Hello Dolly! A Collaborative Art Doll Project due May 13th 2019

[notinkansas]

Signup date– Oct 1st 2018- WE ARE FULL!
First Mail Date - Oct 15th 2018
Number of participants – six, USA only

Hello Dolly!!!!!

Please read carefully before joining. This swap will require a COMMITMENT of time, effort and funds for mailing and supplies. (Using your existing art supply stash is highly encouraged! Art supply hoarders unite!)

For this swap you will be part of an artistic collaboration taking place over a seven month period, mailing to the next player every six weeks.
At the end of the project you will say "Hello" to your completed Dolly!

You are first tasked with supplying a "starter" doll, consisting of at least a head and torso. It can be something you made or it can be a store bought doll to be altered. It does not have to be made entirely of cloth but please consider mailing costs. Each other artist will add to your doll on their turn.

Next, you will created a journal of sorts...outlining your dolls "story" or "personality". Each artist will then add to the travelogue...a quote, an illustration, a narrative of what was added and why....only limitations are your imagination.

The rules:

THERE ARE NO WITHDRAWS!!!!!
You must adhere to a six week mailing schedule.
You must be a member in good standing. No negative or neutral iTrader for 3 months. Positive iTrader of 15+ is required.
You must, just be willing to commit time and effort to doing your very best work to contribute to a completed doll that will be cherished by it's owner.
You must send me your name, address, email address and phone number and any other way to contact you that you can think of. I WILL find a way to track you down if you go MIA.
You must stay active in the thread....post your progress, stop in and say "hi", be social. We will be together here for almost 7 months. Let's make it fun and friendly!

Postage & Mailing:

You will need some sort of mailing box that is sturdy enough to survive opening and remailing to subsequent artists. We will decide, as a group, maximum size of dolls/boxes. Sorry it is unlikely that a padded envelope will be sufficient.

Dolls need to be mailed according to the 6 week travel plan that will be provided after the group is full. NOTE: It works out that there will be no mailing dates in December! Yay!

A. notinkansas
B. Bluesky
C. CiCiCreates
D. aaeshelman
E. art_junkie
F. TherapeuticArt

[notinkansas]

Rotation Schedule:

Art_Junkie: aaeshelman CiCiCreates Bluesky NotinKansas TherapeuticArt

TherapeuticArt: Art_Junkie aaeshelman CiCiCreates Bluesky NotinKansas

NotinKansas: TherapeuticArt Art_Junkie aaeshelman CiCiCreates Bluesky

Bluesky: NotinKansas TherapeuticArt Art_Junkie aaeshelman CiCiCreates

CiCiCreates: Bluesky NotinKansas TherapeuticArt Art_Junkie aaeshelman

aaeshelman: CiCiCreates Bluesky NotinKansas TherapeuticArt Art_Junkie

[Bluesky]

Add meeee!!!!

[notinkansas]

Yay Bluesky!!!

[CiCiCreates]

Wow, you are speedily inspired! I didn’t think you’d have this up and running so soon. I assume there will be a rotation schedule plan, such as 1. - doll body; 2. Undies; 3. Outerwear. 4. hair. Etc. etc..... just making sure I will have this info before signing up. And I hope it will still work out that I can host a wooden kokeshi swap in a month or so. Thanks so much for the invite!!

[notinkansas]

Wow, you are speedily inspired! I didn’t think you’d have this up and running so soon. I assume there will be a rotation schedule plan, such as 1. - doll body; 2. Undies; 3. Outerwear. 4. hair. Etc. etc..... just making sure I will have this info before signing up. And I hope it will still work out that I can host a wooden kokeshi swap in a month or so. Thanks so much for the invite!!

I was going to leave it up to the artist as to what they would like to add on your turn. And your own doll wouldn't necessarily have to be mailed naked. You might want to get her/him/it headed in the general direction you'd like it to take.

[notinkansas]

http://www.atcsforall.com/forum/showthread.php?25563-The-Doll-Caravan-A-Moley-esque-Art-Doll-Swap-due-August-15-2013

Here's a link to a previous rotation doll swap hosted years ago by Pochadiva.

[notinkansas]

I guess I should have asked if you'd like to play CiCi.

[CiCiCreates]

Yes, NIK, I believe I must!

[notinkansas]

Haha...I believe you should!!!

[CiCiCreates]

Thanks for posting Pochadiva's link - very interesting! And I really like the idea of a little journal included. Will we have a size range?

[CiCiCreates]

Never mind above, I just read your description better! Size to be determined by group after we are filled. This will be fun.

