My swap partner for the Owl Swap received her package today, so I can now post photos of what I sent without ruining the surprise.

• Owl Swap Photoshoot - excuse the poor lighting, it was dusk

First, I made a little owl using Moonstitches pattern. The challenge with this pattern was that it was only photos, so it took a few guesses to get it right. Also, after finishing my owl, I realized I made his beak way too long, but it still worked out. I got some puckering where I tacked the beak down, but I think making a smaller beak would help that. If I make another, I’ll make it bigger and put a small sandbag in him so he can be a door stopper. He’s got a flat bottom (cardboard inside) so he sits up straight.

Second, I made an Amy Butler In-Town bag. The owl-theme is an interpretation of the fabric pattern - it reminded me of owl eyes. I really liked this item and had a hard time sending it. I will be making myself a similar one. The pattern was very easy to follow, though I chose to put the pocket on the outside, rather than the inside - next time, I will line the pocket with interfacing too. The inside of the purse was a little bunchy, but I think that just takes practice. I really liked how the handles came out - I had trouble with this in past projects. And last but not least, I got to use Peltex and fusible interfacing with this project.

Be sure to check out some of the other swappers as they receive their swaps over the next couples of days. I can’t wait to see what my partner sends me. Anyone know of any other swaps coming up?