Requirements for this mascot were: 1) it needed to be large enough that it could sit on the ice and the girls could skate around it and it could be seen from the stands, 2) it needs to stand up on its own with out falling over, 3) when it sits on the ice we don't want it to stick to the ice or get wet.
I started with drafting the pattern for it, making sure it would be big enough. I've made stuffed animals before so I knew what the flat patterns needed to look like to create a 3D object. Then I cut out the fleece fabric, batting for the wings and tail and vinyl. I used clear vinyl on top of the base and underside of the legs and tail, this way you can also see the colour and texture of the fabric underneath it and it won't get stuck to the ice or get wet. The beak, wings, legs and tail all needed to be made first so I could attach them securely to the body. Once everything was attached I sewed up the body and attached the base leaving a hole to flip it right side out and to stuff it. I stuffed the bird firmly with poly fill and before closing up the hole I added a bag of dried beans to give him some weight. This will keep him from tipping over as well as his tail and wings will balence him. The last step was to add some button eyes and he was done!
He turned out absolutely amazing!! I almost didn't want to give him up because he was so perfect! The Raven was a big hit with the team and the girls were so excited to have him. Sitting at 20" tall this guy will be sitting in the middle of the ice while the girls warm up and on the side lines during the game cheering them on. Hopefully he brings them good Luck for the season!