[Smidgen]

I am giving this some serious thought. I wish the previous rotation still had the pictures. Could you post some to know what you are expecting? I don’t know about doll making but I used to be a miniature teddy bear artist. Your dolls might have big heads and bodies with teeny tiny arms and legs. Heeehee

[theweavershand]

this is so tempting! i just finished a moley group and have so much on my plate. i really cant take on another long commitment. dang it! I'll have to watch from the sidelines and hopefully join you in a future group. thanks so much for the invite!

[notinkansas]

Smidgen....I have no expectations! I'll see if I can find a couple of inspirational pics on Pinterest to share. :)

I knew you had a lot going when I sent the invite Amy. Thought I'd give it a shot anyway! Glad to have you hanging out in the thread!

[notinkansas]

199308
Let me throw this out there for discussion...
I plan to use a starter doll like this. I may change the pattern slightly, make the head wider, limbs a little more substantial. What if we all start with this basic doll? Might take away some of the anxiety about "What is expected".

Discuss.....

[Smidgen]

Thanks for the picture! I wasn’t sure if you were thinking altered dolls or more of a fabric doll. I like the idea you showed. How big is she? I was wondering if she could sit on a chair or sofa. Would we try to draw a similar pattern or would you have one available? I like the idea that the head would be larger for more space for the face. What kind of fabric is that? Do you paint on muslin with acrylics? Sorry for all the questions and I don’t want us in a box, but it is a large commitment so I want to make sure if this is for me or not. It is sounding very enticing!

[notinkansas]

I could give you the link to the pattern for the example. Depending on what we decide as a group it may need to be resized. I can try my best to do that and provide one to you. My thought is that 12" would be a reasonable size.
Based on the picture, she is sewn across the hips and knees for sitting.
Face and fabric is up to you. Paint, embroidery, buttons (like the technique Bluesky used for her Dotees) are all acceptable. I have a book that says Prismacolor pencils work well in tightly woven fabrics.
As for fabric I plan on using a muslin for the flesh colored parts and a print or patterned fabric to replace the example's white area to give my doll a "direction".
I don't want to place too many constraints on the group. Even though I am technically the host, this is a collaboration! I want imagination and creativity to run wild!

[notinkansas]

199322199323
just a couple more examples.
Keep in mind that at the end this will be YOUR doll. Each artist should make the starter doll to her own liking. The other players will add their best work following a direction/personality/theme outlined by the dolls creator.

[CiCiCreates]

I really love both of those faces! They are really sweet, and I always seem to prefer cute/pretty over silly/funny/ugly. When I paint on fabric, I always test on a scrap first, to see if my paint will bleed (outlines not crisp). A tightly woven fabric makes a big difference here. Quality colored pencils work, also acrylic paints, and fabric markers are great. I like the pattern sample, but might prefer to make my own (very similar) one. I personally like a finished size of anywhere from 9” - 12”, I guess i’m Just used to working a bit smaller. The 16” - 20” mentioned in the earlier thread seem a bit large to me. Just thought I’d weigh in, I will always be happy going with the majority. I think this is an exciting project!

[notinkansas]

I welcome your tips and ideas CiCi!
Have you ever found\used a fine line fabric marker?
Making your own pattern is fine. And I only suggested that you all take a look at the other project to see how these things work. I think that bigger than 12" would present challenges, artistic and postal.

[Bluesky]

Paper clay can used to make a mask for the doll

[Bluesky]

Or face

[CiCiCreates]

Before I knew what art cards were, I signed all my quilt labels (cotton fabric) with a fine line Micron pen. Mostly, they are art quilts with embellishments, that I don't like to launder. However, some are more utilitarian and have been washed several times, and the labels are still readable! Now I use Microns endlessly on my art cards - they are wonderful.

[CiCiCreates]

Oooh, there's an idea, Bluesky - I haven't worked with paperclay before.

[notinkansas]

Oh that would be awesome Bluesky! I've never worked with paper clay before either.

Micron pen goes on my shopping list!

[Bluesky]

Super easy......I made dolls with paper clay masks...native American vibe.....pushed clay out to make a border that used an needle/awl to make holes... When dry painted with arcylic paint and beaded holes.

[Bluesky]

If you have a doll with a hard face you can make your own mold.

[notinkansas]

Really?!?! That's a cool idea. Gonna have to research that idea!

[aaeshelman]

Thanks so much for the heads up on this swap. I just finished a moley swap and thought maybe I would take a break for a while but, this looks like more fun than I can resist. Please sign me up.

