Before They Were Shirts

Ever wonder what my process is like?  Here is the final stage - appliques eager to get on a onesie.  The picture makes it look easy, but it's really a labor of love.  Each one of those circles, hat brims and mustaches are cut out with my little orange scissors.  The Etch a Sketch is embroidered with black floss and each one of my tags is cut out (and peeled away from an extremely clingy backing) by yours truly.

Before it gets to this stage, the fun begins.  I find inspiration anywhere and everywhere.  I sketch, sketch a little more, re-size and cut out a stencil.  This is my favorite part.  Then I pick colors and make a mock up.  If it looks as exciting as it did on paper - it might make it to a onesie.

I've had many brilliant ideas fizzle when they turn to felt.  It's an interesting medium.  Some things just cannot be done.  Right now I'm playing with the idea of a fish (with full scales), an owl and a tree.  I forgot to mention that all of my ideas begin swirling in my head - and stay there for a very, very long time.