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I Started Making Toys From Wool 3 Years Ago, Here Are 28 Of My Best Works
My story began three years ago when I, a mother of two, saw unique toys made from an unknown material, which, as I later found out, was felting wool. I got really interested in the needle felting technique and decided to try making a handmade toy myself. 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 felted animal I made.
Slowly, I began receiving my first commissions. My felted birds got very popular and were flying off to different cities. I was excited about the recognition of my artwork and didn’t even think about the other side of this popularity.
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A tiny bat appeared in my collection quite by accident. My daughter Masha asked me to make her a bat brooch, which in the making turned out to be too big for the accessory, so we decided to turn it into a little bat-toy. We photographed Masha (my daughter often helps with photographing my artwork, and sometimes models in the shot herself) holding the bat and posted it on social media with a caption: “Not for sale!” I was planning on making more of these adorable animals in the future, but at that moment, I had too many commissions, so I put it aside for later.
A few weeks ago, my inbox on Instagram filled up with messages from people who supposedly bought my toys from online shops and never received their order after completing the payment. I was shocked.
I have to admit that I didn’t expect such a huge interest in my little felting animals. Moreover, I didn’t expect it to be “sold” in significant quantities for a ridiculous price of just $19.99. As a result, hundreds of scammed people wrote to me in the hope of receiving their bats.
I am flattered that my bats won the hearts of so many people, but the number of orders I got was terrifying. It takes ten days, working 12-14 hours a day, to make one bat-toy. I don’t really know what I should do; tell everyone to forget about their bats? Or try to fulfill a promise I never made?
Of course, I will keep felting as many bats as I can, but I want people to understand that these toys are fully handmade, so it’s a fairly lengthy process. Furthermore, there are so many interesting birds and cute animals I would like to recreate in wool as well…
So this is my story. Currently, I spend most of my time doing original artwork for existing customers, so no time is left for replying to all the messages and comments. This is why I asked my sister Ksenya to help me out and respond to your comments. Thank you all for your understanding and support.
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What do you think ?
Sardonic Scribe 5 years ago
Exceptional talent! However, for your own sanity (as a fellow artist) - I know it pains you, but you really just need to tell the people that were scammed what happened. In no way, shape or form should you be held accountable for someone else's fraud, Selling your artworks for $20 would be akin to someone expecting to pay 5 bucks to have a new bathtub installed. Your time is valuable - never undervalue it! :) Much love and the best of luck from Canada!
Dani 5 years ago
Agreed. What happened isn’t your fault and if you just explain, any person with a shred of decency will understand and hopefully not be too upset. I feel so bad for both you and all those poor people, but for your own sake please tell them what happened.
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Thomas Kabel 5 years ago
Time to open an Etsy account and sell them for some serious money!! I'd buy one for sure!
Laugh Fan 5 years ago (edited)
These are adorable. The spider is even realistic enough to be skipped over a wee bit quickly! Flipping phobias! I'm rather fond of that cute bat! I hope you aren't bothered by scammers again.
Анна Ястрежембовская (Post author) 5 years ago
Thanks. It is not possible to cope with them yet. One hope is to warn as many people as possible so that they do not get caught by scammers.
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Crochet lady 5 years ago
If you tried to give everyone a bat because a scammer sold them what's to prevent the scammer from doing it again and again? You shouldn't be held accountable for a fraud perpetrated by someone else. That's not to day I don't fell badly for the people who lost their money but it's not your fault. Your creations are divine!
Brivid 5 years ago
You are very talented. I hope you are able to find away to prevent being scammed in the future.
Kseniya Timofeeva 5 years ago
Hi. I'm Anna's sister Xenia. We read your comment)). Now Anna is constantly engaged in the creation of new toys. As soon as the situation with the implementation of orders will be adjusted - the orders will be accepted again! And of course we are looking for ways to prevent the recurrence of this unpleasant situation. Can be something will advise? We will write about it on instagram and on all pages! Thank you again for your subscription, for your support.
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Katinka Min 5 years ago
DON'T MAKE THE ORDERED BATS!!! If an online platform sells fake tickets, no musician would go an make a concert for free. It sucks that these people were scammed, but your pictures were stolen and your reputation was endangered - you are already a victim. Just write to the people that it has nothing to do wiht you and that they need to sue the online shop.
Kseniya Timofeeva 5 years ago
Hi. I'm Anna's sister Xenia. We read your comment. Now Anna is constantly engaged in the creation of new toys. Thank you: for your subscription, for your support.
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hobbitly 5 years ago
I dont understand why you would make all these people tiny bats, if you listed it as 'not for sale' on social media. You are an amazing artist. If you get an Etsy account, let me know, would love to buy a spider brooch.
Анна Ястрежембовская (Post author) 5 years ago
It was this one bat that was not made for sale. And she was taken by crooks.
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TheKnightOwl 5 years ago
Please please please don't fill the orders of those who were scammed. It is not your fault what happened, the people involved need to take it up with the people they paid the money to. Surely they had to know something this well made was worth much more than $20. You do an amazing job, so realistic!
metalinangelo 5 years ago
We got scammed and we fight 20 days now to report and shut down them stores. Nobody blamed Anna. The opposite. We are helping daily. We exposed all this.
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Jean van der Merwe 5 years ago
This is art. I want to say you are talented, but actually this is a gift.
Han 5 years ago
My daughter bought me a felting kit for Christmas. I've only made 3 animals so far, but it's a very enjoyable craft. Your work is so beautiful!! Omg my cat next to yours is a meme waiting to drop. :'')
LOttawa 5 years ago
Please create this meme you are talking about and kindly share with us. I really like a good meme... loll
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Bored Phoenix 5 years ago
That is amazing Anna. The spider gave me chills. I hope you aren’t bothered by scammers anymore.
Анна Ястрежембовская (Post author) 5 years ago
I'm actually afraid of spiders, too.))
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Nimthirielle 5 years ago
The scams need to be reported and you should not be held liable to fulfill orders you never offered and will not receive anything from (given they already paid the scammer). Banks and credit card companies have provisions for getting those customers their money back. If they love your work and value your work, they will be willing to recommission an item from you for what the art is worth. If they want something worth $20, they aren't wanting your art. They are wanting a cute bat mass produced in China with no where near the quality of the items you would provide.
metalinangelo 5 years ago
i don't think you understood the article. nobody forced or blamed Anna.
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Ms Phit 5 years ago
Incredible work! I also work in fine craft and am very familiar with needle felting. Your work is excellent! Please know that You don't have any obligation to the people who were scammed by that other company- I really hope that you don't harbor any guilt about this situation- it is not your fault at all! Also, as a fellow artist, I'd suggest that your pricing needs to match your efforts- these need to be expensive. Your work is exceptional and has nothing in common with factory made cheap toys that the defrauded "customers" have paid for. Shame on them for expecting fine craft at dollar store prices!
Rall 5 years ago
Exactly! They deserve to be scammed for expecting to bye handcrafted, unique toys for 20$. What is wrong with this people?
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Pat Smith 5 years ago
Great Talent but I'm confused by the story... she is asking for suggestions whilst at the same time trying to fulfil the orders made by scammers!? – If you're doing that then you're basically working for free whilst the scammers are getting paid!
Анна Ястрежембовская (Post author) 5 years ago
I'm not going to do it for free, and people understand that. Just appeared a lot of wishing on this bat, and it's a lot of time.
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Neferpitou 5 years ago
I don't know why so many people hate spiders. If I remember correctly, there's like 43000 known species of spiders and only 30 species are fatal to humans. That's less than one percent. I love spiders, they are very cute. I like all bugs. My three favorites are ants, bees and spiders.
Kanga9ine 5 years ago
I once read you are never more than 6 feet away from a spider. I had one in my shower I talked to everyday. I'm not real big on having one come to bed with me. At least not in the first date.
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Michelle Baines 5 years ago
Wow your work is absolutely amazing. You have no obligation to sell your artwork for that ridiculously low price. These people need to follow it up with the websites they purchased from not you. Just apologise and say unfortunately cannot honour another sites sales as you have had and do not have any affiliation with the website they purchased from. Do not whatever you do undersell your amazing artwork, talent and time because you feel sorry for them. The people who see the worth and pay the correct amount are the ones that are going to get the most out of your work.
Kimi Heljenek 5 years ago
Your work is museum quality. I'd put a watermark on any photos you post to prevent scammers from claiming they're selling your work, but other than that...people need to understand that if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Facebook has some of these scammers advertising their works there. If I see yours, I'll report it. I've reported a couple of scammers already that were supposedly selling crafting cabinets for a ridiculously cheap price. The price of the real cabinet was over $1,400 and they were supposedly selling it for $125!!! It's terrible how lawless it's gotten.
