You probably know this by now, but a lot goes in to making a new kit. I start with a sketch, then a drawing, then a sample piece, then trial and error in choosing which embroidery stitches go where, which colors to use, what fabric to embroider on. And then there is the process of writing the instructions, having them read and edited by someone, having the piece test embroidered by someone, and then actually making and assembling the kits! WHEW! a lot of work! So, sometimes a long time goes between new kits.
I’m happy to say that all my hard work this year is finally paying off! Say hello to two new wall art kits!
First, we have Owl!

As you can probably tell, this was heavily influenced by vintage crewel kits. I spent ages drawing different owls, and finally settled on this little make-believe one. I think he is absolutely charming! He is already posted and waiting for you in the etsy shop!
There are a few things different with this kit, and a few things you should know about when it comes to all future Tako Fibers kits as well! First, this kit is printed on a linen blend fabric, not a 100% cotton hopsack. It is wonderful to embroider on, and also comes in a wide variety of colors. I am really excited to be working with colored backgrounds on some of these new pieces – it really makes the stitches pop.
Also, with these new kits comes…. new packaging!

I am really, really happy about this brand new packaging. It looks incredible in person, especially compared to the old packaging. It is an archival 8×8 photo box, and you can really see everything in the kit through it. It is also much narrower than the other boxes I was using. I am sad to leave the cake boxes behind, since they were so sweet looking… but glad to have something less bulky!
All Tako Fibers kits will be packaged in this new packaging. Also, instead of the “Tiny Book of Crewel Embroidery” that was included in each kit, I have a smaller print out of all the basic embroidery stitches you will need. I wish the Tiny Book didn’t have to retire, but they really took a long time to assemble… time that could have been spent working on new kits! But don’t worry… I am planning on having something a bit more filled out and book-like available soon! (I do work for a letterpress print shop, after all!)
Oh! I almost forgot! We have one more new kit… the whale!

The whale is another one that I have been working on for a long time. This kit is for a more seasoned embroiderer. It is filled entirely in chain stitch, and really takes a lot of patience. Getting the curves right is a little tricky, so this isn’t a kit for an absolute beginner. It is also larger than my other kits, fitting in an 11×14 frame (the finished whale measures just around 12×6). This one is printed on a gorgeous deep turquoise linen blend fabric, and is really fun (and challenging!) to stitch. He is available in the Tako Fibers Etsy shop right now!
I’ll be posting 2 more new pin kits later in the week! yay!