The deal was if she posted a photo of her doll I’d post one of my little bear so here goes.
This is the very first bear I’ve ever made. She’s made from weathered muslin and is filled with poly fibers. I think she has a vintage or primitive look to her. I also think I need to go back to the drawing board and figure out a better way to make bears cause this particular pattern needs work. Even so I’m going to keep her for myself cause I like her. She’s the first and she’s mine, mine, mine.
It is quite possible that I am obsessed with doll making. The other day I found a small wall hanging thing. I can’t remember what they’re supposed to be for but I use it to store scrap materials. I have a small chest full of lace, yarn, ribbons, flowers and all sorts of extras to add to a finished doll. Then of course there’s a drawer full of dresses ranging from sweet to vintage. When I see something that would work on a doll and the price is right I pick it up. I think I may be obsessed but this obsession isn’t new. A very long time ago when I lived in Kentucky I wanted to use my second bedroom as a sewing shop so I could make dolls for therapists. I wanted to make a doll without arms, one without legs, some without mouths and some completely faceless. I wanted to make them to be used in a therapeutic setting. I had the desire to do it but I didn’t have enough therapy under my belt to handle it so the second bedroom was simply a second bedroom. As of 2008 I may need a third bedroom.
I very much enjoy trying new projects such as making a teddy bear or smaller doll but the real joy for me is making the larger ones with a flowing dress, ear rings and big brown eyes. (I keep posting shots of her because I like her and she’s my first, the one that brought on all the other Charlene Dolls. ) Anyway…from time to time I venture out and do something with a hint of whimsy but for the most part I like to stay with a formal look.
The friend pictured in the photo is now in my Etsy shop . The bear is for photo purposes only … it’s mine all mine all mine.
Update: The doll has found a home. Thanks to everyone who inquired about her. There’s one more coming very soon. Layaway is available.
Austin
Love, love, love it!!!!!! Both the bear and the doll. You have a real knack for creative thinking. Keep up the good work!!!
The bear is awesome-no wonder you want to keep him! I had a bear as a boy-his name was Growls because everytime you turned him upside down he growled…that because of a small little box inside of him.
Thank you for visiting my site-and your comments Austin. I have missed you…glad to know you are still writing-and living and healing!
Awwwwwwwww! Your talent is wonderful. I can barely sew a button on (and I was going to go to med school? wtf was I thinking?).
As long as you had really good medical malpractice insurance you would have been fine.
The dolls are all so lovely.
Gimme that teddy bear!
I won’t. I won’t do it, and you can’t make me!