A quick break from the Elements of Soft Toy Design posts to give a little update on other crafty happenings around here.
I held my very first workshop last week at my house. I had seven women over to make sock monkeys. It was really fun! I remember that I love teaching.
I used to be a middle school teacher before Roxanne was born. I had a great job that I loved, but chose to stay at home with my children instead of returning to work. Now, nearly seven years later, I have made something of a career change, but the teaching is coming back and I'm so happy. I hope to teach more workshops this year.
And this week I tackled a toy-making technique that I've wanted to try for years – making a teddy bear with cotter pin joints.
I got this book from the library (again) and this time I finally ordered the supplies (a set of cotter pins, washers, and wooden discs – total cost $1.63) and gave it a go!
I made this bear from a pattern in the book and now I see how making artist teddy bears can become an addiction. He's so cuddly. This was an awesome project. I love how the pins work and I can see all kind of applications for this kind of joint. It is strong and invisible and allows 180 degree movement. A horse drawn cart withplush wheels that move on an axle? Oh yes! Cotter pin joints are very cool.
darling!!! You did a wonderful job!
So cute! We love sock monkeys here too… I just struggle with finding cool socks!
This is the style of joint that I am used to. Back in grade 6 for one of our tech classes we made stuffed animals. We ordered the kits from Stanwood (http://stanwoodkits.com/) and I did a couple that had joints. Theirs are plastic and just snap together but it’s the same concept. They are lots of fun.
Seriously? On your first try?…..that is adorable. I ca’t wait to see what else you come up with as you experiment with this new technique.
I’d like to try the plastic snap together joints, and also the nut and bolt joints. I went on some of the teddy bear-making forums and read up on different joint options. So cool!
I found these classic red heel socks online and ordered several packs of the littlest ones for this workshop.
Workshops are a good sociable thing for teacher and artist; and it was nice to find Stanwood offerings recommended by Nicole.
What I wouldn’t give to live out east and come to you for a workshop! Love the bear. I’ve used the snap joints, but never cotter pin. If you try some other types of joints let us know which you prefer.
Oh well done! He is very cute! I like the cotter pin joint for the wobble neck. Love that look.
From what I’ve heard, serious bear makers usually prefer the nut and bolt method. I have a friend who has a weekly bear day, and I get to hear all the tips passed on by the lady that holds the day.
Your bear is so sweet…I am enjoying your book immensely. You are such a gifted artist and a very generous one too! I love to teach as well. My dream is to have a studio, with drop in students that can be inspired and learn a craft. I have been making bears for several years…here are couple of my favorites. (I use plastic snap together joints, for child safety)
Sailor Bear
Erinne’s Bear
Your bear is so sweet…I am enjoying your book immensely. You are such a gifted artist and a very generous one too! I love to teach as well. My dream is to have a studio, with drop in students that can be inspired and learn a craft. I have been making bears for several years…here are couple of my favorites. (I use plastic snap together joints, for child safety)
Sailor Bear
Erinne’s Bear
He is a fine looking Teddy does he have a name yet? Smiles.
enter me
That looks like so much fun! It must have been a blast to learn from you! Thanks again for your AMAZING and comprehensive toy series. I’m loving it so much!