Hedgehog Corner

Happy New Year

2012-01-18T14:15:00.000-08:00

I hope you all had a really good Christmas and New year! We had a lovely time but since then I am afraid I have not been well at all. I suppose it must have all started just before Christmas but here I am still feeling miserable! However, I did get a belated Christmas present this morning just the thing to cheer me up. A nice shiny new drawing tablet for the pc so now there will be no more excuses - there should be loads of work done on it.

Twas Christmas Eve.....

2011-12-24T14:34:00.001-08:00

The tree is looking pretty and Santa is ready to come! Presents for family and friends are all prepared. The fridge is full to the brim and the cupboards groaning with food. Tiny Tilly, mouse, all the other animals and bears are ready to go to bed - including myself and cat Amber!

I just hope I have done everything, posted everything and forgotten nothing!

I a very Happy Christmas to everyone - enjoy a lovely day tomorrow whatever you do. I will be thinking of you and so will the family of Hedgies!

Twas Christmas

2011-12-24T14:32:00.001-08:00

Going home for Christmas!

2011-12-19T11:35:00.000-08:00

This poor Ted arrived at the hospital feeling very sorry for himself. As you can see he had multiple injuries - quite a sad sight. Feeling quite pleased with himself and ready to enjoy some festivities he is now on his way home to join his family for Christmas.

Santa's Visit

2011-12-18T13:20:00.001-08:00

Even though the Fair at the museum was the quietest event I have ever attended it was with some sadness that we packed up at the end of the day. We met some really nice new friends and clever crafters and we will most certainly keep in touch with them!

The highlight of the day had to be a visit from Santa who brought his Reindeer puppet to be repaired after many years of use. Considering the age of the reindeer he was in surprisingly good condition and Santa showed us the rest of the collection of Sue Quinn toys gathered over the early years - a rabbit, hedgehog nightdress case and Habbie Hedgehog all in mint condition.

Many thanks Santa for dropping by in your busy schedule - it was much appreciated and cheered us all up!! I promise Reindeer will be up to speed very soon and joining the rest of the team.

2011-12-16T14:06:00.000-08:00

Another very quiet day at the Museum... Alan held the fort whilst I went to my studio to do some work. I had a very important repair to make for a lovely lady Amanda! Despite feeling very sleepy (I am definitely trying to hibernate!) I concentrated well on the task in hand and managed to finish the repair on Teddy so I could return him to his happy owner!!

Paisley Museum......

2011-12-14T11:39:00.000-08:00

Oh dear.....very quiet at the Museum not even a mouse stirrred! This is the very first event like this at the museum so I suppose it is new to everyone and not many people came these last two days. However it is on for two weeks altogether so there is plenty of opportunity for this to change. I have only signed up for this first week though.

Despite this slight disappointment the venue is so lovely - the museum is an amazing building donated by the Coats Family to the Paisley Art Institute. Scotlands first municipal museum it was designed by John Honeyman and opened in 1871. It was funded by Peter Coats of the large Paisley threadmakers J & P Coats. The collection of Paisley Shawls is particularly worth a look.

I did see one or two visitors who were delighted I was there which was lovely. They used to buy from me when my premises were in Quarriers Village and had lost touch when I moved seven years ago.

One couple bought a reindeer puppet from me over 20 years ago and now it is in need of repair as it has been used so much - he is an important aide to Santa apparently and has talked to many small children over the years.

So tomorrow is another day and perhaps more people will come to visit especially as it is late night opening from 6 - 9pm.

Paisley Museum Art and Craft Fair

2011-12-13T00:37:00.000-08:00

Today the fair at the Paisley Museum starts at 11.00. I was impressed with the flyer so I thought I would put one here! Everything seems ready and I have a table set aside to work at so that visitors can see animals being finished. I have taken the wardrobes and all the clothes to put on a seperate table - it all looks very pretty and I will take a photo today before the event starts. I do hope we will have visitors to say hello - a warm welcome awaits:)

2011-12-10T09:38:00.000-08:00

As it was Saturday Tilly had a nice long sleep and woke up very late! Then it was all panic because she had almost forgotten that she had friends coming round for dinner.... The table was completely covered in art materials, and the floor was littered with bits of paper and sparkle.

Fortunately for Tilly there was something tasty in the fridge so all was not lost.....

After lots of tidying up and huffing and puffing with the brush and pan everything started to look spick and span.

Just enough time left for another little nap before the friend's arrival. After all it is hibernation time now isnt it?

After the storm...

2011-12-09T14:28:00.000-08:00

We all had a good nights sleep with no howling of winds last night - thank goodness!! That meant a good day at the studio getting lots done. I managed to get to the post office but I counted at least 40 in the queue....arghhhh. At least I am content in the knowledge that my little packages are on their way.

2011-12-08T07:26:00.000-08:00

Poor Tilly couldnt get to the post office to post all her carefully wrapped parcels! The wind and snowy sleet was blowing so hard it nearly knocked her off her feet the moment she stepped outside. Even lorries and buses are overturning it seems so Tilly's parcel cart would stand no chance at all.

So Tilly wisely stayed indoors and enjoyed two chocolate yule logs and a hot cup of tea to warm her toes! Hopefully tomorrow will be back to normal and the little packages will be on their way.

Hurricanes and hedgehogs!

2011-12-08T07:22:00.001-08:00

What terrible weather! We have stayed indoors today as the hurricane is building up even more strength - our poor little lodge feels battered. Amber the cat is hiding deep inside the duvet and we havent seen her for hours!! I have spent my time tidying my art table which is always hard work........

Festive feelings

2011-12-07T13:30:00.000-08:00

Its only the beginning of December but the first flurry of snow showers combined with preparing Hoggie Christmas items has conspired to make me feel Christmassy!! All the preparations are so much fun if we just manage to relax and enjoy the sparkle in between the hectic dashes everywhere!

Tilly's dress shop was busy today with the virtual doorbell ringing! Tilly was busy finishing outfits and wrapping up tiny parcels for the postman to take away to far off villages. She enjoyed making the tiny red slippers for a very special hedgehog in Wales and her sewing machine was busy whirring away!

