Friday 24 April 2009

Trying Something New

I like to try something new every now and then, and it seems that in the last few weeks I have attempted a few new craft mediums, paper mache dolls being one (see previous post) and here to the left is my first Rag Doll. I was ever so pleased with how she turned out, I never expected my first doll to actually look like a Rag Doll LOL!!

In making this doll I learnt a few new things along the way, like tea dying muslin, I never realised how many tea bags you actually need to use to dye such a small amount of muslin!


I found the pattern cutting and sewing together of the doll relatively easy, however stuffing the doll was quite tricky, trying to get an even fill is difficult, patience is definitely needed with this part.

I really enjoyed embroidering and painting the facial features, she really came to life at this point, which then spurred me on to paint on the stockings and shoes, sand them down and then repaint to give the vintage look and lovely leathery feel, which I really like. Next came the hair, another time consuming and difficult skill to master, but once I got going it was quite addictive and I'm now looking forward to trying different hair styles on future Dolls that I'm hoping to make. With this all done the final part was to dress my little lady, this I actually found the hardest as i'm not that great when it comes to making clothes and I found this part quite a challenge, it's definitely an area I need more practice on, but all in all I was very pleased with the end result..... Although I'd love to hear what you, my talented readers think! But be gentle please!!!!

6 comments:

Elaine A said...

Amanda -

She is a sweet little thing. You have done a lovely job of creating her and I like that she has that vintage look about her. An wonderful first attempt, she is just so adorable. Please post any future siblings for your litte doll.

Thanks for Sharing - Elaine Allen

Miss Matilda said...

I adore her.

What a beautiful creation.

Ann said...

You did a fantastic job!! I never would have known this was your first attempt! I've been doing them for sometime(check my blog) and I love it. Just one little change of an eyebrow,mouth or nose can make such a huge difference in their "souls"!! Keep up the great work! Realy looking forward to seeing more.There are many sites that have free patterns. I use strong coffee,then rub with cinnamon to get rid of coffee smell and they come out fabulous!!
She is just adorable and I love her clothes.

Unknown said...

Oh Mandy she is just sweet as pie:) That is a southern saying thought you might like it. You have done such a wonderful job. I love her striped socks.

I haven't made a doll in such a long long time. When my girls were little I made dolls and I love to make Teddy Bears for them my boys loved the teddy bears. I really should drag out my old and decrepit sewing machine and go to making dolls for my granddaughters.

As to your question I am not on Facebook I suppose someday I will have to check that out.

Sending you a big HUG!
Becky

Unknown said...

Oh yes I forgot to tell you. Thank you for the comments on my Mermaid. I do think I could take a liking to them:)
Although I do not believe they will be as lovely as yours are.

XXX
Becky

SoCalWendie said...

I love it! I paint my friends as rag dolls lol