It’s never too late in life to try new things. Only a few years ago, I began cross stitching because I didn’t want to pay $20 for an ornament that looked like something I could do. Fast forward to now, I’m no pro, but it’s a hobby that I accidentally found that I really enjoy doing.
One artist was also curious about a hobby, only to find that she had an artistic ability she may never have known she had.
Anna Yastrezhembovskya is an artist from Russia who makes incredibly realistic felt animal toys.
It’s hard to think that she didn’t start off as a natural at the craft.
She told My Modern Met , “My first toy wasn’t nearly as pretty, it was rather funny. But I enjoyed the process so much that I kept trying. I was felting during my free time, even at night, and I got better with each toy I made.”
Because of her enthusiasm and persistence, Anna was able to open an Etsy shop and begin selling her creations.
Her super detailed toys are no small feat, however.
Each tiny animal is made completely by hand with lamb’s wool and can take anywhere from 12- to 14-hour days to make.
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But the process is so worth it.
“When I sort the fibers between my fingers, when I shape them with a needle—I put my soul into each toy,” she explained.
You can absolutely see how much love and care is put into these little felt animals — I can only imagine what they must look like in person!
People who’ve bought her animals certainly see it.
One buyer said , “The crafting and art work of the piece is beyond belief.”
While Anna doesn’t currently have any listings on her Etsy page, definitely keep checking back to see when she posts.
