Quietly gift knitting

 It's been quiet on the blog. Not that I've ever been overly chatty, but when I'm working on gifts that can't be posted, it gets even quieter. However, now that they've been sent off and opened...

First opened was Spidey. My variation of Voodoo you love me? by Susan Cludino-Auguilar. I've been wanting to make this pattern for awhile, I just needed someone to make it for. There are so many variations posted on Ravelry that it is fun to browse through them all and I found the inspiration I needed to create this fun character for a little friend who loves superheroes.

The eyes are duplicate stitched using a chart I made up (a picture is on my Ravelry project page). The spider has two columns of duplicate stitch for the body then backstitched legs. 

I'm very happy with the outcome and I heard my little friend put him in his bed right away. (I think that was a good sign). lol

The second package opened was Ava, a modified mermaid by Susan B Anderson. I modified the fin to add a ruffle inspired by another mermaid doll pattern, which added length to the doll itself. I originally wanted to add a removable bra, but that was a hot mess. After four attempts I came up with what the final version and decided it was best to whipstitch it in place (or else it would probably be lost). I opted not to add the bracelets or the crown, but did struggle through the necklace. 

I reattached the arm a couple of times to get the best placement, redid the tail a few times and I'm not thrilled with the ears. But I have a picture of a little girl squeezing her doll with joy so I'm happy because she's happy.  

My little friend was born in Norfolk where mermaids are a thing. She doesn't live there anymore but now she has a mermaid to live with her in her new home.

Thankfully I got these gifts finished before I broke my thumb as the remainder of my gifting is now on hold till after the holidays. 

Have a great holiday. Be well.