I have been doodling away again (now where did Tilly put my best pencil!)

New Bears for Paisley Museum's Craft Fair

2011-12-06T10:37:00.000-08:00

Fur is flying at the Studio as I get ready for the Art and Craft show at the Paisley Museum next week starting Tuesday for five days. Today I just finished a big bear of approx 24" with an open mouth. Its a beautiful soft mohair in a creamy white mohair with grey backing. I am really pleased with the result.....

Winter long sleeved dress for Miss Matty (and Hetty)

2011-12-06T10:19:00.001-08:00

Poor Hetty is feeling the cold it seems but I am told she will soon have a warm shawl to keep her shoulders warm! She also needs a long sleeved dress so here is a brushed cotton dress with a variety of patterns - very festive but will be in fashion even after Christmas! Elasticated sleeves, one pearly button. Comes wrapped in a little dress box so that it can be a gift for any discerning hedgehog of 8"!! The price for the dress including postage and packing is £7. Let me know if you would like one and which colour.....

Wardrobe sorting

2011-12-02T10:57:00.000-08:00

Does my bum look big in this?

It is always hard work sorting out my own wardrobe and sorting out this little one was no easier! I am relieved to see that hedgehogs are no tidier than I....and what is this pile of shoes doing here? With a good cuppa I spent some time tidying up and warned the hedgehogs to keep it that way!

Charlie's recovery!

2011-12-02T10:41:00.001-08:00

I do hope no one out there is horrified at what I have done to poor charlie! As always, any repairs I have made can be reversed..... It was quite a job particularly with the two areas of fur grafting but I think he looks nice and perky now! I sent him on his way to Mum carefully wrapped to recover at home.

Fabric stashes and fun

2011-12-01T10:31:00.000-08:00

It was a lovely lovely day today - a trip to my favourite patchwork fabric shop Kaleidoscope near Milngavie. I just adore that smell of cotton fabric when you walk in the door and of course the stunning array of the colourful choice of prints. You just dont get that when you shop on line do you?

Alan helped me choose - and what a choice to be made. Of course I had to be a teeny bit careful specially as Alan was watching hehe (being my accountant). I still chose wintery shades as I feel it is a bit early to think of spring as the hedgies still feel sooo cold. Unfortunately I didnt get to my studio today so photos will not be posted until tomorrow:(

After all those decisions it was time for a good cup of tea at the garden centre and discussions about the clothes collection over a bowl of soup. I would love to do a fashion parade and hedgie catwalk - if I ever get the time!! If anyone has any suggestions about ideal hedgie wear please let me know! Dressing gowns, brushed cotton nighties and slippers should be on my list at least.

Tillys Dress Shop and growing wardrobe

2011-11-30T13:33:00.000-08:00

I never seem to have enough clothes for the hedgehogs, particularly with the change of seasons... So I have decided to concentrate on them for a while so their is always a good choice for her whatever the occasion! A trip up to one of my favourite fabric stores was essential and I came staggering back with two massive bags of woollens and tweeds for coats. I also found some good stuff for Tilly's dressing gown and nightie..... The staff are always so helpful to me and enjoy the fact that the fabric is destined for something miniature and not for humans!

With this growing wardrobe in mind I made more coat hangers - always a challenge when short of time and the saw ready to nip off the unwary finger! However, it was quite safe and I managed to create a small pile ready for staining and finishing off with a hook. (oooo I do like a mess!!)

So once I have the clothes completed and organised I must get them photographed and onto my website or ebay. There are some Christmassy fabrics too for the dresses to enjoy the festive season. Talking of Christmassy fabrics I am hoping to have another little trip to yet another fabric store tomorrow just to see what they have to offer! Perhaps I should leave my purse at home........

Hopetoun House

2011-11-30T13:22:00.000-08:00

(Caroline Temple's beautiful work pictured above)

This time it managed to keep free from snow around Hopetoun House but the weather tried its best to drown us instead. How much rain can we take? I can hear an ominous drip drip drip in the studio but as long as it steers clear of the mohair stashes I can bear it.

Hopetoun was a lovely event again. Despite the colllllld in the red drawing room it is a lovely atmosphere even though the faces in the huge portraits on the walls seem to peer disapprovingly over the top of the stands. The attendance was great and again a huge thanks to those who came to find me and adopt a small creature! A particularly warm thank you to Iain and Marion Gold who brought me another wooden sculpture to add to my display! A lovely couple with a very good collection of approx 400 bears in their home; Iain enjoys carving and turning toadstools and trees which are truly beautiful.

I was a naughty girl though and was tempted with another piece of Caroline Temples jewellery. I am fortunate to own a few of her pieces already but the Hare brooch took my eye.....well I HAD to didnt I?

So that is another year to the next visit to the ghosts of the Butlers pantry (where we exhibitors are honoured to have our coffee!)

Old bear - new life

2011-11-29T14:48:00.001-08:00

Poor Charlie needed some work! His mum brought him to me at the latest fair at Hopetoun House and I promised I would do my best without, of course, changing his wonderful personality! Some grafting of mohair was needed at the hip and muzzle - his poor eyes have long been sightless and he couldnt even smell the honey! I took him back to my studio and spent some hours with him......... pop by tomorrow to see the results!!

Merry Christmas Fairs!

2011-11-29T14:20:00.000-08:00

Crafts for christmas at the SECC - the start of the Christmas flavour fairs for the season!

One of the new animals on show this Christmas!

My friend Karon Grieve giving a talk at the Country Living show - author of two wonderful little books - So easy Herbal and the new So easy Christmas. Her daughter Iggy was a good help on my stand on Saturday when business was hectic and Alan was absent!

Country Living Christmas fair at the SECC in Glasgow! An amazing show with lots of lovely things to see and buy - the delicious smells of Christmas floated over everything and the Christmas trees sparkled merrily! I must admit that Country Living magazine does do a splendid job and all the visitors seemed to enjoy the days. Lots of animals went whizzing away to new homes and it was great to see old friends and new.

