If you go down to the woods today ….

You might meet a little black baby bear!!  At least that’s what everyone has been calling that naughty Miss Daisy.  Ben is feeling much better now, and the simple expedient of removing his collar has stopped her pulling and twisting his neck.  I don’t think he’s very likely to run away while we’re out, and if we did become separated (1) everybody round here knows who he is and where he lives; and (2) he is micro-chipped.  

Meanwhile, as well as black baby bears, here at Coombe Leigh we have other colours too ….. 

 A new pattern for the April Bustle & Sew Magazine.  I’ve never created a bear softie before as there are so many wonderful bear-makers and designs out there – but these little creatures are, I think, some of the easiest to make you’ll find.  Once I’d worked out the pattern pieces and sewn the trial version, each bear took me about 2 1/2 hours – and they’d be wonderful little gifts for special people.  They’re not jointed so their limbs don’t move, but for me simplicity was everything – as well as cute appeal of course!  There’s a bit of a bear theme developing for the April issue … I’ve also finished a new and very simple stitchery also featuring bears ….

 This little couple have launched their sky lantern (balloon) for a lifetime’s luck and hope that their happiness will last forever.  This is a really simple design and would be great for a beginner – or just a couple of hours stitching for the more experienced.  I do hope you like them both.