I’m ecstatic to finally be able to share a project that is near and dear to my heart. Wildlife with Love™ is my new collection of sewing patterns debuting this month at Quilt Market, featuring endangered species. Every day this week I’ll reveal one of the 5 new patterns in this first “polar” themed collection.
Today I’d like to introduce you to my penguin friends, Poppy and Pip. These fun-loving stuffed felt penguins would make a great gift for the animal lover in your life. Who could resist a penguin? They have such personality and style.
I designed the big penguin first. Once I perfected the pattern and it “came to life”, so to speak, I just had to make a baby penguin to go with it! Now I can’t imagine one without the other. They’re sewn out of wool blend felt with some hand embroidered details. Felt is such an approachable material to work with, that someone fairly new to sewing toys should be able to stitch these with confidence. I worked closely with my pattern testers to keep the shapes simple and the instructions detailed. I’m very happy with how they turned out!
Why I created Wildlife with Love™
The concept for this collection was directly inspired by my 10 year old son. He’s got a tender heart and is a true animal lover through and through. For his last birthday and Christmas, he donated some of his gift money to the National Wildlife Federation (NWF). He’s concerned about climate change and loss of habitat for animals. And by donating, he feels helpful instead of helpless. His big ol’ compassionate heart inspires me to do more! As a result, I created Wildlife with Love™ with all children in mind, to raise awareness and to support NWF.
Are you familiar with NWF? I love their mission statement: “The National Wildlife Federation works to inspire Americans to protect wildlife for our children’s future.” They really have a great family focus on their website as well, emphasizing the importance of getting outside and spending time in nature. And don’t forget Ranger Rick Magazine, a favorite at our house.
So now you know what I’ve been up to for the past few months, a new labor of love. I hope these little characters capture your heart like they’ve done mine! For retailers, Poppy and Pip Penguins sewing patterns will be shipping November 15th. In the meantime, if you’d like to purchase a PDF pattern, they are now available in my etsy shop.
Stayed tuned to the blog…tomorrow you’ll meet some of Poppy and Pip’s friends!
Simply adorable!!!! What a wonderful endeavor, too. Can’t wait to see the rest of the pals.
Truly adorable! So full of expression and really well-done. Might have to find a youngster who needs a giftie so I can make one!
Congratulions on bringing this concept to life! Seems like just yesterday… and now, here you are! Ta-da!
This is wonderful! I love the NWF and it is awesome to see this partnership.
how wonderful, Betz! yay!!
xo
These are darling!
Betz – I’m a HUGE fan and I work at National Wildlife Federation on our online team, so this blog has TOTALLY MADE MY DAY!
I am building a new website right now for Ranger Rick and we’re adding a new section called “Kid Heroes.” Do you think we could feature your son? And your penguins? I would be so excited!
Hi Carla,
Oh my gosh, he would love that! You can email me at betz(at)betzwhite(dot)com any time!
Thanks,
Betz
Betz! I love these!! Can’t wait to see them and you in person next week xo Congratulations!!
These are absolutely adorable, Betz! Love them!
Thanks so much everyone for your comments! I’m glad you love them as much as I do!
I love your work. It is always so crisp, clean, and perfect. Congratulations on your new project success. (Tanknit)
Oooh! That is so sweet about your son! I love your adorable critters and the reason behind them! How fabulous. xoxo. cb
Oooh! I love these sweet critters! I love the animals as much as I love the reason behind them and your son’s wonderful story. xoxo, cb
So cute!! You did a great job designing something I’d like to sew and my son would love to cuddle 🙂
Hi Betz! I saw these patterns thanks to Wendi Gratz and am planning to purchase the penguin one to make my daughter for Christmas. Can you share which wool/felt blend you used for the stuffed animals? (Is it available on Etsy?) There is such a difference in quality even among blends, and I’m thinking I have the best chance of success if I use the same or similar product as in the samples. Thanks so much!
Hi Amy,
Sorry I missed your comment at first. I use WoolFelt by National Nonwovens.
Thanks,
Betz