Crafts for Christmas at the SECC

2011-10-28T13:04:00.001-07:00

The Christmas fair started at the SECC with a bang and lots of bears and hedgehogs went off to new homes over the past two days! I had to come home and put some finishing touches to a few more additions to fill the gaps! However I was really tired by the time I got home so the thought of an early night started to feel appealing......

I did manage to semi finish some of the new pygmy hedgehogs though which I can complete at the stand tomorrow. Despite the fact the stand was really hectic, I managed to sneak into the Hobby Hall where I enjoyed endulging in the lovely papers there!

Tomorrow being Saturday promises to be a busy day so I will definitely go and get that sleep now...

2011-10-25T11:34:00.000-07:00

We have been back from our holidays for a whole two weeks and I feel very guilty for not updating my blog! To be honest we really felt bad coming back to all the driving rain after a lovely warm fortnight cycling and swimming etc and busy too..... Pudsey fair was a great success which fell on the following weekend and now its time to get ready for the big ones!

This coming weekend is the Crafts for Christmas show at the Glasgow SECC - a whole four days starting on Thursday. It has been hard to get enough bears and animals made in time and now I want to curl up and sleep!

These guys are going with me - the large 11" hedgehogs with wired arms and hands. I had fun making their muffs to keep them warm!

Wonderful holiday!

2011-08-26T09:38:00.000-07:00

Knowing that I have been wanting to swim with dolphins all my life, Alan planned a trip of a lifetime for me for my big birthday! A week in the Azores with trips out to sea in a RIB to see the Atlantic spotted dolphin (and others).

It certainly lived up to all my expectations and contrary to my fear I managed to climb in and out the RIB without looking a complete idiot. Literally hundreds of dolphins and tiny babies too! I shall never forget the holiday - not just the dolphins but the island of Sao Miguel was fascinating with beautiful caldeiras - everywhere covered in masses of hydrangeas.

Lake District - Lakeland Doll and Teddy Fair

2011-08-03T01:16:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful wonderful weekend in the Lake District! The hotel was great - a perfect opportunity to see badgers in the grounds each night when they came to feed! The bedroom was lovely with a dreamy window with huge area to sit in looking out over the garden (early badger spotting!) I could just imagine sitting there writing poetry or drawing the trees - I wanted to take it home with me.

The fair on Sunday went well and it was lovely to see friends and collectors returning to buy another creation; a few pictured above. The hog roast outside was enjoyed by all and altogether it was a fun day.

2011-07-12T14:21:00.000-07:00

After a few days of intense dying resulting in multi coloured hands despite rubber gloves and lots of care, I made and dyed lots of little hedgehog cardis! Just in time for the new litter of Tiny Tilly hedgehogs which needed clothes..... I found some gorgeous Liberty Tana Lawn fabric which I have added to my hedgehog clothes stash - Ohhhhh how I love fabric. Some of these little guys are on my website just now and some being saved for the Lakeland Doll and Bear show at the end of July.

Is it really the Highland Show this weekend?

2011-06-20T11:36:00.000-07:00

Two days to go.........have I got enough animals ready? The answer has to be a sort of no as I never can make enough!! However I do have a motley band of excited creatures jumping up and down trying to get into the packing cases so that looks promising. This show is one of the biggest and best for me in the year and after the weekend I will be most likely on my knees - I do get tired with the long days.

I do hope lots of people come to say hello - it gets lonely otherwise haha!! I am just wondering what I will forget this time......there is ALWAYS something.......

Bemused Bunnies for Stratford

2011-06-07T13:40:00.001-07:00

Another Bemused Bunny ready for the Artists Teddy Bear Fair this weekend in Stratford! Her name is Lucy Ticklepink and she is fully jointed and wired for ultimate posing!! Busy busy busy making and creating - the fair last weekend at the Gardening Scotland show was really good and lots of animals went to new homes so I have to get some serious work done to prepare for this weekend.......

Back from Holidays.......

2011-06-06T10:28:00.001-07:00

We had a lovely holiday in Fuertaventura and what did I spend the most time doing? Swimming? Sunbathing? Exploring? No!!! I spent hours happily playing with the chipmunks on the beach - it was unbelievable and just wonderful. They even sat on my knee to eat nuts. To me it was a dream come true having wanted to have my own chipmunk pet from the age of 14. Apparently they arent chipmunks but Barbary Ground Squirrels which were introduced in 1965 from Ifni by a family who kept them as pets. Now they have taken over and live in the rocks along the beach.

2011-05-16T10:09:00.000-07:00

MM I think I can smell baking in the air though and I am pretty sure that Tilly likes cakes - so perhaps a cake shop WOULD be a good idea!

2011-05-16T04:31:00.000-07:00

The lilac bush in the garden is flowering and the blooms are huge - I just love the colour and the smell. It reminded me of the little hedgehog who has the same name. She is 11" high and looking for a good home. I have just put her on ebay - http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=290566281769&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT O gulp - I think I may have done that wrong - it seems rather a long link!!!!

2011-05-14T06:46:00.000-07:00

I thought I would show you my new project! It is a story about Tilly the hedgehog who opens a shop. What sort of shop would you like to see her open? If I get any replies I will incorporate that in the next bit of the story!

A few new greetings cards designs I have been working on for the next show. I would like to spend a little more time painting and drawing now I have finished the animation course!

PEGGY TWO

2011-05-07T03:24:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe that I have eventually finished this animation. It has been very difficult for me especially as I only started using this software in January and I haven been beset with problems with it. Here it is, warts and all (and I know there are many!) but I have truly tried my best. I just hope that I manage to pass!

Hare today.....

2011-04-29T03:01:00.000-07:00

Sigh.......now I am one happy bunny. We have a young hare which has claimed a quiet corner of our garden as its day time retreat. When we first spotted it on the patio ten days ago we thought it was a rabbit but it is growing and the ears getting longer! Every day we see it nestling in the corner - we can only just see it through the bedroom window hence the bad photo. It even came to the glass door to investigate our bengal cat Amber!

