What Some Forest Dwellers... Don't Look Like

Remember how I was telling you about some issues I came across a few weeks ago? Well, it wasn't just a technical issue. Some of it was conceptual as well.
The way I thought Mystic Forest Dwellers up sounded nice on paper, but as I was sewing the prototypes, my creative intuition was getting worried. What did I tell you about my creative intuition? I listen to it. Since February I've been re-working, not just the the construction of my plush, but the plush that I'm constructing. And I got to say - I'm glad I did, and I think you will too.
The end result is, however, that some plush I've already made is going the way of the Dodo - they'll will never go past the prototype stage. Sad? A bit - but that also means that I can finally show you something! Ready?


And worry not, this isn't quite the last you've seen of this little guy.

By the way, I will not have an update for you next week as I'll be out of town, celebrating getting (really) old. Feel free to send cupcakes and flowers (or fabric. Lots of fabric).

Have a great weekend (or two),
Yours truly,
Michal

Flaunting It!

I recently ordered myself some new business cards. I've ran out of of my plush moo cards, and it was time to get some "grown up" business cards. I wanted something that will be unique, eye catching and will show potential client and employers who I am and what I do in one quick glance (and hopefully make them smile too. It helps). So I ran some ideas, did me some research and this is what I came up with.


These are not the real cards (yet). I made some mock-up cards, printing my top two designs into heavy, nice paper, then cut and glued front to back. Yep, they both feature Freddie.

This is the end result. Cool, ah?

I went with GreenerPrinter (I warmly recommend asking for samples from prospective printers). The cards came out perfect, the customer service was extremely friendly and helpful (I run a waaaaaay old version of Photoshop, I needed help with the file saving settings) and the cards came in right on time. So yeah, me super happy and proud (and looking for any excuse to hand them out). Love!
A couple of useful tips for you creative professionals about printers - there are a lot of printing services out there, some super cheap, some not so much. Asking for samples (and they should be free) is really important. Some printers are cheaper, but the quality of the product is not very impressive. Especially if you're a visual arts professional - your prospective client/employer/buyer can tell the difference, and it might be worth the investment of a few extra dollars to impress them.
Check the printing/processing/shipping time frame. The cheaper options might mean longer processing time. Shipping can be expensive too, looks like a lot of printers ship UPS or other pricier options. Don't forget to add both factors into your cost calculation when you compare printers.
And most important - don't rush it. Make sure your design isn't just fun, but functional, attention grabbing and easy to read. Try printing samples on your home computer and run them by friends and family. If they get it, and you like it - go for it.

Self promotion is important! Don't neglect it.
Yours truly,
Michal

Other stuff I do

One of the things I get asked most often is how I find time to do everything I do. Ha. Truthfully, I often feel like I don't get anything done at all. There's just not enough time in the day. But when you want to do something - you make time.
Like with this guy - Freddie!

I haven't made any plush for myself since I started making plush and doing art shows (that's about three years now), and let me tell you - there were a number of guys I made that I almost didn't sell. So when I recently designed this little guy for some portfolio work - I decided he is it!
And check out the butt action... He he. I crack myself up sometimes, seriously...

More photos

Good progress is being made on Mystic Forest Dwellers, to be revealed soon. Also next week - revealing plush... that has been rejected from the series. Stay tuned.

Have a great Friday,
Yours truly,
Michal

Happy Happy April!

Hi Kids, how have you been?
Sorry for the lengthy absence. A couple of "life" sort of things made me incredibly busy (but good busy) lately. "Life" also stopped me from finishing my Plush Olympic plush. Boo for me, but check out the super cool stuff people made! Super stiff competition.

Anywho, I have a question for y'all - Mystic Forest Dwellers is going to release embroidery patterns (yep! I'm super excited), and I need pattern testers. The patterns will be ready some time within a month, and I'll need testers in all levels, from total newbies who never embroidered before, to expert who will put me to shame (which is not very difficult, BTW). Wanna play? please email me at forestfairy At mysticforestdwellers DOT com and tell me what your experience level. Ask questions if you'd like to too.
Yay!

Keep busy. Good busy!
Yours truly,
Michal