Making Russian Dolls

Many people often ask me how Russian matryoshka dolls are made. With their fascinating artwork and construction the dolls have intrigued many of my customers. So, I thought it was time to share how the matryoshka are produced. And, you may be surprised at just how much work goes into each set!

The first preparations actually start years before the dolls are to be made. The tree from which the dolls are produced (usually lime, birch, aspen or larch) needs to be straight, without any knots and cut down in early autumn or winter, so it holds as little sap as possible. The trunk is then stored to allow it to dry which usually takes 2-3 years. During this drying the Russian dolls are carved to ensure that, once dry, the top and bottom half of each doll fit together perfectly.

When the drying process has been completed the Russian dolls are ready to be grained and primed. After this, all the fun creative things can happen! The artist will first draw with pencil the eyes, face and clothing on each doll. When the drawing has been completed the artist will check their work to ensure it meets their quality standards. If not, the doll is then redrawn until the artist is satisfied. After the drawings are finished the artist will then use acrylic paint to complete the doll and give it its individual character. Occasionally, a pattern is burned into the doll before it is painted.

An artist at work painting her dolls A lacquer is then applied to each Russian doll to protect it from discolouration. This ensures that the doll will age well and the quality will not deteriorate over time. The lacquer also protects the dolls from dust and gives them a fine sheen.

When buying a Russian doll the quality of its craftsmanship should be examined. Each doll should fit into one another easily and each half of the doll should require a little force to separate them. If the dolls do this then they have been well made.

There are thousands of different Russian dolls available around the world. Each with its own unique artist, character and feel.

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Gary Mullen from Russian Dolls

The Spirit of True Doll Making, "Little People of the Secret Power"

Creating a Menehune doll transfers me into a miniature life of my own. I start with a clear image of the doll I want to create: its gender, the clothes, accessories, and sometimes even its name and part of its story. The flow of possibilities and creative ideas is endless. Sewing the body, stuffing it, embroidering the face, every step of the way, the Menehune grows and takes on a life of its own. It is almost as if the doll is dictating who he or she wants to become. My previous plans of the design don't seem to apply at all anymore. But I follow these inspirations because now I have entered the place of true doll making, where a deeper part of me takes over communicating with the developing spirit of the doll. I have reached my inner place of stillness, inspiration, and guidance where I find and lose myself at the same time. It enhances my ability to communicate ideas and feelings in ways where words fail. At this point I know that my new Menehune has a soul and a personality. The spirit of true doll making is enlightening.

The intricate art of crafting 3.5" miniature cloth dolls is something I would have never thought I had the patience to do. But it has become my most cherished and gratifying creation. It is a thrilling experience to look at a finished doll and see that it has come alive.

Through my Menehunes I always try to capture the ancient, magical spirit of Hawaii where I have lived for the past 30 years. Hawaiians are deeply in touch with their creative and intuitive nature. They live in harmony with creation. Hawaiian tradition emphasizes mana or spiritual energy which is expressed in philosophies, symbolism, and culture. In Hawaiian mythology Menehunes often are referred to as "the little people of the secret power". The Menehune dolls' mana connects to Hawaii's spiritual wisdom which is conveyed through their personalities and inspirational messages. I commit a lot of creativity, detailing, inspiration, and love to each individual doll. Every tiny configuration is treated with extreme care. Each stitch has to be in exactly the right position. The pattern and design of the clothing and accessories must be in harmony with the doll, enhance its personality and connect it with the wisdom found in Hawaiian symbols and stories. The work is never finished until the Menehune shows its spirit. Only then will I name it and write a story to reflect its personality which conveys messages of guidance, protection, and inspiration following concepts of Hawaiian spirituality and culture.

The creation of Nai'a, the little Menehune sailor boy, became an expression of love. Looking at him humbly offering his gift of precious seashells, I feel like he is nurturing my spirit and taking care of me which in turn makes me want to take care of him. Nai'a radiates the Hawaiian Aloha (love) spirit. Here is part of Nai'a's story:

Nai'a is named after his Aumakua (ancestral spirit) the Hawaiian Dolphin. Dolphins are often called the "Angels of the Sea". Nai'a also is an angelic little Menehune Keiki Kane (boy). His Mana (spiritual energy) is Aloha (love) and compassion. Nai'a is the most generous little Menehune. Sharing his treasures with his Menehune Ohana (family) brings him the greatest joy. Nai'a's treasures are the precious sea shells he scoops up with his fishing net when he sails his canoe through the beautiful bays of Punaluu Black Sands Beach.

Nothing makes Nai'a happier than passing out the most treasurable shell gifts to his Menehune Ohana and seeing their joy and appreciation which in turn is the greatest gift to him.

Nai's knows that the more he gives, the more he will receive. Nai's teaches us to see with the heart and act with compassion.