I am soooo hoping that it is a female......

Bluebells and Bunny Hill

2011-04-29T02:51:00.001-07:00

The Nottingham Bear Fair at Patchings on Easter Monday was a fabulous day - thank you very much to those who came to adopt a friend from my table! It was especially nice that I met some very old friends from long ago; it really made my day.

I couldnt resist yet another peek at the art shop and yes I bought another wad of paper to add to my toppling pile of unused stuff in the cupboard! Note to self: must get drawing and painting again to vindicate this art material impulse.... I have taken a liking to try to sketch trees - I have always loved trees but very hard to capture.

We were staying at my brothers house in East Leake, and on the Saturday we went to Bunny Hill. When I was very young I used to call it bluebell woods and even tried to find it on the map!

The walk through the woods was beautiful and the bluebells were stunning - just as I remember.

Bemused Bunnies

2011-04-17T05:28:00.000-07:00

Another 'Bemused Bunny' .......... is it really time for bed?

Welcome!

2011-04-16T07:04:00.000-07:00

A quiet spell! We have been having a lovely day here at my studio - a warm thanks and hugs to those who came to visit and join us with a cuppa and a cadburys mini egg. Some little critters and some bigger ones went happily off to new homes too....... Here is young Imogen choosing a birthday present to join her growing collection!

SPRING BEARS, BUNNIES AND FRIENDS!

2011-04-15T12:53:00.000-07:00

Just putting the finishing touches to the room for tomorrow's Spring Party! The animals are happy and excited and I must admit the whole place is looking fresher than it has for a while. Things are so hectic at my little studio it is rare to see so many at the one time...... I do hope some visitors will find their way here. My phone number is 0141 887 9916 if anyone would like to enquire about adoption!!

April Showers

2011-04-06T01:51:00.001-07:00

It might be pouring with rain - well April is always like that isnt it? but the animals are getting ready for a little party on the 16th April at my studio. I am working hard tidying up and sweeping up the crumbs before displaying some animals old and new. My studio will be open from 10 - 4pm to take a peek (dont look for any dust!). For those too far away I have decided to make it a virtual show too and for that day the animals will be available on my website too.

We hope you can join us!!

Rivington Barn Weekend

2011-03-13T10:46:00.000-07:00

We have just returned from a weekend away - attending the Rivington Barn Doll and Teddy show. The hotel where we stayed proved to be great and we were pampered at the spa to make us relax before the show on Saturday. My new bunnies (range of 'Bemused Bunnies' attracted attention and went to new homes, as well as other animals. It was lovely to meet old friends again and some new ones!!

Portobello Road

2011-02-28T03:46:00.001-08:00

Just look what I found on Saturday at Portobello Road - just the right size shape and age for my little animals to do their own sewing.......perfect!! I think this is a Muller sewing machine and nearly 100 years old.

2011-02-24T04:01:00.000-08:00

Squeezing everything into my suitcases for the trip down to London tomorrow for the Winter bear fest. The most important bear fair in the calendar for me!! These two are a couple of the ones I will be taking with me. The rabbit is jointed and wired - fully poseable.

2011-01-31T12:17:00.000-08:00

My little clothes shop is now all ready for customers! There was a huge queue of hedgehogs and rabbits when the door opened.... I think open shelves and a clothes rail would be good to show off coats and hats!

Will there be more snow?

2011-01-16T03:09:00.001-08:00

This little guy is wondering if it will snow again soon since he is all kitted out in his warm clothes for sledging! He is all armatured and prepared for animation too - other sets of clothes for various scenes.....

January

2011-01-16T02:48:00.001-08:00

Although my first love has to be all things hedgehog and bear...and other little animals, I must admit I could get quite involved in lampwork glass! My brother has made a wonderful studio at his home with all the right equipment. Here are a few first efforts of mine! It is fun to work on something other than fabric and paper and the molten glass is fascinating.

Room setting under construction! Hedgehogs can't decorate - they leave bubbles in the paper... I have started this project to replace a wobbly one I made before. Quite a large room setting big enough for either settings for animations or for photography. Great fun despite a few panics here and there. So many new projects for 2011 and not enough time for hibernation!

Winter wonderland...

2010-12-16T07:40:00.000-08:00

We have been told to expect more snow but today has been snow free! I think we are all terrified of a repeat of last week's snow fiasco with many being trapped in their cars. I do love the snow, specially in sunshine but it would be awful to be stuck. Putting out lots of assorted birdfood to fill them all up, including meal worm treats for the tame robin.

Attack of the giant guinea pig!!

2010-12-16T07:32:00.001-08:00

When asked if I could make a 36" long haired guinea pig I never imagined just how much work it would involve! I bought and used a whole angora goat hide and the hair is magnificent - every scrap was used in conjuction with some white long haired fibre. He is sitting happily on my rocker here but is intended to stand resting his paws on a ledge! I never knew what a long haired guinea looked like but now I do........what fun! I nearly disappeared inside when trying to fill his bottom.

Wonderful day!

2010-12-16T07:25:00.000-08:00

What a lovely day in Brighton for the British Bear Fair. Great to see everyone and lots of nice bears to look at! I was truly amazed and thrilled to get awards for my two entries - the bear and the hedgehog. There were some interesting entries and the standard was really high.

Packing for British Bear Fair

2010-12-11T01:19:00.000-08:00

I hope the snow doesnt start to fall again and close the airport at Glasgow! I have been packing my cases for the British Bear Fair in Brighton and the flight is tonight down to Gatwick. I just finished Mr and Mrs Foxglove so they will be travelling too - good job they are vegetarian as they are packed with the little animals in the case!!

2010-12-03T12:51:00.000-08:00

Yessss! sparkly snow, mince pies, Christmas Pot Pourri and lots of berry garlands - put it all together and it definitely works....feeling festive now!!! Two special Christmas orders were picked up today and the new owner was delighted. A secret for someone so I had better not mention any names. This is the bit I particularly love about Christmas time when little parcels are carefully hidden away from prying eyes!! Brings back so many memories of my childhood. One year I made a perilous climb to the top of the wardrobe in my parents bedroom....I can even remember what I found there! I have always loved the festive season.

