Chick and Chip Chat by Judy Jeroy

The fluffy chickadee is observing a clever chipmunk as he forages among the flowers and weeds. This encounter between two wild things resulted when I set out to stitch a realistic chipmunk, complete with whiskers. Because he is padded to depict muscles and fur, I wanted to have other raised elements in the piece so included padded bullion clover flowers and tufted pussy willow buds. In order to have the bird’s bill stick out, I stitched over a bead which is sitting open-end-up. I want my creatures to come to life and always begin with the eyes and beaks/noses.