test first I think we all found it went pretty well. Definitely not as busy as some of the other locations but it was an amazingly beautiful day with nice people and we still had a bunch of visitors.

I also listed a little batch of keyrings in the shop this week when I got the urge to use up some of my seemingly endless supply of ribbon.

In other summer news, I'll be taking a couple months off from the markets before my next one in August because I'll be acting as traveling vagabond (only sort of) for a couple weeks in both June and July.
In July I'll be visiting friends in Iowa for a week or two and, coming up sooner than I am ready for in the second week of June, I'll be heading out with my mom and brother to visit family in St. John, New Brunswick on the east coast of Canada. I haven't been for a few years but it really is a beautiful part of the world and it will be nice to see my mom's big family and go on some pretty ferry rides.

Here's a picture from my last visit a few years ago on a rainy day ferry ride to my aunt's house on Kingston peninsula.

I'm hoping to show you some sunny ones when I return but either way I'm sure I'll love it.
I'm really not a boat person but there's something about having to take a ferry to get somewhere you have to be that really excites the kid in me.

May Work

2009-05-15T17:32:00.001-04:00

A little group photo for fun, originally uploaded by Needlings.

I've been spending the past couple of weeks getting a few things done so I can have a full table for my next Makers' Market next Saturday.

The little brown Needling in the front in the photo and the pink one in the back with the green eyes will be new additions I managed to finish last week. Lots of little things and some pillows will hopefully also make their way to the table providing I am as productive in the coming week as I would like to be!

That next market will be May 23rd 10am-3pm at St. Paul's - the market's first time at a location in Westdale. I hope you will stop by if you can!
This will be my last market until August as my June and July will be occupied with trips to visit family in New Brunswick and friends in Iowa if everything goes according to plan.

My mom is wonderful enough to come with me to the market again next week so I'm sure it will be a fun day hanging outside and seeing lots of fellow local makers.

Ok, back to work!
Love,
Heather

SugarElf Love

2009-05-03T19:07:00.000-04:00

I have mentioned this wonderful etsy shop on a few occasions before
but, well folks, I have further proof of it's wonderfulness!

SugarElf.etsy.com is one of the sweetest etsy shops ever and I have,
(along with a few other items)
four adorable birdies and one nest to prove it!

Aren't they the cutest?

SugarElf's creator Christine is so lovely and I'm so lucky to have
these sweet little birdies to cheer up my work table.
They work like a charm.
You should get one!

Tweet! Tweet!

Giant Owl Mama Pillow

2009-05-03T18:40:00.001-04:00

Giant Owl Mama Pillow, originally uploaded by Needlings.

I've been working on this big lady on and off for a bit now and finally finished sewing her up last night!
She's pretty huggable, I think. Just a larger version of my Owl Mama design made with mint green corduroy and felt. And she's in the shop!
I'm excited to see how she looks/fits on my table for the summer markets. She's about the size of four of my original Owl Mamas. Some moves will certainly have to be made to fit her in.
I'm looking forward to making a few more with different fun corduroys and fabrics I have stored away around the Needlings workroom.

May 1 Newities

2009-05-01T13:37:00.001-04:00

Naïf, originally uploaded by Needlings.

I spent the week working on this little girl, named "Naïf," french for naive, made as a submission to an upcoming plush art show called, "Mortal Plush: I am not your toy," taking place at Art Whino Gallery in Maryland.
I'm more excited to see the wonderful art that will no doubt be a part of this show as many of my fellow Plush Team members, as well as many other talented plush artists, have already revealed some amazing submissions.
You can view more of the submissions in the Mortal Plush flickr group.

I love being a part of the plush world and I'm proud enough just to have submitted something - so my work here is done!

Happy May!

Teeny Tiny Owl Earrings

2009-04-24T14:09:00.001-04:00

Teeny Tiny Owl Earrings, originally uploaded by Needlings.

New little owly item went up in the shop this week! Earrings!

I have fun attempting tiny but I've also been working on a larger version of my Owl Mamas that I'm pretty excited about. Another Needling is also in the works as well so lots of half finished projects floating around the workroom. Still trying to get back in to the swing of things but I'm almost almost there!

I hope everyone is enjoying the start of spring-y weather. The past few days here have been so pretty. It's so much easier to wake up early when the sun is already shining - or even just hiding being some rainy spring clouds.

Love you all.

Makers' Market April 18

2009-04-19T17:20:00.001-04:00

Makers' Market April 18, originally uploaded by Needlings.

I know this photo is terrible - my lovely mom went around and took a few pictures during the day on Saturday during the Makers' Market on James North in Hamilton that I participated in but she unfortunately had her camera set to take videos instead of photos so we were left with a bunch of 1 and 2 second videos. Poor thing - she tried!

