Art Doll Blog of Rivkah Mizrahi

One Block at a Time

2012-01-31T08:51:00.000-08:00

I'm finally getting back to a project that I began in late 2006/early 2007, when I lived in Israel... A vintage-inspired peacock quilt.

Here's how it looks so far:

Here is a close-up of one block (the one my husband says is his favorite!)

This quilt is based on a vintage photo of a quilt that I stumbled upon accidentally several years ago. I have no idea who made it or when, but I was so intrigued that I felt I HAD to have the pattern for the blocks. It was quite difficult to figure out! I can actually remember sweating during the process!
I am so glad I did it though, but I will be even more happy if I can finish this quilt once and for all :-)

Here is the original photo:

My quilt will call for 8 blocks per color: 4 left-facing and 4 right-facing.
Back in 2007, a few people helped me make a few blocks. I don't know how long it will take me to make all these blocks by myself! But I will try.

Now that it's on the wall, it inspires me to work on it... one block at a time!

Dolls on the Subway

2012-01-11T11:55:00.000-08:00

There is a DOLL CLUB in Manhattan!

Thanks to Tonya of painted threads, I learned that there is a doll club at a NYC quilt shop called The City Quilter.
The doll club is picking up again this Sunday after having been inactive for a while due to a store expansion/renovation. I've never been to this quilt shop or any craft shop since I moved to NY earlier last year. I hope this will finally be the start a new burst of creativity for me in the Big Apple. I'm really looking forward to this... it has definitely been long overdue.

Here's a thought:

I'm used to packing my dolls and "stuff" into the back of my car, and bringing it all along to meetings. But I've never thought of bringing everything on the subway before (!)
I'm looking forward to it... but I don't know about bringing dolls on the subway(???)
Should I bring a doll? What do you think?
Up the stairs, down the stairs...
Shlepping and shlepping.....

This should prove to be a new experience indeed!

Oh, I've still got a lot of "getting used to it" to do! :-)

I'm so excited!

2012-01-10T08:15:00.000-08:00

Wow!
I can't believe the response yesterday. I offered three Tikvah patterns for half price because of a goof I made, yet there was so much interest that I added more.
You guys made me feel so inspired!

I can't believe how the dollmaking community has grown since I hopped on the bandwagon in the early 2000's. It's just amazing. Doll makers are the BEST!

I've decided to offer ALL patterns at half off until the end of January.

I am going to pull out the sewing machine and start making something today. I finally got the push I need, thanks to you! Creativity's abound !

Thank you again, everyone!

The back burner

2012-01-09T08:05:00.000-08:00

Dollmaking has been on the back burner for a while, but after two years I am FINALLY finished with school..... with good grades!
I finally see the light at the end of the tunnel.
I am looking for an accounting job, I have a couple of leads and an interview today, actually.
I can't believe I did this.

Honestly I can't wait until this part of my life and all the work I've done comes to fruition.
The dolls are calling my name, and I can hear them.

Once I get settled I am going to set up a hobby space at home and start creating again.
I can't wait!!!! I can feel the dolls in the air!

My husband is in for a surprise :-)

Tikvah Doll

2012-01-09T07:55:00.000-08:00

I made a mistake in my Etsy shop and added 3 extra Tikvah patterns.
I'd rather not waste the fees.... so I'm offering the pattern at half price.
If you would like to try her out, visit my etsy shop and grab her for $5.
This is a great pattern with lots of new techniques.

The direct link to the pattern is here.

I know I'm overdue for a new doll.... she's my latest and greatest for now though :-)

Happy New Year and Happy Dolling everyone!

Whimsical Oscar Wilde painting

2011-11-17T06:26:00.000-08:00

This is an oil painting that I made a little over 4 years ago. I have always been an Oscar Wilde fan, and I was in a scintillating mood...

More details are here

I like whimsical things. It really brings out the wit in me. How about you?

Art in Odd Places Festival - NYC

2011-10-05T07:15:00.000-07:00

My husband came out of the bathroom laughing this morning. He was listening to the news in there, and apparently there is an art show happening in Manhattan this weekend.

Of all things, a woman wants to walk a goat down 14th street. Wow.

That got me thinking. It's certainly been a while since I 've run into any "artsy fartsy" stuff, now that I'm out of my element and into the big city. But the goat "exhibit" got my attention.

I must admit, things are different here. I suppose a lot of it has to do with the fact that I now live in a [typical] small NY apartment with less than half the space to create than I'm used to. I also set my mind to finishing a degree in accounting, which will be done in December. But I also believe that my artistic mindset has actually shifted somewhat. When you think of art in NYC, I believe that people think mainly of paintings and classic art forms, and less of "crafty" art like doll making (and goats!) I don't want to comment on this woman's form of artistic expression, but I can't wait to get back to creating in my own medium. And like my husband, I did get a nice little chuckle this morning!

Art In Odd Places Festival Invades 14th Street - WNYC Culture

Earthquake!

2011-08-23T13:25:00.000-07:00

This afternoon I was standing in my kitchen, when suddenly everything around me started to wibble-wobble.
Earthquake!
I said to myself, "Oh I'm from Seattle. I've been through an earthquake before. I hope it stops... let's see, what should I do? Go under a table? Stand in a door frame?

Then I realized I'm in Brooklyn, NY!

Everything was shaking and a floor lamp nearly fell over. The pictures on the walls shifted. It started getting scary but then the thing ended pretty much just as quickly as it started. I realized I wanted to go outside but I wasn't dressed! Who would ever have thought- an earthquake in NYC?

I called my mom who lives in Florida. According to her, they were just "missed" by a major hurricane, so guess who is probably going to get it by next week?
Woo hoo!

Truth be told, I wanted to report about some new art in the works. I am off from "school" and start my last quarter in the end of September. I'll be totally done in December and hopefully I will have much more time to create! But for now, I'm catching up on some things and plan to get started on a new project - my first one since I've been in NY. For me, it will be truly "earth shattering!"

I'll keep you posted!

New Pattern

2011-08-17T16:43:00.000-07:00

I've listed a really really cute (and unusual!) pattern called the Dreidel Maidel in my Etsy Shop.

This pattern was designed for Hanukkah, but it can easily be adapted as an ornament.
It's very special and would make a great centerpiece or a fabulous gift. Imagine the possibilities!

I know, I know, it's still August. But if you are anything like me, time to plan and get the wheel in motion is needed!

Have fun and I hope you'll try this doll :-)

How to make doll hair and a "curling iron"

2011-08-08T17:31:00.000-07:00

Recently, Rosa Maria from Portugal asked me a great question about doll hair.

She bought my 'Orianna' beginner sewing patten, but she had a bit of a problem.

For this type of doll, the mohair is wefted into the cloth doll head with a special needle that has little barbs in it, like this:

Maria lives in Portugal, and doesn't have access to this type of mohair, so she asked me what to do. This is actually a great opportunity to get even more creative! You don't need fancy doll mohair. Just use some good quality yarn- wool, if you can get it- and curl it yourself. It's really a lot of fun.
Here's how:

1. Unravel and untwist the yarn. It will be kind of frizzy.

2. Heat a knitting needle or metal tube in the oven on a low temperature. The smaller the doll's head, the narrower the needles. If you want Shirley Temple sausage curls, use thicker ones.
3. Carefully remove them from the oven. They should be hot to the touch but not so hot that you burn your fingers. (If they burn your skin they will burn the fibers!) If possible, wear cotton gloves.

You have just created miniature curling irons for dolls!

3. Wrap the hair around the knitting needle, and hold in place as you would in the hair salon ^*^

Different fibers and sizes will produce different results.
The main thing is...you don't need to spend a lot of money to make great hair for your doll. It will be unique and will really make the doll yours!

Next time, I will talk about dye, and what works on mohair, and what doesn't. There is a whole science to it!

Catching Up

2011-08-03T16:50:00.000-07:00

Well, it's certainly been quite a while!
The last time I posted anything was back in March. It's now the beginning of August and I have transitioned into life in the Big City... Brooklyn, NY.
I am very happy that I met the love of my life and got married... however I'm still trying to adjust to Brooklyn. It's possible that I never will, but I don't look back and I have no regrets. I do miss Seattle and I definitely miss my artist loft in Everett, overlooking the water and the mountains, with 15' ceilings and tons of natural sunlight. Now I have sirens and incredible noise all day long, and the blinds are shut coz it's too hot out and there is nothing to see anyway.

I'm finally finishing up my accounting degree and getting ready to study to sit for the CPA. I can hardly believe it. Trouble is, I nearly live at my kitchen table and have no motivation to make dolls at the moment. Where will I put them? My dolls are in boxes and my sewing machines and whatever art supplies I still have left are in storage. I suppose this stage will pass, and I'll get back to creating eventually. But for now, I'm still working on "getting settled." Updates again in the future... and thanks so much everyone for all the lovely notes here and there. There's nothing like an artist friend!

~Rivkah

moving and garage sale

2011-03-09T07:53:00.000-08:00

I am getting ready for my big move to NY, and I've decided to part with a few of my dolls. You know how attached we can get to our dolls... but I'm getting so tired of packing!

Darlene the Dancing Queen is available. I hope someone will snatch her up!

***************************

Update August 8, 2011

If you try the link above, it's not working because I had to take it down. I left Darlene in the Senior Center in Seattle but she refused to stay there. She put on her bunny slippers and walked from Seattle to Brooklyn and refused to comply with my orders. Whoops!

