Peppermint Reindeer

The first holiday season that I worked for Gooseberry Patch, I became so caught up in selling Christmas day in and out that I completely forgot to prepare my own home to celebrate. I promise to set aside all of this wintry crafting the day I turn my calendar page to October. In the meantime, how cute are these Santa's helpers!

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HEAD: Eyes are beads tacked on, (french knots could be used as well), a floral stamen was used for nose (satin stitch a choice, too). Ears can be cut by hand. Fold in half and tack stitch bottom edges creating indentation. Tack stitch in place on face front. Button stitch 1/2" strip around face beginning at nose. Catch ears and floral stamen antlers (found in wedding section of craft store). Button stitch head back, stuffing with fiberfill before last stitches taken.

CHENILLE:  Peppermint legs and tail are created by twisting red and white chenille stems together. Tail is created by bending end over, create a right angle to insert into body.
BODY: Slightly overlap body piece, button stitch closed. With same thread button stitch one end circle in place. Stuff body firmly, button stitch back end circle catching tail right angle opposite belly stitch line.

ASSEMBLE: Using small sharp scissors cut very small opening to insert twisted stem until it touches back of body, trim to desired length. Repeat for remaining legs.

Heads are tacked in place with stitches hidden between pieces. Bow and trim tacked in place as well. How cute are these little reindeer!

Peppermint Snowflakes made my first year of blogging from a tutorial found on my most favorite crafting mentor, Jenny B. of Allsorts blog.

A Countdown to Christmas Peppermint Heart just because once you make one reindeer, it's hard to stop!

This Jolly Old Elf seems especially happy to have helpers now.