Nai'a's Tutu (grandmother) made the Ti Leaf Lei he wears around his neck and tied 4 more Ti leaves to the sail of his canoe. It was Tutu's sacred gift of Aloha (Love) to her grandson. According to ancient Hawaiian beliefs, Ti Leaves provide protection from all harm. Surrounded by Ti leaves, Nai'a feels save and secure.

Nai'a and his Kuku (grandfather) made his canoe together. Walking through the forest they started following the native forest bird who selected the tree they would use to build the canoe. After Nai'a and his Kuku finished carving the Wa'akaukahi, they built the sail which has a design of 2 dolphins holding "fins". The dolphins on his sail give Nai'a the greatest comfort. They remind him that, if he should ever get lost at sea, he can call on his Aumakua, the dolphin, who always, without fail, comes to guide Nai'a safely back to shore.

www.hawaiianmenehunes.blogspot.com/2011/06/spirit-of-true-doll-making.html

Making Corn Husk Dolls

The history of corn husk doll making goes backs thousands of years ago to the Native American Indians. The dolls were used for amusement and some were used in sacred healing ceremonies. The Iroquois Indians have a legend that there were three sisters, the "sustainers of life". These sister were called corn, beans and squash. One of the sisters, the Corn Sister, was so thrilled to be one of the sustainers of life that she asked her creator what more she could do for her people. The Creator made a doll from corn husks and gave it a beautiful face. The Corn Sister took the doll from village to village for the children to play with, and everyone admired her beauty. After a while she became vain.

The Creator told her this was not the right behavior, and if it continued he would punish her. The Corn Sister agreed, but one afternoon she saw her reflection in a lake. She couldn't help admiring how beautiful she was. The Creator was disappointed in this and sent down an owl to snatch her reflection from the waters. When she looked again she had no reflection. This was her punishment and she could not converse with the birds or animals again. She'd roam the earth forever, looking for something to do to gain her face back. This is one reason why corn husk dolls do not have a face. Most dolls were made by children and designed after people in their village.

My introduction to corn husk dolls began about 30 years ago when I went on vacation to the east coast and visited the colonial site of Boston, Washington DC and Philadelphia. In touring the historic sites I was amazed at the quilts and with their history. Many were designed as messages to soldiers and runaway slaves advising them where to find a safe haven. The dolls from that era interested me too. Some of which were made from corn husks. I'm sure the settlers leaned that craft from the Indians in the area. I love the idea of them gathering the materials needed direct from nature, unlike most of us who would now shop at Michael's or Hobby Lobby for our supplies.

I love Mexican art. On my visit there this past winter, I met a woman who I will refer to as Senora Linda. Senora Linda lives in a very tiny home in the town of San Cristabal on Lake Chapala. I first saw her corn husk dolls at the market in Ajicic and found out from friends where she lives and called her to see if I could watch her work on the dolls. I went with my American friend who speaks fluent Spanish and was kind enough to translate for me. Senora Linda welcomed us with a big smile. She had invited another crafter, Senora Laura to help her demonstrate to us the art of corn husk doll making.

Senora Linda told us the story of how she and the other village ladies began their art. About 20 years ago a teacher with two other ladies came to the village and wanted to pass on their knowledge of corn husk dolls. They wanted to make sure it would be carried on from generation to generation, so she began teaching the ladies. They started with baskets and went on to dolls and flowers. Each lady developed and expressed herself in the details of their dolls as they continued to learn. They began to add their own ideas of what their doll should look like.

Some change the color of the corn silk using the natural brown or dyeing it black. They've added tiny bouquets of flowers folded in their arms or carrying them on their shoulders or backs. They added babies wrapped in blankets in the arms of their mother and designed beautiful uplifting dresses to dancing dolls. They also create beautiful stemmed flowers, nativity sets, bride and groom sets (could be used as a wedding cake topper), firemen, dancers, catrinas, horses, rooster and parrots and more. If you had a specific request they could make it.

Today the original 22 ladies are down to only 8. They work out of their homes and coordinate their items to sell. The materials are expensive and most of the ladies dropped out because they found it difficult to afford them. Senora Linda told us the corn husks are expensive, as they have to be treated so they are pliable and don't mold. They have to purchase powdered dyes and ribbons, glue sticks and wire. The ladies that are continuing to run the organization sell their items at the local markets, but also ship to shops in Mexico City, Chapala and Los Cabos. Each lady has her own personality in her dolls. The quality of their dolls is the best I've seen, and now that I've watched how they are made I can only hope I can follow their lead.

