Coonhound Creative Concepts

Get ready… it’s almost here! 🐾✨

I just completed my first test stitch of the GRLS 14-Year Anniversary design—and I’m really excited about how it’s coming together!

As part of the process, I always do a test stitch on a fabric similar to what I’ll use in production. For this one, I grabbed a lightweight, stretchy long-sleeve knit jacket (Tek brand). Since my main goal was to evaluate the stitch design itself, I kept the setup simple—using two layers of tear-away stabilizer (the material used on the inside of the garment to support the stitching). Normally, I’d use a more structured, leave-in stabilizer, but this gave me a quick way to test performance.

Good news—I love how it turned out!
I did make one adjustment: the stars. The satin-style stitch felt a little too raised and prone to snagging, so I switched to a flatter stitch—similar to what’s used in the golden—which gives it a cleaner, more durable finish.

Next up: one more test run… after I give my trusty machine a little TLC. She’s due for some oil, a good dusting, and a bit of love before we get into production mode. 😊

About the design 💛

This piece started from my Angel concept. There will be two versions:

✨ Angel version (with halo)

🐾 Hero version (no halo)

The tagline: “Honoring Heroes – Inspiring Hope”

Every year, as we celebrate more and more birthdays—all of our Heroes now in double digits (11 is the youngest, I think!)—I feel an incredible sense of hope. Our thriving seniors may hold the key to understanding what helps them live longer, healthier lives compared to the heroes we’ve lost.

This design honors all of our heroes—past and present.

And the added line, “Together for the Goldens,” speaks directly to this amazing community. Fourteen years in, and we’re still here—supporting one another, celebrating the breed, grieving together, and building something truly special.

Once finalized, this design will be available on my usual garments—and maybe a few new ones, like the knit I shared earlier. 👀

What do you think?

Thank you to everyone who supported my business and fundraising items for the Golden Retriever Lifetime Study. Since my business is officially on hiatus until July 31st, I thought I would take the opportunity to do my calculations and make my donations to the GRLS today. I'm happy to announce a donation in the amount of $250 dollars has been made directly to the Golden Retriever Lifetime Study PLUS a matching $250 will be made! (I did cover the processing costs for this donation as well.).

Thank you, everyone, who loves my GRLS gear, who wears it proudly and continues to share "the good golden word", as I say, about the study and its relevance and importance to our pups as well as future canine generations. I appreciate each and every one of you.

Hug your pups and enjoy your summer!!

Deb

PS - stay tuned to my page. I'll be figuring out some new designs, new ideas, and sharing some fan-favorites throughout the month of July!!