bluejay stumpwork

Made for an embroidery swap on Craftster (yep, I am a swapaddict). I used linen fabric for the background and felt for the branch. I don't think I'd ever looked at a bluejay before- we don't have them in the UK. They are so pretty with all the different shades of blue. 

I used the padded slip technique I've used before, so he stands up from the fabric a bit. I like how it looks but am starting to play around with different ways of doing backgrounds for stumpwork to add more interest. 

I have several projects on the go right now but will have significantly less crafting time now as I go back to work next week. I've been on maternity leave for the past year so have been able to do some stitching during nap times - I will miss that!!

The boys turned 1 and 3 last week so it's been a busy time but lots of fun and I made my first 'proper' birthday cake- as in a cake that is meant to look like something. Maybe I'll post a photo here but I reckon it might end up on CakeWrecks if I do- I won't be turning into a food blogger anytime soon. Jake loved his yellow robot though :) 

Despite the reduction in crafting time I have decided to work towards opening an Etsy shop. I want to stock some embroidery, a little jewelry and some cross stitch and embroidery patterns. Am aiming to have my shop open towards the end of September. Any volunteers to test patterns once they are ready- this won't be for a while, maybe August time? I have a lot of work to do before I can set up my shop properly- any advice will be gladly received- and I need to get cracking on stock (once I have got a few swaps out of the way ;) ) What do you all think I should be stitching for my store? Do ya reckon embroidered brian blesseds would be a good seller?!!

And in other exciting news my boxing hares were featured on &Stitches alongside the supertalented MotherEagle go take a look!