Plush Whimsical Deer Mount

My husband is Mr. outdoorsman. If he can spend a day in the woods or an afternoon next to a creek he's there. It's only normal for my kids to follow suit. My husband believes in teaching our kids to live off the land. Having a man in my life so rough and tough only means one thing, lots of taxidermy. To be honest I'm not the biggest fan, but he puts up with my constant crafting, and my lack of house duties. So I've learned to appreciate his hobby. When I first discovered these whimsical versions of there taxidermy counterparts I was ecstatic. 

It was the dead of winter and I spent days day dreaming this design. I could see it in my head and translated it to a pattern. 

I found this amazing mint fabric with gold hearts at Joann fabrics. After drafting my pattern I cut out the fabric pieces. I'm not gonna lie, I was nervous about this pattern being just right. If it was off even at the slightest point the whole design would look odd. 

After sewing everything here is what I got:

I added the antlers and made them out of a hot pink polka dot. I then stated making fabric and felt flowers for the head.

After attaching the flowers it was time to paint the base.

I had a helper. 😊

After the base dried I carefully added the head to the base. I added a gator hook to the back and voila! I was finished. 

 My girls were so excited about there new piece of art work. This design took me about two weeks to draft and sew. I've considered releasing my pattern but for now I'll leave the option open for a custom one made by me. 

My online shop is www.lizzysueandher2.etsy.com

Please do not use my photos with out credit or a link back to my website. Thank you!

Starting a new wardrobe on just a few $$ at a time. Tips on how to find amazing clothes for amazing deals!

Did you ever look at what's trending in fashion only to notice an outrageous price tag to come along with it??! 

I love the idea of being that on trend mom, however it's hard to bring myself to spend sooo much money on just one item such as a cute new dress that is going to face sticky hands and lots of "mommy I need you" tugging moments. Let's face it, there is a reason yoga pants and t-shirts are the primary choice for us moms. 

I've come to the realization that 30 is fast approaching and everything I own has been around since before kids. I imagined my 20s style being something ripped from a vogue magazine only for it to become a sea of knit and cozy. I decided about a year and half ago it was time to start working on a new wardrobe one piece at a time. I hit two road blocks when I started, first having no self confidence. Having two kids I packed on the pounds and thought I didn't deserve to wear new beautiful clothes. I ditched that thought only to fall in love with every curve and loving who I've become. Second, being a stay at home mom funds are kinda of low. I didn't have the capability of going out and replacing everything I owned so I had to get creative and be patient.

Tip 1:

Clearance, clearance, clearance, and coupons!! 

Every time I go shopping for clothes, shoes, accessories, etc I refuse to pay full price for something. If it's not on sale, it's not happening. If I go shopping it's usually for something I really need, but sometimes I look around for something new and exciting. I've learned to shop at the end of seasons for the best deals. I also sign up for coupons through my email to get the best coupons I can get. 

Tip 2:

Thrift stores or consignment shops.

I know what your thinking, "oh my god NO". I say why not? Your recycling something and giving it a new life. Your getting items at a fraction of the cost. Not to mention some places get close outs from local stores. The one thrift shop  near me gets target close outs. Can you say jackpot?! 

Tip 3:

Yard Sales and Flea markets

This is one of the best places for amazing deals on everything from clothes to accessories. People want it gone so they mark it cheap to get rid of it fast. I've found more name brand clothes with tags still attached in my size under a $1. I can't even make clothes for that price and yes the stuff is in style. 

Tip 4:

Sew it!

If I can't buy it, I alter something to fit what I'm looking for. There is also a ton of free tutorials online on how to make your own clothes or how to alter clothes to fit just right. 

Just remember to look for clothes that compliment you and make you feel beautiful. That is the most important tip of all. 

Love yourself. <3

-Liz