Three New Listings - featuring the ColdhamCuddlies Children's Footwarmer Range.

Finally, we're able to announce that all three versions - Small, Medium and Large - of our Children's Slippers have now been listed at www.Etsy.com/shop/coldhamcuddlies.

They are currently samples of each toy featured - Small = Baby Foxes:  Medium = Leopards: and Large = Tigers.  Each pair took between 2-4 days to complete (depending on what else I had to do at the same time!)  Naturally, should orders be received, they will be attended to as quickly as possible, in the order they are received.  I'm allowing myself 3-4 weeks to complete - giving me plenty of time, hopefully, to be able to deliver faster!

First we feature the Small Baby Foxes

Etsy Listing # 156563936

These Baby Fox Headed Chestnut Plush Kids or Childrens Slippers are based on a 1983 Simplicity Pattern sent to me by LauraC while I was constructing the Golden Yellow Bunny Slippers ( Etsy Listing #152976020).     They form part of the  2013 New Product offering for inclusion into the ColdhamCuddlies Family.

They measure approximately 7 inches from toe to heel along the sole.  The sole is formed on the outside from a piece of Brown Suedette fabric, and lined on the inside with the same Chestnut Plush used to form the sides and uppers of  each Slipper.  Each slipper is constructed by sewing an outer layer of Chestnut Plush to an inner White Fleece lining.  They are then joined with seams facing and sewn together around the edges of  the brown suedette sole.  The plush lining is then added and the whole slipper turned inside out.  The upper is constructed so that the fleece lining has the seam facing the outer plush layer which is sewn together with ladder stitching.

The Fox Heads are based on a pattern for a Baby Fox, part of the Fox Family (Etsy Listing #59809283)  who already feature in the ColdhamCuddlies Shop. They are stuffed with polyester fibre, which meets all international safety standards, and the ears are lined with satin lining.  Each head is then  attached to the upper lining of the appropriate slipper,  prior to the outer plush layer of the slipper uppers being closed to the ankle, over the arch of the foot.

The Ankle of each slipper is then trimmed with Peach Velvet Ribbon, and then threaded through with elastic.  There is a gap just behind the head of each Fox where the elastic can be pulled through to make any adjustments needed for a neat fit for the Young Person.  There is also a small allowance for expansion, as well as reduction, if needed.

Next, using the same 1983 Simplicity Pattern, these Medium Sized Kids Slippers used a smaller version of the head for the  Long Legged Tigger Toy (Etsy Listing 108763404)  already in our shop and uses an Brown and Black Spotted Polyester Fabric for the outer layer.  That layer is backed with a cream fleece fabric, and the entire slipper has a blue fleece lining.  The Leopards join the Chestnut Foxes    as part of the 2013 New Cuddlies Family.  Effectively, the entire slipper consists of three layers of warm fabric for the sides and upper, and the same for the soles.  This results in a truly cosy pair of slippers for a childs' cold feet on a chilly winter day.

Etsy Listing # 156616186

As a medium sized Childrens Slipper, they measure 7-3/4 inches from toe to heel and the outer sole uses Brown Suedette fabric to form the shoe base. The inner layer of the Slipper is made with Blue Fleece Lining.  The outer and inner layers are sewn together separately, and then laid with seams facing and attached around the suedette sole.  The inside sole is lined with matching spotted fabric with its own fleece backing.

The heads are constructed separately, stuffed with polyester fibrefill meeting all international safety standards.  Plastic Eyes - with plastic safety backing - are attached prior to the heads being stuffed.  The ears are then attached and the entire head is then sewn on to the inner lining of the slipper at the upper over the arch of the foot.  The outer layers are than sewn in place enclosing the head in place.

 At the ankle, Dark Yellow Cotton Seam Binding is used to trim the slippers, with elastic threaded through to assist a comfortable fit.  There is a gap in the trimming, behind the Leopard Heads, where the elastic can be accessed should alterations to the size be required.  A small allowance has been provided for expansion or contraction - as the need arises.

Thirdly,

Etsy Listing #156629069

These Yellow and  Black Striped Tiger Headed Childrens or Kids Slippers are the final in the latest trio of toys or novelty offerings for the 2013 season.  As with  the small sized Foxy version (Etsy Listing #156563936)   and  the medium-sized Leopards heads, they too are based on a 1983 Simplicity Pattern.     I did not like the original animal heads in the Simplicity Pattern, and substituted versions of the Toys already in the ColdhamCuddlies shop (www.Etsy.com/shop/coldhamcuddlies).  Very grateful, though, for the patterns provided for the Kids' and Mens' versions.  I shall have to rely on my already tried and tested Ladies' template!

To qualify as a Large sized Slippers, as these Tigers are, the suedette fabric soles measure  8-1/2 inches from heel to toe.  Like the other two Kids Slipper versions, they are lined with a fleece lining - this time in Pink.   (Tigers have a femine side too!).  The inside of the sole is lined with the Tiger Striped animal print fabric which is used for the outer layer of the slipper and uppers.  They are made in exactly the same way as the other two slippers - with the outer plush fabric being sewn separately from the pink fleece lining.  The two fabrics are then laid together with the seams facing each other and both are simultaneously sewn round the sole, and the slipper is finished off with the addition of the plush fabric sewn to form the inside sole of the shoe. 

 The head is made separately, and has a pair of plastic eyes fixed backed with a plastic safety clasp.  Then it is stuffed with polyester fibre - meeting all international safety standards.  Once the ears have been attached and the facial expression embroidered using black double knitting yarn, the head is first attached to the pink lining which has been sewn with the seam facing outwards.  Once attached to the lining, the outer plush layer is fitted around the head over the foot arch and fastened firmly at the front of the ankle. 