Nomadus Aureus 5 years ago (edited)
I am so sorry this happened to you! I too have seen the bat, and can absolutely understand why people were flocking to get them. Maybe they were just too excited since they are so cute. I myself am very suspicious by nature (or simply put I don't even have $20 to waste...), so I tried to verify the source of the bat ads. Nothing came back. Sadly, your shop was nowhere to be found either. :( People should really learn to double-check things before whipping out their cards and maybe engage in a little bit of critical thinking. You can tell fairly easily that the bat was hand-made. And whenever that is the case, there is no way it will cost only $20.
Dee Hunter 5 years ago
I can't begin to imagine how much time, effort and love has gone into these lovable creatures. Don't let those scammers get you down, you are doing an exceptional thing there. (A tip for the pictures:Mmake sure there's a watermark on it or some kind of signature that covers both, background and the displayed item. Yes, it's ugly ... but it might prevent an attempt at stealing and reusing your pictures.)
NanZ 5 years ago
Your creations are unbelievable. Wow, is all I can say about them! You were meant to do this! I can't believe how realistic your creations are. They are amazing! I love all of them and wish I could buy some of them. That takes so much time and talent, but being handmade means they can't be mass produced. You aren't a machine. Darn it! Your customers should feel very special that they have access to your amazing creations!
Steven Crane 5 years ago
I'm sorry, what? No. That's not how this works. Someone steals your images and puts up a false shop? Working on the assumption that this is an accurate, don't make this stuff for free. Report the image theft to the authorities (daunting, yes) but you don't just work for free because someone else scammed them. Have people tell you where they "bought" from and go through the task of getting those stores taken down. Yes it will be like playing whack-a-mole, but you have to protect your creations wherever you can. It is the buyer's responsibility to file a chargeback with their card issuer or payment portal. Filling these orders without getting paid is essentially aiding the scam. Work with the people scammed, not the scammers themselves. Help them get their money back by providing proof of the scam and help yourself by clearing what is obviously a labor of love from negative press. Then take your skill and make bank YOURSELF by sharing it for an adequate fee.
Анна Ястрежембовская (Post author) 5 years ago
I'm not going to do it for free, and people understand that. Just appeared a lot of wishing on this bat, and it's a lot of time.
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Emily Bowman 5 years ago
These are amazing. But $20 doesnt even cover your time. You would not be able to spend any time with your daughter at that right. Let those people know they were scammed. If they dont like it, they need to bring it up with scammer, not you. But thank you for having integrity. On another note, these are exceptional
Judy Warren 4 years ago
Another consideration for you is to find a local fiber art Guild or Association where you live, so you can get social and artistic support and learn about copyright and creative ways to protect your products. See if they have a cooperative gallery, in which you can sell your beauties. That is how I sold my silk pieces for several years, and we protected each other's works. One very special thing you can do, especially if you decide to teach, so that YOUR own art pieces stand out, is to design one single unique "logo/charm" to attach onto all of your pieces that can't be found on-line by others. It would serve as your trademark, and give your work additional value. Karrn Brito, a brilliant silk shibori artist has put one on every piece of her awesome, very expensive shawls and scarves for years, and other artists have studied under her, globally. Enjoy your artwork, share through teaching if you choose to, claim your talent and your own price points, and let your OWN art stand out.
Tracy Scott 4 years ago
Where has the $20 gone for these 'orders' ? Presumably you haven't received it as you didn't set up the advert. Therefore you would be fulfilling these orders for free. You need to report it first of all. They might be able to trace where the payments have gone and where the adverts are posted and take them down. You definitely shouldn't be trying to fulfill them.
Nerida Grewal 4 years ago
You have a unique and wonderful talent and deserve to sell your genuine creations at your own instigation. As Sardonic Scribe says, you are not liable for scammers or accountable for someone's fraud. Tell potential customers the details and leave their decision to them as to how they handle that situation. Also: If you have the details of how those people were scammed there may be a way of reporting the fraud to police or an online reporting agency that deals with such things, for them to be investigated and held accountable.
Laura Perkinson 4 years ago
I am so sorry people got scammed. you can sure understand why they all wanted one. Sad the world we live in makes people have this happen more and more. But never get tired of doing this work, they are all wonderful!
Carol Peltier 4 years ago
I have been scammed twice by ordering from ads that showed up on my facebook page. Both were incredibly beautiful and useful items and the price was too good to be true. They turned out to be cheap imitations of what was advertised. They took about three months to arrive, and came from China. I have learned my lesson, I hope. So my message is: don't feel responsible for the scammers. Buyer beware.
Judy Warren 4 years ago
Why don't you TEACH your special method in classes? Then you will benefit financially, and the art will be appreciated far and wide. Once your are known, you can even travel, to places far away, to teach, and meet so many new people. Consider this.
Tara matthews 1 year ago
Hi I would really love a couple of these for my kids , could you please let me know how I could get in touch with you for pricing ? I don’t think is letting get on your site because of my phone, not really sure but this is a new phone . Thanks in advance and I love your awesome art work 😍
Debbie Appelman 3 years ago
I think what might resolve your problem of full filling all your orders is when someone orders, tell them that completed pieces are not being produced but that you are selling kits with tutorials for them to do it themselves. You may need to provide a beginners tutorial for them to try first. Also stock and sell needles and yarn and anything else they would need or provide all in a kit form. I would love to purchase a tutorial from you if you had them.
Lara Cattlin 3 years ago
Here’s where you can find these little gems: https://www.etsy.com/listing/761229241/needle-felted-bat-realistic-wool-toy
Marianna Eros 4 years ago (edited)
They are all so life like. You have captured their souls. I would love some instructions on materials used as I have done some felting. I would pay for the information. Especially the little white bat.https://www.facebook.com/foldunkszuperszepkepei/photos/a.109581973796700/273091117445784/?type=3&theater&ifg=1
Erin Beal 4 years ago
Is there any way we could help you make the amount you need?? I am so fascinated by your wool animals, and would love to learn how to make them, ... and to help you as well. Please allow for some assistance, and possibly teach a few of us your craft. Let me know if this would help you. I know I would love to learn while helping you out of this predicament.
Texann Postlewait 4 years ago
If they are for sell I will buy one, the hedgehog my 6 yr old grandson loves Sonic. He would think it cool
Pam Taylor 4 years ago
I would love to buy some of these beautiful pieces, too! How do I buy from you?
Linda Fyfe 4 years ago
They are beautiful! You are so gifted. I would love to commission one if ever you start accepting commissions (I would be very, very patient).
Jacquey Hanson 4 years ago
No one who has ever done any handwork would think a $20 price was correct! Your work is impeccable, beautiful! You are very talented! Thanks for sharing!
Dianne Roussel 4 years ago
These are quite stunning and obvious high end work. You need to explain that you were caught up in a scamming issue and not responsible for their loss. Then find someone to help you market these remarkable creatures at their true value. I would buy a bat and several foxes if you made them. Good luck in your continuing endeavor
Kim Wuellner 4 years ago
These are amazingly beautiful! You are not responsible for the scam. Do you have a site where you sell your artwork?
Samantha Spriggs 4 years ago
Do you have an Etsy account? Your work is amazing, love the bat and the birds the most :)
J 4 years ago
The company that created the scam, is responsible for the situation and must be reported; they will do this to other craftspeople and artists or already have. Second, you must not hold yourself responsible for this scam. Felted wool products take hours to make- my daughter has made several- 19.99 barely pays for the wool. Sadly, you cannot and save all of these people. And I would consider protecting yourself. Trying to create the bats for that many people will take the joy out of this for you; protect yourself and your own artistry. While pictures of your work may have been used this has nothing to do with you. You did not advertise the product, you did not offer to sell it, you did not take the money, this is not your company. To be really tough with you, I'd say, don't take on someone else's responsibility, you are not the savior here, and do not make any of these bats for anyone who was scammed which would make you look responsible. I love the little bat!
Laura Pantazis 4 years ago (edited)
I bought a custom made wool cat in the likeness of my cat for $185 through shelter pups. I agree that $20 is unreasonable for the time and effort. I can see offering a discount to the scammed people, but not giving it away. Hopefully the scammed people can get back their money through the means that they paid.
Cherilynne Utton 4 years ago
Beautiful work! Very inspiring to some one new to felting. I love the bat and the spider. Your detail in the birds and every thing is genius! Any one who thought they were getting a bat like that for 19.99 were asking to be scammed. You're good, brush it off and go on. You owe no one anything. Please keep doing the beautiful work you do and keep posting pictures if you can. Just looking at your work is enjoyable.
Tana McNac 4 years ago
You do amazing work.....don't sell yourself short....these are one of a kind, made toys.
Kayla Tellier 5 years ago
Oh please tell me you are selling those bats now. I'd buy one in a heart beat, they are amazing.
Helen Page 5 years ago
Your work is absolutely beautiful and nobody in their right mind would expect to get it for $19.99! I have been caught out by scammers because of my stupidity but at no point did I think to blame the original producer of the item. You don't owe the 'purchasers' anything. Keep making your fabulous creatures.
