More prints

Here are some more prints from the freezer paper stencils. This one was a little distressed (thin in some parts) because my brush had a little water in it.

 And, my stencils:

Embroidered Pouches

I am working on some pouches for gifts as well as new items for Etsy. Here is one I embroidered this morning:

 It is very similar to one I gave as a Christmas gift:

I'm hoping to use a print like one of these I posted yesterday for a new style of pouch:

Freezer Paper Stencils

I'm experimenting with freezer paper stencils on fabric. I want some original fabric designs for some upcoming projects and have tried screen-printing, but I don't have a usable screen. Making freezer paper stencils is a simple process, although cutting the stencil out of the freezer paper is somewhat time-consuming. I liked the results and was surprised that I did not have any problems with the ink seeping under the paper.

I first learned about the process in Lena Corwin's Printing by Hand. This is the best book that I have found on all types of printing by hand, including handmade stamps, store bought stamps, freezer paper, contact paper, mylar, screen printing,  etc.)

Here are several designs I printed: (sorry for the wrinkles...)

Doodles from the sketchbook...

I am working on drawings for some plushies, softies, stuffed animals, whatever they are called and I started working on this bear in corduroy and felt. The 3D version has a turquoise tie.

Bumblebee Piggy

Once upon a time there was a bumblebee piggy...

A recent doodle from my sketchbook. :)

Learning to Crochet

My sister is pregnant with her first child and we are all very excited. He/she will be the first grandchild for my parents. So... of course I have a ton of ideas, mostly DIY baby projects. Conveniently, I'm now learning to crochet and have checked out a very cute amigurumi (Japanese crocheted stuffed animals) book from the library called Tiny Yarn Animals, by Tamie Snow. It's a great book for beginners. (I'm working on the cute little koala because I have gray yarn and my sister loves koalas.)

 Also, yesterday my crochet-expert friend, Amy, came over to give me an introduction to crochet. She helped me so much. I've seen blankets that she made for her sister's children and others and they are so cute and modern. She also brought this book, 200 Crochet Blocks, which is great to go through to get some ideas for blanket blocks.