Got a kick out of this...

2010-12-27T14:49:00.000-08:00

This afternoon, Jonica purchased a doll pattern in my Etsy shop and left me the absolute best note of all time. I got such a KICK out of it.... I've got to share.
Here it is:

"I love your work!!! I have wanted to make a santa doll for many years, and your dolls have given me the kick in butt I have needed. Thank you!"

Jonica purchased the Tikvah doll Pattern. You can find her here if you are interested!
Thanks, Jonica, you made my day!

New Doll Coming Along (?)

2010-12-22T11:23:00.000-08:00

I started a doll today. Yeah!
I found this old photo...and it spun me around and lit off that light bulb for me. The perfect stepping stone.
It was kind of like seeing the inside of a very old house that needs a lot of work and a LOT of money. If you have the eye, you can fall in love with it and see the potential. This photo made my imagination go wild. It screams "Victorian." Perfect for a steampunk-themed doll.

Here's what I've got going on so far:

This is not good at all, so far. It needs a lot of work. The neck is too wide, the shoulders are all wrong, and I'm having trouble figuring out what to do with the bottom. I don't want a stump doll. Also don't want to make the legs in such a way that they wrap around the back of the torso to form the "seat." I'm a little stubborn and instead of making a doll, it looks like I am going to end up with a science experiment.

I'm building the doll on an old sculpting block. I like the shape of it. Although you're supposed to sculpt a head on it with clay, you'll laugh at what I'm going to do.

Here's the FRONT

This is the SIDE

As you can see, I've tied the torso onto the sculpting block. The sides are flat. I drew blue lines on the sides where I'm going to try to develop a "bikini line."

I'm going to take this pattern off and then use clay to build a "bottom" on the back of the sculpting block. (A tushie, I mean!) Then I'll figure out how to incorporate that into the torso pattern. I guess I'm thinking along the lines of a pair of undies filled in (?) I don't know what direction I'm going in. I think I'm just playing mercilessly. Hopefully not wasting time!

If this works out, I'll work on the torso and make it look more like that photo. As I said a second ago, this could be a complete waste of time and it might not work at all, but I want to make something totally "different." Stay tuned. I hope it will be worth it!

Magnetude

2010-11-12T21:31:00.000-08:00

Here is a great way to make a doll stand alone- NO hidden doll stands, no rods up the leg.
All you need is a super magnet!

These magnets are really, really small and super strong. You can fit them inside of a doll's foot, before you stuff the leg up full. NAIL a nail with a big flat head into a block of wood that you want to use as your stand, and WALLA! Your doll will stand unassisted.

Note, however, that you still might want to put an armature in the doll's legs so they don't get wobbly. Use a chopstick or some kind of bendy armature if you want to pose your doll.

I have never seen these type of magnets in a store, but you can find them in geeky gadgety online shops. Just google "strong magnets" or some such thing.

Have fun!!

Sweet Betty

2010-08-05T16:15:00.000-07:00

I finally [almost] finished my Betty. She has been a long time coming but definitely worth the wait. Life sometimes gets in the way between artist and art, and I have really come to accept that. I guess it's "part of life!" I rather like the way she turned out. Wouldn't you say?
You will notice that Betty still needs some shoes. That's okay. We like each other because we both like to go around the house with bare feet once in a while. Betty will get new shoes later.

I think she is as adorable as could be, with or without the shoes!

Chanukkah Dolls in July

2010-07-02T21:04:00.000-07:00

The new issue of Soft Dolls and Animals magazine just came out, and in it is my Draidel doll pattern. If you would like to make a doll for chanukkah, now is your chance!

If hair could kill...

2010-06-24T11:20:00.001-07:00

I am proud to present my latest work of art: A blowfish.

I think I will go gesso up this blowfish and paint it. Maybe it might become Betty Boop?

The "worst" doll I've ever made

2010-06-22T09:26:00.000-07:00

Here's what I've been working on lately.... this is actually a sneak peek of my Betty Boop doll (which I really hope to finish soon.) She has been waiting patiently on the back burner for quite a while. I guess she won't mind... isn't she creeping up on 80 years old?! :-) Not too bad for an 80-year old, wouldn't you say?

I fished copper beading wire through the hem on the bottom of the dress, right on the sides. This makes the sides fishtail outwards a little. That should give here some "boop be doop!"

Now it gets even better.... or worse I should say. I have never made a doll quite like this. Very, very bad! Don't show this to any of the boys!

This doll is too much fun, I gotta tell ya. I am almost done with Betty's head... but I think it would be wicked to make another body with some other head. It's just too much fun!

I had to "get creative" with the dress because her boobs are just so - well- you know. How was I supposed to make the dress stay up? I chose stretch knit fabric because has has a little lycra in it. I'm glad I did, because I literally had to s t r e t c h it over her boobs! And to be honest, they were so big I ended up using fabric glue to make it stay. (wonder what it would be like to have THAT problem... such problems Betty has. Naughty girl.)

If you would like to try this for yourself, a pattern is available. You can find it in my Etsy shop. Honestly, I think it's a great pattern, even if you make your own head that isn't Betty. Just don't get yourself into any trouble!

2010-05-09T10:18:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day!

Special for moms- Buy one doll pattern, get a second one free!

Today only! Visit my Etsy shop for the patterns, and come on

over to my Facebook Fan page to let me know what you

choose for pattern #2.

Happy dolling, moms!

Shirring

2010-03-31T22:54:00.000-07:00

Shirring is a great technique to spruce up any old fabric while adding some serious visual interest without a lot of effort. Think of it as "cheating surface embellishment."Here's how it's done:

•Just take a bit of your favorite plain Jane fabric, about 10" X 20".

•Set your sewing machine stitch length to "loosey loosey" (3.5 or 4, depending on your machine)

• Sew parallel, horizontal rows of stitching on the long side of the fabric, 1/8" apart.

• GATHER! Secure the threads on the” pulling side” to hold the shirring in place. Do this either by sewing a line across all the stitching, or by making knots in the thread.

The result: a visual playground of puffing between the lines!

If desired, use this technique on the front of your doll's dress bodice.

Alternatively, make a much larger sample- enough to fit all the pattern pieces of an entire dress, jacket, or whatever.

Go to town and use different colored thread if you like. You'll be amazed at how you can transform a simple fabric into something fantastic.

*This little tip is based on a tutorial from from the

Tikvah pattern. I hope you enjoy it! :-)

Dot's Booping Betty

2010-03-27T23:19:00.000-07:00

Today I would like to share with you an amazing Betty, created by Dot Lewallen of speediebeadie.
I am utterly flabbergasted at this work. She basically made her Betty out of beads! Isn't she remarkable? Dot says, "She's ready to boop, and so am I. Boop Boop-Be Doop!-"

Dot, I'm ready to boop with you.

Betty Booping Front View

Betty Booping Back View

Recently I sent out an email to everyone who purchased a Betty Boop pattern in recent months, asking for contest photos. The contest ends on March 31- technically. I say technically because this was so much fun, I just want this to keep on going.

Press here to see the Betty Campaign

Press here to get a Betty Boop Pattern

Dot, I've gotta tell ya- you have really outdone yourself. Thank you for sharing! I'm just thrilled.

Keep the photos coming, everybody!

I'm creating a Betty photo album on the Doll Makers Muse Facebook Fan page.

Betty goes PDF

2010-03-05T11:45:00.000-08:00

By popular demand, the Betty Boop pattern is now available in PDF format.
This is a vintage pattern that has been converted to PDF format, with an addendum for optional improvements and modifications by me. The original paper pattern is printed on on very large paper and quite cumbersome.
The PDF version is designed to be printed on 8-1/2" X 11" paper.
All of the original pattern pages remain intact, as well as the original text and drawings.

The addendum that shows you how to do the following:
• Make Betty's hair out of paperclay rather than yarn (with those fabulous Betty curls!)
• Harden the surface of the doll and make her look like porcelain (rather than making her out of felt)
• Pattern for improved hands is included (the original hands were not dainty- they look like "man hands!"
• Bonus- how to make perfectly mirrored eyebrows

Upon ordering, you will receive your PDF by email within 24 hours. The shop is closed on Saturday.

If you would like to enter her into a challenge, please visit my Facebook fan page to sign up.
The challenge will close in the end of March, but I will announce a new challenge in conjunction with Betty Boop fan sites in the near future.

So don't delay.... don't let them take your Boop away!

Tikvah is a Star

2010-02-25T21:02:00.001-08:00

And here she is...
My doll 'Tikvah' made it to the cover of the Spring issue of Soft Dolls and Animals Magazine by Scott Publications.
More to come!

Tikvah is a star

2010-02-18T16:22:00.000-08:00

Lucky day! I submitted my Tikvah Doll to a magazine, and apparently she made the front cover.
I don't know which issue it will be, so let's leave the rest a surprise!

The editor was nice enough to send me an "extra" photo of her. I love professional photos, don't you? I am so excited...

Tikvah is a great doll and she has a great pattern. If you'd like to try your hand, grab a pattern in my Etsy Shop!

The Tax Man

2010-02-07T19:51:00.001-08:00

Uncle Sam is interested in our craft businesses, yes, he is. And an interesting question just came up for me today. I took my sewing machine in for repair and maintenance this year, and the bill was over $250. Can I take a tax deduction for that ??? If so, I wonder how much of that amount Uncle Sam will let me have- and how it's calculated ???