Mitch McPhetridge 5 years ago
If you google felt bat you get many hits of people selling it with your art. Just one example. https://ikiha.com/product/baby-bat-plushie/?utm_source=Google%20Shopping&utm_campaign=Ikiha%20Feed&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=25634&gclid=Cj0KCQjwzozsBRCNARIsAEM9kBNK116dXKi1A8bWBG3jGesrVG7f60kEkllFFwBOM1u5xBMR6CSq2-oaAtDZEALw_wcB
Marjie Roedts 5 years ago
Its beautiful work! Sorry u were scammed tho :(. If u ever Decide to take a few orders here and there let me know!!!! I would get one...
John Manley 5 years ago
Good afternoon Anna & Kseniya: Your work shows the love you have for the art. When and if you do decide to sell your bats in the future, I know an equally passionate person who loves bat and has fallen in love with the pictures and they are worth far more then what I have read. What is the best way to stay in touch?
Erin Pyne 5 years ago
I was also scammed, purchased the little bat from a Facebook ad. I did receive my little bat 3 months later after several emails to the company (Chinese but did have an address in Texas- probably fake) anyway, learned my lesson. The bat was a cheap little plush- knockoff of your work. The company Gift Bias is still selling it using your art to advertise. Though you probably have little recourse you could at least send a desist letter to the 'Texas' company.
Carrie Cubberley 5 years ago
I was one of the suckers! Your work is beautiful and I should have known better. The excitement got me! I have filed a claim with PayPal and have posted a BEWARE on this "company" on three buyer beware pages so far this morning! I would never expect you to honor my purchase. I would love to purchase from you in the future if you have anything for sale and I know I will be paying more than 19$ and that is okay with me!
Rainbow_Gal05 5 years ago
I Thought they were real! These are so well made :D Thanks for showing us
Jean Schweibish 5 years ago
Exceptional! The bat is adorable, the birds so sweet - and that hedgehog? Remarkable!
somnomania 5 years ago
Absolutely stunning work, I'm so envious of anyone who can work this kind of magic with felt!
Jenny Hoffmann 5 years ago
You should price out your art for those that are truly interested in buying your pieces. The bat is fantastic and I would pay a lot more than $20 for it!
Lucky Super Store NJ 5 years ago
It's more informative as well as impassive to me.... Visit this site to check my collection.... https://luckysuperstorenj.business.site/ Nice Job Thank you for sharing
Pebbles Sillars 5 years ago
I am a pretty good felter but your work is extraordinary! If you don't mind me asking Where do you buy whiskers and the eyes? This is a mask and paws I made for a Christmas present. WolfheadMe...2672c1.jpg 
Jennifer Weller 5 years ago
I bought one of these only two days ago - does that mean I have been scammed ?
Linda York 5 years ago
I should have known this was too good to be true. I did pay 20.00 for a bat on what I guess was a fake website selling toys. As an artist and one that has dabbled a little in felting myself, I suspected that the photo was a prototype and the one I would get would be far less beautiful, but I took the chance because my mother loves bats. Oh well you live and learn. 🦇
Jyll Wolf 5 years ago
I was one of those people! I'm still in dispute with PayPal but this article may help that cause. Knowing what goes into it and seeing even more detailed images there is no way it would cost $20! Your work is truly beautiful and stunning, and I would still love one of these lovelies if I can afford one ;) Much love - JWolf
Julia Hederlingova 5 years ago
https://poravoda.com/products/baby-bat-plushie The ad on FB today. Just so you know it is still there.
Darla Markle 5 years ago
How amazingly beautiful! I'm definitely in love with all of them! I'd love to order one.
Madonna Rose 5 years ago
Absolutly gorgeous...I ❤️ bats...and you are amazingly creative.. I would love 💗 one.
Kelvin Wing 5 years ago
You have utterly beautiful work and talent. I'm with everyone here, we'd love to buy whenever your ready but love enjoying your talent and artistry. If you do get around to any selling, we'll line right up and only get it from you guys.
Melody Lanzatella 5 years ago
That is...FREAKING AMAZING!!!! I have discovered, in needle felting, you either, have a knack for it, or you DO NOT! I, unfortunately, DO NOT! I adore that bat! Id like to see a sloth, one of those teensy "finger monkeys", a slow loris! There are SO many rainforest denizens that lend themselves to this art form!
Vernice Aure 5 years ago
I agree with the others here - please don't feel that you are obligated to fill the orders for those who were scammed. Suggest that those people get together and bring a lawsuit against the sellers. YOU ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE. Your creations are museum quality and should be shown in galleries. I'm also a fibers artist and I find it hard to value my things. You are truly a great artist, remember that. Each of your creatures are unique and so much time and effort is put into each one that they should be priced accordingly. An artist once told me to think of it this way: if you were working for minimum wage (in America $10/hour) the bat would command at least $1400. However, your creations are worth so much more. One more thing, don't work yourself into ground, live life. I hope all turns out well.
Mike Procaccini 5 years ago
Nothing in this world has any value except the value you give it! Based on the actual time you personally spend to create one of your master pieces (100-140 Hrs) at a minimum of $10/hr. They should sell for no less than $1000-$1400 and I gaurantee if marketed properly they would sell. Additionally who knows you may become famous and very sort after and your artwork would be worth $100s of THOUSANDS! Art is about attitude! PS your artwork is amazing!
Caroline Driver 5 years ago
The internet has given birth to new kinds of crime. The poor people who were bilked by scammers were the victims of the crime, you shouldn't have to pay for their misfortune. Your work is brilliant, I've seen other needlefelting (and tried it myself) and these are exceptional!
Virginia Monahan 5 years ago
Your work is amazing ! Don't let anyone interfere with your incredible work !!!!!
Steve Armstrong 5 years ago
I suggest letting folks on Etsy.com know about the scam and to be on the lookout for copycats. It's a website well known for selling handcrafted items.
Brenda Pereira 5 years ago
If they take 10 days at 12-14 hrs/day, that's 120-140 hours of work. Now, would anyone seriously work that long for $19.99? Anyone who saw that price knew it was too good to be true. You do NOT need to feel the need to fill orders for those who were scammed. That is their problem. You also don't need to be selling these pieces of art so cheap. Your time and talent are worth something and it sure isn't $19.99!!
Kaylee Harding 5 years ago
that's really cool, you should start selling them, I would get the Kitten!
Rich McCormick 5 years ago
WOW... just WOW.... I'm one of the man that's batty for her bats. I want one! DARN IT! What a wooly situation she's in! LOL
Rich McCormick 5 years ago
WOW.. just wow and I'm like so many. I'm batty for her bat and I want one! DARN IT! What a wooly situation she's in! LOL
Tiny Dancer 5 years ago
Just take ALL my money! That spider brooch is fantastic. I'll take one of those and the ultra-adorable baby bat and be the best dressed witch this Halloween! :-) Seriously though, it will hurt to tell your potential customers that you can't help them, but you shouldn't have to pay for someone else's scam. Good luck and keep up the incredible work!
Elaine Dodge 5 years ago
"An unknown substance that turned out to be wool." That's a bit concerning. However, I LOVE the bat. Well done on awesome work. Definitely put up the story of the scamming on your site and wherever else you're selling the work. But maybe leave out the fact you don't know what wool is.
Agnieszka Adamkiewicz 5 years ago
Beautifull. This is art - should cost at least 100 $, not 20 :(.
Carol Potter 5 years ago
They are fabulous. What a talent you have. All the best. I love them. ❤️💕🌹
Patricia Jensen 5 years ago
Your work is beutiful. I agree with the last post. Just send your apologies and continue with your incredible talent.
Elle Malkamäki 5 years ago
Wow, these are incredible! You can keep your scary spider though! 😱🕷
Sarjana Lastname 5 years ago
Commercialize this, idea par excellence. Stuffed animals and animal cruelty, pet owners are less .... chicks for Easter toy can human be more mean .... Living beings are sacred.
Sarjana Lastname 5 years ago
These are much better than real animals. Pet owners always highlight how cute their pets are, these are always cute and no one has to suffer. Mote like ease lamb's living at summer, hope these are from free lamb.
Tanya Mitten 5 years ago
Hi! I have a question! How much are the hedgehog and cat that you made? I own a hedgehog myself and collect all kinds of hedgehog type items! Also my best friend is a huge cat person and I know she would just love the cat that you made! If you could let me know prices, that would be great! My email is tanyatmitten@gmail.com
Seth Sprengers 5 years ago
I should have known that bat was too beautiful to be a 'plush' of mass production. I, too, have been scammed, and I should be ashamed. For I, too, do needlefelting for a hobby, and should've recognised it. Still, I fell for the scam. They still sell them. So everyone reading the comments, AVOID THE FOLLOWING SHOPS... (and artist take note): Uredaka.com, Amdestore.com, Deforts.com, Valarstore.com, Lucidtiger.com, Koounji.com and Giftbias.com (the latter where I 'bought' mine... guess who never got his?). I hope the artist gets the proper credit and that people stop adressing her for the scammers scamming them. It's horrible, and that someone arrests these scammers. I'm still trying to get my money back from Giftbias through paypal, but so far it's looking grim.
