Dear diary at the risk of
stating the obvious, the small break I initially intended and mentioned in my
last instalment four months ago, developed into a rather protracted stay of
absence. I did indeed take a break from
doll making to attend to some much needed soft furnishing issues.
My lounge and conservatory are the grateful recipients of new paint, new carpet, new roman blinds and curtains; a complete aesthetic overhaul they so badly craved, and of course I remain utterly smitten.
I have, for some time tried to
infuse a spark of personality within my work to create charismatic and unique little
characters.
During my sabbatical I enjoyed the luxury of a rare spell to reflect upon this in general and my knitted bears specifically; rest assured I’m scheming behind the scenes on ways and means that improve the presentation and expression of the finished bear.
An element of difficulty exists when considering
embellishing miniatures, one has to consider the limitations of scale, skill level and how the chosen fabrics will respond to a particular
way of handling.
After consideration I thought accessorizing with a hat was especially fitting, the most memorable are undoubtedly those of Pratchett, Potter and Dickens, which arouse thoughts of top hats in varying degrees of shabbiness.
Of course one cannot over look the inimitable Fred Astaire, at the other end of the spectrum, dancing his way through the legendary 1930’s film ‘Top Hat’.
Top hats on bears, a stair and
‘puttin’ on the Ritz’, an obvious pun I know, but I couldn’t resist.
As the week draws to a close and
Mothering Sunday looms large I find myself revisiting the mini organic vegetable
box, a gift to my mum three years ago. I
am considering an updated version, not an undertaking to be rushed of course; instead
a necessary investment of time and concentration is appropriate to blend a variety
of techniques for a more refined finish.
This pleasure is probably best deferred until after the trade fair in
April.
Farewell, until next time.