Anyway, photo debacle aside, it was a beautiful day to be outside and it was just a fun day all around.
I'll be doing four more dates (at least) this year which I am quite happy to do. Lots of sweet people and peaceful locations.

I love it the most when the little kids stop by. Very sweet.

Big Sigh

2009-03-24T21:20:00.000-04:00

Well hello strangers.

I have been mostly absent
and not necessarily because I've wanted to be.

My dad had an unexpected emergency
triple bypass on his heart on March 6th and with all the
back and forth to the hospital and just trying
to keep things going - I've been a bit distracted.
A lot distracted really.

Happy happy happy to inform you that he is now home
and recovering, though now has a little bit of pneumonia to conquer.
I'm heading out to see him tomorrow and am so glad to say he is doing ok.

So there's my excuse!
Life.

I'm busy working on a batch of Owl Mamas to send to
Young Blood Gallery in Atlanta, Georgia and
getting my wits about me to plan this coming season of
spring/summer markets but I do hope to have some
new projects to show you at some point...though it
may be later rather than sooner, to be honest.

I want to thank everyone for their support and kindness
that I, in some ways, didn't even realize I had.
It has been quite the month but I know there's always more to come.

Love you very much.
Happy Spring!
Heather

Plush Team Plushapalooza

2009-03-17T11:37:00.000-04:00

It’s Spring Plushapalooza!

The Etsy Plush Street Team is showing off the newest softies for spring in the Gallery room in Etsy Virtual Labs on Tuesday, March 24th, 3 to 4 p.m. EST! The Virtual Labs can be found here.

The Plushapalooza is just like a trunk show in the real world. Plush Team has come to you to show off the latest and greatest we have to offer. We’ll put up three listings from three different Plush Team artists at a time and everyone in the room can click, browse, and ask questions. Many of the Plush Team artists will be right there in the lab to answer!

Here’s a list of just a few of the Plush Team members sharing their work in the Plushapalooza:

 
“But the Virtual Labs scare me!” you say? It’s ok, it’s our first time too, but it’s easy and fun. Learn all about Virtual Labs in this Storque article.

The Etsy Plush Street Team is a group of Etsy artists supporting and furthering the ideas behind plush dolls, toys and all the soft areas in between.

The Etsy Plush Street Team Spring Plushapalooza is in the Gallery room in Etsy Virtual Labs on Tuesday, March 24th, 3 to 4 p.m. EST! If EST is not your time zone, here’s a link to help you figure out what your local time is.

See you there!

A Good Cause

2009-02-16T23:06:00.000-05:00

The Victorian Bushfire Appeal etsy shop was brought to my
attention recently and I wanted to bring it to yours.

A group of etsy artists have got together to run this
shop where all proceeds go to the Australian Red Cross
as they respond to the Australian Bushfire Tragedy.

Buy some goodies or even donate some
(see how to in their shop profile).
It's a good excuse to shop and a great cause.

Happy Groundhog Day!

2009-02-02T17:31:00.001-05:00

Hoot Headband, originally uploaded by Needlings.

Just finished this little headband amidst also working on a batch of Owl Mamas to be sent off in to the world.
I'm very off and on with my productivity but I am still working!
I was asked to participate in the Toronto One of a Kind show (big big show!) in April because they have some spots left but I know I wouldn't be capable of making enough inventory for a week long show so soon. I am a realist, people!
I would like to do it another year though. So that's something new to work towards!

I don't think I care either way if the groundhog sees his shadow...I'm quite happy either way. As long as it doesn't do some scary groundhog magic to make time go faster or slower...I'll be fine.
I hope everyone had a good January. Talk soon!

I'm going to go watch some Bill Murray.

New Postcard Samplers!

2009-01-19T15:50:00.001-05:00

Owly Postcard Sampler, originally uploaded by Needlings.

Just listed four brand new postcard samplers in the shop:

The Owls Postcard Sampler

Penny Postcard Sampler

The Needlings Postcard Sampler

Mixed Needlings Goodies Postcard Sampler

I'm super excited about them and I hope you might like them too!

Love,
Heather

January Owl Mamas

2009-01-15T11:33:00.001-05:00

Owl Mamas, originally uploaded by Needlings.

I've been working on another batch of Owl Mamas that are now currently on their way to Atlanta, GA to be sold at Young Blood Gallery and Boutique.
It was hard to get myself going - surprisingly not feeling as much beginning of the year motivation and instead more of that feeling you had in your last few weeks of the school year.
Must just be a little worn out from the busy-ness of the last few months of 2008.
I really kept myself pretty busy. I'm still excited for another year with Needlings and everything else is looking pretty good too.