The answer is... YES. And I can claim it all, regardless of the fact that the machine is already several years old. Thanks, Sam!

Bibbie

2010-01-31T15:57:00.000-08:00

Please meet Bibbie, the doll I created for the Traveling Doll Project. The thing I love about Bibbie the most right now is her tutti frutti hair. It has been floating around my stash for quite some time now (several years, actually), and I am so excited because I think it's a perfect starting point for her. What a personality it gives her, wouldn't you agree?

Bibbie was the name of my late grandmother's friend. One of the fondest memories of when I was a little girl (and my grandparents still lived in Brooklyn and hadn't retired and gone off to Florida yet), is of my grama and her friend with the funny name. They would talk in Yiddish ('Jewish' as they called it) and thought I didn't understand them. Maybe I didn't then, but I do now! Bibbie is a certain dialect of Yiddish that comes from "Boobie, " which comes from the Hebrew word "booba"- or doll. (not to be confused with Bubby- Yiddish for 'granny.') So Basically, Bibbie is Yiddish for Dolly. What a cute name, huh?

Bibbie is still completely undressed because I will be sending her through the mail to three other artists, who will interpret her according to what they see in her. She did mention that she's feeling a little co-wuld... she definitely needs some clothes. I hope she won't be too embarrassed if I show off her lovely "unshapely" body with love handles. She just had a knish for lunch and an extra helping bowl of matzo ball soup. I have to figure out what to make her for dinner. Something ge-shmock, I'm sure! (ge-shmock = 'delicious' in Yiddish.)

I know- maybe a tongue and mustard sandwich (yuck).

Here she is from behind. I think she has a very nice tooshie.

Bibbie is made of cloth with layers of different concoctions that make her skin smooth, durable, and shiny. Her eyes are made of polymer clay. I think she needs some eyelashes. Maybe one of the other ladies will give her some :-)

By the way:

Bibbie's body was made with my TIKVAH cloth doll pattern. Same doll, different hair and slightly different face. Grab a Tikvah pattern in my Etsy shop and try these wonderful techniques yourself :-)

THE JOURNAL
Along with the doll, I created a traveling journal to record Bibbie's travels.
It's sort of a "green" journal, made entirely of recycled materials.
The pages are made of grocery bags that were cut and ironed (yes, ironed), and the cover is watercolor paper that my daughter "went to town with." I let her play with my Holland watercolors one day, and so I had these gorgeous samples waiting to be used for something special.

I added some lace, trim, glass tiles and a few pretty beads. That was all! It was kind of time- consuming, but I like how it came out so it was worth the effort. It was a good experiment!

Here are a few different angle shots of the front cover

This is the first page of the journal. I just brushed gesso down on the paper. It will be very interesting to see how other people figure out how to do art on grocery bags!
The character in the middle is a "blob doll." She is a rubber stamped image that I stamped onto a piece of silk I pre-treated with fabric medium. (If you don't put fabric medium on fabric before stamping it, it could be blurry). I then sewed it to another piece of silk RST, cut it out, turned it, and made a sort of flattish "blob doll." I was into the rubber stamp thing, and I happened to have this odd doll parts stamp, so I figured, 'why not?'

This is the first "entry." It's a collage I made with fortune cookie thingies that I've been collecting (it's a jewish habit to eat chinese take-out on sunday) It says, 'Good things happen to those who make dolls.'

I think one of those fortunes says that I will be rich and famous one day. I will have to go get some more Chinese food just to make sure.

Well, there you have it. Tomorrow is post office day and Bibbie will be off to see the wizard.

I can't wait to see how she will look when she returns!

Colored Pencils for Cloth Doll Faces

2010-01-26T23:31:00.000-08:00

Recently I was asked, "What's your favorite colored pencil for cloth doll faces?"

Admittedly, this is like giving away my best secret ever. Here goes:

My absolute favorite pencil of all time is

LYRA Aquarell by Rembrandt.

These pencils can be bit hard to come by. I stumbled upon them when living in Israel. Most of their art supplies come from Holland or Germany.

The thing that makes these pencils so special is that they literally melt when coming into contact with water. What's more, they don't become watery as you would expect. It becomes kind of like paint, but it seeps right into the fabric immediately. When you spray the doll's face with water and color the pencil on, it works like magic. Shading is a dream with these pencils. I find myself dipping the white pencil in water and blending right over darker colors. I get wonderful results that I could never achieve with other pencil.

2010-01-26T12:15:00.001-08:00

Today I am working on the face for the doll I have created for the Traveling Doll Project.

The body is completely ready. It's been painted and varnished.
I felt that have too many "UFO" [Un Finished Object] heads lying around to make something new, so I decided to alter an existing head. I chose one that originally belonged to a doll whose body and clothing was ruined. This head has been rolling around my art desk for nearly two years!

I built up the nose a bit and hid the seams with paperclay. After it dries I will set in the eyes and then work on her skin: I'll use a hardening mixture, sand it, brush on a few layers of gesso, sand it some more, and then apply more paint again. The head already had a mouth, which looks fine, so it stays.

Here are the eyes I've made.

When this is done, I will post a photo of the entire doll as well as the journal I created for the doll's travels. That was made out of grocery bags.... you'd never believe it. But that is another story :-)

Cloth Over Clay

2010-01-22T11:50:00.000-08:00

Recently somebody asked about the "cloth over clay" method of making faces for cloth dolls.

This is a great technique where you sculpt a face from clay, sort of like a mask, and lay it on a flat doll head. When it dries, stretch fabric is laid over the clay. It really gives you artistic freedom in creating a beautiful face that looks like it is entirely made of cloth.

I just wanted to share a couple of pointers I discovered:

Rather than using fabric glue, you can use TEXTILE MEDIUM. It's more flexible than fabric glue, and it does not stiffen the fabric. The beauty of it is, you can brush it onto the OUTER SURFACE and use a tool to get into those hard-to reach crevices- like the lips, nose, and corners of the eyes. You can completely saturate the fabric and sort of "mold it" like clay. And as I just mentioned, it won't leave the fabric stiff. How cool is that?

Try it!

You can even use it when the face is already painted, and mix it with Pigment Powder as needed.

A good resource for learning how to do cloth over clay is a book by Antonette Cely, called Cloth Doll Making. This is a very technical book and should be in every doll maker's library.

If you would like an actual pattern with step-by-step photo instructions for this technique and the flat-faced head, I do have one. It's called Niamh. Your doll's face will turn out however you sculpt it! Cloth over clay is definitely a worthwhile technique to explore.

More Boop Progress

2010-01-21T12:53:00.000-08:00

I have been working (slowly but surely) on a cloth rendition of Betty Boop. I am up to detailing the head. I've decided to use paperclay to make Betty's hair, rather than yarn (which is what the pattern calls for). After all, she's got these wicked spiky curls and she is a cartoon....I want to keep her looking as true to the original as I can. The curls are done on pins, which support the curls and prevent them from breaking.

This is going to be time-consuming, and probably the most challenging part of the doll. But that is ok with me. I think it's worth the effort.

I also finished up her body. It's got several layers of hard coating and gesso, and painted with acrylic paint. I also put on high gloss varnish. I like the way she's coming out so far... (sorry for the nekkid doll photos, but this is art!)

I've made a few improvements to the original (70+ years old?) doll pattern, including changes to the hands and legs, and alternative techniques. If you would like to try your hand at making a Betty Boop doll, you can grab a pattern on my Etsy shop. Have fun and Boop Boop Be-Doop!

Send In The Clowns

2010-01-13T11:28:00.000-08:00

This is so heartwarming I just had to share!

Boop in Progress

2010-01-12T11:00:00.000-08:00

I got back to Betty this week and finally got her all stitched and stuffed. Here she is so far...

Side View

I have an old beaded purse that must be from Betty's time. It belonged to my Grandmother. I love this purse and I keep it in my drawer. It's one of those sentimental things, you know.... anyhow I can't decide what fabric to make Betty's dress out of and it hit me that beading would look great. I will try to mimic the pattern of the sequins and beads on the purse.The hair is definitely going to be a challenge. The pattern says to use yarn. I'm not so partial to that idea. Hmmmm...... what to do, what to do......

This project is definitely going to take me some time! I am happy with the way Betty is coming out so far. This is one of the "funnest" dolls I have ever made!

If you would like to make her too, you can find the pattern in my Etsy shop :-)

Have fun and Boop Boop Be-Doop!

Traveling Doll Project

2010-01-09T18:44:00.000-08:00

It's time for a challenge.... I'll be participating in a traveling doll challenge where I'm sending a completely b l a n k doll off to another artist in this collaboration, and whom will give her a little TLC hopefully and a little bit of spice and things that are nice and and and... I am still not sure exactly what I will send as I most definitely have a few headless dolls and flattish things that look like they may never be anything but might find life through the mail....

Details about the challege are here. I'll post photos on my blog along the way. First mailing is on or before 2/1/10.

TIKVAH is here

2009-12-29T13:37:00.000-08:00

The Tikvah Pattern is available!

Come grab it in my ETSY shop :-)

2009-12-29T10:33:00.001-08:00

End of the year sale!
$5 off all e-patterns in my Etsy shop.
Each one is over 50 pages long with tons and tons of pictures.

