Santa Bags Full of Fabric!

What a treat for me!

While it was a "smaller" Christmas here this year, present wise, we had such a huge beautiful Christmas!

It was filled with wonderful laughs, smiles, love, and just plain happiness. How can it get any better then that? Well, okay so there was even more...

While we were browsing the thrift stores over the holiday I scored! I found several super large bags stuffed full of wonderful fabric! These bags were so heavy my hubby had to lift them into the cart and they were only $3.99 a bag! Can you believe that?

Guess what I got for Christmas LOL

I am still going through them as I have not had much time up until now and I am just tickled pink with delight. Most of all the fabric is of a wonderful high quality and there looks to be just about every color and kind imaginable. Well okay maybe not imaginable as I can sure imagine A LOT when it comes to fabric but there is definitely a huge variety. Even about 5 yards of the craft velour I use for my BGs was in one of the bags. My mouth fell completely open when I pulled that out!

Below is a picture of just the tiny amount I have folded up and grouped so far. I am going to be all night! I am having a ball!

I cannot wait to make beautiful dresses and dollies out of this fabric blessing!

Who says Christmas has to be expensive, I would rather this fun over jewelry and such any day! LOL

Xoxoxxx Ree

MERRY CHRISTMAS, HAPPY HANUKAH, and FELIZ NAVIDAD!!!

Wishing you all a very MERRY CHRISTMAS, HAPPY HANUKAH, and FELIZ NAVIDAD!!!


This year has been full of changes, smiles, surprises, blessings, new friends, and love. It just does not get any better then that! I want to wish all my friends here a beautiful holiday and I would like to thank you all so much for the smiles you have sent my way! I so look forward to sharing many MANY more with you in 2010!


All my love and squeezes!


Xoxoxxx Ree

Oh my goodness! Another smile!

I was sent a little whisper from Shashi at Sewing with Moonbeams that I had an award awaiting me there! What a wonderful and happy surprise! Thank you so much Shashi! If you have not been to Shashi's blog please do take a peek! She has wonderful dolls and stories and just the best tutorial on how to make lace wings!

http://sewingwithmoonbeams.blogspot.com/

 

 Even though it's always so hard to choose I will now happily pass this award onto the following five fellow doll bloggers and I so encourage you to click their names and take some time to enjoy their blogs. You will not regret it!

Madame Samm at Sew Dolls Who's Next

Jess at Little Dirt Lane

Sandi at Bearly Sane

Ninoska at Cherished Creations

Shirley at Skellyton Art

Hugs n Squeezes

Xoxoxxx Ree

Pssssssssst.....

Just had to tell anyone on my blog who may not have seen it yet, that Madame Samm at...

http://sewdollswhosnext.blogspot.com/

has shared a fantastic way to make curls! I cannot wait to try this and being the hair lover that I am, I was so excited while reading about it. So thank you Samm and De bunches!

Hugs N Squeezes

Xoxoxxx Ree

Lets make thick ringlets!!!

If you would like to make thick ringlets like the ones I have made in the pictures below this is how I did it, and you can do it too!

What you will need:

Hairpin lace loom

2 skiens of yarn, I think Red Heart works great for this but I also really like the soft feel of I Love This Yarn. I always experiment with different yarns.

A sewing machine that you are okay sewing yarn on and it has to be one in which you can lower the feed dog (is that what it's called?) and take off the pressure foot.

HEAVY weight needle for the machine. You will be sewing a somewhat thick amount of yarn and believe you me, it will snag and break that needle.

Dual Duty Coats and Clark HEAVY thread in a color that matches close to the yarn you are using. I am going to use a contrasting thread so that you can see where I have sewn.

This is what you do...

First adjust your hairpin lace loom to the width you would like your ringlet to be.

Next start wrapping two strings of yarn around the loom. You want this thick so make sure to push down as you go. By the time you get to the other end, or the length you would like your ringlet to be, you want to have as much yarn on the loom as possible without overlapping.

Once you are done wrapping clip your yarn and take your loom to the sewing machine. Make sure your pressure foot raised and taken off, also make sure the feed dog (is that what it's called?) is lowered. Now sew down the middle going very slowly and making sure not to snag your needle. I have my stitch length set at 0. Once you get to the other end, turn and then sew back up. Once you are done clip the ends and tie them off.