There is an orange satin ribbon trimming around the ankle threaded through with elastic to achieve a good fit.  Sufficient elastic has been used to allow adjustments - expansion or contraction - to meet the individual's needs.  The elastic can be accessed through a gap in the orange ribbon trim at the back of the Tiger's head and the adjustments made by unpicking the seam to get the correct fit. 

This is a sample, and orders are most welcome!  Buyers should be aware that the Tigers took me between 3-4 days to complete.  However that could be affected depending on the order book situation.  If a specific deadline is required, therefore, please allow between 3-4 weeks for me to meet your needs:  I'd hate to disappoint a child by being late.  You will be notified when the item is ready for posting and/or already on its way to the intended destination.

Childrens'/Kids' Slipper Identity Parade!

For the time being, slipper production - whether it be Kids', Ladies' and/or Gentlemen's (last mentioned  have yet to be embarked upon) will cease - unless of course, orders begin to be received!  Then, of course, I shall be going into overdrive!

Later today, I intend to get working with my trusty "Quic 'Unpic" on Pooh Bear, the first patient in the queue for treatment - as described in Cy Bear's last post here.  In between, I hope to finish a very exciting book, one of the "set books" for Assignment 2 of the Children's Writing Course.  The books for Assignment 1 have been returned to the local library, and I await delivery of two that were out on loan  when I put in my request last Friday. 

 Am really enjoying reading Childrens' literature again - so far, I've managed to keep my eyes open to the end of whatever book I am reading at any one time!  That hasn't happened with much adult stuff in recent times, so I'm wondering if it is ME - or the adult offerings?  Perhaps we should leave things at that!!!

Assignment 1 from my point of view is now "in waiting" mode.  I had to critique one of the set books "The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe", by C.S. Lewis - which I vividly recall reading to my two girls when they were at the bedtime story reading stage in the 1970's in Canada.  Great to re-establish contact again!  Then I had to write something for an imaginary child reader - aged 7-ish.  Cy Bear featured - as I hope he will  to continue to do as the Course proceeds - and  the Tutor's comments etc are awaited!

Good bye for the time being.   Lovely to be back blogging with you - do intend to do more, once the Patient therapies begin!  Cy Bear can't have it all the way - especially as he is going to be so involved helping me in the Writing Course!   He'll start to think he's indispensable!!  Isobel

Cuddlies Slippers - the final installment!

Good evening once again Everyone! 

 Cy Bear signing in for the final post about the Cuddlies Slippers - at least for the time being.  Hope you're not getting bored with the whole idea - because from what I can see of Isobel, they are definitely THE NEXT THING as far as ColdhamCuddlies and their www.etsy.com/shop/coldhamcuddlies site is concerned!

In one of my latest conversations with you, I mentioned that Isobel had got two custom orders for slippers from KatherineV our next-door neighbour here in Heytesbury.  This time, it was for some UK Ladies Size 7 Slippers for her other daughter.  Isobel was told that they did not need to have quite as much material for this version, and that she was quite happy for us to provide another set of Rabbits, or any other animal we fancied.  However she did add that this daughter was a person who "turned herself out well" and was "conscious" of her appearance, so Isobel decided to make some Panda Bear Slippers, and trim them with black and white checked ribbon.  She also thought the bow should be somewhat smaller, and provide a neater finish.

So here are the Panda Bear Slippers at various points in their appearance on the ColdhamCuddlies stage.

The heads were made first - using our existing Panda Bear pattern, and cutting the seams so that the finished head was slightly smaller than those appearing on our full-sized Panda Bear (Etsy Listing #55269914).   They are very much smaller than the one used for our Golf Club Head Cover featuring a Panda (Etsy Listing #1072411362), not to mention our Panda Bear Glove Puppets (Etsy Listing   #91356474).

This is the insole base we use to build the slipper.  It is actually a "memory" insole and somewhat thicker than some other insoles available in relevant Warminster outlets.  But there is a choice of sizes on the one base, and Isobel cuts out the size she needs for the slipper she is working on.  These need to have the water resistant covering tacked on before the sides of the slippers are attached.

We decided to take the photographs in a different location this time.  These were set on the sideboard in the dining area of the flat, with the silver salver presented to Isobel when she retired from being a District Commissioner for the Canadian Girls Guides in 1986.  That event took place when Peter and Isobel decided to return to the UK (after 12 years of trying to get back - because the Alberta winters were becoming too hard for the family to handle)  In the event it was another year before that actually happened.  However, as we then moved to another part of Edmonton shortly after the presentation, the outcome was the same!

The slippers are lined with white fleece fabric (used originally to make the White Fleece Baby Rabbits featured under Etsy Listing #89020911).  At that time we also made other Baby Bunnies in Purple, Pink and Blue Fleece, some with White Fleece chests and others all self colour.  They've proved very popular when Isobel has taken them to Craft Fairs and Bazaars - because they are just the right price (and size) for Little People to buy for themselves when they attend these events.

That brings me to the end of the Ladies Slipper Saga:  we've now got two sample pairs of Childrens Slippers ready for listing,  They are the Small and Medium-sized versions and feature Foxes and a new animal Cuddly Friend, a Leopard (complete with lots of spots).  The Large Kids' size is next on the production programme, and then there will be a break in Slipper production for a while.

Here's a preview:

The Foxes are made in the Small Kids' size:  the Leopards are Medium sized.  They can of course be inter-changeable.  I'm just curious to know who is going to appear to represent the Large Childrens' size!
Believe me, I'm the last one to know what happens in the world of ColdhamCuddlies!

We have three Bear Patients awaiting treatment in the Stuffed Animal Restoration Clinic (Esty Listing #79124185) and we've decided that their needs require attention before any more Slippers are produced.  Isobel has not been neglecting them, but has been having trouble in acquiring fabric to match one Bear, who is a Winnie the Pooh look-alike (called - what else - Pooh Bear!)  However, earlier this week, she was finally able to find the type of Poodle Fur fabric from which Pooh Bear was originally crafted - even though it was definitely not a colour match!  Yesterday, at the weekly Produce Stall Sale in the Village Church, she was able to show PennyAB (agent on behalf of her two sons in the matter of the Bears' restoration) and was given the go ahead for the suggested therapy for Pooh.

