Viva La Frida Swap 2016: What I Sent & What I Received

Since my swap partner finally received her package yesterday, I can safely share what I made! My partner was Trisha from Yankee Rose Creations. Once I chatted with her a bit, I found out she is opening a new art space called Strange Days Creative Arts Center and that her swap item would be on display there. That's when I decided to make her a wall hanging using some Frida fabric I had as the jumping off point.

I combined applique, quilting techniques, and acrylic paint to complete the wall hanging. I really love mixed media and with something decorative you can try so many things! The base of the hanging is fabric with thick interfacing in between. The red border is a standard binding similar to what would be on a quilt.

Trisha said her favorite quote from Frida was "pies, para que los quiero si tengo alas para volar" which translates to "feet, why do I need you if I have wings to fly." I wanted to incorporate the meaning from the quote as well as elements from Frida's work which is why I included the bird as well as the ribbon/banner. Frida's painting were inspired by religious retablos and often had banners or scrolls with text within the paintings. The skeleton Frida was a nod to several things, specifically, the Two Fridas painting as well as Dia de los Muertos.

My original plan was to focus on the wall hanging, but I had a bit of extra Frida fabric and I wanted to send something just for Trisha and not her studio so I made her a simple Frida tote bag. The inside is lined with the same blue fabric as the wall hanging. The strap and blue pom poms were also items I already had at home. It was a quick and simple add on, but I still think it's a cute little bag.

Overall I think it made a nice little package! Now that the swap is over, I'm kinda bummed! I certainly have more projects to move on to, but this was such a highlight for my summer.

I was so so so so SO excited yesterday to receive my Viva La Frida swap items from my partner Trisha. Just in time for Frida Kahlo's birthday! Feliz Cumpleaños Fridita! I received a fun felt pillow, crocheted doll, and a Dia de los Muertos bag! It was all so awesome and thoughtful

My favorite of the three items she sent was this cute little Frida doll. I love all her little details especially her little cigarette! It kills me! If you love her, you can order one of your own here! She's so well made and she has so many other awesome things in her shop.

Look how cute she is hanging out with the Frida doll I made!!! I am so pleased with this swap so far! Everything that I have seen from everyone has been amazing and I can't wait to see what else everyone has made. What I made for Trisha should arrive to her in the next few days so my post will probably go up this weekend so I don't spoil the surprise for her.

Don't forget to like Bee Creative Swaps on Facebook to see all the swap items as photos come in as well as to get details when we announce our next swap!