Christmas.........

2010-12-02T10:48:00.000-08:00

Well it is December and although I try to ignore it, Christmas is creeping up! We keep summoning up the courage to get into the loft to bring down all the trimmings....perhaps another cup of tea first! Today I enjoyed a semi day off - there has been so many shows lately and I dont feel as though I have stopped for a moment.

It wasnt a complete day off however - I did some work on my University course and worked a little on a Christmas animation using a watercolour I did a while ago.

Early Closure at Hopetoun House.

2010-11-28T11:42:00.000-08:00

We managed to crawl our way to Hopetoun House for the Christmas Event on Sunday despite the heavy snowfall and even managed to get there in time! However, the weather was getting worse with predictions of road closures etc. The house was very very cold and the staff were fighting a losing battle trying to keep the steps clear.

We were informed of the decision to close early and sadly we packed up to leave. I now know that some people did in fact make the journey and I feel so sad! A big sorry to those who did get there to find the place deserted.

Some of the animals on display

2010-11-27T10:45:00.001-08:00

Imogen with her animal collection.....

Tiny Tilly with my antique laundry set which I found at an antique fair.

A pair of new arrivals - awaiting collection by their new owner.

Sleeping hedgehogs seriously contemplating hibernation now it is soooooo cold.

This small bear is proudly wearing a cashmere coat to keep him cosy.

A cold cold day at Hopetoun

2010-11-27T10:30:00.001-08:00

When we opened our curtains this morning we were greeted with a sparkly winter wonderland!

It had been a clear night and the early morning sunshine added glitter to the sparkle. However, it did mean that it took ages to drive over to South Queensferry and it seem less attractive when the window washers stopped working and we crawled along in one lane on the motorway.

The Red Drawing Room was waiting for us as cold as an icebox so I am glad we remembered to put many layers of warm clothes on. It must have been very chilly in in the 17th Century. This is the ceiling and the huge portraits hanging directly above our stands.

Hopetoun House - The Present Event

2010-11-26T13:54:00.000-08:00

Time for the Present Event at Hopetoun House in South Queensferry. This amazing historic stately home built in 1699 opened its doors again for its annual Gift Fair today. The magnificent ballroom hosts some beautiful and unusual gifts and the house itself offers even more. The dining room is a delight with the huge table set out for Christmas dinner and bedecked by masses of seasonal flowers.

My stand with the bears, hedgehogs and friends is to be found in the Red Drawing Room looked over by paintings and portraits around the walls. The ceiling is just incredible!

Little Holly standing at the bottom of the steps is admiring one of the many Christmas Trees. Not so little, Holly stands almost 32" high and her red coat is pure wool. A cold cold day she did need her bright festive scarf and mittens. Once inside the Red Drawing Room she enjoyed gazing out of the window to see if the snow had started to fall!

Feeling Festive!

2010-11-22T14:48:00.000-08:00

I am definitely getting into the Spirit! I just HAD to make a long leggedly rabbit with red stripey socks.....

Country Living Christmas Fair in Glasgow

2010-11-22T14:22:00.001-08:00

Phew! What a busy few days at the Country Living Christmas Fair at the SECC Christmas Fair in Glasgow. It was absolutely wonderful - the best show of the year for me any many other people. It was just so beautifully presented, with Christmas trees by the dozen and baubles everywhere you looked. The smell of pot pourri wafted through the air and everyone looked so happy. Visitors travel so far for this event and it is not surprising - it is gorgeous.

Thank you everyone who came along! Young Imogen came to show me the wardrobe she had made specially to hang all the little outfits for her collection of animals, complete with hangers. She very kindly lent me Sue Squirrel to sit on my stand as I did not have any left to show anyone! Sue Squirrel worked very hard.....

Today I would have loved to stay asleep longer but no chance. The very next fair is just this coming weekend at Hopetoun House in South Queensferry. I have to be busy making a few more animals! A trip up to my fabric store was on the agenda to buy some red woollen coating amongst other goodies.

Crafts for Christmas at the SECC

2010-11-22T14:17:00.000-08:00

The three days at the Crafts for Christmas show were very busy and many animals went to new homes over the weekend! I used the new leafy curtains for the walls which looked perfect even though they took ages to put up. Together with the berry garland it did look Christmassy.

Holidays over - back to work!

2010-10-01T08:48:00.000-07:00

I had a great time on holiday lying in the sun dreaming about bears and hedgehogs ready to be made! It was very relaxing and I feel replenished and ready to get back into my busy/messy/happy studio to create some more! One little bear found his way into my case....he enjoyed his holiday too!

Winter in the air

2010-10-01T08:26:00.000-07:00

I am so delighted because I have just found out that two of my guys have been nominated for the British Bear Artist Awards! As I have enjoyed making shoes lately I have made a pair of dark green leather boots for the hedgehog so that he can enjoy tramping through the leaves!

Poor Amber!

2010-09-13T05:46:00.001-07:00

I think my cat Amber is giving me a reproachful look as she settles on the knees of my antique dolls instead of mine!! She is just a tiny bit annoyed that I keep going away to bear fairs and leaving her behind........

Packing for Teddies 2010

2010-09-10T05:30:00.000-07:00

I feel as though I am ALWAYS packing....... and funnily enough it takes me ages to unpack the last lot! It is quite funny when I open up a case to fill and find bits of pieces of other fairs tucked at the bottom. Now I have two very fat very heavy cases to tote down to London curtesy of Britsh Airways. I have been working really hard and I have mice, bears, and of course hedgehogs to take with me. And.....who is that in the second picture? I had just had to succumb.

Big Beautiful Bears

2010-08-28T11:47:00.000-07:00

I have been concentrating on finishing some bigggg bears - the tallest being 32". I love these girls even though I feel like a nap when I have finished them! I will take them on an outing tomorrow to the Falkirk fair - I am sure they will enjoy that! The boy is 24" tall and is called 'Can I keep him' - he has of course just found a hedgehog! Definitely Autumn inspired - I dont know where our Scottish summer went.........