His friend is made of similar  fur, but does not need as much treatment.  He's a Brown Bear (known as such) and a few years younger than Pooh Bear.  They will doubtless feature in future posts, and I hope I'll be able to tell you about what happens to them, myself.

Here's an introductory view of the Clinic Patients shortly after they arrived a few weeks ago.  Bernard Bear (in the centre of the picture)  is still waiting for his Forever Friend to decide exactly how much treatment he wants Bernard to undergo.  Certainly, like the other two, he will need two new eyes.  Why is it I wonder that my Bear Friends' Forever Friends seem to "attack" their right eyes?  All three of these new Friends require that therapy - and they come from two different families!  Because they would look odd with different eyes, they will all three need to have two brand new eyes put in for starters.

Isobel has just told me that these will feature in a post quite soon, but until then, I'll close for tonight.  Good Night - and I do hope you all have a great week!  We've been told to expect a heatwave for a few days - so, with my Beaver Lamb fur, I'm keeping as still as possible sitting on Isobel's bed which is in the shady part of the flat, most of the time.

Be back with you all soon!  Cy Bear.

Cuddlies Slippers - the next stages

Goodness me, just how the time does fly!!  Here is Cy Bear again , almost a week since I was telling you about how the Cuddlies Slippers  have come to be produced.

Here are the three components of the slippers - body, head and ears ready to be put together and made into the final product.

Once the head was sewn on, Isobel fixed the ribbon trim (a satin ribbon), which she then threaded elastic through, and hoped that that would help to keep the head sitting up, without flopping around.  In the event, LauraC did report some problems with both of them.  Please - remember, they were experimental in the first place - but Laura is such a whizz with the needle herself, she was able to correct the floppiness and they now look proper!

Here is the final slipper, with the bow tied up.  The bow covers  the place where the elastic has been sewn together.   Isobel left sufficient for LauraC to adjust the elastic to suit her own individual requirements.  This is something we've done for all the subsequent slippers that Isobel has made -

beginning with the Light Brown Rabbit Slippers (an English Ladies'  Size 6) - for our next door neighbour, KatherineV.  She has a little dog called Widget (a Boston Terrier) that Isobel looks after during the day whenever KatherineV is away for any length of time.  Widget did stay all day and night  with us when the arrangement first started, but lately, Isobel has been taking her back at night - so that the cat, who also lives next door, has some company at night.

 

But I digress:  here is another picture of one Light Brown Rabbit Slipper.  They have already been given to their intended recipient (one of KatherineV's daughters).  The only thing is that KatherineV's little grand daughter likes them so much that she seems to have taken them over.  She goes to bed with them on her pillow each night, apparently, and insists on wearing them as soon as she comes home from school.  They have to be tied on round the foot to make sure she doesn't fall in them, (she is only 8 years old!)  Think Isobel will have to get a move on with making some of the Children's Slippers she's planning on doing, so that the Little Person can have her own footwear, and thus allow Mum to get a look in!

Now this post has gone on long enough - so I'll close for tonight and get Isobel to do her usual thing about telling everyone who needs to know that this post has been published!    But before I go, the Small Kids Slipper sample has actually been finished:  she's done one of the Medium-sized pair, and is working on the second.  When all three are done, she will make the decision as to whether she will list them in the shop on Etsy  (www.Etsy.com/shop/coldhamcuddlies) as individual units (Small Kids' Slipper, Medium-Sized Slipper and so on) or as Kids Slipper, S.M.L. on one site.  Which would you think would be best, I wonder?

Meanwhile, Good Night everyone - until the next post, which will happen in between Isobel's endeavours with the Children's Slippers.  Cy Bear. 

Cuddlies' Slippers - Here's how they've been made to date.

Greetings everybody:

 Cy Bear here, now that Isobel is beginning to get over the computer troubles that have been plaguing us since the middle of March.  Am so glad that I don't have to be involved with such matters - it's so much nicer being the ColdhamCuddlies Mascot - and performing duties such as this!

Saying goodbye before the Golden Rabbit Slippers left for their new home

These Golden Furry Rabbit slippers (Etsy Listing 152976020) came to fruition after we'd been asked to provide a custom order for our friend, LauraC who lives in Florida, who badly wanted to have some  Slippers like these.  Isobel had never made any, but having been provided with the measurements so that the finished slippers would fit Laura, the production process got under way.  (Now that three sets have been listed, Isobel has included all the measurements she would like to have in order to get made-to-measure finished products that really do meet everyone's exact needs!)

The material used for the soles,  we actually had in stock.  It is waterproof on one side, and has a fleece lining on the other.  It had previously been used to make our Green Frog (Etsy Listing #116285186), but for the purposes of this experiment, Isobel decided to use some to see how it would work out.  We started the whole thing off by getting a  pair of  insoles and cut it to fit the UK equivalent of a Man's Size 10 foot (USA) (as requested).  Laura wanted it to cover her whole foot, plus socks in cold weather,  and gave us a measurement which actually took the slipper over her ankles.  There may be times when she's not living in Florida (but in a colder part of the USA) and a warm cuddly pair of slippers will come in handy.

Step One looked like this

Then Isobel added the other side and a panel at the back, cutting out matching pieces of the Gold Plush fabric and the waterproof material - with the fleece lining on the inside.  The slipper then looked like this:

The seams were then sewn together - separately for each piece of fabric:  so the inner lining was sewn together first and then the outer shell (with the seams on the inside)  Isobel is keen not to have any chance of rubbing of skin occurring in the final product.  The next step was to add the furry insole so the slipper is really warm on the inside (as well as the outside), again, with no seams showing.

