Meet Master Finley and Miss Fiona

It was a warm August morning last year when I was sitting outside by the pool drinking coffee with my husband when I got the idea to make these cute animals.  I had my kindle with me and was reading some blogs.  I don't recall where I first saw these stuffed animals, but as soon as I saw them, I knew I wanted to make them.

Introducing Master Finley and Miss Fiona

I found the pattern on Alicia Paulson's blog Posie gets Cozy. You can purchase the digital PDF pattern directly from Alicia or you can purchase a kit with everything included.  I purchased just the pattern. 

I had so much fun researching all the items needed to make these little creatures.  I found the Liberty Tana Lawn fabric on ebay but I wasn't sure if there was enough fabric for the pattern pieces.  Alicia was kind enough to send me the PDF pattern without any payment to see if the pattern would fit the fabric.  I though this was so kind of her.  It fit, and I immediately paid her for the pattern.  She was most gracious to help me.

The bodies are made from wool felt which I purchased online at Prairie Woolens. The body is made from Smokey Marble Felt PW 1121 which I bought in the 12 x 18 size.  I bought two pieces of this felt; one for Miss Fiona and one for Master Finley. 

For Master Finley's sweater, I used some fingering weight wool I had left over and followed this pattern I found at Purl Soho.  I made his pants from some sports weight wool.  I just made up the pattern myself.  I threaded some leather string around the waistband and hung this charm.

I cut out Miss Fiona's dress according to the pattern but the I finished it off a little different.  The neckline has an actual facing which I threaded the elastic thread through it.  I also added the lace trim to the hem and sleeves.

The pattern for the shawl was a simple knitted oblong shape.  I wanted a bit more flair so I crocheted her a shawl out of some leftover Noro sock yarn.  I added the buttons and finished off Miss Fiona's look with a little teddy bear necklace.

 

 The fabric was purchased from etsy seller  Miss Elany. I bought four diferent Liberty Lawn fabrics and the shipping was very reasonable at $4.50. I used one of the fabrics for the ear linings and Master Finley's tie and one for Miss Fiona's dress. I used Evergreen wool felt PW 146  in a 9 x 12 size for the boots.  One piece of felt this size will make two pairs of boots. 

 

I gave these to my grandchildren as one of their Christmas gifts.  I packaged them in a clear plastic bag and tied with a bright ribbon.  I found the long, clear pastic bags from the deli at my Persian market (they were nice enough to give me two bags).  The children won't be playing with these toys but instead they will add decor to their rooms. 

I had never made anything like this before and it was really so much fun to see these little animals take shape.  I sat at the kitchen table and stitched each evening.  I enjoy doing the blanket stitch and have it mastered but my other embroidery skills are lacking.

When I placed my order for the fabric and the wool felt, I bought enough of each to make four animals total.  I still have another set of wool felt and fabric to make  Miss Maggie Rabbit.*

To recap, here is what you will need:

1.  Wool felt (one color for body and one color for boots)

2.  Stuffing for the body

3.  Embroidery thread to match body, boots and to embroider face

4.  Liberty Tana Lawn fabric (or fabric of your choice)

5.  Yarn scraps for shawl, sweater and pants

*I purchased the pattern for Miss Maggie Rabbit and followed the directions except for the ears.  I cut out some mice ears free hand to make Master Finley and Miss Fiona

I spent about $40.00 total for the supplies to make four of these little creatures.  The bulk of the money was spent for the beautiful, fine liberty fabric.  I've never seen such fine cotton fabric.  Next time, I am going to get a new needle for my sewing machine when I make the dress.  It took me one whole afternoon to finish this dress!

On Alicia's blog she sells some fancy tongs to use to stuff the arms and legs.  I found that the handle of a small wooden spoon works great to secure the stuffing in the arms and legs.  Next time, I may make a gathered skirt for Miss Maggie topped off with a hand knitted sweater.  The fun part is that you can use your imagination and make up your own ideas on how to dress and embellish these little animals.

I'm linking up with Amy over at Five on Friday. She is having a fabulous give away, so please drop by and see her wonderful blog.  I would love to hear from you if you have a chance.  If you have made these I'd love for you to leave a link in the comment section below.  And, if you haven't made these, please feel free to comment, too.

Wishing you the best,

Pat

I'm joining in with the following link parties:

Rocking Your World Friday...  

A Stitch in Time ... 

Handmade Monday ... 

Yarn Along with Ginny...

Oh My Heartsie Girls...