"To watch us dance is to hear our hearts speak." ~Hopi Indian Saying

 Three years ago I registered my daughter at a local dance school. We were new to the area and just mostly blindly picked a studio that seemed nice. It was one of my best decisions ever. To see how she has grown and blossomed is amazing. I love watching her dance and I think she is perfection.

We love everything about McKinney Dance Academy. The owner, Miss Dari, and all of the teachers are just the best.

In chatting with another dance mom I discovered that the competition team was looking to raise money. I happily offered a toy to be auctioned. It's just a little thing I can do to give back to a place we love so much.

She has removable pointe shoes and tutu and glittery eyes. Do you expect anything less from a glamorous ballet monkey? :)

Bad Crafty Blogger, Bad!

I know, I KNOW! I vanished. It's been almost 2 months since my last blog. That is unacceptable.

I had orders, oh so many adorable little friends to make. I'll catch you up in the next few posts but I have to share my last holiday order because I just want to die from the cuteness!!

Just look at her sweet little face! The flower! *swoon*

I cannot wait to see the photos of her with her precious little girl <3 p="p">

Did you know that sock monkeys have been around since the late 1800's? When I started making sock toys I actually refused to make monkeys because they were everywhere and I felt they were just too common so I focused on other animals. I'm so glad I changed my opinion on this classic toy because they really are wonderful.  

Catching Up

In April I had the pleasure of working for a repeat customer. She once again ordered toys for her four super precious children. I just love the socks and toy styles she chose. Aren't they too cute!

Fuzzy Bunny, Floofy Stripped Kitty , Darling Pink Penguin, and Oh So Squeezable Mini Monkey




Remember, just because you don't see it doesn't mean I can't do it. I love talking to new clients about custom orders!

2011 Back in business

It has been nearly a year since I last blogged and closed our doors to prepare for a move. We have now fully recovered from our move and have re-opened for business.

First on our agenda was to set up the craft/office space for Sole Mate Toys.

Now that we have fabulous storage we have been busy making new friends! In January we ran a 20% off coupon for our facebook fans.  Here are the toys made so far this year.  Penguin, Bat and Ninja Monkey.

 

Last holiday monkey

This is the final Christmas monkey for 2009 but I'm sure there will be quite a few more in 2010 :)

Monkeying Around

Tis the season... for monkeys. My last 3 toys have been monkeys and I have one more to make for a holiday order.

A full sized monkey and a smaller one for an american girl doll



Cute lil guy



The organic supplies are in and the contest to pick a name is over and the winning name is.... *drumroll* Earth Mates. Isn't that perfect!?

Here are the organic socks and the organic fluff which is SO soft.

Order #2 is done and on its way

Here is a group shot of all four toys in the order.

Look what I've been busy with

Cute turtle face


Puppy


Tooth Pillows


Turtles


Monkeys


Baby Bear


Tooth Monster


Pink Monster


Green Monster


and finally

Some new biz stuff from vista print

Time to update! (photo heavy)

I have been working on orders lately so time to catch up on pictures. :)

So silly

After I did the photos for my portfolio I had a little fun. ;)





Merry Sockmas and Happy Monkeydays

Christmas orders are keeping me on my... fingers? ;)

And here is half of another order






I still have twin puppies and a lion to go.

Staying Active

I have an order for 2 more sock monkeys, a bit smaller than my previous monkeys. These aren't due until Christmas though so they will go on the calendar and I'll keep an eye out for striped socks while shopping. Most of my sock come from Target, they have the cutest ones for the best prices. If you run across any great deals you can let me know. :D

I am starting on a first birthday octopus for an online friend this week. I'm also planning ahead for Halloween. Expect to see a few new "spooky" toys in the next month.

Stay tuned for updates.

I have been a busy bee

Orders Orders Orders
We love it when that happens!

This order was for a local Mom. The larger bunny with the button eyes is for her 3 year old and the smaller is for the new baby.



Another local order, this was a biggie.


And the second part of her order was a bit of a departure for me... actual sock monkeys.First a girl monkey with button eyes and a wired tail.


Then the boy monkey with embroidered features. His photo session was painful thanks to a grumpy wasp. See how I suffer for my art? ;)