I'm a homeschooling mother of 3 wonderful kids, who always inspire me to work harder and think further and beyond myself, alhamdulillah. I've been sewing since the time I was 12 and drawing/painting/crafting since the time I picked up my first pencil. The idea of creating something was rather liberating. Though, just recently, I came to a point where my purpose for creating art was becoming more and more...well...empty. Then, alhamdulillah, I came across a book called Craft Hope by Jade Sims. I realized that the artistic skills I acquired in my life could actually be used for a greater purpose. The idea of crafting for a cause moved me and inspired me to launch the Littles Smiles Project.
Here is the original email I sent out to everyone as soon as I decided to bring this idea to reality. I think it pretty much sums up what I'm doing here...
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September 9, 2011
Assalaamu Alaykum Everyone,
I hope this reaches you in the best of health and Islamic spirit :)
Inshallah, starting this week, I am launching a little project with a big dream. I call it the Little Smiles Project. I will handcraft little goodies such as plush dolls/toys, stationary for children, etc. in efforts to raise funds for the Islamic Relief Canada. All 100% proceeds will be going to IRC, inshallah. Several of my little creations will be made available for sales after the TMH meeting this Saturday, September 10, 2011, inshallah. So, please bring your wallets, purses...and generous hearts. The prices will range from $5-$20. To view some of the items on sale and for updates on the status of my project, please visit my blog,littlesmilesproject.blogspot.com.
Each doll has been designed by me from the Norah Doll pattern (as well as others not yet listed) in my Little Smiles shop. No doll looks alike and thus, represents the beautiful mosaic of cultures and races we live amongst. These lovely dolls are not only being sold for a great cause (East Africa Crisis, orphans, water projects, etc.), but are also eco-friendly. Unused remanent fabrics, "upcycled" materials and notions, which would otherwise wind up in our landfills, have been creatively assembled in the creation of these dolls and toys. (Please note, all plush toys are filled with brand new polyester filling.) Hand-drawn stationary will also be printed on recycled paper.
So, let's reduce our carbon footprints on this precious global villageof ours and give a helping hand to those in need!
Each item is handcrafted by me with lot's of LOVE and HOPE for a greater day for our fellow people :) Whether you want to purchase these as gifts for your little one, a niece/nephew, a newborn baby, neighbour, or friend, you'll be helping to ~spread~ *LITTLE SMILES*on the faces of the lucky recipients of your gifts, then eventually to the child and family who can benefit greatly from your donations...and ultimately, perhaps earn the SMILE of Allah (swt),inshallah.
May His smile be enough for us!
Ameen!
If you are interested in purchasing any of these items, feel free to drop me a line.
For any adventurous people who would like participate but don't know how to sew/craft, do not hesitate to email me as well. I'm ready to hold a small session(s) to help you develop the basic skills to create some of the simpler designed items so you, too, can start crafting for a cause :)
Let's help make a difference in this world!
Wassalaam and Smiles,
Umme Maryam
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