Have you been thinking about making a beautiful doll ?
Please do!

Betty's Making Headway!

2009-12-28T12:23:00.000-08:00

Betty's HEAD is without a doubt the most interesting part of the vintage doll pattern I have been working on. The head is made of a butterfly-shaped "pillow" which constitutes the face, and a completely separate "head back" which is sewn on separately by hand. That way, the face is flat and can lie on Betty's shoulders, and the back of the head will be round.

Here you can see the face, with the back of the head pinned on. Half of her neck is dangling! (Don't pay no never mind to her unfinished face... I mirrored the template and traced it to the wrong side of the fabric with a felt marker before sewing... I am saving the best for last ^*^)

BACK VIEW (before hand sewing and stuffing)

SIDE VIEW

When the back of the head is all sewn and stuffed, a dowel goes into the body neck. (The body does have a normal neck with a front and a back.) Then the whole thing rests on that, and the back part of the neck is sewn in place at the seam.

This pattern is like nothing I have ever seen before and I am learning new techniques from it. My mind is already giving me ideas of ways I can use this technique!

If you would like to make a Betty Boop doll and join my challenge, I will be thrilled to have you. I am thoroughly enjoying it! A link to the pattern is available on the sidebar.

Betty Boop Pattern

2009-12-27T14:44:00.000-08:00

I finally began working on the Betty Boop Pattern, and I have one thing to say so far... she's got MAN HANDS! They are not the dainty little hands that I imagine Betty should have.

I could probably manage by using a ladder stitch to manipulate the size after the hands are stuffed, but I decided to alter the pattern. I cut the hands off at the wrist (ouch!) and substituted them for something better.

Here are hands as they look sewn (but not stuffed). The hand on the left is the original, and the one on the right is my version.

I find it very interesting that the pattern is sold around the internet (I sell it as well, for the challenge). However I have never seen an actual doll that was made from the pattern!

Well, that's part of the challenge. I'm having fun with it. I'll upload the new hands and whatever other improvements I come up with when Betty's done.

Snuffy FUR

2009-12-23T21:32:00.001-08:00

Remember Big Bird's imaginary friend, Alyosius Snuffleupagus? What an amazing fur coat he had! It looks like part ostrich feather strands, part something else. I think it would be incredible fur... if I could figure out exactly what it is and where to procure the "ingredients." Does anybody out there know?

Art Doll- PRIVATE CONVERSATION

2009-12-20T15:20:00.000-08:00

I just listed a doll in my Etsy shop (a rare occurrence since I typically just sell patterns lately).

This is a new/old doll. The doll was made several years ago when I was living in Israel. I never made a doll quite like it before, and never again. This afternoon, I started thinking about it and I decided to take it out of storage. I immediately realized that she wants a new home.

So... please meet "Sihha Pratit," or 'Private Conversation' in Hebrew.
ABOUT THE DOLL:
This wall doll was created as a unique challenge to create a doll that reached inside of my emotions. I was surprised with the result!
Private Conversation is pronounced 'Sihha Pratit' in Hebrew. It is written on the doll's torso, in script lettering.

The doll is approximately 17" in length.

The face holds in it almost every emotion imaginable. Whenever I see it, I see something new. Depends what I'm thinking.

Sometimes the doll seems to be asleep- dreaming. What is the dream about?

Sometimes I think the doll is engaged in deep thought. Something troubling is amiss. Is it strength or vulnerability?

Is the doll engaged in prayer? Maybe meditation- connecting to its inner self? Or perhaps emptying all thoughts for that moment...

Perhaps this doll is feeling despair right now- All wrapped up and tightly woven like a cocoon. Then again, perhaps this is a sign of self- confidence.

The spiral motif throughout the design of the doll- the marbling on the fabric and stones, the random wire design, the beading and the wrapping of silk cording around the body- is it a symbol of replenishing a cycle, or of confusion and constriction?

The doll means all that to me and more.

In essence, It represents comfort. Because life has its ups and downs, and art is always there to help make it more tangible and less esoteric. The creative mind can deeply appreciate this.

Private Conversation is a fine representation of abstract art. It encompasses so many ideas and feelings, and has the potential to carry personal meanings to every viewer. A successful composition causes the viewer to think. This doll definitely falls into that category.

Calling Boopers

2009-12-14T10:22:00.000-08:00

Calling all Boop Challenge players.....

How are we doing?

If you need a pattern, email me at rivkah [at] dollmakersmuse [dot] com

Boop Boop-be-Doop!

Working Away

2009-12-08T16:32:00.000-08:00

I've been working diligently on the Tikvah pattern. I have to admit, I am a slowpoke. But it's going to be worth the wait and the effort :-) New ideas and funky techniques... it's going to be a goodie.

New pattern coming out soon

2009-12-07T13:21:00.001-08:00

I am now working on a new pattern: Tikvah.

Most of the text and illustrations are ready. I am shooting for this to be ready and available in the Doll Shop by the end of the week, or at the worst, next week. I am a slowpoke!

After the pattern is done, I am going to stop writing patterns for a while and focus myself on just making artwork. I've been playing with the idea of approaching a few local galleries and professional artist guilds in the Seattle area, but I keep making various excuses.....

Life can be full of excuses if you let it.

Vote for me!

2009-12-03T07:05:00.000-08:00

Please cast your vote for me!

Visit this website and look for my banner:

Draidel Maidel

2009-12-01T11:33:00.000-08:00

Chanukkah is coming! This year, I was inspired to create a doll to bring a little light and love to my home.

Here she is:

The Draidel Maidel.

The Draidel Maidel is a 14" cloth doll whose body is- you guessed it- a draidel. She holds a candle and she is ready to light the menorah and dance the hora!
She was a challenge to design- how to support her pointy draidel body on her legs? The solution was to create a sort of cradle. It worked out perfectly.

The Draidel Maidel is available as a pattern.

I should have started this project earlier, because Chanukkah is right around the corner. I didn't think of it until it was a little late- but not too late, of course! I have been working hard on this pattern for more than a month. There are 10 pages of clear step-by-step instructions with illustrations. You'll learn how to needle sculpt a face from the beginning, make beautiful eyes, and color a 3-dimensional face. This doll's face is made on white fabric, which makes it more challenging than on skin colored fabric.

If you would like a Draidel Maidel pattern, you can find her on my facebook page and in my ETSY shop. Chanukkah falls on 12/11/09 this year. There's still time to make a Draidel Maidel... remember, there are 8 days of Chanukkah!

Enjoy, and HAPPY CHANUKKAH!

Announcing the Boop Challenge!

2009-11-26T16:43:00.000-08:00

BETTY BOOP CHALLENGE

What would Betty look like if she were booping around in 2010?

Let's find out!
This challenge is intended to make us stretch our imagination. Take an old familiar cartoon character and find out what she will look like when you make her. Who is the 'Real Betty' anyway? Will she even look like Betty? I think my doll needs to wear some clothes. I'm going to teach her a lesson!

Use a vintage sewing pattern to make a 19" Betty. Interpret her as you wish. I have never made this pattern before but I cannot wait to try it.... and I really want to see how other people do!

The pattern, dates, and RSVP information are available on my FACEBOOK PAGE.

Please join the challenge, and Boop Boop be-Doop!

Rivkah in Wonderland

2009-11-26T00:18:00.001-08:00

I am blessed to live about two blocks from a beautiful lake. Early just about every morning, rain or shine, I walk there . The best part is, since the time of year is right and I go so early, it isn't unusual for me to have the entire place to myself. I often let my imagination go completely wild.

Look at what I found today.... magic mushrooms! These mushies are so big, they must be at least a foot tall.

What I'm wondering is... where are all the fairies?!

Make a "Splash" with Doll Photography

2009-11-25T09:34:00.000-08:00

I sometimes take pictures of my dolls in my bathtub!

The background is perfectly white with no wrinkles (which usually happens when I drape fabric in the background.)
No "seams lines" between the floor and the wall, either.

Using a floor lamp, I direct light on the opposite side of the tub for reflectance.

I set a desk lamp on the sink and direct light to the doll.

Silly as it may sound, it works great. I have to admit it's a bit of a challenge to get the camera in position, though.... but I'm creative so I deal with it.

Rub a Dub Dub!

2009-11-24T17:50:00.001-08:00

I came across a very wise and helpful article about "quitting your day job" for full time artistry. This past September, I quit my job. It wasn't because I was such a successful artist (at least not financially successful). I was miserable at my job for a long time and I have a supporting husband.

One day there was a straw that broke the camel's back, so quitting just sort of happened. It felt good, but the plunge into the world of art plus schedules and money making ideas has not been peaches and creme. But I think this article really hits home. Wouldn't it be nice if we could all be artsy fartsians and make a great living doing what we love? I'm trying ^*^

Leave a comment if you are living the dream!

Custom Dolls SALE

2009-11-22T22:33:00.000-08:00

Would you like a custom doll to give yourself or a friend as a gift?

Send me a photo and I will make something real cute for you for a great price. Order now for the holidays! Please visit my Etsy Shop for more information!

Dolls with Soul

2009-11-21T22:48:00.001-08:00

I recently came across a quote that I love:
"Doll Artists aim to produce dolls which are the mirror of their souls. A doll produced with this intention is never a cold and lifeless object. It may show mistakes and defects in proportion and workmanship, but it "lives."
~ Hildegard Gunzel

Hey Boobie!