I hope everyone is feeling much more motivated than myself - and I hope that turns around for me quickly!

Happy New Year!

2009-01-02T12:03:00.001-05:00

Olive Branch Cowl, originally uploaded by Needlings.

Yep, it's 2009 now. I hope everyone had a fun night ringing it in.

I wanted to show off more of my mom's shop items! This cowl has been the most popular in her shop lately...I must say it is my favourite.

On the Needlings shop front - lots of already sold snap pouch designs have been relisted for sale and new items are still being worked on in my little workroom.

I tend not to make resolutions but I am definitely looking forward to another Needlings year and will be happily putting in lots of work and time in to making new items and doing more shows. It's always exciting to think of what is to come.

I hope you all enjoyed your holidays. They always fly by fast, don't they?

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-25T14:54:00.000-05:00

and happy holidays!

I hope everyone enjoys a nice day off
and maybe some time with family and yummy food.

I feel so lucky to have the lovely people I have around me.
I will definitely be enjoying a completely relaxed day.

Love you all,
Heather
xoxo

December

2008-12-23T11:55:00.001-05:00

Owl Baby Pocket Mirror, originally uploaded by Needlings.

These new little pocket mirrors are up in my shop - among a few other new things. I'm hoping things will slow down so I'll be able to sew a bit more and get a few more things in the shop - new tote, new pouches, new Needlings - lots of stuff on the go. I'm excited for January when I'll have a bit more Needlings time.

But...

December has been a busy month...
as I'm sure it has been for a lot of people!

I'm using today to wrap presents and get ready for Christmas completely since I will be at work all day tomorrow.

I hope everyone is doing lots of fun holiday stuff and enjoying some time off if you have it.

The year is almost over...see you in the next one!

Mom, Markets, and Computer Hate

2008-11-26T12:35:00.000-05:00

I've been keeping quite busy lately in terms of Needlings

goings-on as well as helping my mom start her very own

Etsy scarf shop.

So we present you with, the very sparce, currently, but not for long,

The Nature Of Mary Jane

She's working on lots of pretty, pretty scarves featuring

the yarns you see in the photo. I'm helping her out

as much I can until she gets the hang of it but

it's very nice to see her excited.

She's always been a "maker" who would love to have

a shop of some sort but I think wasn't sure where to start.

On the topic of markets,

I will be participating in the Holiday Makers' Market

here in Hamilton this year taking place at Christ's

Cathedral Church downtown - which is a beautiful old

church that allows it's usage for such events.

I'm excited to see how it goes considering it has more of

an "indie," for the lack of a better word, vibe than

my first show did (that I was still happy with) earlier this month.

Now on the combo topic of computer hate and why

I haven't been very present on this here blog lately

My firefox browser has decided to disallow me

access to certain features such as my email, flickr blogging,

and other fun things that make my life easier for them

to all be in the same place.

My computer has decided to take a bit of a speed break

on top of that so we'll see what I can work out.

Perhaps Santa will bring me a brand new spiffy working

computer...and if he doesn't - I may just have

to bring it to myself.

I hope to see you more often than it has been.

I shall be working away on new items (Owl Mamas currently)

and organizing for the market next week but I hope

everyone in the U.S. has a happy Thanksgiving

and end of November in general for everyone else.

Love.

Free Shipping and New Moo!

2008-11-18T19:36:00.001-05:00

Needlings Notecard Set, originally uploaded by Needlings.

These are my new note cards featuring my product photography printed by moo.com!
I thought they needed a little home so I made a felt envelope to hold the little set of 4 cards and envelopes. It's fun trying out new things. I'm still working on a few more holiday-y items so look out for those if you are so inclined.

I spent today doing a little Christmas shopping for my mom...I seem to always start with her because she's just the easiest. I love shopping for her. On the off chance she reads this I won't say what I got but I will say that I think she'll like all of it. My dad and brother always require serious spying, prying, and list-making. Thankfully, I am a cool-headed late shopper so I still have some time!

Speaking of holiday shopping...
I'm officially letting you all know that I have free shipping worldwide in my shop until December 1st! No excuses to empty out those favourites now. (wink wink)

I hope everyone is enjoying the starting signs (or full on pleasant/unpleasant effects) of winter coming.

If you hate winter...don't fret - it always goes away eventually. And if you love it...enjoy it until it is over and then don't fret - it always comes back again.

MacFair finished!

2008-11-09T10:54:00.001-05:00

MacFair 08, originally uploaded by Needlings.