Since starting and completing the Golden Slippers, Isobel has made two more, different coloured slippers. LauraC was very pleased with her version, incidentally, and her comments have appeared on this blog earlier in proceedings.  However, I have to report that they frightened  her cats on arrival apparently!  Because of the computer problems, Isobel and Laura have not been communicating just recently, but on the strength of her first attempt, we've now completed another custom order for two different pairs  - this time for our next door neighbour, KatherineC.  One is for another pair of Rabbit Slipppers, in Brown Plush fur, with a mauve satin ribbon trim, and the other for a pair of Panda Bears.  These two will form the basis of the next installment of the Slipper creation story.

Till the next time, folks - it's good to be back blogging again. 

But before I go, Isobel has asked me to tell you that the other new project is also beginning to take shape (the distance learning course for her to become a Children's Writer).  Both of us are looking forward to this new adventure:  the ten unit course has arrived and Isobel sent off her Student Data File (which she had to fill in telling them all about her life and interests) which is designed to find a suitable Tutor to guide her through the course.  Isobel is determined not to let the new experience interfere with either her toy-making activities, nor our joint blogging - so, she's going to be busy!  We'll be keeping you informed, as ever.

Good night for the time being!  Cy Bear

Third Item in the Novelty Slippers range - 2013 New Product offering.

Just listed in our shop at www.Etsy.com/shop/coldhamcuddlies, here is the third version of our new Novelty Furry Slipper offering.

Etsy Listing # 155281164

These were the third set of slippers that I have completed.  They are easily replicated and have been received with much amusement by their recipients, whose Mother decided they would make ideal "joke presents" for a special birthday this year!

Novelty Furry Slippers, for Children, Ladies and Men are  one of the new ColdhamCuddlies' product offer for 2013.  Whilst still in the experimental stage of production, these particular specimens have been made at the request of a  local customer here in Heytesbury, England, UK.   They took me between 3-4 days to make, so if anyone is looking for a similar pair for their wife, daughter or significant other, be happy to meet your requirements.  The pattern is based on slippers  made one Christmas for all the male members of my significantly large family - but those were made with felt, and didn't last as long as I believe these will.

They consist of an insole (this example has a memory foam base)  to which a Black Plush outer covering is lined with White Fleece.  The underside of the sole has a  waterproof  fabric complete with its own black fleece inner layer.  Both plush and fleece fabrics are then sewn to the insole.  The same black plush covers the insole, hiding the seams (illustrated here).

The plush and lining outer pieces are sewn separately and fitted together so the seams do not show - either on the inside or outside of the slipper.  A Panda Head is then created, with Safety Eyes, lined Ears and stuffed with polyester fibre infill which meets all international safety standards.  This is attached to top of the slipper where it meets the ankle.

 Once the head is attached, each slipper is finished off with a black and white checked  ribbon edging with  elastic threaded through the ribbon. Sufficient elastic is provided for adjustments to meet the individual requirements of the customer   The bow, which can be undone on each slipper, conceals the elastic fastening.

Animal heads do not necessarily have to be restricted to Pandas.  They can be selected from any of the Toys available in  the ColdhamCuddlies Shop.  Colours in which they are made can be the same as those currently displayed in our Shop or  also be individually selected.  Should the selected fabric not be in stock, this may add to the delivery time(s).

To ensure the finished product is "Made to Fit"  when ordering   the following information will be most helpful, but are  not absolutely vital.  The items highlighted with a ** ARE needed however.
 
(1)  Your normal shoe size. **
(2) Colour combination(s) - if different from those shown**
(3) If possible, a drawing of each foot - to accommodate individual shapes!
(4) Measurement of each foot from Toe to Ankle OVER the instep arch.
(5) Width of foot from side to side, OVER instep arch.
(6) Ankle circumference at top edge of slipper - to accommodate any possible swelling involved.

My snail mail address can be provided  when the order process has commenced, if scanning and other electronic means of communication are unavailable to you, the client.

Armed with this information, it should be possible for me to meet your very specific needs!  The resulting product should resemble the items shown here:

Slippers can be made for Children, Ladies and Men - once all the above information is provided for each person.

Prices are as follows:

Men's Slippers Size L-XXL         USD61.40 per pair

Special Fittings (All)                    USD84.40 per pair

Ladies Slippers (all sizes)            USD46.00 per pair

Childrens' Slippers (all sizes)       USD34.99 per pair - all sizes.  Small ones can be as difficult to sew as the      larger ones!

Recently added to the ColdhamCuddlies pattern line are slippers for Children and Men - which I'm very pleased to say are not that different from this third version for the Ladies!  The templates for all of them are now ready to be used on the fabrics, and production is about to begin.  Watch this spaces Ladies, Gentlemen - and Children too!

Be back with you all soon.  Isobel

Computers? Great - when they work!

Well, hopefully, normal service here at ColdhamCuddlies will be resuming from here on in, because it's been far from that in the last couple of weeks.

 As everyone knows, who kindly follows us here on www.ColdhamCuddliescalling.blogspot.com, there have been some teething troubles with my new computer that have had to be dealt with.  Somehow, we've had trojans visit us (got rid of), then the computer began to slow down - and Hewlett Packard  Support guys, after trying to sort me out, decided that the best way to cope was for me to reset the whole she-bang back to the "Factory Default" position.  This was carried out, and for a day or two things went OK.  Then, all of a sudden, we went back to the two screen option - with everything being done twice (don't ask ME - even the techies had no explanation) and it was back to the Factory Default option  This time though, it only took about three hours (despite the double versions) to reset - the first time around, it had taken five and a half hours to complete the clean-up.

So, about the middle of last week,  off we went for the third time, in as many weeks (I've had this machine operating since the middle of March, and I should think I've been trouble free for about four weeks, not all at once!).