2009-11-20T13:25:00.000-08:00

I'm getting very annoyed by Facebook's big boobie ad on my fan page and everywhere else I go. Am I the only one seeing it? It's an ad for a game with 5 million thousand players, and the game has big boobies. If I want big boobies I'll put them on a doll and get a laugh. I say facebook should take that big boobie ad and put it where the sun don't shine!

Tee hee!!!!!!!!!!

Iris Map

2009-11-18T17:10:00.001-08:00

Here is a sneak peek at a new doll pattern that's almost at the finish line.

It's a map of how to shade the iris of the eye......

Show off Dolls

2009-11-15T10:52:00.000-08:00

Just showing off my student's work....These dollies are from a private "FUNdamentals of Cloth Dollmaking" class, and are a first try for two of the ladies who participated in the group. They are not quite done yet... but they are definitely ready to be shown off, don't you think? Bravo!

Lily Bean

2009-11-10T13:00:00.000-08:00

You may have noticed that I have a new twitter page with a customized background. I am as pleased as punch. If you tweet, you know that custom backgrounds can be for the birds if you don't know how.
To my great fortune, I found a delightful shop on Etsy created by a delightful and talented graphic designer named Dana. Her shop is Lily Bean Designs.
Dana created a perfect background with my logo on it (something absolutely mysterious to me) and her price was so reasonable even a doll artist could afford it ;-) She also created my new Etsy Doll Shop Banner. It was such a treat, I tell ya.
If you need graphic design help, contact my new friend Dana. You'll be glad you did!

How to make a cloth body look like it's sculpted from clay

2009-11-08T14:13:00.000-08:00

Here's a great tip to take your cloth dolls to the next level: Make it into a true sculpture by filling in the seams.

SIDE VIEW

MATERIALS NEEDED
1) Assembled Cloth Body
2) Paperclay
3) Water
4) A stiff brush
5) Fabric Glue
6) Gesso
7) Paint (skin color)
8) fine sandpaper

TECHNIQUE
1) apply glue to area that you want to fill with paperclay.
For example, where the arms / legs are attached to the torso, or any needle sculpted areas where you want to hide puckering and stitches. The glue makes the paperclay stick. Otherwise, it can fall off.

2) Shape the paperclay between your fingers and put it into the area you are filling. You'll want to add paperclay wherever you have an asymmetrical imperfection or where something doesn't look quite right. For me, this is particularly helpful on the feet.

3) Dip your brush into the water and go over the paperclay until it is nice and smooth. Allow to dry.

4) Paint the doll with at least 2 layers of gesso, sanding in between.
5) Paint the doll with acrylic paint.

Hint: You can try this technique on the doll's head. If your needle sculpting is wanting, or you want to define the nose or raise the cheekbones, go for it. You'll be glad you did!

Get it while you can!

2009-11-06T11:35:00.000-08:00

Suprise! Just found out that my favorite fabric (PIMATEX PARFAIT by ROBERT KAUFMAN) is permanently discontinued. This fabric is fabulous for cloth doll bodies. Love the color, love the weave, love it love it love it. Time to start stocking up! If you love this fabric as much as I do, better get it while it lasts.

Helping Hand from Heaven

2009-11-05T08:34:00.001-08:00

This morning a friend from Israel shared a photo of a sunset from last night. It looks like a hand coming down from Heaven. The photo was taken in the city of Tzfat, where I used to live.
I think this is so beautiful, I just had to share it. It calms me, and it's so warm and fuzzy, you know... I needed that hand today. It gave me the inspiration to move forward on a doll project that I just kept blocking myself from even starting. I'll get right to work!

Hoffman Challenge 2010

2009-11-04T14:56:00.000-08:00

Each year, doll makers and quilters enter the wonderful Hoffman Challenge. The rules are pretty simple: Use the designated fabric and have fun!
Here is the fabric for 2010:
Here are this year's winners (click on the photos to enlarge):

Arley Berryhill

Deanna Hogan (love her!)

Wendy Oxman

Simply wonderful dolls!

And here are the Challenge details.

Are you up for the challenge? I'm going to try!

Jewelry for dolls (and people)

2009-11-03T09:59:00.001-08:00

I deviated a little. I made a charm bracelet for my sweetheart daughter Khassy. It was an experiment of sorts, and great fun. Click on the images to enlarge.

To make the bracelet, I cut glass and put some metal leaf with a print-out of a word on the surface of one square, let it dry, and sandwiched it together with sterling silver solder (pronounced 'sotter.') I made my own "links" with sterling silver wire that has copper inside.

These are the tools I used:

GLASS (Not shown. I just used ordinary glass. Next time you break a glass, you might be able to use it!)

GLASS CUTTER

TOOL TO BREAK OUT GLASS (after scoring with glass cutter)

SOLDERING IRON

COPPER TAPE

FLUX (This goes on the copper tape or the solder will not stick.)

SILVER SOLDER

JEWELRY WIRE sterling silver with copper inside- to make links

JUMP RINGS to connect the charms (and a clasp, not shown)

DIAMOND FILES (for grinding sharp glass edges and finishing the silver solder. These are awesome tools. One is square and the other is round, and they are very strong. Much better than any kind of sandpaper!)

A WHOLE LOT OF PATIENCE (each one of these charms takes me about an hour to make.)

I had a good time deviating from sewing, painting and sculpting. It felt good to play with a different medium, especially something like silver. As I mentioned, each charm was very time consuming, so I don't think I will keep making bracelets... only one special bracelet for my special daughter. But I will try using these charms as a centerpiece for an art doll. I can almost see it now. I think it's a great idea!

If you would like me to make customized charms for you, I will be happy to. The Diamond files are hard to find, and I will offer them as well. I'll post this up on my Etsy shop later today.

Incredible Doll Story

2009-11-01T18:49:00.000-08:00

Check out this "ball" hosted by one of the wonderful doll groups I belong to- Art Dolls Only.
There was a quarterly challenge calling for Halloween - inspired dolls. I didn't make one, but I was thoroughly impressed with what this group did with all the pictures of the dolls.
Check it out here. Isn't it awesome?
Just look at what fun a bit of teamwork can do!
I definitely hope to participate in the next challenge.

TIKVAH

2009-10-30T09:17:00.000-07:00

Please meet TIKVAH, an 18" cloth doll with inset eyes and a lovely smile.

TIKVAH got her name because she reminds me of a dear old friend I left behind in Israel, whose name is Tikvah.

'Tikvah' is a Hebrew word meaning 'hope," and a very pretty name. This new doll is my hope for inspiration. Now that the doll is completed, I've begun writing the pattern. I hope to release it in a couple of weeks.

PROFILE

PROFILE CLOSE UP

Tikvah's face is needle sculpted with inset eyes made of polymer clay. A tutorial for this technique can be found here.
The surface of her skin is hardened with a mixture of gel medium and soft modeling paste, gesso, and a layer of paint. Go here to learn more about this technique.
Hard to believe this is a true cloth doll!

She is built on a wire armature and stands alone. Her costume is intricitely embellished and has layers of different textures to draw attention.

I think Tikvah's smile is extremely charming. Don't you?

Boop boop be Doop

2009-10-20T08:32:00.001-07:00

I couldn't resist buying this vintage pattern on Etsy today. I'm not so crazy about Betty's skimpy attire but I am extremely curious to find out how the doll's body pattern comes out. And that head~ this I gotta see.

EMBEADERED dress

2009-10-12T16:01:00.000-07:00

My dress skirt is just about done. I used seed beads and employed a technique I like to call "Embeadery." Basically it's embroidery with beads, and it really adds a nice touch to doll clothes. It is definitely time consuming but a great way to spend your valuable time whilst relaxing in front of the TV ;-)

"EMBEADERY"

DETAILING around the edge of the skirt

There is actually a great book available with tons of stitches from everything to mandalas to fern, ivy and flowers- all beads on fabric. It's one of my absolute favorites.
I love this book because it gives you step-by-step instructions on how to do all the stitches, and it's really easy to choose a few stitches and incorporate them on your dolls. The name of the book is EMBEADERY by Margaret Ball. Click the picture to see more details about the book. I really like this book and highly recommend it if you want to get some great ideas. The book is a bit more expensive than your average soft covered craft book, but it is twice the size and just SO well worth it. I absolutely ADORE this book.

Another fabulous book is Creative Cloth Doll Beading by Patti Culea.

Patti shows you some great ideas and there is a gallery of dolls with embeadered dollies. She shows you examples of fairies and mermaids that don't have too much clothing necessarily, but the bodies are decorated with beads and bits of fabric. For example, mermaid tails and the like. There are even some dolls whose faces are created with beads alone.

Both these books are sure to inspire you if you want to try beading on your dolls.

Flower skirt

2009-10-05T16:59:00.000-07:00

Can you guess what this is?
It is part of my new doll pattern.
I won't keep you in suspense.... it is part of the skirt of the doll's dress. I am going to add a picot of beads on the bottom scallops, and then sew it up, gahter the top, and add it to the bodice. My idea is that it will poof out like an upside-down flower. Do you think it will work? I can't bead as quickly as I would like, but I will try to move a little faster now that I actually know what I am going to do!