Mari Guckenberger is a co-founder of Something and More Crafts and Gifts, http://www.somethingandmore.com. At the age of 10 she learned how to knit from one of her seven sisters. Since then she has worked on pottery, stain glass, creating novelty items, knitting and her #1 passion of sewing. Mari's first love is sewing and creating specialty items like the Kindle and Nook electronic book covers, aprons and purses that you see on her web site. Mari retired in February 2010 from her full time job and envisioned selling her craft items. Although she enjoys going to craft shows, she wanted these items available year round and decided to try internet selling. She soon found other crafters who felt the same way and thus started Something and More Crafts and Gifts

Make Your Own Rag Doll - Doll Making Supplies

Dolls are a child's first best friend. They serve a purpose as friends, they teach nurturing and they are really a child's first step to becoming social. Dolls can be found in almost any household in toy boxes, on shelves full of collectible dolls, on top of wedding cakes, movie star dolls in a teenagers room and sports dolls that reside in a manly sports room. You can even make your own doll.

Rag dolls were the special friend that rode with a child in the back of a covered wagon. Mothers, back then, had never heard of the words "thrift" or "recycle", but that is exactly what they did to provide their children with a friend. They used scrap rags for the body and the clothes and weeds and straw for the stuffing. In today's world, if you would like to make your own doll, your choices of supplies are not quite so limited. The basics for a rag doll would be a pattern, fabric and stuffing. Even those basics could be whittled down, somewhat, by using old linens and textiles from your closets and making your own pattern.

For a pattern, start by drawing a rectangle on paper for the body. Draw a circle sitting on one short end of the rectangle for the head. Round the outer corners of the body and the inner corners where the head meets the body in order to shape the pattern. Place the pattern on a doubled piece of chosen body fabric, with the right sides facing. Draw around the pattern. Sew on the drawn lines, leaving the bottom of the body unstitched. Cut the body out a 1/4 inch from the stitched lines. Clip the corners and turn right side out. Stuff the head and body firmly and close the open end.

Make your own doll as whimsical as you would like. The normal size for a leg pattern would be the measurement from the bottom of the body to almost the top of the head and slightly narrower than half the body width. The whimsy size could be quite a bit longer. Use fabric that will mimic stockings and cut two for each leg. Sew the legs the same as the body, using a 1/4 inch seam allowance. Turn and stuff the legs and close the ends. Attach the legs to the bottom seam on the doll's body. Make the arms as long as the doll's body and slightly narrower than the doll's legs. Repeat the sewing used for the legs. Turn and stuff the arms and close the ends. Attach the arms to the shoulder seams of the body.

Make your own doll clothes using the shape of the body as a guide. Add hair using craft doll hair, yarn or fabric. Finally, sew or paint a face on your doll and add ribbons, buttons and trims to give personality.

You could, of course, use most any materials to make a wide range of doll styles. Try this basic doll as inspiration for others.

Wendy Pan is an accomplished niche website developer and author.

To learn more about make your own doll [http://collectabledollssite.info/make-your-own-rag-doll-doll-making-supplies], please visit Collectible Doll Site [http://collectabledollssite.info] for current articles and discussions.

Making Your Own Dolls and Stuffed Animals

People have been making dolls for thousands of years. In fact, archeologists have found dolls in Egypt dating back to 2000 BC. Thousands of years later and dolls are still very popular. This popularity can be seen in the variety of dolls and stuffed animals that are available to purchase at stores. Even with all this variety to choose from, doll making is a popular activity. Keep reading to discover why doll making is so popular and more importantly, how to make a doll or a stuffed animal.

Why is Doll Making So Popular?

People have many reasons for making their own dolls or stuffed animals. These vary from person to person, along with the benefits. The reasons and benefits for making your own dolls include:


They are great to give as gifts,
You can customize the doll to create a very unique look,
It is very satisfying when you make something yourself,
People appreciate the work that went into a homemade gift,
Smaller projects don't require large amounts of fabric, so it's a perfect way to use up fabric scraps, and
It's a great way to introduce children to crafts.

How To Make Your Own Doll

Dolls or stuffed animals can be as simple or as complex as you want to make them. They are made from patterns that can contain 1-3 pieces that are sewn together or from many pieces. No matter how simple or complex the pattern is, the process is the same. First, trace the pattern pieces onto fabric and cut them out. Next, place the pieces together, with the right side of the fabric turned in. Sew the edges together, leaving a small opening. Turn the fabric inside out, fill with stuffing and sew the small opening shut.

Options

When it comes to doll making, you have a couple of options.


You could buy a pattern. The pattern will indicate what supplies are needed, the pattern and complete instructions for assembling the doll. The advantage of buying a pattern is that it is generally cheaper to buy the pattern and all the supplies yourself than to buy a kit, especially if you already have some of the required supplies.
Another option is to buy a kit. The advantage of buying a kit is that it will contain both the pattern and all the supplies that you need to make the doll. That means you'll save time in gathering all the necessary supplies.
A third option is to design your own stuffed animal pattern. You can start by drawing the shape on paper. Then cut the material and sew it together. As you gain more experience, you can make more complex patterns with several pieces. The main advantage of this option is that your doll or stuffed animal will truly be one of a kind.

