Tag: handmade costumes

Jellyfish Progress

Dear Liza,

My jellyfish costume for SOAK is coming along! First, I had to make sure the battery packs for the electric tentacles would fit in my hat and work properly.

Then I made elastic straps so they would stay put inside the hat.

Once the mechanics were set, I needed to start making it look like a jellyfish! Sparkly fabric and tule got gathered and stuffed…

Then a ruffle for the brim got gathered.

None of the ruffled bits are glued or sewn on, just resting in place, so I can make adjustments as needed.

But I am sewing the tentacles on!

And here’s what I have so far.

Next, I give the hat-skirt thing a gather and add lots more tentacles, then see how the lights look with everything.

Love,

Grandma Judy

Jellyfish Hunting in Happy Valley

Dear Liza,

This week we had some of those perfect spring days. Cool and sunny, no wind, and just right for an adventure.

I also needed supplies for my jellyfish costume for SOAK, and Joann Fabrics and Crafts is down in Happy Valley. That is a half hour trip via the number 15 bus and the Green Line train.

So before lunch, Grandpa Nelson and I set out. I love taking transit through new neighborhoods. Since I’m not busy navigating, I can appreciate the trees, murals, and houses.

Our transfer from the bus to the train was easy, giving us time to enjoy the sunlight and some public art before whisking us down to Happy Valley.

The exhausting part of the day was the long walks across the ginormous parking lots!! My whole neighborhood of Sunnyside could fit in The Home Depot lot. Cars are space hogs.

After a quick lunch at Carl’s Jr., I found just what I needed at Joann. Lavender tule and sparkly fabrics, ribbons and yarn and some interesting ruffled lace will make a lovely jellyfish.

I drew the design on the back of a junk mailing so I have it in my head.

Our trip home was quick and easy, and after a bit of a lay down, I was ready for the rest of the day.

I love spring!

Love,

Grandma Judy