Merman Fins

For the whole month of May, instagram has an ongoing mermaid theme. The concept was started, a couple of years ago, by a group of cartoonists and illustrators. Now #mermay has taken off, and artists and craftspeople of all kinds are participating in the sub-aquatic theme.  

I kicked off my #mermay themed posts, with a photo of Lucian in his merman swimming trunks. Right away, several requests cam in for merman trunks. I only had enough fabric for a couple pairs, so they are very limited editions. I will have to keep my eyes open for more merman fabric - or maybe custom print some of my own for next year. 

A friend on wanted to make a custom merman doll for #mermay, and asked for tips for making a tail. There aren't many 1:6 scale merman tail sewing patterns out there, so I got inspired, and decided to make a pattern for the etsy shop. 

The finished tail, before decoration, and my color reference betta fish. 

Looking through my scrap box, I found a piece of translucent crinkled synthetic gauze material, and thought it would be perfect for some betta-type fins. With blue spandex for the tail, and a little glitter and paint to decorate the fins, I got to work designing a pattern.

Below, is the finished tail, It is probably one of the most whimsical things I have designed yet, and Gus, here, is modeling it with maximum drama!

Here is another view of Gus, chilling in his merman tail and a 2020 @casablancabrand menswear inspired look; complete with a bucket hat and pearls.

New Coffee Table

Gus has been busy in the workshop, doing a little sawing and sanding. He certainly looks pleased with the result!

Gus' birdhouse wasn't the only thing under construction in the shop yesterday. I built a rustic coffee table out of popsicle sticks, to go with Gus' gray armchair. For Gus, it also doubles as a great spot for glamorous lounging.

BBQ and Bocce! A Memorial Day Doll Party

Getting ready for the Memorial Day Grill n' Chill instagram doll party, hosted by @thelifeofstovall and 

 @dawsondigsdolls! Gus and Lucian are bringing their family's favorite mascarpone cheese tart with fresh berries and mint sprigs!

Bocce, anyone?  Gus and Lucian are having a fantastic time at the BBQ! After digging into some delicious burgers, they created an impromptu Bocce court in one corner of the yard! Many thanks to both the hosts, for planning such a wonderful party!

"Hey, save a little of that for me, Cuz!" Lucian and Gus heard there might be an opportunity to swim at the party, so they came prepared! Gus is starting to wonder, though, if they brought enough sunscreen for both of them. Their Memorial Day swimwear has a touch of red, white, and blue, to honor those who have been lost in service; the people, the dogs, the pigeons, and the horses.

Armchair Traveler

Light casual layers are perfect for travel, and Gus is all ready to explore the world - from the comfort of his armchair. With the help of the internet, and the tap of a finger, Gus can tour gardens, admire brilliant architecture, and catch a horserace or two, around the globe!

Gus' button-up, crew neck, and jacket are all made using patterns in the shop. 

Black and White

Just a boy, and his dog, and a bucket hat. I was experimenting with the black and white setting on my phone camera this morning. Patterns for Gus' shirt and hat can be found in the shop. 

Dress Uniform

I just finished what has been one of my most complex orders yet: a bespoke set of Army Dress Blues, complete with rank, medals, nameplate, gold buttons, and lots of embroidery! I am so grateful for all of the reference photos that my customers provided along the way, so I wouldn't miss any details.

Happy Mother's Day!

Happy Mother's Day to all the fabulous moms, who encourage and inspire! Gus is modeling his peach silk and baby alpaca sweater that my mother knit for him!