I've had a busy beginning of November getting ready and finally actually doing MacFair at the Museum of Art the past few days.
It was an overall pleasant first show for me and I was lucky enough to have my mom there the whole time.
This photo is of my set up before the show started and only experienced a little shifting and replacing of items over the span of the three day show. Definitely happy with how it turned out!
It was busier than I thought it would be and there really were no disasters or even almost disasters and I am now feeling ready to agree to more shows...which is exciting!
It was super nice to be able to talk to a few people who are really right there with me in a lot of ways. I'm really too much of a homebody most of the time so I really liked meeting some really sweet people.

Oh, and tomorrow is my birthday! Not a bad November so far.

It's a Necklace!

2008-11-04T13:46:00.001-05:00

It's a necklace!, originally uploaded by Needlings.

In the middle of all my tagging and pricing prep for MacFair Thursday, Friday, and Saturday...I decided to make a tiny owl.

Added a little ring and ribbon and I think he makes the perfect little owly necklace!

I hope everyone's November is starting out as pleasant as mine has been.
Busy with work but definitely good.
I'll be spending the next couple of days frantically working to prepare for my show but I hope to see you all following the weekend with some good words (and photos) from my first big show!

Holly Doll

2008-10-25T21:32:00.001-04:00

Holly Doll, originally uploaded by Needlings.

It's Saturday night and I've finished another new doll!
My weekend is never much of a break in the week since I work at 7am both Saturday and Sunday so my work week soldiers on as usual.

It was quite a rainy day today but I managed to get a few photos taken between sun showers which made me quite happy.

I wish it were snowy so she could have a wintery background to suit her rosy red cheeks but these will do for now.

Ellie Doll

2008-10-24T21:24:00.001-04:00

Ellie Doll, originally uploaded by Needlings.

Well, here she is all finished up! And she's up in the shop too.
My plan is to get a few done to add a few punches of pattern to my table at MacFair!
First one down, polka dots!
I've been working on another one that's a little more Christmas-y looking. Red and white to be exact. With some vintage floral print legs. It's fun to work with patterned fabric every once in awhile on things other than bags.
Happy last weekend of October! I always miss October when it's over. But November is my birth month so the longing doesn't last too long!

New pouches!

2008-10-23T14:22:00.001-04:00

New pouches!, originally uploaded by Needlings.

I finally finished a big batch of pouches I've been working on and they're now up in my shop!
My fingers are quite glad that the ordeal is over but I didn't give them much of a break to be honest:
I've spent the past little bit finishing up that new doll that I'll be showing off very soon.

Can you believe how hard I'm working?
I can't!

Talk soon and thanks for checking back with me; as always.

Work

2008-10-22T14:28:00.001-04:00

Work, originally uploaded by Needlings.

Just started working on this new doll last night while watching Pushing Daisies (I love that show).

I hope to get a few dolls (my felt plush with fabric legs) finished before MacFair...among a few other things!

Back to work! Hope everyone is having a lovely Wednesday!

P.S. There will be a new batch of snap pouches in the shop very very soon!

Come see me at MacFair!

2008-10-22T14:27:00.001-04:00

Come see me at MacFair!, originally uploaded by Needlings.

Work

2008-10-16T17:38:00.001-04:00

Work, originally uploaded by Needlings.

Still working away at a big batch of pouches.

My poor fingers.

I've also listed a bunch of new Owl Mamas in the shop!

Happy Thursday!

P.S. See that adorable little pincushion?

It's from the ever so sweet SugarElf shop!

Yesterday's Twitter Tweets

2008-10-15T09:09:00.001-04:00

08:15 Why am I awake? #
09:06 Katie in the shop! tinyurl.com/3jyof7 #
09:06 Fern in the shop! tinyurl.com/4klb49 #
10:16 today I have to: keep working on ridiculous quantity of pouches, shop for more MacFair supplies (bags, rack for totes, etc.), and vote! #
16:15 voted! #
18:11 so happy with all the stuff I got for my craft fair display today! Less nerves and more excitement! #
21:57 listening to Penelope by Pinback #
23:22 is quite happy to be heading to bed tonight. #

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Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-10-13T15:22:00.001-04:00

Or Columbus Day,
for you Americans.

Or Monday,
for everyone else.

Still working on a big batch of pouches for MacFair.
So so happy to have the next three days to devote
to Needlings and just myself!

Hope everyone has a lovely day!

Yesterday's Twitter Tweets

2008-10-12T15:58:00.001-04:00

05:29 why does my cell phone not let me know I have a new voicemail until the absolute middle of the night...5 hours after the message was left? #
12:58 working on a batch of pouches for MacFair and taking photos of Owl Mamas. #
13:05 Peter back in the shop: tinyurl.com/4hvwwh #
13:49 what is going on with my camera? #
14:04 just listed a new Owl Mama in the shop! www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=16115842 #
14:24 and another one! www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=16116649 #
14:53 not looking forward to working 7am-3:30pm tomorrow but really looking forward to my Thanksgiving (Canadian) 3 day "weekend." #

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Finally Finished Scarf

2008-10-09T16:53:00.001-04:00

Finally Finished Scarf, originally uploaded by Needlings.

