It was quite a revelation when I discovered that I preferred curved lines over straight. Then I understood why I preferred appliqu to piecing. This way you don't overwhelm yourself with too many pattern pieces or colors or prints. You only need about six fabrics. Fuse another fabric to the back side of the Warm and Natural, completely covering the batting.
Satin stitch the critter.
Attach gold cording to the middle of the top of the ornament to use as a hanger. Sew the shoulder seams. Cut out the lining and sew it together. Pin the lining and the outer shell together. Make bias binding and sewing the edges together from the lining side of the vest.