Walkswithwolves Snowrider 5 years ago
Ohhhh Magnificent, I would like a couple Bats, the tarantula, and a magpie, And 1 Hedgehog
Cynda Galikin 5 years ago
Even at a paltry $20 per hour, your work should sell for $2,800. If they say okay, get to work!
Cynda Galikin 5 years ago
At even a paltry $20 per hour, each one should sell for $2,800. Tell them that, if they say okay, then get to work!
Connie Warburton 5 years ago
Hi Anna, I also an artist, I have found many scammers steal photographs to try and scam money from others. May I suggest using a program like iWatermark to put your name across the toy so no-one can crop it out and use the photos as their own.
Jessika Hamilton 5 years ago
WOW. Your work is amazing and the care you put into it should never be under valued by anyone, most particularly not by yourself! DON'T give it away for free. That's insane. You are not responsible for the scam, whoever stole from these people should be severely punished to the fullest extent of the law. If guilt is still ripping you up, you might discount a commissioned bat at full price, but even that isn't required.
Karin O 5 years ago (edited)
Since you don't have an agreement with the scam stores for them to sell on your behalf, you don't have to fulfill the orders. It's very kind of you to do so, but doing that work stopping you from using that time to make money you deserve. I'm sorry that happened. You can explain in a form email to people that the stores have no legal right to represent you and it's their job to fulfill the order or refund the money, not yours. One thing you can do is heavily watermark your images, covering the artwork, with the phrase "only sold here" then an official url – or a similar watermark that makes it difficult for scammers. That way scammers can't easily reuse the images and people seeing the images can go directly to your store. Use your Facebook page to make people aware of the scammers and ask your fans to report scam ads to Facebook. It's so sad what scammers do to artists, but people who follow you will help out.
Id row 5 years ago
I make feather cat toys and sold them on etsy for a while and it is terrifying when you get that many orders. It took me anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes to make each toy and I had someone who wanted 3,000 of them. I had to take the shop down because it became more like work pressure instead of doing what I loved. I'm glad they were so popular though.
TeeMarieTisMe 5 years ago
I'm sorry this happened to you, but this is your time, hard work and livelyhood. I suggest apologizing for the mishap but do not feel obligated to fulfill these scam orders. It's unfortunate this happened to them but that is way too much time and energy to spend on something that you are not going to get the full worth of. If they are decent people they will understand. By the way your little creatures are so adorable and realistic! They made made my day. :)
Gar Lowe 5 years ago
❤️❤️❤️your work is AMAZING!!! 😍😍😍I actually thought I was looking at animals from a rescue shelter. $20 is ridiculous. As one artist to another do not undervalue your time and work. No one else is producing this level of quality woolen animal. I know - I’m also a prop master for theatre and film and ALWAYS looking for good animals that can “pass” for real. Figure your hours of labor, materials and overhead, And then double that number as the quality is obviously better than anything available. Having said that, how do I order your amazing work, and (sheepishly) can I offer you part payment, part trade artist to artist? I make all kinds of stuff!!! ❤️❤️❤️☮️
Ann Mozdzer 5 years ago
Absolutely astounding ,I thought the page had drifted when I saw the chicks,such excellent work :)
Lady on the Grey 5 years ago
Your creations are beautiful! I'm glad you spoke up about scam, I am unique items designer too, I know how hard it is to see your work stolen! You should open Etsy shop (nice place for selling unique handmade stuff). Kitten and bat are my favorites <3 Good luck!
Kathryn Good Robinson 5 years ago
I have been intrigued by felting for some time and eager to try it. I am a crocheter so am swamped by projects. Your work is amazing - beautiful, so life-like. You are a true artist. Sorry for your problems with scammers. Those who were scammed learned the lesson that if it looks to good to be true it probably is.
Kathryn Good Robinson 5 years ago
I have been a crocheter for years but am intrigued with felting and eager to try it. Your work is absolutely amazing - beautiful - so incredibly life-like. You are a true artist. So sorry for your troubles with the scammers but the scammees will have learned the lesson that if it is too good to be true it probably isn't.
Sylvia Watkinson 5 years ago
If you have not taken the order and payment you are under no obligation. The buyer must take it up with the scamming seller and where it was from.
Marylou Franck 5 years ago
Where can someone purchase one of these beautiful creations? Are you on Etsy or any other site?
Kristina Funkycrew 5 years ago
incredible work, so realistic! :) really liked the little hedgehog :)
Анна Ястрежембовская (Post author) 5 years ago
Thank you for posting, for your support and comments! Unfortunately I will not be able to answer all, it takes a long time,and I do not have time to track all the comments. But you can ask questions to my sister and assistant @timofeeva_kseny
Vicky Dudman 5 years ago
great talent. you need to inform the authorities that these people have been scammed with your product and get the fraud and consumers rights people involved. you are not responsible for the acts of others. did they use your name? if they did you may need to change the name of your company as it will forever be associated with this scam.
María Hermida 5 years ago
People should learn to be careful when they buy something through the Internet. There are lots of reputable sites; if somebody decides to buy in an unknown, untraceable, god-only-knows-where-it-is-located web page it's their problem! They should try to contact whoever sold the item, not you! Never sell your work for less than you think it's worth! Your little creatures are wonderfully cute! I love them!
metalinangelo 5 years ago
Thank you for putting your voice out there!!!! Always and forever your Fan!
Chris Branton 5 years ago
Amazing, words fail me, so intricate and detailed, no wonder each one takes so long
Chris Branton 5 years ago
They are amazing, so beautiful and detailed, no wonder it takes ages to finish them!
Sharon Singleton 5 years ago
First, let me say that your creations are amazing! I am sorry that some horrible person is using your pics to steal from people. That is in no way your responsibility. These people should have the info from the person they ordered from. They need to report this person for fraud. It is sad that they got scammed, but again that is not your fault or responsibility.
metalinangelo 5 years ago
we are hunting all 8 stores currently down. its non of annas fault . why some people think it is? the opposite. she helps us expose them a lot.
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Deirdre Ross 5 years ago
Beautiful! Just Beautiful! You are NOT responsible for other people's mistakes. Concentrate on your art and business.
Sharon Singleton 5 years ago
First, let me say that your work is amazing!! They are all beautiful, and the hedgehog is too adorable!! It is sad that someone stole your pics, and used them to steal from people, but that is not your responsibility. These people should still have the info from where they ordered from. They need to contact THAT person, and report them for fraud.
Catherine Hankinson 5 years ago
They are beautiful. What happened wasn't your fault at all. The customers need to take it up with the site they ordered from. Good luck in the future xc
Katinka Min 5 years ago
This is the first time I read about this kind fo scam and it really made my heart run cold. Oh my God, the poor artist!!!!! I agree with Sardonic scribe, though. To expect this for 20 when it's more like 200 bucks is ludicrous.
Misty Miley 5 years ago
Such talent! I want them all! Except the spider, you can keep the spider
Kanga9ine 5 years ago
Beautiful work. I can see the hours spent in the detail and personality of each creature. It would be hard for me to let any of them go. That little bat will dissolve any fears people may hold about bats. Right along with Stellaluna. And that hedgehog stole my heart. What a great gift you were given and lucky for us you shared it.
thepotatogirl 5 years ago
All of these are so cute!!!!! Hopefully when I have money I can buy one because THEY ARE SO CUTE!!!!!
C H 5 years ago
I love felted wool animals and yours are amazingly beautiful and life-like. I'm sorry you had a negative experience with getting your work out to the public. I hope you will continue to produce and sell your work. Our beloved family pet hamster - a Syrian black bear hamster- died just yesterday (big things truly can come in small packages). I would like to one day commission someone to do a felted animal in her likeness. I'm sure there are many others out there who would wish to memorialize their pets as well. Good luck to you.
CraftyMiss 5 years ago
I just want to say that your work is AMAZING!! So beautiful & lifelike!! I would love to purchase one if your bats, but I do understand that they take ages to make, and I probably couldn't afford one if I paid for the time it took to make one. Not that they aren't worth it, because they are, I just couldn't that's all. Keep up your amazing work! You're very talented!
Jackson Allinder 5 years ago
They look so realistic, I love the cat one but it looks the least realistic even though it looks realistic, but the porkipine looks so buetiful
GiantSpaceTiger 5 years ago
So expressive! Beautiful! The skill displayed is remarkable and those photographs of that blue bird are heartstopping!
Zaheen Muhammad 5 years ago
Fantastic work. You can barely make out that they aren't real. I absolutely loved all of them. Please continue doing what you already are and I think Disney should hire you. Things like these should do wonders for CGI.
Pretty Pangolin 5 years ago
Just keep doing what appeals to you and don't worry about making lots of bats - you're under no obligation just because someone decided to make a quick buck. I see that each of your photos has a watermark - that's a good step. Love these figures, by the way!