Now it's time to take the yarn off the loom so take off one end of the loom and slide the ringlet off. It should start to twist on it's own if everything went as planned. All you have to do now it help it along a bit and twist it as much as you would like. You can leave them more spiral or twist them up good, it's all up to you!!!

Happy Ringlet making and I so hope you share pics should you use this style on your dolls!

I would also like to metion real quick that I have started another blog just for "this and that" chat. Yanno, just a place to post things that are not necessarily
doll related but I am sure I will still end up talking about dolls there LOL.
I would love for you to come share in my smiles on my new blog!
http://abitofthis-alotofthat.blogspot.com/

Just one more thing before I go lol, I decided to add a new page to my website where I can share some of my tips and techniques with you! Take a peek!
www.tipsyteacup.com

Hugs n Squeezes

Xoxoxxx Ree

I didn't get a doll made, but I have something very heartfelt to say...and in a way doll related *smiles*

I do so hope I do this post justice as I am not the savviest with words much of the time, I shall try my very best =:o)

A few months ago life sent a wonderful surprise my way, and while I knew something special was all about this surprise, I didn't quite realize the extent it would end up touching my life. I say "it" but it wasn't an "it" at all, rather a "she" and this "she" was always such a smile to me each time we would cross paths. Little did I know though, this special person was just waiting for that email, that in retrospect, would end up turning the smiles into such a true blessing filling my heart.

This email was just a simple email but wow did it sure turn into something so happy and warm! See, I have been wanting to change and re-vamp my doll making business for such a long time now. I just didn't know quite how to go about it. I knew what I wanted but just could not get over that last hump.

So funny how things can come at you when you least expect it and this is what happened to me. I was sleeping all peaceful in dreamland and boom, what I needed to do just hit me. I knew my new "company" name and I knew exactly what I was hoping to achieve. I just did not fully know how to pull it off. This is where the email comes into play. I just knew the perfect person to email! So I sent an email off asking for help. The Lord says ask and you shall receive and boy did I receive! Not only did I find help for what I was so hoping to do, but I found a beautiful friend and Angel as well. What a fantastic deal huh???

Samm is the name of this heart touching friend and Samm is why I am writing this post today.

As you noticed, there is a picture up above of a beautiful box that was sent to me containing the most beautiful bracelet. This isn't just any ordinary bracelet, but a bracelet that was so thoughtfully picked out JUST for me and such a prefect fit JUST for me. The most special part about this gift is that it was not even being shopped for at the time, but rather when she saw it the thought of me jumped straight into her thoughts. Now is that the best kind of present or what? What a blessed gal I am to have someone think so kindly of me and to have me in their thoughts!

I was on the bed going through fabric when my husband brought the package to me. He knows the name Madame Samm quite well now and he knew I would bust out smiling when he handed it to me. I opened the package and just squealed when I pulled out my perfect gift. There was a wonderful note on the back of the adorably wrapped box and I just could not help but shed happy tears. This perfectly matched bracelet will be something I will always treasure as will be the beautiful friend who sent it to me.

Thank you Samm for this heart touching smile and so much more!


Love Xoxoxx Ree

A doll, but not really a doll...

After all the pin cushion talk at Madame Sam's blog I had to jump on the pin cushion bandwagon. I wanted to make a pin cushion but at the same time a doll so I compromised.

So, why did I choose to make what I made? Well, my bedroom is also my craft/sewing/creating room but I often times like to sit out in the living room and sculpt so that I can be around my boys while they play the video game or watch TV and such. I know they must get tired of seeing all my girly girly stuff so I decided to make a pin cushion that would make them say "hey mom that's cool"... So out of the works came my little goth doll pin cushion.


I do think she might appreciate arms and legs at some point don't ya think?


Below is the pin cushion I have been using which is a gorgeous piece of art in itself made by Sherry Goshon at http://sherrygoshon.blogspot.com/

Sherry is an amazing artist and last I checked she had a couple more of these type pin cushions for sale on her ETSY site.