[Bluesky]

Also for face you can do black line embroidery. Look at dolls by mummysam.

[notinkansas]

So glad to have you aaeshelman! Feel free to jump in with your ideas!

[notinkansas]

Also for face you can do black line embroidery. Look at dolls by mummysam.

So simple yet so cool! Pinterest is a treasure trove of ideas!

[aaeshelman]

I just mad these donee dolls for a swap with paper clay faces

[aaeshelman]

oops I forgot to add the pics in the thread.

[aaeshelman]

OMG I screwed up the whole thing. I made the dotee dolls for a swap.

[notinkansas]

Those are really fun aaeshelman! So many possibilities!

[angelmuz]

I am thinking about it. I have stopped doing atcs for a while, but love this type of thing. I would have the time, just need to see if I can find a doll in time??? Any possible links for where to purchase a plain one? Don't have time to sew it right now.

[notinkansas]

Not sure about cost but you could try Etsy.

[Bluesky]

Angelmuz....Joann fabrics carried two cloth bodies with no heads

[notinkansas]

Angelmuz....Joann fabrics carried two cloth bodies with no heads

Cloth head is not a requirement. You could use any doll head in scale to the body. Any idea what size the bodies were? Would they fit the 9 - 12 inch size we've been talking about?

I've got a couple more invites out in cyberspace. I was hoping to twist Smidgen's arm so she would join. (hint, hint of you're out there Smidgen). No pressure though! If anyone can think of someone who might be interested let me know. I'd really like to be on time with the first mail out.

I did find my inspiration fabric yesterday! I'm excited to get started!

[CiCiCreates]

NIK, I imagine you looked at names on your signup list for the Dotee dolls. What about those who signed up for the fabric brooches? I’m not sure whether you hosted that one, but what you’re interested in is just the names anyway. All we need is a couple more, but I do respect the valid hesitation of people who want to be sure about their commitment. So much better than someone who might sign up with lots of excitement and little thought, and then be irresponsible later. (I myself am incredibly excited about this project and can’t wait to get started - but then I often get teased about my passionate M.O. when it comes to any new interest!)

[notinkansas]

Yes, I've looked at lists from other swaps. That's where I recruited ya'll!!! I really am looking for 2 more people as excited and committed as the 4 of us are.
This is my first rotation swap and I want it to be successful. It is a big commitment but the payoff will be amazing!

[notinkansas]

Yes, I've looked at lists from other swaps. That's where I recruited ya'll!!! I really am looking for 2 more people as excited and committed as the 4 of us are.
This is my first rotation swap and I want it to be successful. It is a big commitment but the payoff will be amazing!

[CiCiCreates]

Shall I tell you??? I already have my doll's name and her back story.....

[notinkansas]

Yes please!!!!

[CiCiCreates]

Her name will be Princess Filigree, and her body made up of a patchwork of light colored filigree patterns. I've always loved those swirls and curleques, so of course she does too. That's about it as for the information I will put in the little journal (maybe a couple more "facts") because I don't want to be too limiting, just stir some imaginations. Wow, I feel like a little girl again, a little embarrassing at my age! But fun!

[CiCiCreates]

I am giving this some serious thought. I wish the previous rotation still had the pictures. Could you post some to know what you are expecting? I don’t know about doll making but I used to be a miniature teddy bear artist. Your dolls might have big heads and bodies with teeny tiny arms and legs. Heeehee

Smidgen, I used to collect bears by teddy bear artists as well as dolls by doll artists. It can be very similar, I'm sure you would have no problem. And a big head with a little body can look very cute!

[notinkansas]

Oooo.....what if you made a bear instead of a doll Smidgen?

I already can't wait to meet Filigree!

[OizoBleu]

I'd like to play! I'm overseas, is that an issue? I'm hesitating between something post apocalyptic and punky for her, or something cuter... my needles are ready. Is a handmade journal ok? I can adjust the size when everyone's agreed.

edit: Oh, nevermind, USA only :/

[art_junkie]

Heck yes, Sign me up!

[notinkansas]

Whoo hooo! art_junkie!!!

[Bluesky]

Well... I haven't picked a name yet...I have been inspired by Deer Rose Pilgerfahrt(German fairy tale). Pilgrimage of the rose...the journey of a rose who is transformed into a human by the fairy queen.

[Bluesky]

One of the fabric dolls will definitely work... possibly the other too

[CiCiCreates]

Oooh, I love that!

