Dressed to the nines!

I finished this little one today and am very pleased with her. She is made using a Gail Wilson pattern that includes directions for everything except her chemise, which I designed myself. Gail doesn't put chemises on smaller dolls because of bulk, but I like them and don't worry too much about the bulk at the waistline when the dresses are so loose. I used dyed muslin for her body, and embroidered her features, as well as making a mohair wig for her, which departs from the original instructions. I have always thought dollies with pinafores are very fetching, and bonnets add that little bit extra too! Perhaps I was too heavily influenced by my days of sewing Holly Hobbie clothes for my nieces. 
Her shoes are made from glove leather, sewn by hand. Real silk ribbon laces!
She wears a dress, bonnet, pinafore, shoes, stockings, chemise, pantalettes and a petticoat. A great deal of this doll's wardrobe is sewn by hand. I like the look of hand hemming, and always apply lace by hand. I use a handkerchief edge on the chemise to reduce bulk around her neckline. It has been very pleasant using the slow stitching as a kind of meditation. The state of the world necessitates all the help I can get to stay hopeful.






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