Oh, before I go I would like to note that I have made a new blog for non-doll related "this and that" chat and that is where I moved my earlier tattoo post to. The blog link is http://abitofthis-alotofthat.blogspot.com/

Smiles and Squeezes
Xoxoxxx Ree

An Award for ME, Can You Believe It?

I was so tickled to find out, that over the weekend, I received two very kind awards from Jess at Little Dirt Lane http://littledirtlanedolls.blogspot.com/
Thank you so very much Jess!


If you have not viewed Jess's bog I strongly suggest a nice long peek. You will not regret it, and you will so fall in love with her beautiful and heart touching dolls!


The rules are as follows:


(1) Thank the person giving the awards
(2) Copy awards to your blog
(3) Place a link to their blog.
(4) Name 7 things people don't know about you.
(5) Nominate 7 bloggers
(6)Place a link to those bloggers
(7) Leave a comment on their blogs letting them know of their awards


Ok so now 7 things you don't know about me!!


(1) I can cross my eyes then keep one crossed while moving the other one back and forth.

(2) I have always had a kitty cat in my life since day one, never had a time without one.

(3) I have two boys and so wanted to try for a little girl but in my 20s I had to have a hysterectomy. I am very blessed with my boys though and have no regrets. I do think that is why I like sculpting girly girls so much though lol.

(4) My right arm is covered in tattoos. I have a full sleeve in progress that consists of Alice in Wonderland and Dr. Suess. My hubby and I designed it, and yes, I do indeed have a large teapot and stack of tipsy teacups going down the back of my arm =:o)

(5) Along with having a huge thing for cloth dolls I so love vintage chenille bedspreads and anything vintage.

(6) I do not like pizza, can ya believe that?

(7) I love watching all the old TV shows, Andy Griffith, Lucy, Little House on the Prairie, Bonanza, Golden Girls, Beaver, Red Skelton Show, etc.


Okay now for me to pick my choice of 7 bloggers.
I just want to say before I start that Madame Samm at http://sewdollswhosnext.blogspot.com/ , Jess at http://littledirtlanedolls.blogspot.com/ , and Sandi at http://bearlysaneaust.blogspot.com/, would have been on my list but they have already gotten awards =:o)


These are in no paticular order and I chose each of these magical people because of their heart, kindness, talent, creativity, and warmth. I love visiting each of their blogs and they are such a sweet part of my dolly world and many are such good friends.


1. Shelley at http://abracreations.blogspot.com/

2. Ute at http://uteandtrolls.blogspot.com/

3. Nessy at http://soynessy.blogspot.com/

4. Lauxita at http://lascosasdelauxita.blogspot.com/

5. Shahsi at http://sewingwithmoonbeams.blogspot.com/

6. Sherrie at http://sympletymes.blogspot.com/

7. Nancy at http://www.atticbabys.com/


Xoxoxxx Ree

No dolls to show right now BUT....

I am so very happy to say I am FINALLY finished re-vamping my site. I have put a ton of work into but it was so worth it. Now, I am sure I will end up tweaking some last things here and there but all in all I am quite happy.

I have changed things on just about every page. One of the biggest changes would be my logo and I so thank Madame Samm at http://sewdollswhosnext.blogspot.com/ for designing that for me. Is she good or what??? I couldn't resist adding some of my dollies to the logo above =:o)

I also added a bit more info on the About Ree page.

You can see all the changes at http://tipsyteacup.com/

I hope you will take a peek when you get the chance. It's such a blessing to share my smiles with you!

Xoxoxxx Ree

Someone is thumping to meet you...

 

I am so happy to say that Flake the Snow Bunny has decided to make his appearance. Actually he bullied and thumped his way into the spotlight to be honest. LOL

I suppose it's pretty obvious by now that I love sculpting  feet and big ones at that. Well Flake, has without a doubt, made wonderful use of his and my ankles have the proof to show of that ha. He was not too patient while waiting for me to reveal him.

This lil bunny was such a special treat for me to work on as he is the prize for my Christmas contest that I am throwing for my past customers as a way to say thank you and Merry Christmas.