Final Considerations

Most fabric will work wonderful. Material such as fake fur or any type of material that has long, fuzzy strands is better suited for medium to large sized projects. Just keep in mind that the thicker the material, the harder it is to sew together when it is in small pieces.

As well, take a look at the pattern itself. Does it have a lot of pieces to be sewn together? Does it have many curves or tight curves to sew? If you answered yes to these two questions, then just keep in mind that these are more advanced patterns that may not be suitable for children or beginner sewers. Once you have a little experience with sewing and are feeling up to the challenge, then these more complex patterns will allow you to make detailed dolls that are absolutely gorgeous.

Are you now inspired to make your own doll or stuffed animal? If so, please visit Beautiful Creations at [http://www.beautifulcreations.ca/ProjectIdeas/FreeProjectsForChildren.htm] for free doll projects, perfect for children and beginner sewers alike! Each project has pictures and step-by-step instructions to guide you along.

Making Waldorf Dolls - The Big 3 Myths That Can Hold You Back

No doubt about it, there's a certain mystique about Waldorf dolls, and with good reason. Every Waldorf doll is individually made by hand. That fact alone sets them apart from the mass of commercially produced toys. These irresistible dolls achieve their distinctive appearance by means of a unique construction method, and their uncommonly huggable feel is the result of only all natural materials.

But don't be fooled! Uncommon though they are, they deserve to be far less rare. There's no good reason why the pleasure of making Waldorf dolls should be reserved for only a handful of highly skilled artisans.

If you've ever wanted to try making a Waldorf doll, but hesitated, maybe one of these Waldorf doll making myths is holding you back:

Myth Number 1: The materials are too hard to find.

This may have been true twenty years ago, before the internet became a ubiquitous presence, but it's certainly not true now!

Waldorf dolls are indeed fussy about what goes into them. Only all natural materials may be used, like 100% cotton fabrics and soft sheep's wool stuffing. These are not commonly available at fabric shops or crafts outlets, but there are numerous online merchants who have them in many color choices, along with all sorts of useful tools and notions for the doll maker. In Australia and the U.S. there are domestic sources. Elsewhere, supplies may need to be shipped, but they are certainly not hard to find. Type "Waldorf doll supplies" into your favorite search engine to get an extensive list of vendors.

Myth Number 2: The materials are too expensive.

I'll admit, there's at least a kernel of truth in this one. Compared to polyester fiberfill, carded wool batting does seem quite costly. On the other hand, if you've worked with the poly fluff, then worked with wool, I think you'll agree that the difference in quality is far greater than the difference in price.

A one-pound package of wool batting will make a large doll, or several smaller ones. If you are making a small doll, you might consider purchasing material with a friend and sharing the cost. The cotton interlock fabric that makes the best doll skin is sold in generous widths. A ½-yard cut will definitely make several dolls, so is good for sharing.

You may also be able to recycle some materials as a thrifty alternative. A cotton tee-shirt that has been washed to a wonderful softness can be dyed and used for doll skin. Worn-out clothing often yields pieces of fabric in good condition. These can make fabulous doll clothes. Yarn unraveled from an old wool sweater makes some of the very best curly doll hair.

Myth Number 3: Waldorf Dolls are too difficult to make.

Utter nonsense! Waldorf-style dolls are among the very easiest of all dolls to make! Their body shapes are quite simple, with mitten-shaped hands (no finicky little fingers to turn) and minimal articulation of the limbs. The distinctively-shaped Waldorf head is achieved by tying two strings around a ball of wool. Presto! An adorable child's head appears as if by magic.

That marvelous wool stuffing will seem worth every penny when you see how smoothly it fills out a shape. No lumpy limbs! Plus, you can pull it all out and re-stuff with the same wool, and it's good as new.

So what are you waiting for? That special child in your life deserves an extraordinary doll, hand made with love by you.

Margaret Lunn is an award-winning quilter, doll artist, and puppeteer. Her Waldorf doll patterns make beautiful dolls easy for even novice dollmakers. For more detailed instructions and shortcut tips for making Waldorf dolls, be sure to visit http://www.WaldorfDollMaking.com.

4 Tips on Doll Making Every Doll Enthusiast Should Know

Who says dolls are only for small girls? They can be for grown ups too! The idea of doll making roots from different likes, preferences, and purposes. There are those who like dolls because it gives them a youthful vibrancy, some prefer to have dolls for sheer enjoyment and there are those who love dolls for the purpose of collecting them. Whatever reasons you may have, know that it's easier to make one especially if you're aiming to make cloth dolls.

