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Cynthia Treen has been designing and teaching, through books and television, for over 25 years. Her charming felt animal designs are classics in the making, with their own stories waiting to be imagined. Cynthia's passion for teaching and drafting comes through in her detailed instructions and illustrations, which are perfect for guided beginners and advanced makers alike.
Cynthia's newest endeavor is an ode to Kenneth Grahame's classic story, The Wind in the Willows. Cynthia has meticulously designed patterns that bring Mole and Ratty, Badger and Toad to life in a new, dimensional way. Benzie Design is proud to be a material supplier for these projects and excited for the opportunity to give you a glimpse into The Wind in the Willows Felt Friends book. To help us, we have two Benzie makers share their experience stitching from Cynthia's new book.
Camille Ipsen
Benzie Design Relationship Coordinator
I have long admired Cynthia's felt animals but was initially intimidated by the level of detail. When I read The Wind in the Willows Felt Animals, I was convinced I could make one! The detail in this book is unparalleled. As you go through each step, Cynthia has anticipated any and all questions. And even with every part laid out, there is still so much room for creativity and personalization!
I decided to make Toad, since he is a family favorite. I just love how expressive he is! The posable construction really takes these characters to the next level. I stitched each part with the book by my side for navigation. It was such a charming experience and I love the finished product. I highly recommend this book to all levels of makers and Mr.Toad enthusiasts!
Dani Miller
Former Benzie Design Maker Team Member
I have been a fan of Cynthia’s patterns and work for many years and have done a number of her projects. A few years ago I stitched up Charlotte Fox and then made an extensive mini sewing room for her. You can see that in my Instagram highlights in its very long entirety! Last year I made Ludwig the Lion, and he got a fun mini woodshop! So when Cynthia told me she was going to be writing a book with a Wind in the Willows theme, I KNEW it was going to be good! But when she asked me if I would like an advance sneak peak so that I could sew up Mole? I was practically giddy! And this book - my goodness it does not disappoint!
Cynthia’s patterns have always been great, but it has been so fun to see how far she has come in her style and how beginner friendly they are. The book has every single piece of information you could possibly need to sew up any of the creatures and accessories, even if you have never sewn with felt before. The photos and diagrams are clear, the details for each piece are easy to add, and the accessories are just so dang cute! And the photography of the sets with the characters are just perfection. So whimsical especially if you loved The Wind in the Willows as a kid. I am leaving the book on my coffee table just so I can stare at it. I will definitely be stitching up the rest of the characters soon!
You can follow Cynthia Treen on Instagram @cynthia.treen or visit her website. The Wind in the Willows Felt Friends will be available for preorder soon from Benzie Design.
