Ombreꞌ Dyed Valentine Owl Sends Sweet Wishes!

Debra Quartermain created this bashful owl from wool felt that was dip-dyed in Rit Fuchsia dye, creating an ombreꞌ effect that resulted in shading from light to dark.  This easy-to-make project recently appeared in the January/February 2013 issue of Crafts ‘n Things, published by Amos Craft Publishing. http://www.craftsnthings.com/

Debra prewashed the wool felt and then mixed up the dye adding white vinegar to the dye bath to help achieve a more intense color.  To create the ombreꞌ shading, she dipped one-third of the felt into the dyebath for 10 minutes, then another third was dipped for 5 minutes and then the final third for a quick dip. After the wool is rinsed and dried, it’s cut into shapes and stitched together with the blanket stitch. Click here for the pattern.      

The owl’s feet are stuffed with pennies so he stands wherever he goes.  Perfect for gift-giving! Click here for the full tutorial.

Debra is a professional CHA designer member. Her designs have been featured in many craft and sewing publications. She has authored four books and two licensed quilt fabric lines based on her book Easy-to-Sew Playful Toys. Specializing in fabric and felt her work ranges from whimsical characters to stylish wearables. Visit www.debraquartermain.comfor more ideas.