My Very First Sewing Project

So I'm a little embarrassed to show this since it was my first attempt...but I thought it would be a great opportunity to share where my plush making began.

Ever since I was little, I dreamed of making a stuffed animal (specifically, a rag doll). I used to sketch out my "pattern" and write out lists of supplies I thought I would need. It all seemed so simple to me. I'd even sit and study my many stuffed animals and run my fingers along the seams, thinking about how they were put together. I guess you could call me a weird kid. I had one major problem though...I didn't know how to sew! I really didn't even have anyone to teach me. For a very long time, I was positive my plushie dreams would never be.

Through high school and college I pursued drawing and painting, but my desire to make a plushie was always in the back of my head.

Last year, I came across a wonderful place called Craftster. I was amazed by this community and all the wonderful creations people were making. This eventually led me to the world of artist plush and art dolls.  I saw all the wonderful creations others were making and I got so mad at myself! I was determined I was going to learn how to sew so I could finally make a plushie...(and I have to admit, after looking through a gallery of one of my favorite plush artists, I discovered her first sewing attempts...and it gave me the final push I needed to try for myself).

After watching several "how to sew" videos, and finding a link to a simple doll pattern, my very first plushie was created:

I know, I know...she's a bit sad, but I was SO proud of myself for finally creating a plushie. She still sits on my desk today to remind me of where I began. (And I must confess she still brings a smile to my face!)

She was made a little over a year ago (October of 2009) and it really thrills me to see how far I've come in just a short period of time. I still have a long way to go, but some progress is better than none!