Getting ready for the next fairs!

2010-08-23T13:11:00.000-07:00

Tiny Tilly getting her suitcase packed ready for the weekend! Off to Falkirk for the fair on Sunday and then down to Nottingham Patchings for Monday. My fingers have to work overtime for a few days to catch up - I have been doing a lot of travelling these last few weeks and the sewing has been neglected! My apologies to any readers......

2010-08-03T14:25:00.000-07:00

The Victorian family album with many sepia images of some of my ancestors with a later hand coloured picture of my Aunty! Sadly the musical movement had not been working for a long long time but suddenly came to life on the evening of my Aunts Funeral on Monday.......

2010-08-03T12:24:00.000-07:00

My Aunty Shirley was the most wonderful person you could meet and has always been a source of inspiration and love to so many throughout her life - delivering thousands of babies in her duties as a District Midwife in her younger days. We will miss her but will always be there for us......

2010-08-03T12:20:00.000-07:00

We had a relaxing wander around the picturesque villages of the Lake District. I just love the cottages, the overspilling hanging baskets and the tiny shops.

Lakeland Teddy Bear Fair

2010-08-03T11:18:00.000-07:00

Young Harriet trying to choose between two hedgehogs at the Lakeland Teddy Bear Fair! It was great to meet this lovely family at the event on Saturday. Five year old Harriet eventually chose Little Miss Matty on the left with a change of clothes and suitcase to put them in.

2010-07-19T12:58:00.000-07:00

Had an enjoyable trip to an antique fair today. I didnt find much I could use for bears and animals but I couldnt resist some lovely cards and a little Mauchline box which I think I will use for a link. A tiny pair of very old gold rimmed glasses also seemed to be a great buy and will most certainly improve the eyesight of one of my bears in the future!

Shoes shoes and more shoes!

2010-07-16T14:33:00.001-07:00

What a lovely shoe filled week - at last I am using the tiny eyelet tool I bought a couple of years especially for the purpose! With twelve different colours to choose from, the hedgehogs will be spoilt for choice...

2010-07-14T14:18:00.000-07:00

A very dear friend and collector from Germany has bought Neptune - a big bear of 24" made in a lovely mohair in an unusual colour. She asked if I could add a lace collar and I must admit that he does look rather handsome in it! I just love antique laces and I like to think of the patience of the ladies who painstakingly made it so long ago.

I packed him up carefully - the box was just big enough and he looked quite comfortable and snug. Trips to the post office are always an adventure as the queues there are huge but the parcel is on its way to Germany.

It was a welcome break from my activities this week. I am completely immersed in.....SHOES!

I have always had a love of tiny shoes but not many of my creations wear them. In fact not many of them even would want to......However, I have just had the opportunity of buying some gorgeous fine leather which would be perfect for mini footwear so this week I have put things aside to make way for glue....leather....mess.... Wonderful fun though.

Last week it was hand dyed boiled wool cardis making the mess...this week its shoes. I keep thinking about the 'Elves and the Shoemaker' and perhaps that might be the next project on the list. I had better not get too carried away though as I do have some orders to fulfill and the next bear fair to prepare for.

2010-07-06T12:46:00.000-07:00

It is always lovely to get a photograph from the new owners of the hedgehogs and bears! This was taken by Katie Woods on the way back home with her new friends. Katie runs a pet hotel called the Dandelion Patch and has a lot of REAL animals to look after.

The Scone Game Fair came too fast after the Highland Show and I am sure the animals all felt weary sitting on their shelves. However I am sure they perked up when they were adopted and taken home! Sunday was terrible with torrential rain and wind strong enough to wobble the marquee. We all remained dry though and I enjoyed splashing in the muddy puddles with my brand new 'Wellibobs' - pale blue with roses all over them!

Now we are taking a small break with the next fair in the Lake District at the end of the month. I hardly have anything left at all so I am happily sorting out my mohair wondering what to make next. I will also have to get messy (a bit I love) and dye some tiny cardis for the small hedgehogs. No matter how careful I am I manage to splatter colours all over!

It seems so far away but I have to think about Christmas - in particular Country Living at the SECC in Glasgow. It is a fantastic show but requires a lot of planning.

Shows and shows!

2010-06-29T13:22:00.001-07:00

The sun was blazing during the Highland Show last weekend. Every day was a scorcher and sooo many visitors came to Ingliston. We met some lovely people - new collectors and old friends and had great fun. Many bears and other animals went to new homes and some girls young and old enjoyed looking through the little wardrobe at all the tiny dresses for the hedgehogs!

Feeling Fruity!

2010-06-21T14:41:00.000-07:00

I must be a feeling a little fruity today - a new boy for today called Gooseberry!

2010-06-20T14:10:00.000-07:00

The new patio is definitely the right place to finish sewing a few noses for hedgehogs on a sunny Sunday afternoon! I did wait until Alan had cut the hedge so it was really peaceful apart from that incredibly nosiy wren!

2010-06-20T02:24:00.000-07:00

Another beautiful day today and I think I will take my hedgehogs outside and do some sewing there. That is if my cat will let me! Alan will be busy cutting the hedge so it might not be very peaceful..... This is one of the rare weekends when we arent dashing around to various fairs and events. It feels like magic!

Summer in Scotland

2010-06-18T13:28:00.000-07:00

My new big bear called 'Summer in Scotland' is now in his new home with my good friend Glenda where I hope he enjoys better weather! He is happily getting to know Glenda's hug of bears - many of which are 32" companions of her latest addition.

Actually it is really very hot today - most unusual for Scotland and might disappear very quickly! We are planning to work in our garden this weekend and enjoy our new patio before the sun goes away. If only the weather was more dependable it would be lovely to work outside and listen to the birds as I work. We have a rather noisy and exuberant wren and robin in the garden and it is so lovely to listen to them.

