Christmas in January?

I'm working on a felt applique wreath, not late for this past Christmas but perhaps way early for the next one? 

(Yes, it's the third week in January and my poinsettia is still healthy!)

This kit by Bucilla, called "Cookies & Candy Wreath", will be a long term project done leisurely over many months. I'll take a photo now and then to show you how it's coming along.

I cut the basic wreath shape from foam core board rather than the cardboard suggested. Then I had to embroider many many leaves. The embroidery on the leaves was time consuming but easy, just simple back stitch and straight stitch. Attaching all those leaves to the wreath form was a challenge! I ended up having to go out and buy a curved upholstery needle.

The curved needle was awkward to work with but it made attaching the leaves to the stiff background easier.

Now that the background leaves are done I'm on to the more interesting part, making all the items to go on the wreath. 

To give you some idea of the scope of this project, the little gingerbread boy is only the beginning. I estimate he took around 3 hours to create.

Walking the Docs

The slow and sometimes painful break in period for a new pair of Doc Marten 1460 boots is almost over.

I successfully wore them today for a long dog walk followed by two appointments and some errands. Over eight hours of continuous wear without a blister or sore spot. Yay! For a while there I was worried that this day would never come.

Beginner Class

Overall I'm pretty pleased with the results of my first attempt to make a rose with polymer clay. The class was a lot of fun and I learned a lot.

I'm very happy with the rose and the little accent flowers. Once photographed I can see that the leaves look too thick and chunky though. Next time I'll work on getting those thinner and more delicate looking.

While I would have limited use for polymer flowers, I do want to give creating polymer clay beads a try. Having the ability to create unique beads for jewelry would be worthwhile. Still, I don't think working with polymer clay will become a huge thing in my life --- more like an occasional side interest, especially if I am wanting a particular piece of jewelry that I am not able to find in stores.

I do believe I'll take a closer look at polymer clay how-to books next time I'm in Micheals.