Remember when I started this? Me neither. June, I believe.
I absolutely love knittydirtygirl's yarn! http://knittydirtygirl.etsy.com

Now I have an excellently green scarf to go with my purple jacket.

Who Loves Ikea?

2008-10-09T14:38:00.000-04:00

I do!

So I always get lost and will
never possess such a perfect display kitchen...
but one trip to Ikea and I feel loads better about MACFair
that's coming up in a little under a month.

Two little metal shelve-y step-y things,
a little pink stool,
and a bright yellow metal storage pail,
and I feel like I'm almost there.

All I need is a rack of some sort for my totes.
Email me if you have any leads!

Here's my "test set up."
Don't mind the currently empty signs
and random bits of clutter scattered about!

Cloudy Day

2008-10-04T14:43:00.002-04:00

It's a pretty sad looking day today...

And I just shipped out this happy little cloud custom pouch.

It was nice and sunny when I was working on it yesterday though.
Really pretty.
I love fall.

Yesterday's Twitter Tweets

2008-10-04T14:43:00.001-04:00

11:15 waiting for yummy French onion soup lunch in the oven...working on knitting various straps for unplanned bags. #
16:02 working on a custom snap pouch. I love when someone else picks great colours I haven't put together yet. #
16:34 still sewin' flickr.com/photos/needlings/2910795028/ #
17:43 and done! flickr.com/photos/needlings/2910911842/ #

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Yesterday's Twitter Tweets

2008-10-03T12:11:00.000-04:00

10:31 did inventory on baking books section at work today...yeah, I'll be making some cupcakes after lunch. #
12:26 checking out www.voteforenvironment.ca/ ....Harper must go! #
17:15 is continually unimpressed with Great Big Sea. #
20:16 watching the debates...the American and the Canadian both. So far, I have determined that the Americans have superior sound guys. #

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It's October!

2008-10-01T18:49:00.001-04:00

I completely can't believe it.
The next month has been jumping up on me
too quickly lately.

Anyway,
I managed to get a new tote in the shop today.

A mushroom one:

I spent some time joining Twitter today.
Which is a fun little blogging update sort of site
for quick updates or those with short attention spans.

If I can fully figure it out...you may find some of my "tweets"
making their way over here every once in awhile.
But in the meantime,
you can see them here!

Oh Ike.

2008-09-16T13:53:00.000-04:00

Thanks to hurricane Ike,
Renegade Craft Fair in Chicago seems to have
been quite the wet one.

My wonderful fellow Plush Team
members who went to Chicago to
work our booth spoke of a happy weekend,
though wet, and not as busy as hoped.

I'm just thrilled to have been able to participate
and look forward to many awesome
Plush Team events in the future.
Hopefully a few I will attend in person as well!

photo credit: moogancreations.etsy.com

photo credit: susarto.etsy.com

The booth looks amazing in the photos, doesn't it?
So many awesome Plush Team plush!

On a serious note,
I hope everyone who was affected by Ike is
with power and safety soon if not already.

Enter to Win some Needlings Owly Goodies!

2008-09-14T18:17:00.000-04:00

Blogger, SevenDogsandaBaby. com, is having an owl giveaway
along with her nice post of my items!

Click here for the post

All you have to do is go read her post then check out my shop
and make a comment on her blog about your favourite item and
you'll be entered to win a Mini Owl Mama and an Owl Baby Pin.

The contest runs until October 15th and it's for US entries only.

Good luck!

Forgive Me

2008-09-10T10:29:00.001-04:00

I've been a very bad blogger lately.

Many bummed out life-y things have prevented me from
sharing more regularly.

All bumming aside...
I've remained happy with all the Needlings
goings-on.

In fact,
I'm super excited for Renegade this weekend!
Of course, I am not going to Chicago myself; but
I will live through my little guys that attend in my place.

The amazing Plush Team, who I feel
genuinely lucky to be a part of,
is going to be there in Chicago.
At booth 70, if you're so inclined.

We also have another team event planned
for October.
A trunk show in Columbus, OH.

Something I was going to attend but,
due to those bummy life events,
will be experiencing from afar.
Though a handful of Owl Mamas and other Needlings
will enjoy their time there, I'm sure.

I'm working on getting ready for
yet another show in November.
But this one will be all by my lonesome
for a three day show at McMaster Museum of Art.
Very exciting.
I'll keep you updated!

