No, not my sixteenth birthday! That’s longer ago than I’d even care to think about, thank you very much.
This post is actually about a very special creation for a customer who needed a unique, personal gift for her just-turning-sixteeen goddaughter. What better way to celebrate this important milestone than with a customised Beastie?
Let’s meet this VIM (Very Important Monster)!
Hello there!
First of all, let’s talk about that hair.
WOW! I had so much fun with this! I used two slightly different shades of pink to give the colour extra depth, and unwinding the strands to separate the individual plies produced this tumble of luxuriant curls. Then a combination of carefully-placed stitches and a little precision styling with my needle-felting needle helped me to copy my human subject’s favourite swept-over-the-shoulder hairstyle.
(If only I could apply these techniques to my own hair!)
And while we’re on the subject of style, we’d better take a look at her dress next. Beasties love humans with a playful sense of fashion, and I knew I was on to a winner here… A girl who wears bold prints and whose trademark items of clothing are floral nighties? Perfect! I offered a couple of different styles and prints in the design sketch…
… And as you can see, the long-sleeved version in a cute turquoise, green and cerise floral print with felt collar and buttons won out. Good choice!
It really complements her hair and healthy blue complexion, don’t you think?
But appearances aren’t everything. A Beastie needs interests and hobbies! It’s ok though – we’ve got her covered. First, a hand-stitched science book to keep her brain ticking over…
… And a paintbrush, so she can let her creative side shine through too.
Finally, I copied her human counterpart’s cool glasses!
As usual, they have real clear plastic lenses and are removable. However, with this pair, I developed a new technique for making glasses that allows me to slim down the frames a little.
They also make a stylish hair accessory.
But hang on a second, Miss Beastie – don’t you have a birthday party to get to? Best get moving, you’re only sixteen once!
I’d say her future is as bright as her hair – what do you reckon?
Thanks to Maria for requesting this super-fun project, and advising on the details!
And we’ll be back on Friday with another peek into the Beastie archives. See you then!