Cloth doll making is considered one of the most inexpensive ways of making a doll. It doesn't require a big sum of money nor costly materials and fabrics. So if you want to know more on how you'll make your very first cloth doll, the following steps will teach you how to:

1. Select a preferred doll pattern - You can find them at craft outlets, quilt shops and even on online stores. Choosing an easy pattern at the outset will allow you to learn the ropes first before delving into more complex patterns. Doll patterns come in different forms, styles and sizes, so make it a point to decide which kind of pattern you'd like your first doll to be like.

2. Look for the material list - You cannot just go on with your doll making activity without the right materials in hand. Some of the materials include needles of different sizes, threads of different colors, pieces of fabrics, and some embellishments and accessories. You can easily find all of these materials on many craft and art stores off and online.

3. Carefully study guidelines and instructions - The success of making your very first doll activity will greatly rely on how well you study and understand instructions provided along with the pattern. If this is your first sewing activity, always refer to the directions provided for you. There are those instructions that only teach you what to do and not how to do it. If this is the case, then try looking for a pattern that will provide step by step ways of making a doll.

4. Make way for some research - Do not just depend on what you've got in hand. Oftentimes, patterns and guidelines bought from craft stores include very little information. If this is encountered, it is best to widen your research. You can look for further instructions on books or you can Google it. Remember, the activity would be so much easier if you have loads of how-to's and information to back you up.

Making Waldorf Dolls - Are Your Dolls Tough Enough?

"Rugged" is probably not the first word you'd use to describe a Waldorf doll. Those adorable chubby-cheeked faces look innocent, angelic even... certainly not tough.

Think again.

Waldorf dolls are meant to be play dolls. Children love their dolls enthusiastically, but not necessarily gently. They embrace them as best friends, and drag them around everywhere as constant companions. If you give a child a Waldorf doll, expect it to be in the thick of the action, not sitting on a shelf. These dolls might look sweet and innocent, but they need to be sturdy, durable, and yes, even rugged.

In my years of doll making, I've discovered that there are certain techniques that produce more durable dolls, while actually making the construction process easier! For example, one of my favorite doll making mantras is, "Double up."

The first place where I like to "double up" is in making the head. For all but the quite small, unsculpted heads, I cut double the length of tubular gauze for the initial head shaping. (If you've never made a Waldorf doll, this might not make a lot of sense to you. You can find a photo tutorial on my website that will make it all crystal clear.) Then, instead of sewing across the end of the gauze to close it off, I sew across the middle. Turn one half inside-out over the other and, presto! Instant double-layer gauze sock.

If you've ever had your gauze tube pop open as you stuff it with wool, you'll appreciate what a time saver the double-gauze technique can be. The double layer also helps control any tendency for bulges to occur, making a more smoothly rounded head shape.

Continuing with shaping the head, I use the "double up" principle for tying the eye and chin lines. I fold a length of strong craft thread to double it, and knot the ends together. This gives me a loop at each end for a much more secure grip when pulling the threads tight. A double ply of craft thread is stronger than many thicker strings you could use, but much less bulky.

For nearly all hand-sewing steps, I also double my thread and knot the ends together. This serves two purposes: not only does it enhance the strength of my stitches, but the loop at the end allows me to anchor the thread to itself. It's a quick solution to that annoying tendency of a single-thread knot to pull through the weave of the gauze or the doll skin knit.

"Doubling up" is valuable for machine-sewing tasks, too. Inside curves need to be clipped very close to the stitching in order to turn without puckering. A double row of stitches allows the seam to turn smoothly without risk of bursting.

Finally, my favorite way to "double up" is to sew with a friend. It's a great way to share tool, supplies, inspiration, and friendship. If your sewing buddy is a child, making Waldorf dolls is a great, fun way to pass handwork traditions on to another generation.

Margaret Lunn is an award-winning quilter, doll artist, and puppeteer. Her Waldorf doll patterns make beautiful dolls easy for even novice dollmakers. For more detailed instructions and shortcut tips for making Waldorf dolls, be sure to visit http://www.WaldorfDollMaking.com.

Reborn Baby Dolls-create or a Hobby for you could be collecting?

Reborn dolls-the carefully designed and painted, life-like dolls that are steadily becoming in popularity over the last five years-have a number of benefits for their creators and collectors alike. Lets take a look at the benefits of this extraordinary creations for both groups.

A creative outlet.

For both professional and amateur artists, reborning dolls is a beautiful creative outlet, patience and skills, and offering an enormous sense of accomplishment in the finished product. This sense of achievement is highlighted by the growing demand for reborn dolls by collectors all over the world.

A hobby that beauty, peace and tranquility.

