As a knitter, the first thing I wanted to do when I found out my sister-in-law was pregnant, was to start every single baby-related project I'd seen and loved over the years but never had a recipient for. When I found out she was having twins, well, that just made the challenge more fun! Blankets, sweaters, hats and booties, toys. Ah, the toys, those were the most fun.
It wasn't until after I'd seen the twins playing with the toys I made for them that I began thinking this was a joy I could share with others. My sister-in-law first put that notion into my head, then it grew when my co-worker's wife became pregnant and he wanted her to have something special and unique for the baby. In a world where big box stores turn out cookie cutter toys, there are those who want something more unique, something special and handmade, one of a kind gifts found nowhere else. I didn't realize I could be someone who could provide that until my coworker asked where he could send his friends to buy my toys. More requests for different stuffed animals turned into an inspiration for me to challenge myself to create new and unique animals.
In a former life I was a zookeeper, so merging my love of animals and knitting seemed like the natural next step. I love how unique and interesting each animal is and sharing that love and the natural history knowledge I've acquired over the years inspires me.
I like to keep in mind that what I'm making is for babies, so there are no small pieces to come loose and the materials I use are washable. My favorite fiber to work with is wool and, lucky for me, they make wool that is soft, and is treated to be washable. In the future, I plan to work with organic cottons as well, but for now, the superwash merino is my favorite.
Thank you for joining me in this process. Nothing gives me greater joy than sharing what I love with others!