I've also added a bunch of fun magnets
and other new goodies to the shop
since we've talked last so don't forget
to go check them out!

I hope all is well with you.

Fall Up

2008-08-24T19:15:00.001-04:00

The title of this entry, "Fall Up," comes
from the new Rio en Medio single.
I'm super excited to acquire the full
new album, "Frontier."
Amazing.

I'm winding up my summer work;
having finished the Renegade group to sell along with
the amazing work of my fellow Plush Team members,
and another group of Owl Mamas heading off to
Wholly Craft in Columbus, OH.

Lots of other little ends being tied off before I dive in to
fall shows and the Christmas season prep.

I'm slowly getting back in to making new items for the shop.
I put up a new little owly magnet set
and just finished this funny little thing that will
appear in the shop some time this week:

I may be heading in to Toronto this week or next
for a little fun friend time but you will be informed I'm sure!
Hopefully I will take some photos too since I always forget.
I forget to get in to tourist mode
when I'm only going 45 minutes away.

Fin

2008-08-16T19:35:00.000-04:00

My Renegade work has ended.

A very large box is out of my hands
and headed towards Chicago.

I can only hope it will be happily received!

My other little bit of exciting news that is
unrelated to Renegade Craft fair
is that I am participating in
the etsy coop advertising program.
This means a little Needlings ad will be
seen in a two page etsy ad in the November
issue of Craft Magazine.
I'm super excited about it!
My businessy birthday (birth month I guess)
gift to myself in November.

You can be sure I will be showing that off
when it shows up on the shelves.

Lots of things to work for in the next few months.
It's good.
I love being Needlings busy.

More work...

2008-08-07T20:25:00.000-04:00

I'm surprised with how busy I've been.
I'm nearly finished with my items to send along with
the Plush Team at Renegade...
which is awesome!

I really didn't think I would be quite as productive as I have been.

And I even had time to finish and list a new "Out on a Limb Tote."

I had yet to take photos of the ten new Owl Mamas I've finished
but I'm planning on being able to get a quick shot or two in
before they enter the box and (hopefully) leave me forever.

Oh and I even managed to finish these two Needlings too:

Back to work I go!

Renegade Owls

2008-07-24T10:33:00.001-04:00

My goal is to get together at least 20 items to sell at Renegade
along with my Plush Team members.
My first step is cutting up some felt for Owl Mamas.

I've sent a couple to SevenDogsAndABaby.com where
they will be reviewed and a little giveaway contest will occur.
(Don't worry, I'll let you know when;
in case you're interested in some free Needlings owly stuff!)

A few are in my shop and
a few are in the works for Renegade.

I also have a bunchabunch of ric rac on it's way to me in the mail...
so I'll have fun putting new colours together I'm sure.
I love ric rac.
I took dance when I was little and I remember
my mom had to sew some strips of ric rac on a costume
and I loved it then too.
It had to be red, green, and yellow which I remember
not quite enjoying as much as a few other strips that
were available at the fabric store.
It was the 80's.
I hadn't learned the appeal of primary colours
and much preferred pastels and "hypercolour."

Mini Work

2008-07-17T16:57:00.001-04:00

I made this little girly last night.
My mom claimed her right away!
I might have to make a big version
(this actually took just as much time to hand sew as my regular sized Needlings take; tiny stitches.)

but I really need to get started on some work for Renegade asap.

I've put in a request at "the real job" that will, hopefully,
allow me more time for the Needlings,
going in to September and "the Christmas season."
This is exciting for me.

Renegade (and pouches)

2008-07-15T21:26:00.000-04:00

Exciting plans =
The Plush Team got accepted to Renegade Craft Fair Chicago!
We're all so excited and just trying to work out all the specifics right now.

I would love to love to go.
It might (probably) won't be doable realistically for me
but my amazing team memberswill be manning the booth for those of us unable
to attend but will be sending items to sell.

So I really have to get a lot done in this next month.
I have about 20 Needlings/Owl Mamas
(probably more owls than Needlings)
to finish and send off to Chicago.

Hopefully I can still get new items in the shop on a regular basis!

I did, however,
finish all those pouches I showed you the other day.
The two top ones are sold already but
I'll try to keep a steady stream
of the popular ones made in the shop.

Wish me luck!

Projects and Plans

2008-07-10T13:11:00.000-04:00

As I wait very patiently (ahem) for some potentially very exciting news tomorrow...
I've been working on another little batch of pouches to keep me occupied.
I think I have the most fun picking out colours.
Contrast is my favourite.

Here's a peek:

Ok, back to work...
And don't worry,
I'll let you know if there's any BIG news.