Now I'm a very obedient person when I'm on my computer, and when my technical support (a.k.a. Hewlett Packard) indicates to me that there are updates that need to be loaded, I automatically click on the button and carry on with my job.  Isn't that what one is supposed to do?  Well, this is what I did and all went well for a while.  Then the computer began to go slower and slower - and when I checked on the Technical Support site, there was evidence that there were lots more updates to load on, so I switched everything off - having completed what I needed to do (checking all my emails, Etsy teams sites), sewing some replacements Owls and Wombats and renewing them in the shop at www.Etsy.com/shop/coldhamcuddlies) when I don't always switch the computer off.

Next morning, there were still some updates needed to be brought in, so I gaily switched on  and I was happily typing away when this time I got a telephone call - from Microsoft, themselves allegedly.  Despite my surprise, because I didn't think  Microsoft did that sort of thing, I was persuaded to allow them to show me that this time not only had my software been "COMPROMISED" - a word I'm becoming familiar with, I have to say!! - but so, too had my HARDWARE.  Now, that is a Hewlett Packard responsibility -  in my book anyway, so someone (or something) wasn't operating as it should have been.  Anyway, these fellows suggested they could clean both bits up for me, and if I'd like them to look after me (after all these weeks - I'm ready to have my hand held, believe you me) - for a fee, of course.  Now I'd just been persuaded to subscribe for a special three year warranty with Hewlett Packard, combined with  two years "security" with Norton before all the re-setting lark began.

Given that existing care package was obviously insufficient for my needs, I complied with the new suggestion - now have  "unlimited technical support for over 100 software applications, peripherals and devices 24/7/365 availability to tech support via phone and remote access".  (I only have two computers:  no ipads, ipods, kindles or what have you for little old me).  The package is  for Two Years plus a 2 Year Support Plan.  They did offer me one for 10 years, but as I said, at my age, 4 years at a time is quite sufficient for the time being!!!  But, I was by this time so desperate that I decided to go with the new guys - and boy has it worked for me.  Not only do they stop me clicking on the wrong sites, they also transferred all my pictures from my old computer to this one - because, of course they'd all been wiped during the various resets, hadn't they?

  Also if I find trojans trying to get back on (as they did earlier this evening) I can ring a UK telephone number (for free - ringing Hewlett Packard costs 5 pence/minute and then no service!!)) and someone takes over my computer after a bit of a conversation, and 20 minutes later the invading trojan (with some advertisements I can well do without!!!!) is wiped off and I am able to get back here - with none of the said advertisements invading the space at the top of this blog and trying to get me to do things I don't want to.  Now such surveillance may not be for everyone:  but for me, this is the way forward!

Now, I'm engaging in a battle to get my payments back from Hewlett Packard and Norton - wish me luck!!  So, even if these guys who are holding my hand are indeed a "scam" (suggested by Hewlett Packard when I began my fight for refunds earlier today) the service I've already received beats anything that has been available to me in ALL the years I've been surfing the net - from Hewlett Packard or Microsoft for that matter.  As far as I am concerned, it's money well spent.  I'm keeping them, I can tell you.  It means I can concentrate on important things - like making new slippers, blogging here - and, even, swotting up on childrens' literature while undertaking the distance learning course I'm about to start!

Yup, the ten-unit course is sitting on my filing cabinet and I've today sent off my personal data (a.k.a. my life story!) to the Academy of Childrens' Writers to find me a Tutor from their stock - some of them with publications under their belt already.  The course is certainly interesting - and definitely challenging, if only because I tend to drop off to sleep within minutes when trying to read these days.  Which is why I've taken to making toys instead!!  Will have to read in a less comfortable chair, maybe:  and I'm hoping because most of the reading I have to do is childrens' literature, it may be more stimulating that some material available for the grown-ups!

Right, have just tried to load some photos on here, and Blogger is not playing ball.  It's getting late here, and I need my beauty sleep, so this time around, you'll have to read my news - without any illustrations.  I'll get on to my new best friends tomorrow, once I've done some things like joining the local library (so I can borrow the books I need to read for my writing course) and get some typing ribbons for my electronic portable typewriter which will come into it's own in this respect, I suspect (it already has!!), not to mention the erasing tapes that such a machine needs!

Life is busy, hopefully less frustrating - and it's good to be back blogging here again.

Cheers for now.  All the best.  Isobel

Coldham Cuddlies have made it into a Peruvian blog!

Cy Bear opening this dispatch with the news that a fellow Etsian - a member of one of the Etsy Teams Isobel frequents from time to time - issued an open invitation to anyone who would like to be featured on his blog.  Isobel responded earlier this week, and today, we are delighted to say that

Gino Escate from GyGante - based in Lima, Peru - has kindly featured us in his latest post at depa202.blogspot.com/2013/06/etsy-shop-coldham-cuddlies.html.  Although its all in Spanish and Isobel is not as conversant with the language as she once was (in the 1950's - she did an Evening Course at what was then called the Norwich City College & Art School - where she also learned to type and do Shorthand!) she was able to get the gist of what is being said - and is very grateful for the promo.  Do hope that EVERYONE will not only visit the blog, but also Gino's shop where he features some beautiful photographs and products he's made from all sort of different objects.  He's very talented - so Isobel tells me.

We do hope lots of Spanish-speaking folk will not only read Gino's blog, but also visit us here and look around our shop at www.Etsy.com/shop/coldhamcuddlies.  Hasta la vista!  (I hope that is an appropriate Spanish greeting?)

Isobel has now just about finished the third pair of furry slippers she has recently been commissioned to make, and here are one or two pictures to follow on from those we included in our last post, when we spoke about the Brown Rabbit Slippers with their mauve satin ribbon trimming.

Sitting on the dining room sideboard 

The Panda Slippers from the rear.