Flake is so very proud to be the prize for such an exciting contest! He is such a happy bunny with super large chubby feet that are just perfect for thumping through the snow, which he loves to do!

I created Flake out of super soft white fur and craft velour. I hand sculpted his sweet little face then colored it using water color pencils and pens. His ears I wired for fun posing possibilities and he has a huge cotton tail to soften his falls when he thumps out of place.

Flake's arms and legs are sting jointed. He measures approx. 7 inches sitting (including ears) and approx. 9 1/2 - 10 inches with legs straight (including ears).



This darling bunny loves, oatmeal chocolate chip cookies, hot spiced carrot juice, and playing in the snow with his faerie friends.

I'm getting there...

Sometimes I think I unwrap way too many projects at one time. I have it under control though and while I do not have pictures to post today they will be coming soon!


Flake, the Snow Bunny is really pushing to have his time in the spotlight soon. He may be a tiny little fellow but I have to say he has quite a bit of might behind him, especially when he charges up those huge back feet of his and sends a bunny kick my way. I am so glad he only has low reach and thus far my ankles are the only parts to suffer. I have told him to rest assured, his debut will be soon. He is very excited about being my customer appreciation giveaway! You can read more about it on my website http://tipsyteacup.com/Contest%20Page.htm


Next we have the dear heart that is being created out of that mmmm "very interesting" fabric I posted a few days ago. I have a great start on her, even though there has been setbacks, and I am happy to say Sandi at Bearly Sane guessed very close as to what she is while commenting on the other post! Very close...but that's all I will say for now.


Along with the other two, I have my first teacup creation in the works. This I am very excited about. I am still hunting down some material and so far I am very please with my progress. I cannot wait to share pictures with you!


Last but not least, I have been working on another Baby Giant. This poor sweet has been waiting to be finished up for some time now and I am sure her new momma is very anxious to meet her. She does not have far to go and will be showing her purty "little self out here on my blog and website.


So, this is my world right now and I do so hope I can keep my tipsy self focused so all of these darlings can come out to play with you!!!

Xoxoxxx Ree

A Child With Her Own Mind Whose Ready to Travel

*New Note* I am happy to report that Benji has found a new home and is excited about her upcoming travels!!!

I have truly loved having Benji as a part of our family and have always thought to have here, but it seems Benji is a little girl with a mind and will of her own. She has let me know that she has loved her home very much but is ready to see the rest of the world with a new family. This I can understand as I was a Navy brat all my childhood and was blessed to see much of the country and a small part of the world, so I am happy to now allow Benji Nicole to travel and find a new home.



She is a lovely little girl with very thick large two tone loop curls covering her head. Her large expressive eyes rest over a cute button nose and across her cheeks lay a sprinkling of freckles. She is dressed in her fancy black and pink polka dot party dress, pink stockings, and matching hair bow all ready to meet her new mommy or daddy.

Benji loves tea parties, playing dress up, and visiting the candy store in the mall.

She measures approx 27 inches from the top of her forehead to her toes. She wears real baby clothes in size 3-6 months well and may even be able to wear some 6-9 months outfits.


Benji's "travel fees" are 137.00 plus shipping. You can see further pictures of her  at my website  http://tipsyteacup.com/Benji%20Alex.htm
I can be reached at customerservice@tipsyteacup.com


Wishing everyone a beautiful day! I am feeling a tad under the weather so taking a rest and cuddle day with my dollies!

Oh, and don't you just love my Christmas themed logo and my precious little snowflakes falling? Thank you Madame Samm!

A Fur Only a Mother Could Love???

What can say, I "tipped" again and ordered a fur fabric without first ordering a swatch. The world viewed through a monitor screen can indeed be a misleading place at times, to say the least. What I thought would be a true pretty avocado green turned out to be more of a mucky mud puddle green with a hint of brown. Ofcourse this is no fault of the company as they strongly suggested ordering swatches before placing a full order, so hats off to them and a big TSK for me!



I so do recommend Mendels Far Out Fabrics to any doll/bear maker or crafter! http://www.mendels.com/fur2.shtml ( I do not get any dibs for recommending them)


This company is fantastic for high quality fur in all styles! They are pronto on the shipping as well, and their customer service rocks! I have called countless times asking for nap lengths and each time they have taken the time to find out for me. Check them out if you get the chance!