Trying to be creative in my blog!

2010-06-18T12:39:00.000-07:00

I think it is time to sit down with a cup of tea! My problem is that I want to do everything NOW and not waste the time trying to find out how to do it properly. Blogging I know is meant to be easy and the editing a cinch to follow... However I have to admit that I am getting stuck! It sounds so nice to do my own background and I have made a half decent one using photos and little embellishments I have created using my garden flowers etc.

Now comes the time to apply it to my blog......like I say I think I need to have that cup of tea before I scream. I think I will leave it at this point as I do have so much to do for the next weeks fair!

I have prepared some little boy hedgehogs for the show - I seem to have mainly girls and the poor boys dont get a look in. It doesnt seem fair and the girls get lonely so some boys will now keep them company. I have nearly finished a fairly large bear which was not easy to stuff in todays heat.

Mohair mohair everywhere!

2010-06-16T06:47:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone who makes bears and other animals, in fact anyone who enjoys crafts at all, makes as much mess as me! I am happily working away in my studio and everywhere I look there are piles of mohair, bits of vintage fabric and several projects due to be completed.

If I get excited about a new design the air is thick with fluffy bits as everything flies about! I have just finished a new little panda and I think he is quite cute. A little guy is sitting on my window sill drying - I decided to plunge him into a dye bath poor little soul and I like the effect although he will be soggy for a while longer I expect. Then theres that pink bear still needing a nose.

There is a small pile of sleeping hedgehogs waiting for their eyes - they are ready for the Highland Show next week as they are usually eagerly adopted! It is such a long long day at the show - starting at 8 and finishing at 8. I am such a sleepy person at times it will be tempting to curl up under the table especially after all this manic preparation.....

2010-05-16T09:10:00.000-07:00

The medieval fair in Paisley was fun yesterday - a lovely day thank goodness so the events were not spoiled. We had to wear hats for the day and I chose this one as being the most harmless!! It even went with my outfit so that was a relief. When I was having my usual tidy up in my studio I 'refound' a few bags of half finished bears which had been there for.....well over 25 years. I have never wanted to throw them away but not being mohair they dont appeal to bear collectors really. However, for this event I thought I would finish them and see if anyone wanted to adopt.

2010-05-01T13:34:00.000-07:00

Its May already - I cannot believe it; this year has flown by. I am so delighted as I have at last a lodger in my hedgehog house! I have had that little wooden house for a couple of years and no-one has even sniffed at it. A few weeks ago I thought I would take a peek and lo and behold there was a nest with hoggy fast asleep. I was so excited and rushed inside the house to share the news with my husband.
Then.....I worried because I wondered if he was oversleeping haha and though I was relieved that he did waken and move off last week when the warmer weather came, I was also sad as I thought I would never see him again. However, today I thought I would take another peek and........he was back. Wouldnt it be good if it was a female?

On Monday we are off to the Toy Collectors fair in Harrogate; a new venue for the Barry Potter fairs. I am looking forward to it and hope it will be a success. It will be the first trip for my new car and it will be interesting to see if it travels well with all the weight of the fair gear.

Now I have finished this semester for my degree course at University and I am so relieved!

March Hares and Springtime

2010-03-21T03:58:00.000-07:00

Nearly April and I have neglected writing my blog for ages! It has been really hectic in my studio - lots to make and lots of orders to complete. I am still working hard on my animation projects for the University and although it does sometimes seem like an uphill struggle it is very enjoyable. I even put a little animation on youtube which is very brave!

Last week's fair at Rivington Hall was excellent and in such a beautiful venue. I have never been there before and we met lots of new people and a number of little animals went to new homes. Next weekend is another first - Pudsey! I am looking forward to that event and making plans for it. I think the theme will be Bonnets and baskets......with a few spring colours.

January snow and Happy New Year

2010-01-24T04:17:00.000-08:00

A little late maybe but Happy New Year! I cannot claim that my blog was covered undered feet of snow but perhaps I am just a little bit like a hibernating bear or hedgehog and find it difficult to get going in this cold and dreary month.

My studio has had a good tidy up and I have found floor and table space I didnt know existed. I have lots to do - preparations for the Hugglets bear fair at the end of February, a book I am writing and my website. All demanding so much attention that I do wonder how I will find the time for this semester's course work for the degree I am studying in computer animation.

For Hugglets I am preparing some new characters in the 5 - 6" range - Spring Bunny being one in a limited edition of 10 especially for the show. I am looking forward to the Hugglets show as it has been my favourite venue for so many years since it first started.

Ocean Terminal

2009-12-14T12:24:00.000-08:00

We were not sure what to expect at the Ocean Terminal - especially when we saw the market stalls set up for us! Even though it was all indoors it still had that outdoor feel.....even a little outdoor mud on the roof. However, by the time we had decked out the stand it looked good and even festive with my trails of red berries to brighten up the framework.

Many hedgehogs and other animals went to new homes - thanks to everyone who adopted one! I even took along some sheep puppets (they havent made an appearance for a while) and one was chosen by a little girl for a Santa purchase.

I was so thrilled to meet Jane who has had a rabbit of mine since she was a baby. (In the photo)Named Flopsy, the little rabbit was so much loved and cared for - travelling everywhere with Jane. The rabbit even wore a special dog tag in case she was lost. Flopsy is still her lucky mascot and Jane managed to track me down on the internet!

Fun at the Fairs

2009-12-06T13:25:00.001-08:00

The recent fairs have been great fun! So many events in so little time and each one such a success. Lots of old friends and collectors came along and it was wonderful to see everyone and of course some new ones too! Country Living was an exhausting four days but by the end I had just about sold out - the photo shows the stand near the empty stage unfortunately! I have to apologise to those who were so disappointed to find that there was hardly anything left to see by the Sunday afternoon. The new little mice were well received and the baby squirrels too. However the hedgehogs are still the first favourites.

Hopetoun House is one of my favourite events of the year -the house is so beautiful and I just love being in the red drawing room. ( the animals are on their best behaviour!) One little squirrel went home with a little girl called Imogen and she was so delighted. Apparently the squirrel has been named Sue! I hope that Sue the squirrel has been behaving herself in her new home.

