Today's WIP - Cuckoo Raku

I've been working like crazy on my felt project inspired by the raku tube beads that I purchased from MAKUstudio. These are some pix that I took during the work in progress. The lighting was lousy - when you're married to a professional photographer, you get rather spoiled - and Len wasn't around with his fancy lighting setup. But you'll get the idea here. I can't wait until I finish embellishing it and have Len take some REAL pictures!

Here I have finished laying out all the fibers, gotten them wet, and started the felting process. I was really concerned that all the colors I used would blend in together and turn to muddy colors, similar to what happens when you mix paint. Then I had to remind myself that when the fibers are wet they get much darker, and fibers with similar color values tend to look the same.

This is as far as I had gotten on Wednesday before I had to get ready and go teach my bead making class. I finished up the felting and fulling of this piece last night while I was parked in front of the TV. Here's the vessel so far - and it's just about dry! What do you think - did I get the colors in the ball park?

I'm hoping to finish embellishing it today so I can bring it with me tomorrow. I'll be attending the monthly meeting of the SGB Norcal (Society of Glass Beadmakers - Northern California) up in the Sacramento area. Our favorite torchworking tool and glass suppliers Arrow Springs is hosting the meeting along with a mini glass bead bazaar, and it'll be a great time!

But now, I just might go and try to find that new pair of shoes...

Have a happy and creative day!