All this being said, I am person who refuses to look on the down side of things so I am determined to create something whimsical only a mother could love out of a fabric "only a mother could love"....so stayed tuned! I have a wonderful idea!

Xoxoxxx Ree

Dolly Daydreams Perhaps?

Now what could she be smiling big and daydreaming about? There's only one thing I can think of that would be important enough to cause a little girl to tip her teacup....

Why dolls ofcourse!

Who wouldn't tip their teacup while envisioning that perfect doll full of magic and sparkle? I can tell you, I'm certainly tipping mine while envisioning all the new dolly ideas I have swirling through my head and I cannot wait to share them with you!

After Tipsy Teacup Creations was brought to life I could not help but be inspired to create an entire line of dolls dedicated to the marvelous teacup! Madame Sam is to thank for this inspiration as well, so a big thank you to Madame Sam whom has showed how wonderful it can be to share with each other in this doll world!

Goodnight for now sweet doll world and may we all wake in the morning refreshed and full of magic to create that next smile!

Many Blessings!
Xoxoxxxx Ree

Rebirth!!!

How many times is a person blessed enough to come out of one's own self inflicted cocoon a brand new person with a brand new look?! Well, my creative, yet "tipsy" side has done just that and has gone through a wonderful rebirth which I am thrilled to share with you!

I have been struggling with this "rebirth" for a few years now but sometimes you just need a wonderful friend and angel to come help you before the light breaks through the clouds of uncertainty. My creative angel was Sam, know by many as Madame Samm. Her blog is http://sewdollswhosnext.blogspot.com/ and if you have not seen her dolls yet or read her words you are in for a beautiful treat! She is crazy talented and one of the best, kind, and caring ladies you will ever meet! Sam saw my struggles and spent much time with me on the phone walking me through my blogs new look. She then, out of the kindness of her heart, took what I have been wishing for, for years but just could not grasp, and designed a gorgeous logo for me which is now proudly displayed at the top of my blog as well as my website. Tipsy Teacup Creations is alive and breathing and I cannot thank you enough sweet, dear, beautiful Sam! THANK YOU!

My new website is  http://tipsyteacup.com/ 

Why Tipsy Teacup Creations? Well, it just could not fit me better!

1.I am tipsy enough for two people! My hair color may change several times a year but under it all, I am true natural sandy blonde and loving it!

2.Life really does tend to throw major tips our way but somehow someway we manage to keep that pile of teacups stacked. Amen to that!

3. I had a BEAUTIFUL childhood with many beautiful dolly tea parties. These memories are priceless and I love that I am able to let them live even more through my creations.

4. Last but not least, those who know me know I have a sleeve (tats covering one arm) in the works of Alice in Wonderland merged with Dr. Seuss. Well the Mad Hatters tea party was always one of my favorite parts as a child so I have a very large stack of tipsy teacups tattooed down the back of my arm.

So you see, it was the perfect choice!

I do so hope you share in my smiles when you get the chance and take a peek at my site. The inside pages are still undergoing a lot of work but I will finish surely but slowly.

I also so hope you take a peek at Madame Samm's blog and share smiles in her talent. You will not regret it! Her dolls are normally gone as soon as she gets one completed but if you keep checking back you might just get lucky! They are fabulous and so is she!

Tipsy Teacup Creations is having a CONTEST!!!

I've re-vamped my entire website and am throwing a contest for past and present customers. If you would like to peek you can check things out at http://www.tipsyteacup.com/ ! Just enter through the first page and the contest details will be at the top of the next page.

Beetyle Boo & Bew

I am a day late and dollar short posting Beetyle and her dolly Bew after Halloween, but she was an entry for the Cloth Doll Artistry - Cloth Doll Studio 2009 Halloween Contest and I didn't want to post her picture until after the contest was through.

I am THRILLED to say she won 1st place! Wow, what a Halloween treat indeed!!! Thanks so much to all who voted for her and a huge thanks to Connie for running and organizing the contest!!!