The book is almost done. It really is. I’m writing the 16th pattern now, editing the manuscript, taking the photos for the front section, and tying up loose ends. But I can see the light and the light looks amazing!
Writing a craft book while maintaining a craft blog is challenging because everything has to be hush hush. I’m not sure if keeping book projects hidden is really necessary, actually. I’ve often thought it would be great to share each project with you as it is created and that you wouldn’t mind seeing them now and then again when the book is released in a year, but clearly publishers do not agree. Maybe they have a point? I’d love to know your thoughts on this.
As the bulk of the work on this book began to wrap up I did a lot of thinking about what would be next for me. My Softies For Sale series has been a terrific way to formally research next steps and I’ve had several private conversations with crafters and makers, too. I am someone who needs a big project. Huge undertakings keep me going and push me to learn new things.
I already had a few projects on my horizon, things I’d been eager to get to once the manuscript was out the door.
- making custom plush from children’s artwork
- doing some collaborative work with other artists
- creating a window display
- making pdf patterns to sell
I’m excited about all of those and I’m also excited about another new venture, too. I recently signed a licensing contract with Simplicity in their crafts division. I am going to be designing soft toy patterns for them and I’m looking forward to working with them. Creating patterns for Simplicity will mean that my work is in stores all over the country, at Jo-Ann’s, at WalMart. Working with a big company, like working with a major publishing house, involves compromise, for sure, but also exposure to a much wider audience. I’m excited!
In order to be credited on each pattern envelope that I design I needed a logo so I had a logo designed and I’m really happy with it. Here it is:
My favorite colors, with a 70’s vibe, and an owl! I hope you like it. One of the nice things about this new venture is that I can blog about it. I can show you the designs while they are in progress and I can talk about the process as it goes along. I’m not one for big reveals. Big projects don’t happen magically. They happen step by tiny step and I love each of those tiny steps and I’m so relieved to finally be able to show them to you! So look out. New plush is on its way!
Wendi Gratz says
Congratulations! What fabulous news!
SewLindaAnn says
I am constantly amazed at how web access works! Congratulations on the book getting done and the deal with Simplicity. How awesome is it that the big guys are savvy about the public wanting more designers that aren’t cookie cutter. Such a great thing. Love your first book, can’t wait for the 2nd!
Caren Adams says
That’s amazing news, Abby, and I’m so excited about the book, something great to look forward to 2013!!! And Simplicity, thats great too! Congratulations. Keep plugging away, doing what you love. I know it has been a long road with the book, but your readers certainly appreciate your hard work!!! 🙂 C
ps – I like your logo!
Stacey says
I totally agree with you about keeping projects hush hush… I’d love to share with my readers- but my publisher doesn’t agree 🙂
Jodie says
Abby, that is all so exciting, wrapping up the book, new ventures and working with simplicity. I am most excited about the book. Although I may not line up in my pajamas to buy , I feel like it’s Harry Potter for makers.
Jodie says
Which shouldn’t read like I won’t be buying it, I can’t wait to buy it!
Fleur Cotton says
Congratulations, I love it when I hear of ‘good news’ for talented crafters like you.
Well done, and thanks for inspiring us all whatever craft we do, hard work & talent pays off in the end.
Happy Sewing
Fleur xx
Susan Kunze says
Your logo is just perfect for you. And congratulations on the contract with Simplicity. My lower lip, however, is stuck out because we have to wait a year for the book, lol!
Susan
bybido says
What great news, Abby! Can’t wait for the book! And the logo looks great 🙂
terrygrant says
How wonderful! I’d like to think that box of wooden spools I sent you a couple years ago has been the key to your success, but maybe it was actually your talent, persistence and hard work. In any case, what a great success story and my hearty congratulations!
mjb says
So excited to hear about your licensing deal! And I appreciate as usual how open and forthcoming you are about the process of a craft business!
Claire - Matching Pegs says
Congratulations on all your news!
Simplicity patterns will probably even end up here in Australia.
I will be really interested to follow your progress about working with a commercial company of that size.
Jodi B says
WOW! So fun!
And I am excited to be able to see little glimpses into the process. Your interviews have been truly fascinating and I want to hear about you as a crafter/artist too!
Dana says
Well, I am going to buy your book anyway, whether I see it before or not. I am absolutely positiv that there are loads for me to learn in the book. But sure, I am curious, too. Good luck with your work, it is exciting to follow your progress.
abbyjane says
That's so nice to hear, Dana!
k says
It’s very inspiring to see how much you always have going on and are planning. Great new logo too by the way!