(The salver in the background is one that was given to Isobel when she ceased being a  Girl Guide District Commissioner while they were living in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.)

These Panda Slippers will be listed in our Shop sometime tomorrow, once they have had some elastic threaded through the ribbon trimming.  They are destined for MrsKV's other daughter (you will recall we told you that together with the Brown Rabbit Slippers, they were going as "fun birthday presents" for her two daughters).

 They won't be delivered for another ten days, as MrsKV is away.  Isobel is looking after the family dog - a Boston Terrior called Widget.  She spends the day with us, and then goes back for the night - to keep the family feline - called Ariosto - company.  They only live next door, so it's not a problem - and keeps Isobel company during the day time:  not to mention giving her some more welcome exercise too!

As also promised in our last post, Isobel will do a blog shortly showing how all three models were made - and you will see how they have developed from the Golden Rabbit Slippers we started with, to the latest version.  Isobel is not quite satisfied that they the finished article - but they are all wearable, and she's developed a routine in making them.  These last two only took  two afternoons to complete - from cutting out to finished product (except for the elastic, of course!).  Plans are afoot to repeat all three - plus introducing several other animal models, some of which have yet to feature as proper Cuddlies! - to have available for sale in time for the Christmas season, when slippers are apparently often required as gifts.  Special requests can always be handled in the meantime!!!!

Before the bodies were made as slippers, they featured in our last post

I'm also delighted to be able to tell you that Isobel thinks she's almost got the new computer going at full blast.  She's been in communication with the outside world using it in the last two days,  but has so far not been able to figure out how to load the printer that goes with our computers- nor the camera.  Also, she's got to figure out how to transfer all the pictures that are on this machine which we are using to post this update on to the new one (1,189 at the last count!).  Most of them were once on the new Sleekbook (we're using a Compaq Presario at the moment!) but due to all the virus problems Isobel has been having, she was told by the Hewlett Packard technical support team who have been helping her sort out the mess, to " Reset the computer back to its factory default position".  This has had to be one twice, but yesterday, Isobel was able to get it back sufficiently to be able to use it a bit.

Now as you know, I'm just a Bear made in Beaver Lamb, so all this does not mean a thing to me - I'm just hoping that it will all work out so that Isobel will stop being so frustrated with the darn thing, and we can get back to our normal equable selves!

Right this has now gone on long enough, so I'll end this dispatch!  It's been good to chat again - and, don't forget:  visit Gino's blog and shop and see just what he gets up to!

Good night, and God Bless  Cy Bear

Olly the Owlet has returned to the Family + plus a new Chum.

Olly Owlet, Etsy Listing # 107123292

Hello Everyone:  CyBear returning to the blogging fray!  It's good to be back, what with all the hiccups Isobel has been having with the computer and her connections (whatever they may - or may not, as in this case - be.)

We thought you'd like to see some up-to-date pictures of Olly Owlet, a smaller version of Ben Barn Owl (Etsy Listing 99686556).   Both versions have been popular members of the ColdhamCuddlies Family, and it's been a while since Olly was in the shop at www.Etsy.com/shop/coldhamcuddlies.  That is because Isobel has not had time to replace him since he first disappeared - some months ago, what with one thing and another.

Yesterday was a bright, sunny day - when these were taken...

She's had the time recently because of the computer hiccups and the latest broadband disconnection.  It has meant that she got the time to actually sit down and make some toys!  Between you and me, she does spend an awful lot of time on the computer, when she doesn't seem to be doing that much (at least to a Bear like me!)  However, the broadband connection is due to be put right later this coming week - hopefully.  Meanwhile,she's operating on something called Wi-Fi to which her ISP connected her yesterday so she could continue blogging, trying to sell the Cuddlies on Etsy and all the other things she's getting involved in.

So, not only has she been able to make two more Ollys - and they've been renewed - but she's now making two more Ben Barn Owls - since both of the latest Twins have now found Forever Homes in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.  The first one went early in May, but when HeatherB realised he was one of a Twin, she asked for the second one to join him.  Twin One (she'd earlier picked Twin Two out from an Owl Picture Parade!) left us at the end of last week, so should be well on his way to Edmonton and we hope to have pictures of them all together again, soon.

.......as well as a very windy one!

Another thing that has been occupying Isobel, when she's not been on the computer - is her latest line in ColdhamCuddlies products.  After the first experimental Golden Yellow Furry Slippers (Etsy Listing #152976020 - featured in our last post), we've now got a pair of Brown Rabbit Furry Slippers which have been specially ordered by one our neighbourhood friends here in Heytesbury.  MrsKV saw the Yellow fellows, and decided they would make ideal "joke" birthday presents for her two daughters later this year.

These have purple fleece linings - and won't be listed:  YET!

 So, the Brown ones were started while Isobel was in Normandy recently - and finished last week, and the next pair are waiting for the black plush fur to arrive from one of  our plush fabric suppliers.  Once that arrives, Owls will be temporarily cast aside (unless they've already been completed), and the second part of the custom order will be fulfilled.

They do have eyes - it's just that they so furry, you can't see them!

This time, rather than Rabbits - and to illustrate that any of the heads of any of us Cuddlies can be used - they are going to be Panda Furry Slippers.

These will have a black coat, white fleece lining and a black check ribbon  trim

We've decided to do a future post in which we show how the slippers are constructed.  It will be incorporating all three pairs, which are still currently experimental, as Isobel is making changes in their format as she goes along.  Slippers are going to become permanent Cuddlies in future, because (a) Isobel enjoys making them, and (b)  there seems to be definite interest in them - both locally and on Etsy as well, but until a permanent pattern emerges, Isobel thinks that tutorial can wait a while.  In addition, the two patterns that LauraC ( for whom the Golden Yellow Rabbit Slippers were ordered) sent to Isobel arrived yesterday, and will undoubtedly be used to create the final slipper product(s).  They will fit Children, Ladies AND Gentlemen!

