What to give?

On December 12, Sew Mama Sew is having a "Giveaway Day" that links hundreds (really - HUNDREDS!) of giveaways that are going on consecutively.  So now that I've got my blog up and running I'm considering linking up and giving something away.  

The question is, what do I give?   A peacock?

A hedgehog, perhaps?

A sweet little dolly?

Custom hand embroidery?

A kangaroo?  

Or how about a sock friend?

Have any of you ever participated in the Giveaway Day before?  I'm just trying to get ideas here.  As I have mentioned before, I am thinking of opening an online shop (way in the future!).  So the "business" part of that is to gain more followers for my blog for wider exposure.  But more than that, I'd really just like to participate because I like creating, I like giving, and I like being part of the global community of creative people.  I like swapping ideas, finding cool tutorials, and sharing what I know.  I'll be honest, Giveaway Day is how I found many of my favorite blogs!

So don't be shy, let me know what you think.  Should I make something new for Giveaway Day?  Is there a soft toy that you would love to see me make?  I'm up for comments, and I know I don't say it enough, but yes, I really do appreciate all of you who follow my blog!!!  

Blessings, 

Caren

Where Do You Find Inspiration?

I am a terrible artist.  Really.  In fact, I think my five year old draws better than I do.  So when I am going to make a new stuffed animal pattern I usually do my research on the animal/image I am thinking about (I like to see how others have interpreted them visually).  

So that leads me to my question.  Occasionally I use other people's artwork as my inspiration.  Is that ok?  I mean, I really like childrens books.  Like this one I stumbled upon at the library yesterday:

Bumbletum can be purchased here

Bumbletum.  Seriously, how cute is this little guy?  I'm totally in love.  And the story is about a soft toy that is really great at HUGGING.  So who wouldn't love a stuffie that is a great hugger?  (especially one as adorable as this!).  

So the question then becomes - is it ok to make someone else's illustration into a 3D soft toy?  

Can I tell you a secret?  I have been flirting with thoughts of opening a little shop on Etsy sometime in the future.  The distant future (as in - hey, can I get the kids in school first?!!!).  Its not like I'll be making a huge amount of toys, nor would I be making a huge amount of money.   Just thinking about how all of this stuff goes together, and wanting to give credit where it is due.  And if I can, I'd like to track the illustrator down and ask permission (I'd definitely list the source on my shop page even if I couldn't find the illustrator).

I've also been looking at soft toy books, to try to get more of an education on different methods of construction and layouts for the soft toys.  I know that in the end some of my creations will look similar to some of those, at least construction-wise.  That's to be expected, though, since there are only a limited amount of ways to make soft toys.  

I just want to walk in integrity in everyday life as well as in business practice (if the toy shop ever becomes reality), you know?  So if you have any thoughts, please let me know.  Thanks bunches!

:) Caren