Gianna Galli 5 years ago
Charge exactly what you deserve, quit your day job you're way to talented not to be making art full time!!
sharron lynn parsons 5 years ago
To say I am impressed is an understatement, incredible talent, the first photo of the bat I actually thought real. !!!
Thelildupling 5 years ago
Your talented. I love the fact that you can make so many good things! Hope that you can make more nice and cool things. I hope some day I can make something as good as you! I love the fact that you are such a good person! Much love from Indiana.
Christina Uhlir 5 years ago
Wool equals cruelty!!!!! Please, please choose different material for your art.
Emmy 5 years ago
I’m confused. Did you have an Etsy shop with incorrect price? I can’t imagine feeling an obligation if someone was selling on your behalf and you never received money! The toys are amazing BTW!
metalinangelo 5 years ago
people stole the images and ''sell'' them in their shops. now what do they sell, without having the actual product.. let me tell you that i got scammed: NOTHING. we are hunting them down now.
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Sardonic Scribe 5 years ago
Exceptional talent! However, for your own sanity (as a fellow artist) - I know it pains you, but you really just need to tell the people that were scammed what happened. In no way, shape or form should you be held accountable for someone else's fraud, Selling your artworks for $20 would be akin to someone expecting to pay 5 bucks to have a new bathtub installed. Your time is valuable - never undervalue it! :) Much love and the best of luck from Canada!
Dani 5 years ago
Agreed. What happened isn’t your fault and if you just explain, any person with a shred of decency will understand and hopefully not be too upset. I feel so bad for both you and all those poor people, but for your own sake please tell them what happened.
Load More Replies... Thomas Kabel 5 years ago
Time to open an Etsy account and sell them for some serious money!! I'd buy one for sure!
Laugh Fan 5 years ago (edited)
These are adorable. The spider is even realistic enough to be skipped over a wee bit quickly! Flipping phobias! I'm rather fond of that cute bat! I hope you aren't bothered by scammers again.
Анна Ястрежембовская (Post author) 5 years ago
Thanks. It is not possible to cope with them yet. One hope is to warn as many people as possible so that they do not get caught by scammers.
Load More Replies... Crochet lady 5 years ago
If you tried to give everyone a bat because a scammer sold them what's to prevent the scammer from doing it again and again? You shouldn't be held accountable for a fraud perpetrated by someone else. That's not to day I don't fell badly for the people who lost their money but it's not your fault. Your creations are divine!
Brivid 5 years ago
You are very talented. I hope you are able to find away to prevent being scammed in the future.
Kseniya Timofeeva 5 years ago
Hi. I'm Anna's sister Xenia. We read your comment)). Now Anna is constantly engaged in the creation of new toys. As soon as the situation with the implementation of orders will be adjusted - the orders will be accepted again! And of course we are looking for ways to prevent the recurrence of this unpleasant situation. Can be something will advise? We will write about it on instagram and on all pages! Thank you again for your subscription, for your support.
Load More Replies... Katinka Min 5 years ago
DON'T MAKE THE ORDERED BATS!!! If an online platform sells fake tickets, no musician would go an make a concert for free. It sucks that these people were scammed, but your pictures were stolen and your reputation was endangered - you are already a victim. Just write to the people that it has nothing to do wiht you and that they need to sue the online shop.
Kseniya Timofeeva 5 years ago
Hi. I'm Anna's sister Xenia. We read your comment. Now Anna is constantly engaged in the creation of new toys. Thank you: for your subscription, for your support.
Load More Replies... hobbitly 5 years ago
I dont understand why you would make all these people tiny bats, if you listed it as 'not for sale' on social media. You are an amazing artist. If you get an Etsy account, let me know, would love to buy a spider brooch.
Анна Ястрежембовская (Post author) 5 years ago
It was this one bat that was not made for sale. And she was taken by crooks.
Load More Replies... TheKnightOwl 5 years ago
Please please please don't fill the orders of those who were scammed. It is not your fault what happened, the people involved need to take it up with the people they paid the money to. Surely they had to know something this well made was worth much more than $20. You do an amazing job, so realistic!
metalinangelo 5 years ago
We got scammed and we fight 20 days now to report and shut down them stores. Nobody blamed Anna. The opposite. We are helping daily. We exposed all this.
Load More Replies... Jean van der Merwe 5 years ago
This is art. I want to say you are talented, but actually this is a gift.
Han 5 years ago
My daughter bought me a felting kit for Christmas. I've only made 3 animals so far, but it's a very enjoyable craft. Your work is so beautiful!! Omg my cat next to yours is a meme waiting to drop. :'')
LOttawa 5 years ago
Please create this meme you are talking about and kindly share with us. I really like a good meme... loll
Load More Replies... Bored Phoenix 5 years ago
That is amazing Anna. The spider gave me chills. I hope you aren’t bothered by scammers anymore.
Анна Ястрежембовская (Post author) 5 years ago
I'm actually afraid of spiders, too.))
Load More Replies... Nimthirielle 5 years ago
The scams need to be reported and you should not be held liable to fulfill orders you never offered and will not receive anything from (given they already paid the scammer). Banks and credit card companies have provisions for getting those customers their money back. If they love your work and value your work, they will be willing to recommission an item from you for what the art is worth. If they want something worth $20, they aren't wanting your art. They are wanting a cute bat mass produced in China with no where near the quality of the items you would provide.
metalinangelo 5 years ago
i don't think you understood the article. nobody forced or blamed Anna.
Load More Replies... Ms Phit 5 years ago
Incredible work! I also work in fine craft and am very familiar with needle felting. Your work is excellent! Please know that You don't have any obligation to the people who were scammed by that other company- I really hope that you don't harbor any guilt about this situation- it is not your fault at all! Also, as a fellow artist, I'd suggest that your pricing needs to match your efforts- these need to be expensive. Your work is exceptional and has nothing in common with factory made cheap toys that the defrauded "customers" have paid for. Shame on them for expecting fine craft at dollar store prices!
Rall 5 years ago
Exactly! They deserve to be scammed for expecting to bye handcrafted, unique toys for 20$. What is wrong with this people?
Load More Replies... Pat Smith 5 years ago
Great Talent but I'm confused by the story... she is asking for suggestions whilst at the same time trying to fulfil the orders made by scammers!? – If you're doing that then you're basically working for free whilst the scammers are getting paid!
Анна Ястрежембовская (Post author) 5 years ago
I'm not going to do it for free, and people understand that. Just appeared a lot of wishing on this bat, and it's a lot of time.
Load More Replies... Neferpitou 5 years ago
I don't know why so many people hate spiders. If I remember correctly, there's like 43000 known species of spiders and only 30 species are fatal to humans. That's less than one percent. I love spiders, they are very cute. I like all bugs. My three favorites are ants, bees and spiders.
Kanga9ine 5 years ago
I once read you are never more than 6 feet away from a spider. I had one in my shower I talked to everyday. I'm not real big on having one come to bed with me. At least not in the first date.
Load More Replies... Michelle Baines 5 years ago
Wow your work is absolutely amazing. You have no obligation to sell your artwork for that ridiculously low price. These people need to follow it up with the websites they purchased from not you. Just apologise and say unfortunately cannot honour another sites sales as you have had and do not have any affiliation with the website they purchased from. Do not whatever you do undersell your amazing artwork, talent and time because you feel sorry for them. The people who see the worth and pay the correct amount are the ones that are going to get the most out of your work.
Kimi Heljenek 5 years ago
Your work is museum quality. I'd put a watermark on any photos you post to prevent scammers from claiming they're selling your work, but other than that...people need to understand that if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Facebook has some of these scammers advertising their works there. If I see yours, I'll report it. I've reported a couple of scammers already that were supposedly selling crafting cabinets for a ridiculously cheap price. The price of the real cabinet was over $1,400 and they were supposedly selling it for $125!!! It's terrible how lawless it's gotten.
Nomadus Aureus 5 years ago (edited)
I am so sorry this happened to you! I too have seen the bat, and can absolutely understand why people were flocking to get them. Maybe they were just too excited since they are so cute. I myself am very suspicious by nature (or simply put I don't even have $20 to waste...), so I tried to verify the source of the bat ads. Nothing came back. Sadly, your shop was nowhere to be found either. :( People should really learn to double-check things before whipping out their cards and maybe engage in a little bit of critical thinking. You can tell fairly easily that the bat was hand-made. And whenever that is the case, there is no way it will cost only $20.
Dee Hunter 5 years ago
I can't begin to imagine how much time, effort and love has gone into these lovable creatures. Don't let those scammers get you down, you are doing an exceptional thing there. (A tip for the pictures:Mmake sure there's a watermark on it or some kind of signature that covers both, background and the displayed item. Yes, it's ugly ... but it might prevent an attempt at stealing and reusing your pictures.)
NanZ 5 years ago
Your creations are unbelievable. Wow, is all I can say about them! You were meant to do this! I can't believe how realistic your creations are. They are amazing! I love all of them and wish I could buy some of them. That takes so much time and talent, but being handmade means they can't be mass produced. You aren't a machine. Darn it! Your customers should feel very special that they have access to your amazing creations!
