It started with a fox

So much has been going on with my toys that I haven't blogged in a while.I thought that I would tell the story of how Little Bellwoods got started.

My son painted this fox on a ceramic tile when he was young. I loved this little fox, such a cute character.

I thought maybe I should make a toy of him.

I started sketching. I also started doodling ideas for a name. The problem was all of the names had already been used. So frustrating, I almost called it everythingistaken.com. I turned my attention to sewing.

This is my first try. It's made out of different felt scraps that I had. I didn't like the muzzle though.

Different profile but I still didn't like it. At this point I decided to go back to the drawing board.

I started drawing other creatures too. I turned to Abby Glassenberg"s book "Stuffed Animals." It was very helpful. I changed the pose.

New sketch.

First muslin dummy. Starting to take shape!

Next muslin dummy with marker indicating eye placement and details.

Fox made out of acrylic felt. Darn ears won't stand up.

How about red?

Fatter?

Corduroy?

Cotton twill? That #%/* ear is down again!

Success! Wool felt and the ears are up! Thanks interfacing!

Finally I decided on wool that I felt myself and the name is Little Bellwoods named after my neighbourhood Trinity Bellwoods.

Such a long journey from my original inspiration but an interesting trip!