New shop things!

2008-07-05T21:23:00.006-04:00

That's right...two posts in one day AND
two new things in the shop today.

Did you ever think someone could be so productive on a Saturday?

Now I promise I have nothing more to say or do today.
See you soon!

Two of the Three

2008-06-27T18:17:00.000-04:00

So from the little messy picture from the last post...

Tote:

and new Needling:
Her name is Kaz and her story can be found in the etsy shop.

The green scarf is an ongoing in between projects project so I'm still knitting...
I'm also knitting turquoise straps for a new red corduroy bag so who knows what will come first.

I spent a little part of the day organizing my work table too:
Ok so I don't really have any room to do "work" at it but it is where I keep everything anyway.
Then I cover everything with their respective plastic lids and then a tarp to deter further cat attention.
It works well.

New Projects

2008-06-25T18:22:00.000-04:00

I've been working away I promise.
Lots of knitting actually as I try to get ahead on some straps for totes.
Feels like progress but not as many new things in the shop lately to show for it.
There will be more in the coming weeks.

Here's a little peek at a few things I've been working on:

A green scarf (thinking ahead for the winter season)
Doesn't it look so pretty on those purple needles?
Like an eggplant.
Gave me an idea for a little extra...

A new Needling just waiting for my new Needlings tags to come in the mail
so her little leg can be stuffed and sewn...

And a polka dotted tote with yellow straps.

Oh and also!
http://www.theneedlings.com
is now mine.
Currently it only directs to the etsy shop but it still feels like nice progress.

So you see, lots of things!

FREE Shipping!

2008-06-24T16:36:00.000-04:00

Until the end of June!

Free shipping worldwide in the shop.

On everything!

Buttons!!!

2008-06-20T17:36:00.000-04:00

I got my new buttons today!

There will be some in the shop by tomorrow,
and they'll be sent with purchases as well.

I shouldn't be this excited but they're just bright and cheerful and plentiful!

Stories

2008-06-16T19:40:00.000-04:00

Today I came home from work and thought,
"what should I make today?,"
as I often do...
I decided I needed a book bag.
I work at a bookstore and as a result,
I buy too many books and always have one in my bag.
They can get a little banged up so I decided to make a little book bag to protect them!

Books really shouldn't be banging up against keys and lip gloss.

On a personal note, anticipate a possible shop closure in the next couple of weeks
as I may need to go out of town for a short period of time...maybe a week.
On another personal note,
my dad, who I rarely see because he lives in Nevada and has been desperately trying to sell
his house so he can return to Canada and retire, has finally sold his house and is moving back!
It was excellent father's day news and I'm so happy he'll be back where he wants to be.

I really hope everyone is having a nice summer so far, maybe reading a few good books (which ones? recommend!), going on fun vacations, and generally enjoying their lives.

The Return

2008-06-09T23:30:00.000-04:00

I seemingly have abandoned this blog
but I promise you it is not for good.
I've been occupied and preoccupied along with
busy for the past few weeks...
I have, however, updated the shop with a few new things:
Pouches
Totes
A doll
who I love:

Between you and me,
this Penny Doll design was created for one of my friends
who just so happens to be having a little baby girl in about 4 weeks.
This new little girl is going to be getting one of these dolls in pink and green which are,
I am told,
the colours of the nursery who waits for her to arrive.

Quite exciting really.
I'm excited.

So that's all for now.
New things to come always.
I hope I won't abandon this blog again but
hopefully you are all having summer fun with no time for blog reading anyway.

Thank you, as always, for checking back.

Love,
Heather

New Tote

2008-05-21T15:08:00.000-04:00

I mentioned a new tote last post...

well, this isn't it.

But it is a new tote!

The other one I am still knitting/trying to find the time to knit the straps for it.

This one is going to go up in the shop in a little bit though.

It's a bigger one.

Victoria Day Weekend Work Update

2008-05-17T19:59:00.000-04:00

To make use of my first day off since I got back from my trip,
I made a new little clutch for my shop:

I'm super excited about it. I think it's really cute.

I've also finished a new Needling that remains nameless because I've just been exhausted in a way that doesn't warrant naming and story-writing. Even mini-story writing.

Here he is though.
Probably will be in the shop sometime this coming week.

I'm also working on a new tote.
I've just got some pretty pink straps to knit up and it will be ready to go.
Give me a little while for those but you'll see that soon too.

There.

Happy Mama's Day

2008-05-11T23:39:00.001-04:00

I suppose it's almost over now but still.
I had some nice family time and showered my mom with magazines and books.
Well two British magazines and Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert (an Oprah recommended book I have no desire to read but my mom was interested in).
Work at a book store.
It will make you Oprah bitter.