Meanwhile, here is the rear view of Olly Owlet and Chum.

They did manage to stay upright - eventually!

 Good to be back with you again:  - until the next time!  Cy Bear.

Made to Fit - Personalized - Novelty - Golden Yellow Furry Rabbit Slippers - Custom Order for Laura Curtin of EightBoardsFarm

Etsy Listing #152976020

These Novelty Plush Fur Slippers form part of the 2013 New Product Offer from the Coldham Cuddlies, and were listed in  at www.Etsy.com/shop/coldhamcuddlies earlier this afternoon.

They are the result of  a meeting, via the Etsy Activity site earlier this year, when Laura Curtin  mentioned how she much would love some Golden Yellow Furry Rabbit Slippers and asked if I could possibly make them for her.

 (Laura and I have become firm friends since we first met (I think she followed me on Etsy, or it might have been the other way around!  Think the relationship can best be described as a fine example of how Etsy works when crafters get together and exchange ideas and views.  Laura has provided me with invaluable advice on how to tag, categorise and otherwise try to highlight the Cuddlies.  I've yet to put ALL her advice into practice with ALL the other Cuddlies.  It's on the "To Do" List!)

Now, I'm not usually capable of producing anything without a pattern:  however, my older daughter (whose memory is considerably better than mine) reminded me that in the early 1970's I made Felt Slippers for almost the entire family for Christmas presents - and having jogged my memory, she was also able to tell me how I did them!  (She used to sit and watch me doing them, and passed me the bits as I needed them - if memory serves.  See I'm quite good, once I remember!)

Thus emboldened, between us Laura and I have managed to produce a pair of  Foot Warmers, capable of taking socks if required, that fit her specific requirements (American Man's Size 10).  She wanted them over the ankles to the lower shin bone, whereas future models will reach below the ankle bone - with the same room for socks.  The specially requested Golden Yellow Plush Rabbit Slippers have been delivered, fit her well and even have their own names!

Jonty and Alistair - but I don't know which is which!

They consist of an insole to which an outer plush covering is lined with a  waterproof  fabric complete with its own black fleece inner layer.  Both fabrics are then sewn to the insole.  There is a plush covering of the insole, hiding the seams - in this case, it is made with the Golden Yellow plush.  (Please note, I have limited supplies of waterproof material;   I am currently seeking a long-term supplier for this, or a similar material).  There are plenty of various coloured fleeces with which to produce other models.

The plush and lining are sewn separately and fitted together so the seams do not show - either on the inside or outside of the slipper.  Animal heads - not necessarily restricted to Rabbits (they can be selected from any of the Toys available in the ColdhamCuddlies Shop) and the colours in which they are made can also be individually selected. Once the head is attached, each slipper is finished off with a satin ribbon edging with half inch elastic threaded through the ribbon.  The bow on each slipper conceals the elastic fastening - which is sewn in such a way to allow for adjustment - be it expansion or reduction, thus allowing for individual ankle conditions.

There are already 2 further Custom Orders in production - which will be listed when completed  One is for another Rabbit (in brown plush with a mauve lining and matching edging):  the other is for a Panda slipper - in black and white, with a white fleece lining.

To meet the Made to Fit offer, when ordering, the following information will be required:

(1)  Your normal shoe size.
 (2) If possible, a drawing of each foot - to accommodate individual shapes!
(3) Measurement of each foot from Toe to Ankle OVER the instep arch.
(4) Width of foot from side to side, OVER instep arch.
(5) Ankle circumference at top edge of slipper - to accommodate any possible swelling involved.

Armed with this information, it should be possible for me to meet your specific needs!

Slippers can be made for Children, Ladies and Men - once all the above information is provided for each person.

Prices are as follows:

Men's Slippers Size L-XXL                    USD61.40 per pair

Special Fittings (All)                               USD84.40 per pair

Ladies Slippers (all sizes)                       USD46.00 per pair

Childrens' Slippers (all sizes)                  USD34.99 per pair - all sizes.  Small ones can be as difficult to sew as  the larger ones!

Cy Bear's Farewell before they left for Florida

There will be a further post in which I describe how I made these particular models - and the two Custom Orders  mentioned earlier.  However, it will have to wait until the second pair are completed - hopefully in the next day or so.  During the process of our conversations while these two were produced and feedback received, Laura discovered patterns for Men's and Childrens Slippers, which she has kindly purchased for me and they are on their way here. It should, therefore, not be beyond my wit to alter these variations in order to meet future Ladies' orders.   These three experimental versions can really be described as "seat of one's pants" efforts. (I refused to accept payment for making these guys - except for charging the postage to get them to Florida - just in case they did not work.  The patterns are her way of repaying me I guess!)

All the best to you everyone:  it's so good to be back blogging once more.  Isobel

Computer troubles - again: a trip to France, plus a New Direction for Cy Bear and Friends.

Hello Everybody - it seems a long time since both Cy Bear and I were blogging here, but life has been somewhat of a whirlwind of late, and it has not been aided by the continuing saga of my battle with the new computer.  I love the computer itself, but it seems to have a fatal attraction for viruses - no matter the security protection against such invasions that are in place.  To the point that, for the second time in the three months  I've had the darn thing, a second screen appeared - (almost by magic).  It slowed everything down;   every- thing I did got duplicated - while I was bombarded with special offers.  Plus the announcements that I'd won things I didn't want, while being prevented in doing what needed to be done!