[notinkansas]

Well... I haven't picked a name yet...I have been inspired by Deer Rose Pilgerfahrt(German fairy tale). Pilgrimage of the rose...the journey of a rose who is transformed into a human by the fairy queen.

Oh....I'll be off to Google soon. Sounds wonderful!

[notinkansas]

I'd like to play! I'm overseas, is that an issue? I'm hesitating between something post apocalyptic and punky for her, or something cuter... my needles are ready. Is a handmade journal ok? I can adjust the size when everyone's agreed.

edit: Oh, nevermind, USA only :/

I limited it to U.S. Only due to mailing costs. :(

[Smidgen]

You are all so sweet, but with school and many other responsibilities just starting I don’t think I can manage this too. I will be checking in and drooling for sure!

[TherapeuticArt]

i'd like to join please!!

[notinkansas]

Sorry to hear Smidgen, but please hang out and chime in anytime!

[art_junkie]

woo hoo Marilyn!

[art_junkie]

199509

I went digging in my craft bits and found a collection of bird heads I had started a while back. My art doll is a bird's nest filled with wee birds. The heads are mounted on sticks, like lollipops. The stick is for support only and can be trimmed as needed.

Some heads are painted, please repaint if you are inclined. There are 7 heads in the rotation, so everyone will get a choice.

[notinkansas]

And, with TherapeuticArt, we are full!!!!

[notinkansas]

Got so excited I forgot to say "Welcome TherapeuticArt!"

[notinkansas]

Such a cool idea art_junkie! We each get to make our own little birdie!

[angelmuz]

Oh bummer, I missed out! Well you guys will have lots of fun! I will likely be making my own dollies for Christmas soon anyway! I will peek in now and again!

[CiCiCreates]

Art_junkie, so very clever!! What a gorgeous bird's nest that is, with all those colorful fibers!

[notinkansas]

Knew you were on the fence angelmuz, having to find a pre-made doll in time. Feel free to stop in anytime!

[notinkansas]

If all the players could PM me with name, address, cell phone, work phone, home phone, e-mail, FaceBook info....you know, all your pertinent contact info, that'd be great!

[CiCiCreates]

Art_junkie, we've talked about paper clay a little bit on this thread. Is that what you used for the birds' heads, or some other type of clay? Paper mache? Just curious.

[art_junkie]

I use sculpey clay to shape all my heads. you have to use care when baking, but my heads don't get much bigger than an inch. Paper clay tends to crack on larger sizes, so it must be layered

[TherapeuticArt]

Very cool bird heads AJ! I am glad to be in the swap and have some ideas already!

[notinkansas]

I had visions of dolls , and birds, dancing in my head keeping me from sleep last night!

I'll compile a list of addresses to pm you all when I have everyone's info.

I think I have the rotation schedule figured out too. Will post later after I double check to make sure I got it right.

[janina]

Just peeking in cause I'm nosey... I want to see how you all progress, I'm sure great dollies are on the horizon!!!!

[notinkansas]

Hi janina!

[notinkansas]

Rotation schedule is up! Let me know if you catch any errors in my calculations!

[CiCiCreates]

So we need to send our dolls out to the next person by October 15, right? Let me know if I'm understanding the rotation correctly, please. I send my doll to NIK, and I receive a doll from aaeshelman. The next doll I receive to work on will be NIK's doll, sent to me from Bluesky. Correct?

[notinkansas]

Now that I'm looking at it again, I don't think the rotation schedule is correct. Let me go back and rework it. :eek:

[CiCiCreates]

Right, if I'm correct, I'm missing having one sent to me from TherapeuticArt.

[CiCiCreates]

Congratulations on the August contest with your wonderful entry, NIK!!

[notinkansas]

Thank you so much CiCi!

[TherapeuticArt]

Yay, congratulations! I voted for your card- I love it!!!!

[notinkansas]

Thanks TherapeuticArt!

[notinkansas]

Ok...New rotation schedule is up in post #2. Thank you art_junkie for your assistance!

[notinkansas]

Trying to tweak my pattern to size today. I think I've almost got it.

Anyone else moving from the planning stage to the making stage?

[CiCiCreates]

Sewing a prototype of my pattern (so I know if it needs tweaking or not), and have my little journal all done.

[Bluesky]

Sewing legs as we speak. Did outside of the journal. Still writing the dolls story.
.,

[notinkansas]

sweet! Making more progress than me!

[art_junkie]

I am making a tiny book to go with my doll, for artists to write about their part. It is Atc sized, so if you want you can glue an ATC into the book rather than write. Still puzzling on a theme

[TherapeuticArt]

I like your idea AJ I think I will make an ATC sized book as well. I am thinking my theme is Day of the Dead doll. Cheers !!

