Arts of Delight

  At the same time I was working on the Grodnertal doll, I was experimenting with making a 1:12 scale doll. One of my Etsy customers is looking for dollhouse dolls in the style of the doll she purchased. So, I thought I would give it a try and see whether I liked the size. I did a lot of research, but not enough to prevent me from having to make a few corrections when what I started with didn't work out. Her (second pair of) hands are still too big. It is not easy to sew tiny garments. Luckily, I wasn't making removable clothing. She has quite a bit of charm for someone her size. Only 5 inches. Still, I don't think that miniatures are going to be my thing.

  I am finally finished the Grodnertal style doll I was working on. Because I was so reluctant to cut into the valuable shot silk I used for her dress it took me a lot longer than usual. I made a toile for the bodice of her dress, made adjustments, cut the silk fabric, started to put it together and discovered it was too big! Had to put that bit aside and cut a smaller bodice. I see from the photos I took today that the bodice shoulders are still too wide. Dang! The dress has puff sleeves, with long sleeves tacked into the armhole for daywear. A lot of fiddling! This doll has pantalettes, chemise, dress and turban. The dress is shot silk and the turban is also silk, from a thrifted scarf. It took a lot of research to get the style of dress I wanted, and also a lot of looking at Regency portraits to have the courage to make up my own turban design. It looked like anything goes! I shaped the turban on a webbing base so that it can be removed. I really like her. She looks like she is ...