Steven Crane 5 years ago
I'm sorry, what? No. That's not how this works. Someone steals your images and puts up a false shop? Working on the assumption that this is an accurate, don't make this stuff for free. Report the image theft to the authorities (daunting, yes) but you don't just work for free because someone else scammed them. Have people tell you where they "bought" from and go through the task of getting those stores taken down. Yes it will be like playing whack-a-mole, but you have to protect your creations wherever you can. It is the buyer's responsibility to file a chargeback with their card issuer or payment portal. Filling these orders without getting paid is essentially aiding the scam. Work with the people scammed, not the scammers themselves. Help them get their money back by providing proof of the scam and help yourself by clearing what is obviously a labor of love from negative press. Then take your skill and make bank YOURSELF by sharing it for an adequate fee.
Анна Ястрежембовская (Post author) 5 years ago
I'm not going to do it for free, and people understand that. Just appeared a lot of wishing on this bat, and it's a lot of time.
Load More Replies... Emily Bowman 5 years ago
These are amazing. But $20 doesnt even cover your time. You would not be able to spend any time with your daughter at that right. Let those people know they were scammed. If they dont like it, they need to bring it up with scammer, not you. But thank you for having integrity. On another note, these are exceptional
Judy Warren 4 years ago
Another consideration for you is to find a local fiber art Guild or Association where you live, so you can get social and artistic support and learn about copyright and creative ways to protect your products. See if they have a cooperative gallery, in which you can sell your beauties. That is how I sold my silk pieces for several years, and we protected each other's works. One very special thing you can do, especially if you decide to teach, so that YOUR own art pieces stand out, is to design one single unique "logo/charm" to attach onto all of your pieces that can't be found on-line by others. It would serve as your trademark, and give your work additional value. Karrn Brito, a brilliant silk shibori artist has put one on every piece of her awesome, very expensive shawls and scarves for years, and other artists have studied under her, globally. Enjoy your artwork, share through teaching if you choose to, claim your talent and your own price points, and let your OWN art stand out.
Tracy Scott 4 years ago
Where has the $20 gone for these 'orders' ? Presumably you haven't received it as you didn't set up the advert. Therefore you would be fulfilling these orders for free. You need to report it first of all. They might be able to trace where the payments have gone and where the adverts are posted and take them down. You definitely shouldn't be trying to fulfill them.
Nerida Grewal 4 years ago
You have a unique and wonderful talent and deserve to sell your genuine creations at your own instigation. As Sardonic Scribe says, you are not liable for scammers or accountable for someone's fraud. Tell potential customers the details and leave their decision to them as to how they handle that situation. Also: If you have the details of how those people were scammed there may be a way of reporting the fraud to police or an online reporting agency that deals with such things, for them to be investigated and held accountable.
Laura Perkinson 4 years ago
I am so sorry people got scammed. you can sure understand why they all wanted one. Sad the world we live in makes people have this happen more and more. But never get tired of doing this work, they are all wonderful!
Carol Peltier 4 years ago
I have been scammed twice by ordering from ads that showed up on my facebook page. Both were incredibly beautiful and useful items and the price was too good to be true. They turned out to be cheap imitations of what was advertised. They took about three months to arrive, and came from China. I have learned my lesson, I hope. So my message is: don't feel responsible for the scammers. Buyer beware.
Judy Warren 4 years ago
Why don't you TEACH your special method in classes? Then you will benefit financially, and the art will be appreciated far and wide. Once your are known, you can even travel, to places far away, to teach, and meet so many new people. Consider this.
Tara matthews 1 year ago
Hi I would really love a couple of these for my kids , could you please let me know how I could get in touch with you for pricing ? I don’t think is letting get on your site because of my phone, not really sure but this is a new phone . Thanks in advance and I love your awesome art work 😍
Debbie Appelman 3 years ago
I think what might resolve your problem of full filling all your orders is when someone orders, tell them that completed pieces are not being produced but that you are selling kits with tutorials for them to do it themselves. You may need to provide a beginners tutorial for them to try first. Also stock and sell needles and yarn and anything else they would need or provide all in a kit form. I would love to purchase a tutorial from you if you had them.
Lara Cattlin 3 years ago
Here’s where you can find these little gems: https://www.etsy.com/listing/761229241/needle-felted-bat-realistic-wool-toy
Marianna Eros 4 years ago (edited)
They are all so life like. You have captured their souls. I would love some instructions on materials used as I have done some felting. I would pay for the information. Especially the little white bat.https://www.facebook.com/foldunkszuperszepkepei/photos/a.109581973796700/273091117445784/?type=3&theater&ifg=1
Erin Beal 4 years ago
Is there any way we could help you make the amount you need?? I am so fascinated by your wool animals, and would love to learn how to make them, ... and to help you as well. Please allow for some assistance, and possibly teach a few of us your craft. Let me know if this would help you. I know I would love to learn while helping you out of this predicament.
Texann Postlewait 4 years ago
If they are for sell I will buy one, the hedgehog my 6 yr old grandson loves Sonic. He would think it cool
Pam Taylor 4 years ago
I would love to buy some of these beautiful pieces, too! How do I buy from you?
Linda Fyfe 4 years ago
They are beautiful! You are so gifted. I would love to commission one if ever you start accepting commissions (I would be very, very patient).
Jacquey Hanson 4 years ago
No one who has ever done any handwork would think a $20 price was correct! Your work is impeccable, beautiful! You are very talented! Thanks for sharing!
Dianne Roussel 4 years ago
These are quite stunning and obvious high end work. You need to explain that you were caught up in a scamming issue and not responsible for their loss. Then find someone to help you market these remarkable creatures at their true value. I would buy a bat and several foxes if you made them. Good luck in your continuing endeavor
Kim Wuellner 4 years ago
These are amazingly beautiful! You are not responsible for the scam. Do you have a site where you sell your artwork?
Samantha Spriggs 4 years ago
Do you have an Etsy account? Your work is amazing, love the bat and the birds the most :)
J 4 years ago
The company that created the scam, is responsible for the situation and must be reported; they will do this to other craftspeople and artists or already have. Second, you must not hold yourself responsible for this scam. Felted wool products take hours to make- my daughter has made several- 19.99 barely pays for the wool. Sadly, you cannot and save all of these people. And I would consider protecting yourself. Trying to create the bats for that many people will take the joy out of this for you; protect yourself and your own artistry. While pictures of your work may have been used this has nothing to do with you. You did not advertise the product, you did not offer to sell it, you did not take the money, this is not your company. To be really tough with you, I'd say, don't take on someone else's responsibility, you are not the savior here, and do not make any of these bats for anyone who was scammed which would make you look responsible. I love the little bat!
Laura Pantazis 4 years ago (edited)
I bought a custom made wool cat in the likeness of my cat for $185 through shelter pups. I agree that $20 is unreasonable for the time and effort. I can see offering a discount to the scammed people, but not giving it away. Hopefully the scammed people can get back their money through the means that they paid.
Cherilynne Utton 4 years ago
Beautiful work! Very inspiring to some one new to felting. I love the bat and the spider. Your detail in the birds and every thing is genius! Any one who thought they were getting a bat like that for 19.99 were asking to be scammed. You're good, brush it off and go on. You owe no one anything. Please keep doing the beautiful work you do and keep posting pictures if you can. Just looking at your work is enjoyable.
Tana McNac 4 years ago
You do amazing work.....don't sell yourself short....these are one of a kind, made toys.
Kayla Tellier 5 years ago
Oh please tell me you are selling those bats now. I'd buy one in a heart beat, they are amazing.
Helen Page 5 years ago
Your work is absolutely beautiful and nobody in their right mind would expect to get it for $19.99! I have been caught out by scammers because of my stupidity but at no point did I think to blame the original producer of the item. You don't owe the 'purchasers' anything. Keep making your fabulous creatures.
Mitch McPhetridge 5 years ago
If you google felt bat you get many hits of people selling it with your art. Just one example. https://ikiha.com/product/baby-bat-plushie/?utm_source=Google%20Shopping&utm_campaign=Ikiha%20Feed&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=25634&gclid=Cj0KCQjwzozsBRCNARIsAEM9kBNK116dXKi1A8bWBG3jGesrVG7f60kEkllFFwBOM1u5xBMR6CSq2-oaAtDZEALw_wcB
Marjie Roedts 5 years ago
Its beautiful work! Sorry u were scammed tho :(. If u ever Decide to take a few orders here and there let me know!!!! I would get one...
John Manley 5 years ago
Good afternoon Anna & Kseniya: Your work shows the love you have for the art. When and if you do decide to sell your bats in the future, I know an equally passionate person who loves bat and has fallen in love with the pictures and they are worth far more then what I have read. What is the best way to stay in touch?