 The first time it occurred I laid the blame entirely on myself and unfamiliarity with Windows 8:  the second time has made me think it might just not be ALL my fault.   Having the benefit of a friendly young techie relatively handy (but not free from charging!) I got the whole thing cleaned up for me first time around.  However, the thought of another paid session with said young techie (they're all young to me, these days!), I decided to contact HP Support to see what, if anything, they could suggest.    Having spent an inordinate time on the telephone with the helpful Hewlett Packard techies yesterday - they rang me back half-way through the long-distance session, fortunately - I was told how to return the computer to its "factory default" position (to quote one of my new- found friends):   and then told how to start up again.  The trouble is that I now don't trust the computer.  Nor do I want to waste my time loading everything I need onto it - for everything to go wrong again in a few weeks.  I cannot spare the time involved- more anon!

 So, as I've got something like 289 days of Warranty Cover  in hand, am going to exercise my consumer rights to see if I can get a brand new Sleekbook 15 Laptop model - and hope that I can develop the same friendly relationship with it that I've had with my back up computer - a Compaq Presario, on which I am happily producing this post, that has served me well for several years.  The prime reason I decided to go for a new one was that the hinges broke - plastic fatigue.  A lap top needing to be propped up with three reels of cellotape is not exactly compatible with an efficient workplace.  It was also becoming somewhat out of date!  Besides, I need a reliable computer - which brings me, in a round about fashion, to the second bit of this post.

When Cy Bear and I last posted earlier in mid-May, I was about to go for a holiday to Normandy - and it's since returning that all the computer problems re-emerged.  The trip over the English Channel was as smooth as travelling on glass - thank goodness.  Because it was the first SeaCat voyage of the 2013 season, all passengers (not many, as it was an 0700 BST start, on a frosty Thursday morning) were offered a free glass of wine, courtesy of "Le Capitaine" half-way through the crossing.  Having accepted - it was good drop of red wine that I chose! -  felt brave enough to even get up from my comfortable seat and wander around the boat.  That did not last long:  after looking out of a nearby window, I was sufficiently alarmed at just how close the English Channel surface was to the floor on which I was walking, to rapidly return to where I'd started and buried my head into a copy of "The Lady" magazine, to which I subscribe weekly,  until the end of the voyage.

Le Havre - as we came into port - the sea was like that  all the way over!

This time around, the weather was not as bad as it had been in October.  We actually managed to have lunch  al fresco twice  -

and I was able to see something of the Normandy countryside - very pretty, with all the pear and apple orchards in blossom, with the promise of a good crop of fruit to produce the cider and perry (pear cider) for which the area is famous.  (Reminded me of my young adult days, when I spent week-ends in Kent before many of the orchards - for which the county was famous - were dug up).  Kent was not called the "Garden of England" for nothing!

Nearby Farm, with it's Orchard in blossom

We still had plenty of rain for most of the time, but it didn't stop one being able to take the dog for walks (even managed to do a 12 kilometre jaunt - about three and half miles - one day), taking in the local views.  

I was also able catch up with Cy Bear's twin - Peter Bear - seen here on the left.  He was made last year and used up the rest of the Beaver Lamb coat from which Cy Bear was created. When making him, I corrected the mistakes  made in Cy's production, so he is a safer option for Little People to handle.

Peter Bear's Forever Home is now with MmeIM, my sister-in-law, who is also the Forever Friend of Mme Lapin and Mons. Reynard - both former patients in the Stuffed Animal Restoration Clinic (Etsy Listing #79124185)  and both the subjects of their own posts here on this blog.  Peter Bear now occupies pride of place on MmeIM's dressing table, while the other two Associate Cuddlies have been wrapped up in preparation for becoming New Best Friends to MmeIM's little grand daughter, CM - when she is a older.  She's just four, and still at the age where  toys can be roughly handled.    After all that Mme Lapin and Mons. Reynard have gone through, and in deference to their age,  it is felt that Little One needs to be  older to properly appreciate them.

However, all three of these Cuddlies formed the basis of a story that Cy Bear authored a few weeks' ago which I submitted for a competition being run by the Academy of Children's Writers - who are based in Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, UK.  I learned about this competition via "The Lady" and, having been encouraged by some of you wonderful Followers' comments on this blog to consider writing for children I decided to try my luck:  "nothing ventured:  nothing won" etc. et al.  Closing date for entries was April 30, and to be honest, I'd forgotten about it while away in France.

A Normandy Spring Scene

Yesterday, the following letter arrived from the Academy of Children's Writers, which opens up some interesting new possibilities for Cy Bear, the Blog and myself.  Forgive me if I quote it quite extensively - because the contents are extremely exciting, and I want to share it with you all - since it's thanks to your support that this new opportunity has occurred.

"CONGRATULATIONS on your recent entry "Cy Bear's ColdhamCuddlies Blog" for our 2013 "Write a Story for Children" competition.  We received over 2,000 entries again this year and the overall standard was extremely high.  A list of winners is printed below for your information.  We hope to have the winners' permission to place their stories on our website shortly.

Although your story did not win one of the prizes you did reach the final 250.  To reach the final 10% the judges thought that you have an understanding of what young people like to read and that impressed them.  This is a quality that is invaluable to a would-be children's writer.  The judges suggested that I make this particular point when writing to you about your entry as we are only writing to the 10% of entrants who are short-listed.

I suspect that you have had some experience in this field - possibly in telling stories to young relatives and friends.  This suggests to me that with a little effort your talent could be developed to enable you to produce work of publication standard........"

The letter was signed by "Shirley A Cousins, Director"

The letter further contains an invitation to consider participating in their 10-unit writing course - details of which are available to those who are interested at www.childrens-writers.co.uk.  Not one to let a chance like this pass me by, I'm going to have a go.  Where I'm going to find the time to fit the studying in, I don't know.   However, we are given 2 years to be published - guaranteed by the course apparently:  otherwise the entire course fee is refunded!  So, wish me luck - and here Cy Bear and I go!

La Boffetiere - where I stayed - with a field of Rapeseed in the foreground

Regular bulletins will appear, normal toy construction will carry on - with some new items on schedule for introduction in the next day or so.  Meanwhile, Good Night from both of us!  Isobel