I did not set out to make dolls dressed in historical clothing, but now looking back I guess it's inevitable that someone would eventually inquire. Being the kind of person I am--foolhardy and loving a challenge--I of course said "yes." So this post is about my adventures in making dolls with a historical twist.
The first request was for some Pioneer dolls, specifically Laura, Mary, Carrie and Grace Ingalls of "Little House on the Prairie" fame. It was easy to agree with this project because I have a special connection to those books. My Mother's maiden name was Ingalls, and I am distantly related to Laura Ingalls Wilder. So off I went into the realm of bonnets and calico. Can you tell I was especially enthralled with the bonnets? Big and pouffy was my aim! And the little bloomers had me charmed, too!
In fact, the process was so much fun that I went ahead and made Ma and Pa Ingalls too. Just because it didn't feel right to leave the family incomplete. (By the way, they are in my shop, if you're interested).
Homily
And then there was the time someone wondered if I knew about the children's book series called "The Borrowers." It's about, well, doll-sized people who "borrow" things from regular-sized humansto live on. I especially love their names: Pod (the father), Homily (the Mother) and Arrietty (the daughter) --all dressed in early 19th century garb.
Arrietty
Along the way they also meet a "wild" borrower, Spiller, who hunts with a bow and arrow. Did I mention I love a challenge? Turns out the tips of dogwood branches look just like little spears!
Here's Pod with his bowler hat
Spiller
It's a good thing I had some practice with Pod's outfit, because recently I was asked to go even further back in time--all the way back to the 18th century! So that's when masculine attire still included lace and ruffles. And buttons! Loads of buttons! I figured out how to make pint-sized waist coats, long jackets, short trousers, stockings and shoes with big buckles on them. Hairstyles of the day were meant to look like wigs rather than the other way around, and so we have side curls and pony tails! Fashions certainly change!
I don't know what is next. Medieval frocks and wimples? Greek togas? Whatever it is, I'm sure it will keep me on my dollmaker's toes!