Introduction by Gary:-
I just love Scandinavian design and the culture of this far away land of pine forests, ancient folk tales, and sleigh rides in the snow; it is just a perfect setting to welcome in the autumn and winter as we prepare for Christmas. Imagine coming home to a simple yet minimal styled cabin lit by a burning open log fire and candles dancing shadows across the walls. Aaaahhh…. let's get cosy, settle in and get stitching these easy-to-make Nordic Reindeer decorations.
You will learn cutting out from the supplied pattern and then constructing through simple machine stitch with stage by stage instruction. Then turning through and stuffing your reindeer; finally adding the details to give him/her character through stitch and decoration. Collected twigs and sticks to compliment and finish the reindeer keeps in synergy with the ethos of Scandinavian life; that of experiencing nature and bringing the natural environment into your home.
This finished reindeer is 12” (30cm) high.
Skill Level:-
The skill level for this project would suit all, from the beginner who would like to learn with simple, clear, achievable instruction, to those who are more experienced who will quickly grasp the construction process and will probably not just make one reindeer, but probably a whole herd!
Material & Fabric requirements for this Online Interactive Workshop:-
As mentioned above, select your fabric to create the ‘Scandinavian style’. Consider natural linens and cottons, washed calico in creams and oatmeal colours. Printed cottons in red and white Nordic or even Christmas themed patterns can be used. Consider any found or treasured vintage embroidered and old lace fabrics which you would not mind cutting up and incorporating into your design. Such as old and worn table linen and interior fabrics. These make for great little interesting personal touches within the body of the reindeer.
For each reindeer you will need:-
Total fabric for body, ears, and tail 24” x 16” (60cm x 40cm) (additional sections such as printed fabrics and vintage fabrics can measure 6” x 7” (15cm x 18cm)
Polyester toy stuffing 2.5 oz or 75g
Good quality neutral coloured sew-all machine thread
For eyes and nose embroidery thread in black and red
For legs 4x found and cut from the hedgerow straight sticks / twigs 6” (15cm) long by ¼” (5mm) in diameter
For antlers 2x exceptionally fine forked twigs up to 7” (18cm) total length and 2/8” (2mm) in dimeter
Optional: fine red ribbon ¼” (5mm) wide 10” (25cm) long and small bell for tying around the neck as an additional decoration to the reindeer
Equipment requirements for this Online Interactive Workshop:-
Sewing-Machine (straight stitch used)
Fabric
Paper
Embroidery Scissors
Pins
Hand Sewing Needle
Tape Measure
Useful: Fabric Marker Pen
Useful: Chopstick or a similar blunt stick to aid the stuffing process
Sharp Kitchen Scissors or Garden Secateurs for trimming twigs and sticks!