Friday, February 08, 2008

Flutterbug!

I'm sure you must have all seen this incredible blog post by the immensely talented Sandra Evertson, where she created a remarkable 'crows cage' masterpiece.

I particularly loved the 'little bitty lacey winged ones' as she called them and was inspired to make my own version. I had a tiny antique bisque dolls body, just 4cm in length, so added a caterpillar-like body, using wadding, tulle and beads.

I then embellished her with vintage lace wings, glitter and pearls.

An old wire lampshade frame was covered in a Victorian cream lace sleeve, which I stitched in place and then added a row of assorted glass beads along the lower edge.

Lengths of narrow lace tied in a bow, synched it in at the top. And then my 'flutterbug' settled on the front!

Little flying creatures often seem to be attracted to artificial light, so I think she looks quite at home there. It now stands in front of my curio cabinet which is filled with vintage floral hats and whimsical collections.

Have a wonderful weekend,
Niki

20 comments:

  1. Anonymous9:57 pm

    Not sure how I happened on to your wonderful blog. But love all the wonderful things you post about. I feel so inspired to create. I love to sew. When I see old fabric with flowers it seems to call out to me. Jealous that I can't shop the flea markets with you in UK. Our thrift stores/ yard sales and fabric houses will have to do here in the United States.

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  2. Very sweet Niki! xo, suzy

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  3. Oh Niki! She's the sweetest!!! Such a tiny little doll transformed into such a grand treasure! =)

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  4. Anonymous2:16 am

    I love, love your little lamp : )

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  5. Niki,
    It's enchanting!!
    I love Sandra's blog too!
    You have a great weekend yourself.
    Rosemary

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  6. This is just SO very sweet, I love your blog and wonderful creations, will be back soon for another visit!!
    Alicia ~ time worn style

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  7. I have seen those flutter bugs of Sandra's they are gorgeous. I love the way you have Niki ..fied yours {:o)). The Lamp is absolutely gorgeous. Doesn't it look fab on your dresser.

    best wishes Ginny

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  8. Hi Niki, yes lovely sunshine, and I'm stuck indoors! Yes, all the things around the crafting seem to take more time than the crafting itself, don't they. I think I got more done when I worked full-time - maybe that's the answer :-(
    I've never much cared for bugs but your flutterbug has changed my mind - it's sooo sweet.
    Enjoy the sunshine!
    Lucy x

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  9. What a gorgeous little winged creature.. and so original!
    I would love to swap houses for a day and live amongst your home of visual beauties..
    I doubt you would want to stay here though!!
    Maybe you could do a radical interior design job whilst you are here..!


    Sorry I haven't replied to your lovely email..
    Tomorrow I plan to catch up ..
    Michelex

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  10. Niki she is beautiful. She reminds me of a creature from that wonderful film "Fairy Tale", have you seen it? I love the effect of her silhouetted against the lamp, beautiful
    Kimx

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  11. Anonymous12:14 pm

    What a beautiful flutterbug Niki, only you could create such an original beauty. Love Jackie Mx

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  12. Anonymous12:43 pm

    Sandra's creation was wonderful wasn't it? I'm sure she would be delighted to know that it had inspired such a lovely lampshade. This really is lovely Niki.
    Carolyn
    http://willowhouse.typepad.com

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  13. ooo, so many beautiful things..i love youre lamp!!

    Hugs from Sweden!!!

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  14. So cute!!! Love the little Flutterbug.

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  15. Niki, this turned out so sweet! Love her silhouette against the light of the lamp! Great job!!

    Becky

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  16. Hiya
    Wonderful blog, you are so creative!
    Your home looks like a lovely, cosy place too.
    have fun with your creations and I'll visit again!

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  17. I love the little lamp, and how your flutterbug stands guard over your other whimsical treasures.!

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  18. I love this Niki! Looks so cute!I would love to try my hand at making a lace lampshade cover too. yours is so lovely!

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  19. Hi Niki

    Well done you for spotting that red check lampshade. I hadn't even noticed it there!!!

    As well as the idea of a textile fair I'm wondering whether we should have a blogger's day?!

    Sue x

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  20. What a beautiful lampshade! You've made a little piece of art of it!
    Greetings from the Netherlands!

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Thank you for finding the time to visit me...
Niki xx