Wow, it's been a while hasn't it? I'm not sure if I meant to stay away so long but I've been really busy with work plus I think I needed a blogging break. You see, some things about this blog and craft blogging in general have been bugging me lately and I guess I needed some time to think things over. I don't mean to be so mysterious but I don't want to monku about it here. Mostly because it just sounds whiny and pouty everytime I try to write about it. So, back to the crafting.
Thanks so much everyone for all the Little Bear love! I'm happy to report that he's safely made it to Detroit. This guy on the other hand has decided to stick around the islands. I actually made him months ago, but never got around to posting the pics. He's a button jointed bear made from a really soft synthetic fur and I used the pattern on the cover of this book. My guy however, has slightly shorter arms and I loooove that he can stand on his own.
The synthetic fur was nice but I've been itching to make a real mohair bear. Have you ever tried shopping for mohair? The choices are too great! It stresses me out everytime I try to purchase some online. Who knew there were so many different types of mohair?
PS. For all you Komaneko fans. Someone was nice enough to post a couple more shorts. Check them out here, here and here. Love it when they dance!
Beautiful. And yes, I have had the same experience with the mohair. Never did buy any.
Posted by: Shula | September 19, 2007 at 12:49 AM
I only ever use mohair LOL - once you try it you won't ever go back. Try alpaca - it is so lovely to sew with!
Posted by: kielz | September 19, 2007 at 12:59 AM
I love that his leg buttons are covered with the contrasting fabric! So sweet!
Posted by: Amanda | September 19, 2007 at 02:04 AM
Lovely! The dotty fabric makes the bear so unique!
Posted by: Tracy | September 19, 2007 at 02:07 AM
Your bear is so sweet! And thank you so much for posting the links - I love Komaneko!
Posted by: planetjune | September 19, 2007 at 02:14 AM
Sometimes, I think that the need for a blogging break just happens. I'm just thrilled to see you posting today - I just love your work...
and the Komaneko links, too. You totally introduced Komaneko to me, and for that I am forever grateful!
Posted by: lla | September 19, 2007 at 03:31 AM
Just a hint for your mohair. Sometimes when you get it it isn't as soft as it could be. Just give it a gentle wash and add conditioner it will come up really nicely. And although I work mainly with mohair I have a soft spot for nice plushes
Posted by: Bronwen | September 19, 2007 at 04:47 AM
The bear is so cute.
Posted by: sally | September 19, 2007 at 05:14 AM
I missed you, Myra! And was worried about you, too. So happy to see little Dotty here this morning...
I can't wait to check out the Komaneko links with my daughter this afternoon, when I bring her home from Kindergarten. Thanks!
Posted by: Michelle | September 19, 2007 at 05:31 AM
Oooooo, he looks SO SOFT!! :) And the apple is so adorable.
Posted by: cindy | September 19, 2007 at 05:52 AM
Yes, come join the mohair club! Once you try it you will love it. I was overwhelmed too when I looked at the catalogs--then my husband bought me some last year for my birthday. He bought me one of the most expensive types (that's love,eh!) but it was so expensive and so luxurious that it sat for over a year because I was too afraid to use it. I wanted some cheap stuff to practice on! I still haven't used it! I found the best way to get a handle on it is to try a few different types and gradually it will all make sense. Some recommendations haven't been my favorites so I think it's very individual. I got a bunch of scraps of all different kinds in a lot on ebay--and that has really helped my education.
Your bear is super cute too! And of course I'm all so curious about what you don't want to talk about about blogging. So mysterious! At any rate, nice to see a post and pics on flickr again!
Posted by: theresa | September 19, 2007 at 07:15 AM
ps. If you want to pout and whine--I won't mind one bit.
Posted by: theresa | September 19, 2007 at 07:16 AM
dotty bear is sooo cute! i love little apple too!
Posted by: debbie | September 19, 2007 at 07:37 AM
I love your little bear!
Posted by: amandajean | September 19, 2007 at 08:08 AM
oh, he's so cute! I've never made jointed softies. I really should give it a try. having them stand on their own seems like such a novelty.
Posted by: michal | September 19, 2007 at 08:25 AM
he is adorable! i love him sooo much!!!! aww, man, what would i have to do get one like him?
i can send you some mohair... :D
Posted by: teresa | September 19, 2007 at 12:29 PM
Welcome back Myra! And that bear is adooooorable! <3
Posted by: Madame M | September 19, 2007 at 01:36 PM
Your little bear is cute with the apple on his head.
Posted by: Barb | September 19, 2007 at 05:47 PM
He's so lovely! I love his polka dots too ;)
And thanks for the Komaneko links - I adore those videos!
Posted by: Emma | September 19, 2007 at 07:09 PM
Hi! Can anyone tell me where to buy mohair online in the U.S.? I don't have a clue. The only place I have heard of is in the U.K...
Posted by: Sarahj | September 19, 2007 at 08:13 PM
ooh your bear is so cute :D
i want to try mohair too :) but its so expensive...
wow those komaneko clips are so cute, i'll have sit down and watch them all when i have more time...
Posted by: grace | September 19, 2007 at 09:46 PM
Let us hear it sometimes its good to vent. I too waited for a long time before using mohair. I have to say I love it but theresa is right it varies by person and the best place to start is with small pieces online. We love and I can say we because everytime you post a pick of one of your lovely creations so many people comment and view. If you decide to take a break we hope you will come back soon. I would miss seeing all the lovelies that you make.
Posted by: Melissa | September 20, 2007 at 03:32 AM
this bear is just as charming as your other. they are so adorable! i love the fur & the buttons...beautiful work :]
Posted by: donielle | September 20, 2007 at 07:24 AM
love him... he looks so snuggly!
Posted by: dee | September 20, 2007 at 02:14 PM
cute bear! the things you craft are so amazing!
Posted by: joyce | September 23, 2007 at 04:48 PM