Confessions of a Dress Maker

2009-09-30T16:40:00.001-07:00

Earlier this month, I posted about a new pattern I have been tossing around in my mind, and it's been quite some time in the works. I am pleased to finally be able to say that I've made some major progress after struggling with the dress. I don't know about you other doll makers out there, but garments are the most time-consuming, labor-intensive thing for me. This is especially true when I am working from scratch without a pattern to guide me and tell me what to do. I know it's my own shortcoming, but I inevitably always blame it on the doll's sassy personality! It's always her fault, and she always gets dressed on her own terms- whenever she's good and ready! What hutzpeh, eh?

Now that that's behind me, Check out her lavish new coat of many colors, made of silk and [believe it or not] upholstery fabric. I got the silk from Pamela Armas a couple of years ago, when I intended to participate in (but missed out on) an annual "Treasures of the Gypsy" challenge. It's been a while. But the fabric was too pretty and the doll really wanted it.
Look look look... oo la la!
Front View
(Yes, I know we are missing something for the time being....but it allows the scallops of the coat to show.) It was a random idea I had and I love the way it turned out. The combination of fabrics allows the coat to hold the shape and flairs very nicely.

The next order of business here is going to be the doll's skirt. I want some type of renaissance-looking thing that "poofs out." I imagine an old-fashioned "bird cage" type thing to go underneath the skirt, to hold it in place.
Here's a rough sketch of what I am envisioning. Click on the image to enlarge. When it shrunk down, it became very light.

This "hoop apparatus" will be part of the pattern. Looks like tomorrow will be hardware store day. Once the skirt is complete, I'll embellish the costume and give her a face. She will probably be a whimsical lady although she is still on the fancy side. I still have not decided what color her hair will be. I guess she will tell me when I get that far. I think I am over the "hump" now, but I bet there is still a ways to go.

If you are interested in this pattern and would like to be notified when it is ready, you may visit my website and use the "contact me" button to send me a message to that effect. I will add your name to my "pattern friend" list. When the pattern is ready, I will be sure to let you know. I promise, it will be well worth the wait!

Etsy Sellers and Buyers

2009-09-14T08:46:00.000-07:00

Do you buy instant download doll patterns? Are you an Etsy seller?

I contacted Etsy to ask if they would accommodate us "instant gratification" people... I explained that it would be so much easier to have an instant download option rather than having to email files, links and passwords. I actually got a reply:

"What a great idea! Thanks for sharing your suggestion with us. I will pass this along to the appropriate team here at Etsy."

So, we'll see... maybe it will come to be. That would be great, don't you think?

I would lose my head if it weren't attached to me!

2009-09-10T14:47:00.000-07:00

My mother used to joke that she would lose her head if it wasn't attached to her. Now I joke that way about my own occasional forgetfulness. But this poor doll needs clothes!

Don't worry, sweetheart- no need to hold your head in your hands. A beautiful silk jacket is on the sewing table.

New pattern and instructions for a new beginner doll pattern on the way! Stay posted and watch her evolve.

This doll is going to be gaw-jess.

Updates Shmupdates

2009-09-07T16:00:00.000-07:00

Changed blog background instead of following through with outfitting a new doll... must step away from computer and hide it.

Interview about ME!

2009-09-01T19:52:00.000-07:00

I was recently interviewed by a local online journal... how cool is that? I am so excited!

You can see the interview here

buodior pattern

2009-08-31T21:54:00.000-07:00

This is a 1920's buodior type doll known as Anita.
Her arms and legs look like sausages.
I am thinking about making a new pattern / doll class based on this style of doll. It would be either a full cloth rendition or a pressmold.
What do you think?

How to Turn Tiny Fingers

2009-08-25T20:27:00.000-07:00

I like small, delicate hands. They can seem daunting to make, but with the right tools and a little patience, you can make perfect little hands for your dolls.

I just made a batch of finger turning tools, and they are available on my ETSY shop.

If you would like to learn more, please visit my shop here.

Here are the step-by-step instructions:

How To Sew and Turn Fingers

You will need freezer paper, an iron, finger turning tools, pipe cleaners, stuffing, stuffing fork and wire cutters or another tool to cut the pipe cleaners (an old pair of scissors will do).

Freezer paper is a doll makers’ friend. It is used as a template for hands in order to simplify the sewing of the small fingers. It has a waxy coating on one side, which is ironed onto the fabric you are sewing (hand). The other side is not waxy, so that surface will not stick to your iron, and you can easily draw your there. This technique is like having a stabilizer and can be very helpful in facilitating control.

Note: Freezer paper is optional. Please don’t feel that your doll won’t come out well if you don’t use it. I find it very helpful when the fabric I’m working with is thin. This is how it’s done:

1. Trace two hands onto the non-waxy side of the freezer paper. They do not need to mirror each other.

2. Cut the freezer paper hands out on the tracing line.

3. Cut a piece of fabric approximately 5 ½” X 3½”. Fold, RST.
NOTE: unless you are using a printed fabric, there will probably be no RST.

4. Lay down the hands (which you have cut out on the freezer paper), waxy side down, onto the fabric.

5. Iron the hands on, using a low temperature setting.

6. Set sewing machine stitch length to 1.5. Beginning from the wrist, carefully sew along the edge of the freezer paper, around the fingers and down to the other side of the wrist. When passing the web of the fingers and fingertips, always be sure to take at least one stitch across. If you just pivot and create a “V” shape, then the hands will pucker in that area when you turn them.

HINT: An open toe foot on your sewing machine will make it easier to see the line as you you sew. If you have a clear plastic foot, that might be helpful as well.

7. Leave the wrist open. Be sure to reinforce your beginning and end stitches so that they won’t begin to open when you turn the hand.

8. After sewing, carefully remove the freezer paper pattern and reserve for later use.

Note: If you are not using freezer paper, then just trace the pattern directly onto the doubled fabric, and sew on your tracing line.

In order to prevent the stitches from popping or the fabric from unweaving under the stress of turning fingers, there is something wonderful that we can use- FRAY CHECK. I always use fray check.

9. Cut out hands, using a small pair of scissors.
Take great care not to cut your seams. You will need to get very close!

HELPFUL TIP: Some people find it useful to create a “Y” cut between the fingers. It can help reduce puckering between the fingers. It is really a matter of personal comfort. Using tiny scissors, take a cut toward the seam. Then make two more tiny cuts from that point, so you form a “Y.” Be sure not to touch the seam.

10. Lay the hands out on a clean surface. Apply fray check all around the edge of the hand. Allow to dry.

Now it’s time to turn the fingers. Here’s how:

1. Insert hollow tube into finger.

2. Place rod on seam allowance at tip of finger, from the OUTSIDE.
Gently push on the rod so fabric goes into tube and finger begins to turn. By doing this over the seam allowance, you allow yourself to apply more pressure to get the fingertip into the tube without poking a hole. Be careful and gentle- you do not have to turn the entire finger down to the base. If you feel a lot of resistance then stop, so you don’t poke a hole.

Note: Start with the pinky or the thumb finger, and turn fingers consecutively until you have completed all five. For illustration purposes, I used the middle finger because it was easiest to draw that way.
Let's see it in action:

To turn the entire hand, reach in with hemostat and grab the middle finger or two fingers at once. Gently pull until the whole hand turns. Be patient and careful, and do pull the other fingers also if you need to. You may lock the hemostat to gain control.

When the whole hand is turned, gently insert rod into each finger individually to shape them. Press hand.
Isn't it cute?

Dyeing for Mohair

2009-08-01T10:39:00.000-07:00

Do you have WHITE MOHAIR locks lying around in your supply stash?
I do. Bags of it.

I don't need white mohair, I need colors! So, I dyed it. It was so easy and cheap to do..... you've got to try this.
First, start with KOOL AID.

Put the kool aid into a glass or earthenware bowl with water. Approximate ratio = one package of Kool Aid : one and a half cups of water.

Add your mohair, one lock at a time. Consider combing each lock out before submerging it.

Add plenty of mohair and mix it all around with a non-metal spoon. You want the water to soak up into the mohair so it absorbs the kool aid as evenly as possible. You'll be suprised how much mohair you can get into the bowl.

Here are Two bowls of mohair- one grape and one cherry.

Let the mohair sit and soak overnight.
Rinse it out with water.
Remember scratch and sniff stickers from when we were kids?
Your dolls' hair will smell like that!

One last OPTIONAL step:
If you are worried about colorfasting the mohair, you can add some vinegar to make it set.
Rub the vinegar into the mohair, spray it on with a spray bottle, etc.
Let it air dry.

Have fun!!

Group Shot

2009-07-12T11:05:00.001-07:00

I just want to show off a group shot of the Deanna Hogan Dolls made in my Doll club in WA.
Aren't they just wonderful? Deanna's class was a success. We all enjoyed it tremendously.
Kudos to all the ladies in the club... every doll turned out fabulous! And thank you Deanna, for such a treat!

Scales

2009-07-11T13:20:00.001-07:00

Another impulse buy.... silk fabric that looks like scales.
Perfect for.... you guessed it.... a mermaid.
I have never made a mermaid before. Now I know I must!

Click on the image to enlarge the details.

If you want some of this fabric, I'll be willing to buy more and send you some. Just write to me.... supplies are probably limited, and I have never seen this before (which is why I just HAD to buy it)...

D.S.

2009-07-02T23:56:00.000-07:00

Please meet Dobby's sister!