I am now just enjoying the first weekend off for a long while and I feel like a hibernating hedgie - I can barely open my eyes! However I have been busy knitting tiny sweaters for five ltd edition snow bunnies which I will be taking to Ocean Terminal this coming Sunday. I love the rainbow yarn for the sweater. His hat is boiled wool and he is wearing red needlecord trousers. I think he must be ready for the snow!

Fairs fairs fairs

2009-11-15T07:36:00.000-08:00

November of course is a very busy month with lots of Christmas fairs to attend and bears & hedgehogs to be made. Crafts for Christmas in Glasgow in October was really good and I was especially pleased with my stand. A bigger space this time and I spent AGES trailing autumnal leaves around the back - with the help of Alan. I was really happy that the show was well attended and lots of my little animals went to good homes. I also had a request for a very large hedgehog and I am delighted with the results.

She stands 34" high and fully jointed. I must admit that she took quite a while to make and so long to stuff that I had to take a rest afterwards! She does look lovely though in her cashmere coat.. I think she should be called Poppy. Is she the biggest hedgehog? Well certainly for me she is.

Haddo House last week was great too. The setting there is really lovely and we were lucky with the weather as it had been raining all week. The fair was well attended and I saw a lot of friends old and new - many of them carrying away new additions to their bear or hedgehog family. It was quite a long drive for us and it was so tempting just to stay there for the next fair which was only two days afterwards at the Treetops in Aberdeen.

However, we did decide to make the journey back as I needed to restock a little and sew lots more. I don't like leaving our little cat too long either but she does assure me that she sleeps most of the time while we are away.

The AWA fair at the Treetops was enjoyable - just a one day event. The atmosphere is always nice there and definitely getting more Christmassy!

Now we have to do some serious getting ready for the Country Living Show which starts on Thursday at the SEC in Glasgow. This is the largest event for me all year and promises to be very very busy. Last year I was almost sold out by the Sunday and the time just flew by. My fingers are flying overtime to make new stock and I am really looking forward to it.

Bears on Holiday

2009-10-03T04:54:00.000-07:00

We are on holiday in the sun for a welcome break before the busy winter season starts in earnest with so many Fairs to attend and bears to make! However, one bear did manage to sneak into my suitcase as she wanted to have a holiday too. Much to my surprise I also found another stowaway - a little fairy I had made from polymer clay which I had taken to Patchings arts festival and sadly thought I had lost.

There she was tucked away in one of my rucksack pockets so she has had some photo shoots too - not to be outdone by Polly the bear.

Big Bear

2009-09-24T03:23:00.000-07:00

She has a beautiful face I hope you agree! This bear is dressed in a brushed cotton frock with removable antique lace collar in an unusual design. Her coat is soft thick wool with a cosy hood and one pocket. Approiximately 34 inches high she is fully jointed sturdily stuffed and fairly heavy! She hasnt been named yet.....

Big bears and bunnies!

2009-09-19T11:27:00.000-07:00

I have just finished a magnificent bear who stands just under 36 inches. The head is swivel tilt so can pose wonderfully and has such a great expression. I havent decided yet whether to dress the bear but tomorrow I will take a 'work in progress' piccy to put here.

Last weekend at Hugglets I sold a jointed rabbit (about 18") tall wearing an antique baby dress. This rabbit was much admired and I was delighted to be able to get two more rabbits from the piece of mohair - one is already ordered.

Busy preparing for holidays - and deciding which little bear will accompany me! He or she will have her own suitcase of course.

Hedgehog puppet

2009-09-17T14:38:00.000-07:00

I had a request for a hedgehog puppet a few weeks ago. I had first made this particular design around 26 years ago and they sold very well. At that time I attended the Craft Fairs in Edinburgh organised by Richard Green. My son Roger was only 3 at the time and he used to play under the table all day. I called my small business Dormouse Designs.

These puppets have not been made for a few years but I have kept the pattern of course together with a lot of my old originals. The recent request was for a replacement for one bought so long ago - thoroughly loved and worn out after 26 years! It was so nice to be able to make another ; destined to be a surprise birthday gift.

Today I completed it at last as it took me a while to find the piece of fabric I just knew I had stashed away somewhere. It brought back lots of memories - and I am even tempted to make some more....

Autumn colours and fabric buying.

2009-09-16T09:48:00.000-07:00

A perfect day to go shopping for fabrics with colours of the autumn. It was such a nice drive over to my favourite store - soft sunshine and hazy views over towards the hills. Berries shining brightly in the hedgerows and golden brown leaves curling and crisp.

I spent a couple of hours browsing and managed to pile up a huge stack of bales as my choice. However I did manage to contain myself and bought only a small piece of each. The colours and styles I chose will blend beautifully with the woolly cardigans I have been dying. Some of the brushed flannels will feel and look so good on my bunnies if the bears share the cloth!

Had a lovely chat with my good friend Carola from Germany who would love another pair of bears. I just bought the right mohair at the weekend in London - something a little bit different.

Next on my list!

2009-09-15T00:10:00.000-07:00

After spending a restful day unpacking everything after Sunday's fair, today is the day I must decide what is next on the list to do! My favourite lady Glenda bought two big beautiful bears on Sunday so my first task is to wrap them up carefully to post to her.

My postman who collects large parcels from me is so cheery despite any size or weight of box which is great as I dont have to struggle to the post office. However I do have a small pile of little ones to post too so that means a trip to the P.O. I have a special arrangement now there so I dont have to wait in the long long queue - I just go straight up to a counter! The people there are so friendly and all interested to know about the new bears or hedgehogs.

2009-09-14T15:31:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful day at Hugglets Teddies 2009 on Sunday! It was a huge success yet again and many of my bears and friends went home to their new families.
My suitcase on return on British Airways was so much lighter - much to the relief of the baggage handlers no doubt. I always come home with happy memories only regretting that the day doesnt last longer!