In the wake of the Newtown, CT tragedy, it has felt somewhat trivial to imagine sitting down at this computer to share crafts or stories about my children; like everyone else, I’m just trying to make sense of this senseless tragedy. Yet when I think about the ways in which I bring peace and joy and love into the world, it is through creativity. I love to create, to share my love of the arts with children, and to teach others how to engage with their creativity.
These days, it seems like I am doing nothing but creating. We are blessed with a Winter Solstice baby; on Friday, Ella will celebrate the return of the light AND her fifth birthday! I’ve been hard at work on her handmade birthday gifts and also a few Christmas gifts (which I know I will not finish in time – the sweet Little Oak knit sweater, for instance.)
After making a birthday crown for Everett, I was really inspired to do the same for Ella. I roughly followed this tutorial for sewing guidance, and did a lot of hand stitching and free-form cutting. I’ll share a better photo on her birthday, but here are a few details:
Ella has some very clear ideas about her birthday party, for instance, she wants 5 kids to attend since she is turning 5, but my own parameters are this: simple and sweet. I’m imagining a craft, a story, cake, and a very short treasure hunt. Weather permitting, I think these little gnomes will be hiding outside, waiting for their new human friends!
(If you’re interested in a little tutorial on how to make these little gnomes, let me know. They are really fun and easy to make!)
What kinds of crafting are you up to this week?
***Joining the fine crafty folks at Frontier Dreams for Keep Calm Craft On!
I would love your tutorial for these cute little gnomes! Thanks for sharing
I believe I used this basic tutorial, and then adjusted for the size peg doll that I had: http://weefolkart.com/content/felt-gnome-tutorial
GREAT, Teri!! Again! Ann
Those gnomes are gorgeous. Have a lovely party and hope the children enjoy their treasure hunt.
Thank you! I have asked my husband to handle the treasure hunt, so I will be as surprised as the kids! Can’t wait!
Teri, your gnomes remind me of the acorn dolls a friend makes from matted felt that she tucks into an acorn cap. I have some large (1″+) diameter acorn caps from a burr oak if you would like to try it.
Sure Ed! I’d love to try some large acorn caps for a head! Sounds fun. No rush though, whenever you get the chance. Thanks!