My Doll Haven

Everyone Needs Playtime

In our hectic, modern lives, many of us focus so heavily on work and family commitments that we never seem to have time for pure fun. Somewhere between childhood and adulthood, we stopped playing.

When we carve out some leisure time, we’re more likely to zone out in front of the TV or computer than engage in fun, rejuvenating play like we did as children. But play is not just essential for kids; it can be an important source of relaxation and stimulation for adults as well.

There doesn’t need to be any point to the activity beyond having fun and enjoying yourself. By giving yourself permission to play with the joyful abandon of childhood, you can reap oodles of health benefits throughout life.

Tuesday

Sew What?

I love the cloche hats I ordered from Janette, they are just gorgeous and so well made! However, when I put them on my girls I felt the outfits they were currently wearing didn't quite do the hats justice.

These dresses, which featured in a 1920's Perry, Dame & Co. catalogue, are probably more in keeping with the the style of the hat. Could they be the answer to my dilemma?

Maybe they are more suitable for girls slightly older than that of the Fashion Friends. Perhaps I should look at the younger children's styles for inspiration?

Actually seeing them now, both on the same "page", there's not really a lot of difference between the younger and older girls styles.

These samples from The Delineator October 1922, could just be the shot too! I love the coat on the top right.

So what do you think, should I give it a go and try to make something similar for my girls? Which one would you choose if you had to make one your own doll?

Maybe I'll just knit something instead. Until next time, keep on dolling!

Thursday

Where Have All The Bloggers Gone?

It's been very quiet around here for such a long time, so many of the regular bloggers have ceased to post ~ haven't heard a word from Sharon, Rachael, Alejandra, Alasse or Phillis for months now. Even Niina and Lily have been quiet for a few weeks. I do hope everyone is okay and that they haven't given up blogging altogether.

I know Alasse has been busy with other things as I have had an email from her, and I'm sure she will share her news in time.

Most of my time has been spent listing dolls and other dolly related stuff on eBay, but as soon as I sell a few things, I replace them with new purchases, like these gorgeous Easter Bonnets for my Ruby Red girls.

PHOTOS: Courtesy of Janette (I cropped them)

I had these made by Janette, a local girl who sells on Etsy . . . you can see her store here. I initially purchased the hat below (which was in stock) for another doll, but I loved the style so much I was inspired to make my girls new dresses to match the hat's I commissioned (which I will show later as they are not completed yet).

I sew and knit quite competently, but when it comes to crochet I am not so hot. I have always loved all types of millinery myself, so I guess it's only natural I should want my dolls to wear them too. Do you like hats on dolls? If you do, I can assure you Janette has various styles to suit most dolls, her prices are reasonable and she will ship overseas. She is also great to work with if you want something special. Pop on over when you get a chance.

Wednesday

My Girls

Well I finally found time to finish the last cardigan a few days ago, but I have been waiting for those darn boots which I ordered back on 18th January to arrive. At present there doesn't seem to be any sign of them, and all I am getting from the Russian Store on Etsy is, wait, wait, wait. I finally cracked it today and asked for a refund, I am still waiting for a reply.

I understand there have been delays caused by the pandemic, but even so, I haven't had to wait for over two months for any of my parcels, no matter where they have been shipped from.

Out of sheer frustration I ended up putting some Paola Reina shoes on them, but they are far too wide and long, even with tights on they are loose. However, I have managed to take a photo of the three of them together at long last.

Still undecided about the wig on Maya, it's just a tad too big and I think something shorter would suit her better, but that's something I will play with later.

On a brighter note, we have no-one with Covid in Victoria and as from Friday we will no longer have to wear those dreadful masks when we are out and about. However, if one is using public transport (which I don't) and visiting hospitals (don't do this either), people will still need to wear them though.

I hope you are all doing well and looking forward to receiving your jabs!

P.S. I received a refund!