A Circus Without Animals...Inconceivable!
And a circus without an elephant is just tragic!
I have only attended a Ringling Brothers Circus once in my life. It was magical! The elephants were by far my favorite part. Their dignity and majesty were awe-inspiring. It makes me sad that they will no longer be a part of the circus. To me they are the "Big Top." I have collected more images of elephants than of any other circus symbol. They will always be a part of everything I love about a circus. I recently redecorated my grandchildren's play room into a Dumbo Circus theme. It's still a work-in-progress, but I plan to share pictures sometime soon.
Sweet Ellie...Circus Elephant!
I found Ellie at a cute little shop in Salt Lake City called "Retro Betty."
There was a basket of pre-loved vintage stuffed animals that day.
I bought an Easter bunny as well.
I always intended for Ellie to be a Valentine circus animal...so I chose red and aqua for her colors. I love those colors for Valentine projects. But she will fit in with all my circus creations. It was fun making her a cute clown collar and a party hat. I can't help myself when it comes to party hats. So many of my characters seem to have one. It's the fastest way to feel festive! I also made her a fancy box for her matinee performances.
Hat Close-up.
Ellie's Fancy Box!
Ellie's Clown Parade Baton.
Made from odds and ends and bits and bobs.
She's ready for the 1:00 p.m. show!
Circus Bear!
"Wheeler"
I love old stuffed animals on wheels. I would love a collection of Steiff animals, but they are so expensive...especially the vintage ones. I saw this funny old wheeled bear at Flea-o-logy in my friend Paula's booth. I was in love! I had to chase George down and beg for some extra cash...I had already exceeded my flea market allowance...lol!
He needed a little work. I used some painted beads to replace the missing hubcaps and hold the wheels on. I'm not sure I like these...I may change them later. I made Wheeler a collar from a scrap of vintage fabric I have had forever. The aqua polka dot matches the beads. I didn't want to glue on his party hat, so it ties under his chin. He is so stinkin' cute!
Party Hat!
Thanks for letting me share my new Circus Friends!
9 comments:
I love the beads for hubcaps! Can't wait to see the other circus performers!
You always make awesome treasures! They both are darling!
warmly,
deb
Fabulous fuzzy friends! They are both charming!!
Oh My!! They are perfect!
Chris =]
What a terrific idea. You have so much fun at your house and I'm so happy you share it with us! Maggie
who doesnt love the circus. I know its sort of sad that the elephants are gone from the circus but its the best thing that could have happen for them. I love how you dressed up your elephant and bear. I dress a lot of mine up for each holiday! many of mine are now wearing decorated newspaper hats for the 4th of july. I should take some pics! Have a great weekend Shirley!
xoxo
vivian
This is all so magical, Shirley! You are so creatively talented.
Shirley, you make the circus even more magical than it really is. I love Ellie! Oh my friend, you better run to D.I. tomorrow. I was there today and out in the yard was a Dumbo cookie jar. I thought it was so cute, but didn't know what I would do with it. Why didn't I think of it going with your circus creations? Not sure why, but didn't even pop into my head. If it had been a clown I would have nabbed it right up. lol! Low the stand your created and the bear is precious as well.
hugs,
Jann
Oh Shirley,
It has been awhile and I am just smiling like a fool! I so love your toys and such, you need to sell these!
I was wondering since you get down to Arizona at least once a year it seems, maybe we could do a weekend playcation??? You, Meri, Me, and anyone else that want to come? I am sure we have some friends that would enjoy it from California also! It is tiem we got to meet!
Hugs, Sandy
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