I finished and listed in my shop this new little scrap munchkin today.

Found about 3 yards of this navy polka dotted chintz at one Saturday morning yard sale.

Not sure what I'll use it for...
so far, little legs and arms.

Put up a new pouch yesterday and am working on another little wallet for the shop that I think I will manage to list by tomorrow afternoon.
The wallets are a lot of work but I think it's worth it and I get compliments on my own all the time which is encouraging.
Check out the shop tomorrow...I promise a new one will be there.

I'm very happy to be motivated this week to get a lot of new things finished.
I think because I've been away from my supplies for two weeks.
It's funny how much I miss hanging out and sewing things.
I love that I get to do it as much as I do.
I very much miss and wish my other loves were closer to me.
Can't have everything and everyone you love always together I guess.
Mom's here though.
That's a plus.

I'm back!

2008-05-09T22:20:00.000-04:00

I had an amazing trip and an overwhelming amount of happy times over the past two weeks.
I'm home now, and after sleeping the whole day to recover from an all night bus ride rapidly followed by first day back to work...
I will be starting to get The Needlings shop back in gear after packing up orders made while I was gone.

I don't recommend working at 7am the morning you arrive by bus at 5am.
It will mess you up.

I hope everyone's May is off to a good start.
Although I am sad sad sad about being away again from my Iowa friends and Carlos in Ohio,
I am excited to get some work done this week.
I'd say you can expect a few new things in the coming weeks for sure.

Talk soon.

Closing shop!

2008-04-23T14:30:00.000-04:00

Don't worry! Just for two weeks!

I'm going on vacation so, while technically the shop is completely open, I'm not going to be shipping any purchases made until I return on May 9th.

I will be maid of honouring it up in Iowa and then spending a couple days in Ohio with Carlos afterwards; essentially I will be touring the midwest of America for my super tropical spring vacation.

I am actually really excited.

I have been really inactive on this blog lately because I've just been trying to get myself together and ready to take a couple weeks off life at home!

I've been working (and actually finishing, thank the lo) on Jenny and Trystan's wedding present and spare extras for the shop over the past week.

A little photo tour:

The beginnings of a fluffy pillow; a fluffy pillow so desired by said receiver.

Really messy work table with the beginnings of a covered canvas experiment

Domino looks on unimpressed. (Note tiny spot of cat drool)

And done!

So that's what I've been up to.
An owly wedding present of two wall hangings and a fuzzy pillow for my best friend and fellow owl lover, Jenny, and her probably ok enough with owls fiance and soon to be husband, Trystan.

They don't read this blog so I can be sure the secret is safe.

So again you won't see me for a stretch of time...two weeks to be exact!

But as soon as I get back home, it's back to work on lots of new Needlings suches!

I hope everyone has a great end of April beginning of May!

Newbies

2008-04-14T16:02:00.000-04:00

I keep all my scraps.

Bins and drawers of cut up felt and fabric and thread.

Here's "Dot the Scrap Munchkin," to help me out.

She's just been listed in the shop.
:)

Oh and also I have to show off my new stuff,
some made, one bought.

My new "Princess Tina" tote purchase from Magic Pony (really fun toy shop/gallery)
and my new wallet and change purse I made for myself.
Yay new stuff! Right?

Sunday

2008-04-13T11:44:00.000-04:00

I made a new Owl Mama yesterday.
She's red.
And she's in my shop.

New Apple (and yummy yarn)

2008-04-08T11:13:00.000-04:00

I just made this new little apple keyring for my shop and while I was taking photos
I looked over at my brand new knittydirtygirl yarn and thought the red would look so nice with it!

It's her "intergalactic cabbage"...
which is completely amazing as you can see!
It's super soft too!
I have to think long and hard about what to knit up with it.
I'll definitely be checking back at her shop though because I may need the "mustard seed" as well at some point.
Highly recommended!

Blister Fingers the Wallet

2008-04-07T13:16:00.001-04:00

I worked on this new little wallet yesterday.
My poor fingers hate me for it!
I made a sort of experiment one first to test out the card holders and then just went for it.
I think it's pretty cute but I don't know how many I'll be making because it was a big job for such a little thing!
I just listed it in the shop.

Awwwww

2008-04-06T12:57:00.000-04:00

Ok, I don't regularly talk about my etsy favourites, (perhaps I should more?)
but I saw these in SugarElf's etsy shop and I just had to tell someone!

Aren't they adorable owls?!
If you haven't seen her shop before, definitely take a look because her stuff is so sweet.
I own one of her pin cushions (an owl one. surprise.) and it really is a great happy making addition to my sewing table.

Really cute stuff.