We've done this a few times now, that is sew up a soft toy version of a sketch Lucy has done. Today Lucy drew an octopus (I think this has something to do with her moving up to the Octopus-level class at swimming). The fun part about this is choosing all the bits and pieces to make the sketch into a soft toy. She chose a couple of vintage fabrics (1970's, groovy) for the body and we found some binding in my trims drawer. She went straight for the lilac, and when I unwrapped it I realised it was silk! But she was so, so wanting it by then that there was no going back. Turns out silk tentacles flow beautifully behind a chunky body.
She helped me stitch a few parts on the machine (she operated the presser foot and I steered the fabric (did you ever do this in a car in your errant youth?). During the sewing of the octopus Lucy repeatedly declared how much she loved working on the project. Be still my heart!
Finally Lucy stuffed the toy and then helped handstitch the belly up.
Voila, a sketchy octopus!
It's a very simple project which has brought disproportionate immense joy to a 6 year old.
That is adorable!
ReplyDeleteSo sweet. Lucy, what a lovely drawing and one very groovy octopus! Does he/she have a name? I am inspired to get my Mum's sewing machine out and embark on a similar project with Asher. She adores drawing and I had never thought of making one of her sketches come to life. Thanks Catherine for the inspiration.
ReplyDeleteHi ellie!
ReplyDeleteKrissie - after a moment's hesitation, Lucy told me the octopus;'s name is...Sparkly. Of course...
I do know of a lady that does this professionally - you send her your child's sketch and she makes it into a softy. I can't for the life of me remember her name though. Good for non-sewing folk, but the fun in this is doing it with your girl (no matter the outcome!).