This doll was inspired by my favorite character in Harry Potter- Dobby the house elf. Now that the final movie is coming out... WELL... I've just got to get myself excited over here. I've read all the books, seen all the movies and looking forward to the last movie.

The doll I was working on last month ended up looking like an elf. A female elf. SO... I decided that Dobby the elf has a sister. So, here she is! Dobby's Sister. I'll just call her DS for short.

DS is an 18" cloth doll on a wire armature, standing unassisted. Her dress is made of upholstery fabric that gives the look of burlap. She's a bit spoiled so her burlap is embellished with delicate beads. She has wild and wooly tibetan lambswool hair and handmade eyes.

The pattern for this doll is an original pattern that I designed several years ago (Francesca). I just added huge eyes and made fairy ears, and omitted the sleeves of the dress. The pattern has shoes... but DS hates shoes. So I polished her nails. She liked that.

She holds the portkey to the sewing room of every doll maker in the world, and she secretly travels around randomly, stealing sewing needles. If you are missing your needles, let me know.

DS will be up for sale when the movie comes out. I think I'll see if she will let me give her some shoes. I might just have to glue them on! In the meantime, watch out for missing needles....

BATYA

2009-06-30T19:03:00.000-07:00

Please meet Batya, a sweet vintage-style doll made of cloth.
This doll was made from Deanna Hogan's pattern, Verity. Her hair is made from Tibetan Lambswool and her dress is made from upholstery fabric and silk organza. The lace is antique and I've been saving it for the right occasion.

This doll is very time-consuming but rewarding to make. It involves layers and layers of modeling paste + gel medium (affectionately called "messy mix" by Deanna), and gesso. Each layer is sanded and prepped for the next layer. It is very time-consuming, but the result is a hard surface that puts the doll into a whole different category.

I decided not to leave my paint matte. When I was satisfied with the face, I used a very high-gloss varnish that looks like glass. I like the way it turned out because it gives the doll a porcelain-like look.

Through all the layers, I ended up with some brush marks that I couldn't sand down very well. I used a tiny bit of burnt umber paint on a dry paintbrush to "rub it in." I really like the way the gloss and the brush marks interact. Looks very vintage to me.

Visit Deanna's blog to learn more about the messy mix.
These are the products I used:

Triple Thick Crystal Clear Glaze Varnish by Krylon
Skin Tone Paint by Sherry Goshon "soft caress"
Acrylic Paint by Golden
Gesso by Golden
Modeling Paste by Golden
Gel Medium by Golden

I think I'm hooked on these products!

Progress....

2009-06-18T14:51:00.001-07:00

I am just about done with the dress for my version of Deanna's Verity doll.
I made it out of upholstery fabric (believe it or not) and organza.
The trim is a fine antique lace. I have been saving it for a special doll, and this doll wants to have it. The little bloomers are made of silk.

These are the doll's shoes and legs. Sorry the picture didn't turn out so well, but I am too excited to wait for a better one.

I used silk plaid for the doll's legs. I like the contrast. The dress is paisley, the organza is a french fleur de lis. The plaid is a surprise element. I think I will make ribbon with the leftover and make a little bow for her hair or the dress. What do you think?

The shoes are actually painted onto her feet and the heels are made of clay. I wanted to use burnt umber (that is my favorite color brown) and it wasn't until after I got started, that I realized I was using oil paint. So, I will have to wait a week for it to dry. That's ok- It will give me an excuse to finish the face and add some extra details.

Deanna Hogan's Verity Class

2009-06-10T21:12:00.001-07:00

This past weekend I had the privilege of taking a class with Deanna Hogan. What a treat it was, and what an absolutely inspiring artist she is. I learned so much and I enjoyed myself more than I have in ages. Deanna is a fine teacher and she has incredible patience. No wonder her dolls are so beautiful.

To read more about the wonderful class and see more pictures, please visit Deanna's blogand scroll down to the June 7, 2009 post.

Now hear this

2009-05-30T13:36:00.000-07:00

Guess what this is?
These are the beginning of Fairy Ears.
Or Gnome Ears.
Or Goblin Ears.
Or something.

More soon..... the doll I am working on is taking its time.
I'll let you know when I hear something new!

Back Again

2009-05-18T15:56:00.000-07:00

This is the backside of the doll I'm working on. Just thought you might like to know. What a cutie!

Face and all will be revealed when the doll is done.

Eye Am Not Sure....

2009-05-16T20:12:00.001-07:00

It's times like this when I just have to step back and wonder to myself, "what in the world?" I'm not sure if this is the beginning of a lovely lady or a "stunning" troll. Maybe she just needs some warts? I think she looks a little like a frog covered in calamine lotion (remember that stuff?) Maybe she will be a knockout. I have no idea. We'll see....

Catty Fan Club

2009-05-04T06:03:00.000-07:00

My kitty Pebbles, who was born in Israel, likes my dolls. And this doll I'm working on seems to be quite fond of her already....

Happy Passover....

2009-04-09T10:03:00.000-07:00

This is a real hoot... I just could not resist ! Click on the image to enlarge.

I also wanted to quickly tell you all what I have been up to. I am designing a website... and it has been in the works for months. I can't wait for it to be up and running.... so I can start making more dolls!
I'll announce it when it is done. Should not be too much longer.... I've got some dolls up my sleeves but waiting to get this website up and running first. It's been such a challenge, it's almost like splitting the sea!

SCULPTURE on SOFT

2009-03-24T21:24:00.000-07:00

The following is a "little different" tutorial about 'soft sculpture'.. or is it 'sculpture on soft?'

Let's find out.

I'm creating a cloth doll where the doll's body itself is meant to be the focus of the piece. I don't plan on doing a lot of needle sculpting. My main concern is that it should look like a sculpture, not a torso with limbs sewn on.

This technique will give this doll a very intriguing, sophisticated look.

Here he is... stuffed and assembled. He still doesn't have a head. I'll finish his body before I decide what kind of person he is. He might be a hunk, or maybe he will turn out to be a goblin or a fantasy creature. I don't know at this point.

ANTERIOR VIEW

POSTERIOR VIEW

SIDE VIEW

Click on the images above, and you can clearly see the sewing and gathering and puckering.

This is a wonderful pattern, and proportionally correct. The doll's "seat" is designed to wrap around the back of the torso so it looks more authentic.

How to cover up those seams??

To accomplish this, I will be using:

1) Golden brand Gesso

2)Golden Gel Medium Hard Modeling Paste.

The Hard Modeling Paste is like a plaster for the fabric. It fills in the ridges and covers the seams and stitches. You can add it to the gesso, to make it thicker, or use it as a preliminary filler as I did. One other very useful feature of this material is that you can add it to acrylic paint and then sand it. Acrylic paint cannot be sanded on its own. It is made to be used on a flexible surface, and so it's perfect for dolls.

When it dries, I'll paint the whole doll with Gesso.

Finally, I will paint it. This will make the doll truly unique. I can really "go to town" and do whatever I like- I haven't decided yet, but I'm thinking of using Dye-na-Flow ink paint by Jacquard, Acrylic paint, or maybe even Tsukineko Ink. I can use rubber stamps, too, or even decoupage. I'm not sure what I want to do yet. I'll think about it later.

Let's get started.

First, apply a generous amount of Modeling Paste to the "obvious areas."

Add plenty around areas that might have become "lumpy." This sometimes happens to legs when stitched onto the torso. This is a good opportunity to fill in those imperfections. Notice the right side, near the seam, there is some puckering going on.... I will apply 2 layers (allow to dry between layers).

Don't be afraid to add the modeling paste to any area that "needs help." This includes areas that might be lumpy because of imperfection during stuffing (almost inevitable!)

Lastly, brush the modeling paste over all the seams on the doll.

Put the doll aside and allow to dry. I usually let my dolls dry overnight.

When ready, take a look and see if you need to do it again. Chances are, you probably will, and that is ok.

When satisfied, go ahead and apply gesso in the same way.

You will most definitely need to do this process 2-3 times in the most "difficult" areas. This time, use fine sanding paper in between layers.

When completely satisfied, cover the entire doll in one final coat of gesso. When dry, sand the doll down a final time and apply your paint, ink, rubber stamping....whatever!

I hope you liked this tutorial... more to come later. I'm taking a break now.

This doll probably won't be done for several weeks. I like to let them sit for a while.

If you like this pattern, you can buy it in my doll shop. Believe it or not, it is the pattern for NIAMH, the lovely Dead Sea Fairy. It is also the exact same pattern I used to make my PAGAZ goblin. The only difference is, I did not use the skinning technique taught in that pattern. Try it, you will love it!

Pleased to Meet You...Won't you Guess My Name ? (woo hoo!)

2009-03-20T22:54:00.000-07:00

This is my newest doll craze. I decided I am going to make arbitrarily shaped whimsical dolls with faces of real people. the body is different..... Can you guess who she is?

The body looks nothing like the real person's body, obviously. It's not needle sculpted or intricate. Just plain fun.

She's also comical and a bit sassy. She has a pretty face, and has a silk heart over her tummy. I can relate to that!!

The doll is wearing a beaded necklace with a Swarovski Strass crystal. Strass is a grade of Swarovsky crystal and is the finest in the world. I got the crystal from a stunning [and expensive] contemporary chandelier by Schonbeck. (I work in a designer gallery lighting showroom so I tend to graze salvageable little treasures when I can!) The part where the hole is got damaged so it cannot be pinned to the chandelier any longer. I found a better use for it anyway...really suits the doll's personality because the "face person" liked to wear glitzy glam jewelry.