Reborn dolls for collectors bring beauty, tranquility and peace to their homes, in the same way that an image of a newborn baby could soften your heart and bring a smile to your lips. The effect is with reborn dolls, because it's not only eyes, but touch, keep you involved in or a reborn ' baby ' rock strengthened.

If it is all too weird for you, and you would rather make paper mache, or collecting stamps or something, then by all means-going forward. But if you're even a little fascinated by this growing trend, then you might as well read on.

Too old to play with dolls?

Maybe this thought crossed your mind. But there is plenty of evidence to the contrary. Game is a healthy way to relax and Destress for people of all ages. In children is play a healthy part of normal development. In adults is also a powerful way to integrate a game experience let emotion and relax. Most people with family pets instinctively understand this, if the dog walking or patting the CAT are centuries-old techniques to de-stress and relax. In fact, recent studies suggest that people on their end of their life struggles with Alzheimer's and dementia greatly from the reassuring quiet presence of a lifelike reborn baby doll can benefit.

They are not expensive?

Well, it is true that reborn dolls often-and should-cost more than the dolls factory created that you can buy at your local toy store. They are after all, works of art, created on many hours of detailed work closely. A reborn doll created by a professional reborn artist that can have spent years perfecting his-or her-skill, can sell for well over $ 1000.

However, it does not have to cost that much. Many reborn dolls can be found on auction sites like eBay for about $ 100.

Finally, for under $ 100 you can create your own reborn doll. There are plenty of guides, groups, and community forums available to support you, so you can take your time and add your own personal note.

It Is for me?

Hopefully this has given you an insight or dolls to make you reborn reborn baby dolls or a hobby for collect. Of course, is the best way to find out to give it a try. For lovers reborns, there is no doubt that the special joy that comes from creating or just playing with this unique and special creations. So, why not ... Try it for yourself and see?

Yollana Shore is new to the world of reborn baby dolls and dolls reborn.

Http://www.dolls-reborn.org, on her blog, she shares her journey in this fascinating world of the beautiful babies and the people who make and love them.

You can visit this site to find out more, join her in this trip, and share your own experiences.

Making money sewing at home and have fun, promotion and marketing

Creation of a "seller" market

Promoting your business is one of the most challenging aspects of self-employment. There is no permanently by your product-market advertising branch. Your team can you and your spouse or friend for now. Whom you have at your disposal, you can create a smart marketing strategy to successfully launch your doll clothes sewing business and make money at home sewing!!

It doesn't have to eng. you do not want your prices are so high that people do not afford what you have to offer, but you're in the business of making a profit, so now that it comes down to how comfortable you are promoting the pop clothes you. You know that you have created a unique quality product with the best fabrics and materials and that your niche is pretty small. Start there. Take what differentiates you and build on it.

Next, frequent other shops that sell products similar to yours. Beginning with stores that sell dolls and Doll clothes. Their craftsmanship evaluate and compare the quality of what you see to the standard that you keep to yourself. Questions of the owner or the administrator. If no such store exists, file away as main selling point. You have created a unique product that is not generally placed on the market.

Then to broaden your search and visit local fabric shops. Find out if there is someone currently sells pop clothes in your niche and if not, they would be willing to promote or sell what you have to offer. Setup at another time more information to share with them. Be respectful of their time. This is the best way to start a relationship. They will not only your supplier for material, but a possible retail location for your product, as well as a reference for clients looking for doll clothes.

Finally, where you will set up shop? Do you want money sewing and location is crucial to your success. Do you want to have a store front where customers can come to buy? You will the company operate from your home? How will these decisions affect your family? Include in your decision decision-making process. This can save you space at home, on rent for a storefront, but make sure you can separate work from home.

Once you've done all the legwork and have a plan, it's time to put it in action. Because you don't need a marketing team at your Beck and call, gathering of friends and family and let them be part of the process. There are many annoying steps (i.e. printing and folding brochures, flyers, connect to the local media) and a team is the best approach to getting the work. It is important not to mention of why you started this crazy trip and what you want to achieve at the end.

You will find the visited again and often need to re-vamp of your plan. Wake up each morning review of your goals and plan. Know your work to be done for the day. Who's coming in for an appointment? Who needs a follow-up phone call or note in the mail? Stay in touch with your customers. They are all your supporters and fans and can spread the word faster and more efficient than a newspaper ad.

Armed with a plan to get the word out about your unique dolly clothing, you are ready to make money at home sewing. I encourage you to step back and enjoy the work you have done so far. You are for the rest who only dream about the possibility to work from home. You've taken your dream of owning your own business and spend time with your family and made it a reality. Congratulations! Continue to believe in yourself and never stop learning. With these two concepts is the sky the limit. Happy selling!

