Hallmark sat down with Emma to discuss her Tufted Titmouse ornament releasing in March this year. Enjoy!

The inspiration for the 18th in series ornament was a collaboration between Emma and retired Keepsake Artist Edythe Kegrize. Emma said, “the Tufted Titmouse was a sketched design that Edythe had already finished before retiring. From there, it was my responsibility to make sure I kept with Edythe’s vision while sculpting. In that way, it was kind of like an extra step of practice before taking over the series completely.” We can’t wait to see where Emma’s takes this series in the future! Do you agree?

When Emma mentioned she brought Edythe’s vision to life while sculpting, we had more questions and Emma answered! Of her process, she mentioned, “it was sculpted entirely digitally! Which is always a bit tricky when starting from a 3D sketch, but not really anything new for Keepsake artists.”

Though ‘tricky’ in Emma’s words, we think she brought Edythe’s sketch to life beautifully. Emma’s favorite part of the process is when she can start adding color. Emma said, “the bird really ‘comes to life’ when colors come out. The gloss on the eyes is one of the last small details and it’s like the cherry on top!” Could not agree more, Emma!

Of taking over this beloved series, Emma said, “it’s exciting AND a little nerve-wracking taking this super well-loved series, and now that I have, my life has gotten even birdier!” Did you know Emma has pet birds of her own? She sure does! She said, “besides having my own, now I’m thinking of future concepts and different birds. I keep a folder on my computer quickly filling with ideas, like an aviary inside my head.”

Emma laughed and said, “although I don’t have to worry about vacuuming up birdseed in my head like I do with my real pet birds.” Ha!

What do you think? Will you be adding this 18th in series to your collection when it releases in March this year? Let us know in the comments below!

Tufted Titmouse
The Beauty of Birds
18th in the series.

Hallmark Keepsake Ornaments. “Behind the scenes with Emma Leturgez-Smith’s Tufted Titmouse” Keepsake Ornament Club Facebook Page, January 28, 2022. https://www.facebook.com/groups/KOCMembers/posts/3061487247424612