{Transformation}

I have been working on a few different patterns that I created from some old paper doll patterns. I think I have found one I like, although I still may tweak it later. If you notice, all the dolls heads are different shapes, that is because I am machine sewing and trying to learn the fine point of sewing a curve - not as easy as it sounds!

So once I have drawn out my pattern, I transfer it to the muslin, sew it, stuff 'em and then sew on the legs. Once I am done with that I prime the dolls with gesso (I use white but am thinking of using black next time). After they have dried overnight I add clay to the face and sculpt and if I want them to have fancy shoes I sculpt that too. Once they have dried (I like to bake my dolls in the oven to speed up the process), I start painting, once painted I spray 'em with varnish and then if they still need hair I add some hair then I add their arms.

That's it. Simple yet complicated and time consuming. From start to finish it's about 3-4 days, if I don't get interrupted by little ones (which I do so it's more like a week from start to finish). 

I do enjoy the process. It's fun and exciting and no two dollies are ever the same, which I love! I learn something new with each set of dollies I make and as I scourer the net I find the most amazing art and become inspired to try something new or go into a different direction. I am always changing and evolving the process.

New pattern - machine sewn in muslin

primed features sculpted

painted and dressed but 2 still need hair and they all need arms

All finished!