JoAnn developed her love for sewing as a child in 4-h. more than 40 years later, she is a sewing enthusiast who enjoys sharing her passion for sewing with all ages. She loves spending time with her grandchildren, teaching them the joy of sewing doll clothes for their dollies. Author of seven books of the hard copy and explore many different applications, e-books that you recommend JoAnn sewing would sew on your trip and instill in you a love for the exciting world of sewing doll clothes. Www.sewingfordolls.net/marketing-and-promoting/ visit her online at

Making money on Home-Why Work at Home?

Why people want to make money at home? There are many different reasons.

Some people try to replace it with a full time income. People have either decided to quit their current job or they got a pink slip.

This scenario is not hard to believe given today's economy. Whatever the reason, these people quickly start making a full-time income at home.

Not so long ago it was possible for a family of four to live comfortably on only one parent (usually dad) of salary. They even managed to save money. Hard to believe isn't it?

Today, a family of four but to survive, only two really income without even contemplating to save money.

Just an average family expenditures like this:

Mortgage or rent payment
Utility bills (electricity, water, gas, garbage pick-up, cable, internet, etc.)
Car payment
Car and/or health insurance payment
Babysitting/child services costs
Food
Gas for the car

I am sure you can add a lot more to this list

If one parent stops working how can they pay these costs? Working at home can help families earn extra money. This would only be a little bit. Every little bit helps.

A housewife who started a website might earn as much as her husband finds herself in a years time.

Another reason for working at home might be like to spend more time with your family. I think this is the biggest reason that people want to start working from home.

A dad could work at a job all day, come home and play with his children, and then work at night after his family is asleep. Eventually he could work at home job his only job. He can now work while the children are at school. He gets to spend the afternoon football games, dolls, or dress-up. H finally go to sleep at a reasonable time.

There are many reasons why someone would choose to work at home. Any reason is as individual as the person looking to work from home. I never heard anyone give what I would say is a bad reason to work from home.

That is why it is so sad for me when I hear about hard working men and women getting ripped off. All they wanted was to work at home. Someone made use of them and took their money and in return gave them nothing but grief.

One thing you must do is to identify scams before you do not lose money. That way, you can start your work at home career with confidence.

If you have questions or want to help to determine whether a job offer is a scam or not, you can download my free ebook say no to scam:. Jonathan Pitts has successfully been working online for some years now enjoys teaching other people how to start an online business from home in his free newsletter "Small Business today." Don't miss these tips and tricks that the difference between a successful company and a flop. On today http://www.workingathomescams.com sign up

The rag doll-7 tips for beginners

If you are looking for a little motivation begin to make your first doll, then you are in the right place.

The beauty of the manufacture of cloth dolls is that many of the available models call for inexpensive materials. Or because you do not have a huge amount of tissue to make most of the dolls, you can investment and work with high range such as silk, satin and fur fabrics.

Here are seven tips to start the manufacture of cloth dolls.

(1) Decision very first you will do is: how this doll will be built? Is there a sewing machine available? You will be sewing by hand? Choose your first doll knowing that couture hand certainly you will be longer. On the side, if you intend to sewing you can Tote to your project and stitch on it, while you're a lunch break, on a trip or waiting in the doctor's Office.

(2) Choose the right model. You can find that doll perfect fabric and craft stores or some very unique patterns can be found in the quilt shops and specialty stores and online. If this is your first attempt of couture, take a moment to review the instructions of the pattern to see if they are adequate. Some pattern designers assume that the underwriter has been sewing for 20 years and that it only tells you what to do, not how to do it.

(3) After you have chosen your pattern, find the "list of materials", which is usually on the back of the envelope of pattern or visible through the packaging. If you do not find, ask the Clerk to help you. Remember, they want you to buy all the materials you need to make this doll, so that they be useful to you.

(4) Purchase your equipment. Slow down. This can be more enjoyable, exciting cloth doll part. Breathe and let your creativity.

Use a pencil check the items that purchase you. There is nothing more frustrating than to start your doll to see that you have forgotten the thread.

Usually, stores large fabric/craft will carry all the supplies you need to do the dolls from profiles they sell. If you can't find a particular item or size correct something, ask the clerk when they will be restocking. They just may be the product in the back and just have not extinguished yet. Don't be afraid to speak and ask questions. With gas prices these days, you don't want to be driving anywhere in the city to buy a set of eyes for $2.

(5) Prior to you dare start of Cup in this tissue, dig a little more in the direction of the pattern. Most of the companies of honcho have a glossary included at the beginning of each project, but some of the designers of the store is not. This is one of the reasons why you must read the pattern first. If there are any terms you don't understand, try to do a GOOGLE search. There are many great Web sites that have detailed explanations and images for the manufacture of cloth dolls, and it is faster to go to the library.

