Go to your local fabric shop. Browse the fabrics in the store until you find one of the new and wonderful fabrics that are called "Ethnic" fabrics. Look for one that has a face that calls to you. I found some great ones with cats, African Masks, Sun Faces, and whole animals just the right size for pins.
When you get the fabric home, draw out a design on paper for a simple body, here's mine CLICK. Then choose a face from the fabric, cut it out and back it with another piece of fabric. Sew the pieces together and leave an opening for stuffing, or cut a slit in the back to stuff and insert the neck.
Turn to the right side and stuff the face.
Make the body ( mine or yours) and leave open for stuffing. Stuff the body, not too firmly if you are making a pin, more firmly if you are making a larger piece, could be a wall hanging or a shelf sitter, or just make yourself a talisman from it to remind you that your imagination is limitless.
Attach the head to the body by inserting the neck into the opening in the head. Do it however you wish....remember this is an exercise....not a class.
When the piece is assembled, get out those beads. Look at the design on the body and the face and begin to fill in with beads to your imagination's content. You will be surprised at the results you get. And you really did not have to do much thinking about it.
This practice will put you in touch with colors, imagination, technique and give you the chance to see what your mind and vision will give you if you just let yourself play and not worry too much about the outcome. Depend on your eye and your inner voice...and you will have yourself a great experience.