[notinkansas]

all great themes so far! looking forward to being creatively challenged!

[Bluesky]

Using a a sevengypsies composition book... instead of notebook pattern it has very heavy paper . Already aged looking.

[notinkansas]

I love sevengypsies!

[Bluesky]

Art junkie maybe your seven birds are the offspring of a bird that is the seventh child...etc.....so you have magic birds with special gifts.

[aaeshelman]

Oh my goodness everyone is so far ahead and I am still trying to come up with a doll shape. Hope to get something together tomorrow.

[CiCiCreates]

Don't stress too much, aaeshelman. I'm a little concerned my pattern design might be too long (tall). But maybe seaming and stuffing will take up some inches? I'm glad a decided to cut and sew a prototype first.

[notinkansas]

I am hoping the same CiCi! I might follow your lead and make a prototype. I can always use it to make my granddaughter a Christmas present.

[CiCiCreates]

In between thinking about this doll, today I tried my first acrylic pour. Frustrating that it didn't work out, but I did learn a lesson. My paints needed to be thinner. I was afraid if they were any thinner they would immediately run right off the 6" x 6" Bristol. But they wouldn't have! Now I know in case I want to try it again. It was going to be background cards for Pouringdiva's Pink swap. She really is good at this technique, I would be ashamed to send her cards with the mess I made. But I did learn!

[notinkansas]

Actually my son's ex-girlfriend used to do beautiful poured paint art. I've always wanted to try that too. Now, when I do, I'll remember that thinner is better!

[art_junkie]

hmmmm magical birds.

[aaeshelman]

So started on my dolly yesterday. She may be too tall. Are we shooting for 9-12 inches? If this doll works my theme is Fairy of the Wind. If she doesn't work because of her height I will need to change themes. I will keep us posted.

[CiCiCreates]

I took a little break working on my prototype. Today I will sew the body and if I stuff body, head and legs, I will be able to see how tall she will be. Just the individual flat parts look to tall to me right now - maybe 15”? I do know that stuffing and attaching the parts will bring that size down, but will it be enough? Fingers crossed!

[notinkansas]

Keep us updated! Looks like you, aaeshelman and I are all in the same boat.

[Bluesky]

Doll done.....I am sending her with bloomers, an underskirt/ petticoat and a couple of accessories. Will post pics once done. Right now she is in a very undignified position...skirt tossed up over her head while I add some bead work to her bloomers.

[art_junkie]

Beaded Bloomers?

[notinkansas]

Bwhahaha

[Bluesky]

Ya bet! Beaded bloomers...girl gotta to have Fab undies... you'll agree when I show you.

[notinkansas]

Well then, I'll expect beaded bloomers on my doll when I get her back!!!!

[Bluesky]

Sure thing!

[CiCiCreates]

Still working on my basic doll (at this rate, that plus the journal will be all I send for the first rotation, I doubt I will do anything extra, but we'll see). Even though she's not put together yet, I think I can report that she will measure 12" when stuffed and sewn.

[aaeshelman]

I finished my first photo-type and she is definitely too big measuring in at 19 inches without a head. I made another one today and without her head she measures 8 inches so I think I am in business. I don't plan on sending anything extra with her (I will put on her head). Just her and her journal. I don't have a theme for her yet. Trying to let her tell me, which is taking too much time. I will send pics next week when I finish her.

[art_junkie]

I am torn between Misfit Birds or Birds with magic powers, or Jail Birds

[notinkansas]

Mine will be a basic doll with lots of "room" for additions. Hoping to work on my doll tomorrow and Friday. Right now the idea is that she is sort of a free spirit/ hippie with a colorful background. Also have to decide between the 2 ideas I have for my journal.

a_j....I love ALL of those ideas!

[CiCiCreates]

NIK, your basic doll sounds fun. She may speak to you like I'm sure aaeshelman's will. Aaeshelman, I can't believe you got that pattern sized down so much in just one try. I was afraid mine was too tall at first when the legs were the first thing I sewed together. But I really wanted to keep the legs because they were made up from patchwork pieces. So I'm glad it is working out ok. a_j, love all your bird possibilities. Jail birds are hilarious. Just misdemeanors, right? Or do you not go to jail unless it's a felony???

[aaeshelman]

OK so this is my doll. Please ignore the background I was in the studio. I still have no theme. She will need face, clothes, shoes, hair. The works. I will be making her journal early next week. Please let me know if you have any ideas for my doll's theme. Or maybe she will just be a free spirit.