It is also important to read the pattern to find out if there are special instructions or out of the ordinary. For example, some patterns are printed on both sides of the paper and the author of the doll should copy or trace parts without actually of their Cup. Some parts of the pattern are supposed to be traced on cloth and then sewn to the line of trace and cut out with the doll manufacturer, adding a seam allowance.

(6) As a hobby, you must actually do the craft to see if you're going to love it. There are numerous articles of "specialized" for the manufacture of cloth dolls, but I would recommend trying to buy without them, at least until you know with certainty that you have fallen in love with the art. You do not want a closet full of gadgets that you will never use.

(7) Even if the designer of the doll probably spent at least a hundred hours develop your profile, you do not have to make the doll exactly as the original. There was no police doll. Sometimes you find something you like better. Sometimes, you will create a disaster and start over. But in any event, you will rag dolls which will be your own artistic vision.

That being said, there is no shame in making a doll exactly as the doll on the pattern envelope. After all, it was the doll that you fell in love. Make a doll to the exact designer's specifications, while not as exciting, can be wonderful way to learn new techniques and start developing your own.

Once you get by making cloth dolls, I promise you that there will come a time when you say to yourself, "I don't like the ears." I think I will just make them a little larger, more long, shorter, pointier, wider, more. "And soon you will be able to make your own templates.

Now if you are looking for a cute doll which was developed specifically for beginners in mind, go to http://www.missbeesdesigns.com

How to start a doll of cloth doing business-2

There are several forms of doll making as the fabric, plastic, wood, porcelain and more. For many years women were creation of dolls of materials such as paper and fabrics of scrap metal. The hair and face of the doll can be shaped any way desired by the imagination. You can do some research at your local library to find additional information on the history of the manufacture of dolls.

Many women think that the biggest problem they have is not making the dolls but their marketing. Many women turn to the galleries, doll shows, craft fairs, craft shows and the Internet to sell their dolls. You can start your own doll doing business with little or no money by creating a simple cloth doll. Several parts of doll may be ordered from suppliers and assembled to meet your specific design.

Doll making can be expensive when you arrive in the manufacture of moulds for mass production. Doll design can be extended to cover all ethnic groups. For example, the black dolls are very popular and are in high demand. You can join the association of doll for the information, ideas and resources on the doll doing business more.

You do need are the supplies to start the business, with your cards visit, brochures and any other information available on your products. To determine the income of a doll of doing business, you can start by looking at companies that sell Barbie dolls and others who have been in business for many years.

For additional information on making cloth doll, you should attend seminars, read books and magazines and are team with other professionals in the field.

Copyright © 2007, Dr. Mary e. Waters, all rights reserved.

Are you interested in starting a business?

Beginners and experienced entrepreneurs, get help with your small business is critical to your success. Right help will cause you to avoid costly errors, and it can also help you earn a lot of time, money and energy. You need to get the right help to form the structure legal business, financial, management, procurement, and certification, marketing, pricing products, to prepare a business plan and much more. If you are a business owner who is you you ask if you can take your business to new heights, contact Dr. Waters at tina.waters@waienterprises.com

Are you looking to free super your business? Did you know that you can start a legitimate business with little or no money? Subscribe to Dr. Mary e. Waters? free "easy company" bi-monthly ezine to http://www.drmewaters.com , he has many tips and techniques for helping make your dream of owning a successful business to become a reality. Moreover, each lucky Subscriber a month receives a 30 free minutes on the business advice session application! Dr. Mary e. Waters is an author, speaker, business consultant. She is the author of ?Easy Business for women with little or no Money. " It strives to help people start their own business with little or no money. For many years, it has helped people make their dream of becoming owner of a prosperous come true!

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How to start a doll of cloth making business-1

Creative Cloth Doll Making: New Approaches for Using Fibers, Beads, Dyes, and Other Exciting Techniques

Though doll making is one of the oldest forms of artistic expression, contemporary artists continue to expand the boundaries of this craft by creating exciting new work that incorporates all types of media. In this book, artists from around the world release their creative forces with glorious abandon as they take three simple doll patterns and turn them into one-of-a-kind works of art featuring hand-dyed fabrics, beads, stamping, colored pencils, and much more.

Internationally known cloth doll artist and teacher Patti Medaris Culea brings together a collection of projects ranging from simple and elegant designs by emerging artists to elaborate dolls from premiere doll designers. These artists offer easy to follow instructions, tips and special insights, along with creative variations for each of the projects.

* Three new and exciting doll patterns included--all with interchangeable parts
* Detailed instructions on creating faces
* Variation ideas from world-famous doll makers

Price: $24.99

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Patterns for Making Amish Dolls and Doll Clothes

Written for both the beginner and more advanced crafter in mind and includes: basics of making soft dolls; lists of tips and sources; 23 clear and easy doll patterns-to-size; step-by-step instructions; 50 clothing and accessory patterns; photographs of each doll.
Price: $14.95

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