Featured Project: Ally Bracelets

I was SUPER pleased when I proposed this project and the publisher was all-in. Showing support and kindness is important and can mean the difference between someone feeling alone and someone feeling like another is a "safe" person.

These ally bracelets can be made with any number of color combinations--pictured are LGBT rainbow and Trans pink/white/teal.

If you want a 15 minute (max) craft, then the bracelet style on the left is all hot-glued--super quick and easy. If you want a funkier look and want to dig into the embroidery thread, the bracelet style on the right has the color bands stitched together. That's my personal favorite, though both look nice.

Featured Project: Malala Journal Cover

The story behind the craft for the Malala journal cover is that not everything works out perfectly the first time. 

For instance, when designing this pattern I overestimated the spine piece by a full inch. Which doesn't seem like too much until it's flopping all about. This was an easy adjustment to make and the pattern ended up being perfect in the end--but it goes to show that trial and error is definitely necessary sometimes. 

Also: this gives an opportunity to dig into the holiday ribbon and decor; anything sparkly or shiny makes a nice accent where the gold ric-rac currently is. 

Featured Project: My Strong Body

This project is very simple (it has a bit of detail work with the organs) but is very fun. I remember playing "Operation Frog" in school--figuring out the internal organs and where they go--and this is a body puzzle that emphasizes the function of the strong body.

The project can be scaled up or down by exchanging stitches for fabric paint--or by adding overcast stitching around the edges for a more polished look.

Surprisingly, my 4 year old also LOVES to play with this and spends a ton of time taking it apart and putting it back together.

Featured Project: Frida Kahlo Hand Puppet

One of the challenges of Feisty Felties being for a younger age range (8-12, listed) was simplifying the faces. This Frida Kahlo hand puppet is very simple with minimal stitching required for the face detail--and with a bunch of fun additions. 

This is also one of the projects my own kiddo (age 4) gravitated toward. It fits a (small-to-medium) adult hand, but is irresistible for kids. 

You also have the option to add whatever you want for decoration! Have a bit of lace that will suit instead of ric-rac? Go for it! Maybe you have yellow yarn for the necklace? Awesome. Maybe you even have some silk flowers around to add to the headpiece. Go for it!

Introducing: Feisty Felties!

As a follow-up to Feminist Felties, I just had a new book published: Feisty Felties! It has the same theme of strong, empowered women--but for a slightly younger set. That's not to say that the crafts aren't equally diverting for adults, but if you're a novice they're a bit easier to manage on the whole. (The recommended age is 8+.)

In the book, you'll find fun projects featuring:

• Frida Kahlo
• Pele
• Your body/anatomy
• Goal setting
• Ally/pride bracelets
• Malala
• Maya Angelou
• Feminist backpack badges
• Goddess crowns
• Amelia Earhart
• Fortuna
• Etc. 

In a variety of project formats and types and skill levels. 

I'll be posting featured projects on the blog shortly. Fun fact: I completed this book while on maternity leave with my second daughter, Simone (strong women raising strong women...).