In 2022, I was asked to make a few custom mobiles. And can I tell you how incredibly rewarding to hear about how loved these objects have been! Now in 2023, I have three lined up to create (including one for myself!) that I‘m beginning to plan out. So I thought I‘d let you in on my process.
There was a specific theme for each mobile that I’ve created so far: Whales, space, and Winnie the Pooh. Because they were so varied, I did quite a lot of brainstorming and sketching before settling on what I would create. The new themes for this year are definitely Woodland and Scottish wildlife. However, I‘ve also been thinking about developing themes like: Dinosaurs, Beatrix Potter, Pocket Pets, Bees & Flowers, Birds & Eggs, ect.
Simply put, this is my process:
List out elements that were specifically asked to be included
Gather images around the theme (Hello my good friend, Pinterest)
Sketch out ideas and come up with a plan on how they could be made with felting
Determine main elements and supporting elements
Felt, Felt, Felt! And felt some more!
Divide elements into four to five sections and start threading
Balance so that it hangs evenly (harder than it seems)
There were 15 different elements in the Space mobile to make, with each taking a variety of time to create. While the Whale mobile was primarily three large elements (and a ton of felted baubles). Each were more detailed and realistic which extended their make time. And so, this is why I leave myself at least two weeks to complete a mobile but often I will try and leave at least a month.
And that is that!
If you’re interested in having a custom mobile made, please get in touch!