Erin Pyne 5 years ago
I was also scammed, purchased the little bat from a Facebook ad. I did receive my little bat 3 months later after several emails to the company (Chinese but did have an address in Texas- probably fake) anyway, learned my lesson. The bat was a cheap little plush- knockoff of your work. The company Gift Bias is still selling it using your art to advertise. Though you probably have little recourse you could at least send a desist letter to the 'Texas' company.
Carrie Cubberley 5 years ago
I was one of the suckers! Your work is beautiful and I should have known better. The excitement got me! I have filed a claim with PayPal and have posted a BEWARE on this "company" on three buyer beware pages so far this morning! I would never expect you to honor my purchase. I would love to purchase from you in the future if you have anything for sale and I know I will be paying more than 19$ and that is okay with me!
Rainbow_Gal05 5 years ago
I Thought they were real! These are so well made :D Thanks for showing us
Jean Schweibish 5 years ago
Exceptional! The bat is adorable, the birds so sweet - and that hedgehog? Remarkable!
somnomania 5 years ago
Absolutely stunning work, I'm so envious of anyone who can work this kind of magic with felt!
Jenny Hoffmann 5 years ago
You should price out your art for those that are truly interested in buying your pieces. The bat is fantastic and I would pay a lot more than $20 for it!
Lucky Super Store NJ 5 years ago
It's more informative as well as impassive to me.... Visit this site to check my collection.... https://luckysuperstorenj.business.site/ Nice Job Thank you for sharing
Pebbles Sillars 5 years ago
I am a pretty good felter but your work is extraordinary! If you don't mind me asking Where do you buy whiskers and the eyes? This is a mask and paws I made for a Christmas present. WolfheadMe...2672c1.jpg
Jennifer Weller 5 years ago
I bought one of these only two days ago - does that mean I have been scammed ?
Linda York 5 years ago
I should have known this was too good to be true. I did pay 20.00 for a bat on what I guess was a fake website selling toys. As an artist and one that has dabbled a little in felting myself, I suspected that the photo was a prototype and the one I would get would be far less beautiful, but I took the chance because my mother loves bats. Oh well you live and learn. 🦇
Jyll Wolf 5 years ago
I was one of those people! I'm still in dispute with PayPal but this article may help that cause. Knowing what goes into it and seeing even more detailed images there is no way it would cost $20! Your work is truly beautiful and stunning, and I would still love one of these lovelies if I can afford one ;) Much love - JWolf
Julia Hederlingova 5 years ago
https://poravoda.com/products/baby-bat-plushie The ad on FB today. Just so you know it is still there.
Darla Markle 5 years ago
How amazingly beautiful! I'm definitely in love with all of them! I'd love to order one.
Madonna Rose 5 years ago
Absolutly gorgeous...I ❤️ bats...and you are amazingly creative.. I would love 💗 one.
Kelvin Wing 5 years ago
You have utterly beautiful work and talent. I'm with everyone here, we'd love to buy whenever your ready but love enjoying your talent and artistry. If you do get around to any selling, we'll line right up and only get it from you guys.
Melody Lanzatella 5 years ago
That is...FREAKING AMAZING!!!! I have discovered, in needle felting, you either, have a knack for it, or you DO NOT! I, unfortunately, DO NOT! I adore that bat! Id like to see a sloth, one of those teensy "finger monkeys", a slow loris! There are SO many rainforest denizens that lend themselves to this art form!
Vernice Aure 5 years ago
I agree with the others here - please don't feel that you are obligated to fill the orders for those who were scammed. Suggest that those people get together and bring a lawsuit against the sellers. YOU ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE. Your creations are museum quality and should be shown in galleries. I'm also a fibers artist and I find it hard to value my things. You are truly a great artist, remember that. Each of your creatures are unique and so much time and effort is put into each one that they should be priced accordingly. An artist once told me to think of it this way: if you were working for minimum wage (in America $10/hour) the bat would command at least $1400. However, your creations are worth so much more. One more thing, don't work yourself into ground, live life. I hope all turns out well.
Mike Procaccini 5 years ago
Nothing in this world has any value except the value you give it! Based on the actual time you personally spend to create one of your master pieces (100-140 Hrs) at a minimum of $10/hr. They should sell for no less than $1000-$1400 and I gaurantee if marketed properly they would sell. Additionally who knows you may become famous and very sort after and your artwork would be worth $100s of THOUSANDS! Art is about attitude! PS your artwork is amazing!
Caroline Driver 5 years ago
The internet has given birth to new kinds of crime. The poor people who were bilked by scammers were the victims of the crime, you shouldn't have to pay for their misfortune. Your work is brilliant, I've seen other needlefelting (and tried it myself) and these are exceptional!
Virginia Monahan 5 years ago
Your work is amazing ! Don't let anyone interfere with your incredible work !!!!!
Steve Armstrong 5 years ago
I suggest letting folks on Etsy.com know about the scam and to be on the lookout for copycats. It's a website well known for selling handcrafted items.
Brenda Pereira 5 years ago
If they take 10 days at 12-14 hrs/day, that's 120-140 hours of work. Now, would anyone seriously work that long for $19.99? Anyone who saw that price knew it was too good to be true. You do NOT need to feel the need to fill orders for those who were scammed. That is their problem. You also don't need to be selling these pieces of art so cheap. Your time and talent are worth something and it sure isn't $19.99!!
Kaylee Harding 5 years ago
that's really cool, you should start selling them, I would get the Kitten!
Rich McCormick 5 years ago
WOW... just WOW.... I'm one of the man that's batty for her bats. I want one! DARN IT! What a wooly situation she's in! LOL
Rich McCormick 5 years ago
WOW.. just wow and I'm like so many. I'm batty for her bat and I want one! DARN IT! What a wooly situation she's in! LOL
Tiny Dancer 5 years ago
Just take ALL my money! That spider brooch is fantastic. I'll take one of those and the ultra-adorable baby bat and be the best dressed witch this Halloween! :-) Seriously though, it will hurt to tell your potential customers that you can't help them, but you shouldn't have to pay for someone else's scam. Good luck and keep up the incredible work!
Elaine Dodge 5 years ago
"An unknown substance that turned out to be wool." That's a bit concerning. However, I LOVE the bat. Well done on awesome work. Definitely put up the story of the scamming on your site and wherever else you're selling the work. But maybe leave out the fact you don't know what wool is.
Agnieszka Adamkiewicz 5 years ago
Beautifull. This is art - should cost at least 100 $, not 20 :(.
Carol Potter 5 years ago
They are fabulous. What a talent you have. All the best. I love them. ❤️💕🌹
Patricia Jensen 5 years ago
Your work is beutiful. I agree with the last post. Just send your apologies and continue with your incredible talent.
Elle Malkamäki 5 years ago
Wow, these are incredible! You can keep your scary spider though! 😱🕷
Sarjana Lastname 5 years ago
Commercialize this, idea par excellence. Stuffed animals and animal cruelty, pet owners are less .... chicks for Easter toy can human be more mean .... Living beings are sacred.
Sarjana Lastname 5 years ago
These are much better than real animals. Pet owners always highlight how cute their pets are, these are always cute and no one has to suffer. Mote like ease lamb's living at summer, hope these are from free lamb.
Tanya Mitten 5 years ago
Hi! I have a question! How much are the hedgehog and cat that you made? I own a hedgehog myself and collect all kinds of hedgehog type items! Also my best friend is a huge cat person and I know she would just love the cat that you made! If you could let me know prices, that would be great! My email is tanyatmitten@gmail.com
Seth Sprengers 5 years ago
I should have known that bat was too beautiful to be a 'plush' of mass production. I, too, have been scammed, and I should be ashamed. For I, too, do needlefelting for a hobby, and should've recognised it. Still, I fell for the scam. They still sell them. So everyone reading the comments, AVOID THE FOLLOWING SHOPS... (and artist take note): Uredaka.com, Amdestore.com, Deforts.com, Valarstore.com, Lucidtiger.com, Koounji.com and Giftbias.com (the latter where I 'bought' mine... guess who never got his?). I hope the artist gets the proper credit and that people stop adressing her for the scammers scamming them. It's horrible, and that someone arrests these scammers. I'm still trying to get my money back from Giftbias through paypal, but so far it's looking grim.
Walkswithwolves Snowrider 5 years ago
Ohhhh Magnificent, I would like a couple Bats, the tarantula, and a magpie, And 1 Hedgehog
Cynda Galikin 5 years ago
Even at a paltry $20 per hour, your work should sell for $2,800. If they say okay, get to work!
Cynda Galikin 5 years ago
At even a paltry $20 per hour, each one should sell for $2,800. Tell them that, if they say okay, then get to work!
Connie Warburton 5 years ago
Hi Anna, I also an artist, I have found many scammers steal photographs to try and scam money from others. May I suggest using a program like iWatermark to put your name across the toy so no-one can crop it out and use the photos as their own.