Can you guess who this is?

Cute little shoes

I actually like this concept...it's growing on me. I learned something from working with interior designers... in contemporary applications "less is more." The simpler the lines, the less going on- the more impact it has.

I guess that is where my headspace is right now! What do you think?

This doll is available for sale in my Etsy shop.

Doll-LIGHT-ful

2009-03-17T15:05:00.000-07:00

I saw these wall sconces in a showroom in the Seattle Design Center.

They are really intriguing... and NUDE.

Michelangelo, look out!

Click on the images to enlarge.

Terrific Trio

2009-03-12T20:57:00.000-07:00

These are wonderful creations by an unknown soft sculpture artist from somewhere in the Seattle area. I saw these dolls at an antique shop. They are unmarked, unknown and unbelievably wonderful! They are soft sculpted with nylon stocking over some sort of stretchy cotton. Aren't they just darling?

Hanging Around

2009-03-12T20:44:00.000-07:00

What a poor little fellow! I saw him hanging in an antique shop in Seattle. He looks like he has been hanging around for years. He must have been well loved at one time. I think he is wonderful, don't you?

Baby doll Challenge

2009-02-15T17:03:00.000-08:00

The Becky vintage Baby Doll Challenge was so much fun. Congratulations to the winners!

Here are the contestants!

5. WINNER- SECOND PLACE

8. WINNER- THIRD PLACE

10.

11.

12. WINNER- FIRST PLACE

Ancient "Doll Head" found in Jerusalem Excavation

2009-01-27T11:09:00.000-08:00

I saw this in the news this morning and thought it was absolutely amazing....

JERUSALEM -- An 1,800-year-old figurine believed to have originated from the eastern stretches of the Roman Empire has been discovered by archaeologists outside the walls of the old city, the Israeli Antiquities Authority said.

The 2-inch (5-centimeter) marble bust depicts the head of a man with a short curly beard and almond-shaped eyes who may portray a boxer, the authority said.

"The high level of finish on the figurine is extraordinary, while meticulously adhering to the tiniest of details," Doron Ben-Ami and Yana Tchekhanovets, directors of the excavation, said in a joint statement released Monday. Nothing similar has ever been uncovered in Israel, they said, calling it a "unique find."

Carved from pale yellow marble, archeologists think the figurine was most likely carried to Jerusalem by a merchant.

Archaeologists believe the figurine was used as a weight for a hanging scale of a type common in the Roman period. Tiny holes drilled in its neck were likely used to attach it to the scale, and remnants of metal remain.

The miniature bust was found in the ruins of a building destroyed by an earthquake in the fourth or fifth century. The same dig outside the walls of Jerusalem's Old City also recently yielded a well-preserved gold earring inlaid with pearls and a trove of more than 250 gold coins.

The dig is in a former parking lot in the Palestinian neighborhood of Silwan, in east Jerusalem. It is part of broader archaeological excavations at the site, known to Israeli scholars as the City of David, after the Biblical monarch who is believed to have ruled from there some 3,000 years ago.

Kreativ Blogger Award

2009-01-19T10:28:00.000-08:00

Thank you DODA for nominating me with the Kreative Blogger Award.

I'm supposed to tell you 7 things that I love. I think I'll go with Values rather than "stuff." Besides people and things that come through creativity, nothing in this world is really that important, in my opinion. So here goes:

Seven Values that are important to me

Creativity
Humility
Non-Judgmentalism
Following Through
Cleanliness (but not to the point of being anal about it!)
Respectfulness
Reliability

and just for fun...

Seven things I do not Support

George Bush
Evil Gossip
Pity Pots
Excessive Materialism
Procrastination
"More Holy Than Thou" Attitudes
Stupidity

I'm also meant to nominate 7 more bloggers.
I'll have to think about this one... I'll get back to it soon!

Drew's puppet

2009-01-18T08:47:00.000-08:00

This is is Drew. Drew is the incredibly talented young lighting geek at my work. Drew has a secret... he's also into puppets.

How did I find out about this? Great minds think alike, I guess, and somehow instead of talking about lighting, dolls and puppets came up in the conversation.

Drew is actually a lot more creative (and smart) than I thought!

This is Drew's first try at puppet making. He didn't exactly know how to do it, so he used hot glue and "stuff." I think he did a great job for a trial run... I lent him an old trusty sewing machine, gave him a whole bunch of tips and told him where to get doll making supplies. I've seen a steady stream of wigs, fabrics and other doll making supplies arrive at the office on the daily UPS run.... it's just too much fun! I can't wait to see what evolves next.... I think we might have a rising star on our hands!

Harlequins riding Horses

2009-01-14T21:52:00.000-08:00

I work in the Seattle Design Center. Rather than sitting all day, I like to walk around and get a little exercise, meet people and get a little inspiration.
One of the showrooms here sells fine furniture, and these wonderful doll statues by a local artist named Don Charles. Click on the pictures to enlarge them.

Most of his pieces have a harlequin-looking doll riding a horse. He uses a myriad of different found objects, new, old, natural and man-made. They are so intriguing!

The dolls are hand carved from wood. The faces are all quasi-expressionless, yet full of character.

Details of the face

His hat and base are made of tortise shells

I was inspired to bring one of my dolls into the showroom I work in. She does get a fair share of attention. I'm inspired to make 10 more - with a theme like Don Charles! I'll have to think on it..... one day when I don't have to work 9-5!
For now, I'll just keep having fun slowly!

Pretty Little Things

2009-01-11T08:30:00.001-08:00

Have you been looking for the perfect little thing for your woodland faerie dolls? I recently came across this wonderful idea by craft artist Terri Sullivan on ETSY. I like her idea so much I just HAD to share!

These are just the most clever little crafted acorns. Handmade, artisan crafted, needlefelted wool acorns from pure wool roving - and 100% genuine nature made caps. These are *just the thing*.

Look at the details. So simple and yet so cleverly wonderful!

To see more, visit this ETSY shop. And buy some acorns for your next project!!

A Penny for Your Thoughts (or thoughts about my Penny Doll...)

2008-12-10T20:12:00.000-08:00

Please meet Eve, my Penny Doll. She is quite the lady, wouldn't you agree? She lives with me at work in the Seattle Design Center, and is the talk of the showroom. All the interior designers just love her!

This pretty necklace was a gift from my dear mother. It kind of pricks at me and is uncomfortable. I enjoy it more on the doll. It's perfect! The fabric on her front bodice is shirred. It's not difficult to do... Just hand baste several rows and gather them all together so it scrunches up.

Eve holds a parisol (fancy umbrella that is part of her courture, not raingear!) The parisol is made with silk as is her lovely handmade hat. I'll show you how to make one in a future post. It's easy!

The top of the parisol has a beautiful Swarovski Strass crystal on it. It came off a very expensive but damaged Schonbeck chandelier from the showroom that I work in. It's a real "found object!" The "handle" is made from a damaged antique silver spoon. The earrings are the most special of all. They belonged to my grandmother and are very precious to me.

Mirror Mirror in My Hand... Who's the Fairest in the Land?

2008-12-08T16:44:00.000-08:00

Looking for a special gift to give that special someone? Looking for something DIFFERENT?

This gorgeous doll face was created on a simple handheld mirror.

She's made of paperclay, and painted with acrylic.

Her hair is made of organza, dipped in Paverpol, and rubbed with a bit of antique gold.

It's easy to make (especailly with a push mold!)

The mirror is just made out of plastic. Cover it up with masking tape or florists tape so the clay will stick, and walla!

Put some beads in the clay for a little pop. Let it dry and then paint it. When the paint is dry, put a coat of glossy finish to protect it. I used "yacht varnish." It really stinks but it does a great job.

A Penny for Your Thoughts (or thoughts about my Penny Doll...)

2008-12-06T06:39:00.000-08:00

Please meet Eve, my Penny Doll. She is quite the lady, wouldn't you agree? She lives with me at work in the Seattle Design Center, and is the talk of the showroom. All the interior designers just love her!

Eve holds a parisol (fancy umbrella that is part of her courture, not raingear!)
The parisol is made with silk as is her lovely handmade hat. On another post, I will teach you how to make one. It's easy!

It's difficult to see in this picture, but the top of the parisol has a beautiful swarovski crystal on it. It came off of a very expensive but damaged crystal chandelier from the showroom. It's a real "found object!" The "handle" is made from an antique broken spoon, and her earrings are heirlooms too.

Eye Can Sketch...and so can you!

2008-11-28T21:02:00.000-08:00

I was recently looking through some of my older sketchbook pictures that I drew several years ago, when I first began getting acquainted with doll making. Here is one of my favorites.

It's just a simple eye that I did in pencil, then duplicated it and colored it in with colord pencil. I love the simplicity of it, showing how a little bit of color and shading makes such a difference. You can photocopy the sketch and print it out onto paper, and try practicing. Eyes are so much fun to draw, and they bring a doll's face to life.

Ruth pattern rendition

2008-10-28T21:29:00.000-07:00

Check out this cutie!

This doll was made by Kylie Jones of Australia. She was made from my Ruth pattern.
I think she's fabulous! Great job Kylie, and thank you for the picture!