Jessika Hamilton 5 years ago
WOW. Your work is amazing and the care you put into it should never be under valued by anyone, most particularly not by yourself! DON'T give it away for free. That's insane. You are not responsible for the scam, whoever stole from these people should be severely punished to the fullest extent of the law. If guilt is still ripping you up, you might discount a commissioned bat at full price, but even that isn't required.
Karin O 5 years ago (edited)
Since you don't have an agreement with the scam stores for them to sell on your behalf, you don't have to fulfill the orders. It's very kind of you to do so, but doing that work stopping you from using that time to make money you deserve. I'm sorry that happened. You can explain in a form email to people that the stores have no legal right to represent you and it's their job to fulfill the order or refund the money, not yours. One thing you can do is heavily watermark your images, covering the artwork, with the phrase "only sold here" then an official url – or a similar watermark that makes it difficult for scammers. That way scammers can't easily reuse the images and people seeing the images can go directly to your store. Use your Facebook page to make people aware of the scammers and ask your fans to report scam ads to Facebook. It's so sad what scammers do to artists, but people who follow you will help out.
Id row 5 years ago
I make feather cat toys and sold them on etsy for a while and it is terrifying when you get that many orders. It took me anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes to make each toy and I had someone who wanted 3,000 of them. I had to take the shop down because it became more like work pressure instead of doing what I loved. I'm glad they were so popular though.
TeeMarieTisMe 5 years ago
I'm sorry this happened to you, but this is your time, hard work and livelyhood. I suggest apologizing for the mishap but do not feel obligated to fulfill these scam orders. It's unfortunate this happened to them but that is way too much time and energy to spend on something that you are not going to get the full worth of. If they are decent people they will understand. By the way your little creatures are so adorable and realistic! They made made my day. :)
Gar Lowe 5 years ago
❤️❤️❤️your work is AMAZING!!! 😍😍😍I actually thought I was looking at animals from a rescue shelter. $20 is ridiculous. As one artist to another do not undervalue your time and work. No one else is producing this level of quality woolen animal. I know - I’m also a prop master for theatre and film and ALWAYS looking for good animals that can “pass” for real. Figure your hours of labor, materials and overhead, And then double that number as the quality is obviously better than anything available. Having said that, how do I order your amazing work, and (sheepishly) can I offer you part payment, part trade artist to artist? I make all kinds of stuff!!! ❤️❤️❤️☮️
Ann Mozdzer 5 years ago
Absolutely astounding ,I thought the page had drifted when I saw the chicks,such excellent work :)
Lady on the Grey 5 years ago
Your creations are beautiful! I'm glad you spoke up about scam, I am unique items designer too, I know how hard it is to see your work stolen! You should open Etsy shop (nice place for selling unique handmade stuff). Kitten and bat are my favorites <3 Good luck!
Kathryn Good Robinson 5 years ago
I have been intrigued by felting for some time and eager to try it. I am a crocheter so am swamped by projects. Your work is amazing - beautiful, so life-like. You are a true artist. Sorry for your problems with scammers. Those who were scammed learned the lesson that if it looks to good to be true it probably is.
Kathryn Good Robinson 5 years ago
I have been a crocheter for years but am intrigued with felting and eager to try it. Your work is absolutely amazing - beautiful - so incredibly life-like. You are a true artist. So sorry for your troubles with the scammers but the scammees will have learned the lesson that if it is too good to be true it probably isn't.
Sylvia Watkinson 5 years ago
If you have not taken the order and payment you are under no obligation. The buyer must take it up with the scamming seller and where it was from.
Marylou Franck 5 years ago
Where can someone purchase one of these beautiful creations? Are you on Etsy or any other site?
Kristina Funkycrew 5 years ago
incredible work, so realistic! :) really liked the little hedgehog :)
Анна Ястрежембовская (Post author) 5 years ago
Thank you for posting, for your support and comments! Unfortunately I will not be able to answer all, it takes a long time,and I do not have time to track all the comments. But you can ask questions to my sister and assistant @timofeeva_kseny
Vicky Dudman 5 years ago
great talent. you need to inform the authorities that these people have been scammed with your product and get the fraud and consumers rights people involved. you are not responsible for the acts of others. did they use your name? if they did you may need to change the name of your company as it will forever be associated with this scam.
María Hermida 5 years ago
People should learn to be careful when they buy something through the Internet. There are lots of reputable sites; if somebody decides to buy in an unknown, untraceable, god-only-knows-where-it-is-located web page it's their problem! They should try to contact whoever sold the item, not you! Never sell your work for less than you think it's worth! Your little creatures are wonderfully cute! I love them!
metalinangelo 5 years ago
Thank you for putting your voice out there!!!! Always and forever your Fan!
Chris Branton 5 years ago
Amazing, words fail me, so intricate and detailed, no wonder each one takes so long
Chris Branton 5 years ago
They are amazing, so beautiful and detailed, no wonder it takes ages to finish them!
Sharon Singleton 5 years ago
First, let me say that your creations are amazing! I am sorry that some horrible person is using your pics to steal from people. That is in no way your responsibility. These people should have the info from the person they ordered from. They need to report this person for fraud. It is sad that they got scammed, but again that is not your fault or responsibility.
metalinangelo 5 years ago
we are hunting all 8 stores currently down. its non of annas fault . why some people think it is? the opposite. she helps us expose them a lot.
Load More Replies... Deirdre Ross 5 years ago
Beautiful! Just Beautiful! You are NOT responsible for other people's mistakes. Concentrate on your art and business.
Sharon Singleton 5 years ago
First, let me say that your work is amazing!! They are all beautiful, and the hedgehog is too adorable!! It is sad that someone stole your pics, and used them to steal from people, but that is not your responsibility. These people should still have the info from where they ordered from. They need to contact THAT person, and report them for fraud.
Catherine Hankinson 5 years ago
They are beautiful. What happened wasn't your fault at all. The customers need to take it up with the site they ordered from. Good luck in the future xc
Katinka Min 5 years ago
This is the first time I read about this kind fo scam and it really made my heart run cold. Oh my God, the poor artist!!!!! I agree with Sardonic scribe, though. To expect this for 20 when it's more like 200 bucks is ludicrous.
Misty Miley 5 years ago
Such talent! I want them all! Except the spider, you can keep the spider
Kanga9ine 5 years ago
Beautiful work. I can see the hours spent in the detail and personality of each creature. It would be hard for me to let any of them go. That little bat will dissolve any fears people may hold about bats. Right along with Stellaluna. And that hedgehog stole my heart. What a great gift you were given and lucky for us you shared it.
thepotatogirl 5 years ago
All of these are so cute!!!!! Hopefully when I have money I can buy one because THEY ARE SO CUTE!!!!!
C H 5 years ago
I love felted wool animals and yours are amazingly beautiful and life-like. I'm sorry you had a negative experience with getting your work out to the public. I hope you will continue to produce and sell your work. Our beloved family pet hamster - a Syrian black bear hamster- died just yesterday (big things truly can come in small packages). I would like to one day commission someone to do a felted animal in her likeness. I'm sure there are many others out there who would wish to memorialize their pets as well. Good luck to you.
CraftyMiss 5 years ago
I just want to say that your work is AMAZING!! So beautiful & lifelike!! I would love to purchase one if your bats, but I do understand that they take ages to make, and I probably couldn't afford one if I paid for the time it took to make one. Not that they aren't worth it, because they are, I just couldn't that's all. Keep up your amazing work! You're very talented!
Jackson Allinder 5 years ago
They look so realistic, I love the cat one but it looks the least realistic even though it looks realistic, but the porkipine looks so buetiful
GiantSpaceTiger 5 years ago
So expressive! Beautiful! The skill displayed is remarkable and those photographs of that blue bird are heartstopping!
Zaheen Muhammad 5 years ago
Fantastic work. You can barely make out that they aren't real. I absolutely loved all of them. Please continue doing what you already are and I think Disney should hire you. Things like these should do wonders for CGI.
Pretty Pangolin 5 years ago
Just keep doing what appeals to you and don't worry about making lots of bats - you're under no obligation just because someone decided to make a quick buck. I see that each of your photos has a watermark - that's a good step. Love these figures, by the way!
Gianna Galli 5 years ago
Charge exactly what you deserve, quit your day job you're way to talented not to be making art full time!!
sharron lynn parsons 5 years ago
To say I am impressed is an understatement, incredible talent, the first photo of the bat I actually thought real. !!!
Thelildupling 5 years ago
Your talented. I love the fact that you can make so many good things! Hope that you can make more nice and cool things. I hope some day I can make something as good as you! I love the fact that you are such a good person! Much love from Indiana.
Christina Uhlir 5 years ago
Wool equals cruelty!!!!! Please, please choose different material for your art.
Emmy 5 years ago
I’m confused. Did you have an Etsy shop with incorrect price? I can’t imagine feeling an obligation if someone was selling on your behalf and you never received money! The toys are amazing BTW!
metalinangelo 5 years ago
people stole the images and ''sell'' them in their shops. now what do they sell, without having the actual product.. let me tell you that i got scammed: NOTHING. we are hunting them down now.
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