[CiCiCreates]

Great start, aaeshelman! The doll doesn't have to be female. It could be a wizard or magician; an artist, sculptor, or potter; a naturalist, birder, or hiker; a chef, a gardener, a sprite or forest nymph. Just some ideas since you asked.

My doll is nearly finished. She has blue sequins for her eye irises. Boy, that head was the hardest part for me!

[notinkansas]

So exciting to see pictures!!!! My creating has been derailed by a virus that has hit me hard. Guess I'll be playing catch up as soon as I can get my coughing and headache under control.

[CiCiCreates]

Oh, I’m so sorry, that’s no fun! Hope you can get some rest and feel better soon!

[aaeshelman]

CiCi great ideas!! Thanks so much. I think I was just stuck because I know what my first doll was.You gave great ideas!! I want it to be a forest nymph. I can make the journal now.

Hope you start feeling better NIK.

[Bluesky]

Yes I agree a forest nymph...I see her as that.

[notinkansas]

forest nymph is a wonderful theme!

[CiCiCreates]

Here are two pictures of "Princess Filigree" and her journal. She is about 12 1/4" tall, and the journal is about 6" by 4".

[CiCiCreates]

Her arms and legs are free swinging, the arms by means of a button inside, the right arm is a little looser than the left, but the knots are strong, so I hope she will be OK. The top of her head is not cut in scallops, it puckered a bit when I tried to overcast sew it closed. I figured her hair would cover that! Her body is made up of all the different filigree patterns I had on hand, and the legs are a patchwork fabric I sewed together to cut from. That's why I hoped I could make the legs work, size-wise!! I just need to find a box now, and she will be ready to travel.

[notinkansas]

I was thinking about priority shipping boxes from the PO. You can print shipping labels right from your computer and arrange for pick up at your home.

[notinkansas]

Forgot to say how wonderful Ms. Filigree is CiCi!

[Bluesky]

Awesome dolls showing up. For shipping I will go to post office ..one no computer...I'm more at work than anywhere else & have post office right across from job

[CiCiCreates]

OK, so I completely redid my little doll. I just wasn't happy with her right arm, afraid it was too fragile, and also didn't like her head construction. I feel that this new one is a lot more secure, and no one will have to be super careful in handling her. Also, she came out a lot shorter, at 10 1/2". Of course the journal will stay the same, glad I got that done! I will post a picture of her soon (whew, I feel so much better!)

[art_junkie]

Hi all! Marilyn ( TherapeuticArt) is in Santa fe visiting me. We've been making dolls and I am posting an image of her dolly.

199898

[notinkansas]

I love it Marilyn!

Can't wait to see the new and improved Ms. Filigree!

[CiCiCreates]

Art_junkie, how fun to be visiting and making dolls together! How did that happen, did you guys know each other? It’s so timely! Is the doll a wire armature? Wouldn’t it be fun to all be doing this together?

[notinkansas]

199899
my journal cover.

[CiCiCreates]

Very cool!!

[art_junkie]

It started a couple of years ago when I went to DC & stopped in, then she was out here and stopped in. This is the 5th time we've crossed paths. (Thank you AFA)

[Bluesky]

Say bonjour to Mlle Felicite' et Perpetue(yes this a actually a name of a french rose)

[Bluesky]

Here are the famous erh infamous beaded bloomers. I found this fabric and had to make them.

[Bluesky]

Here is the journal... anyone wants a seek peek of the inside.

[CiCiCreates]

It all looks wonderful, Bluesky!!

[CiCiCreates]

Here are some pics of my new (improved) doll, Princess Filigree. Of course there are some things about the first one I like, but this one is really a better constructed basic doll. Her head is more substantial, and her limbs attached a lot stronger. She is smaller, at 10 1/2" long. She has blue sequin eyes and a body made up of various filigree prints I had on hand.

[CiCiCreates]

I love Mlle. Felicite! You actually jointed her elbows, wow!

[notinkansas]

Holy beaded bloomers Batman! Your doll and journal are lovely Bluesky!

CiCi your doll is adorable, but the first one was too!

[Bluesky]

Cici I liked both your dolls. ......I decided to do jointed arms as she is a slim lady(hits 12 inches on the money). Nik I so love your journal!!!!

[art_junkie]

slightly unrelated, these are the dolls Marilyn and I made today.

199918

[CiCiCreates]

Oh, those are so wonderful! I love them! They look kind of like kachinas.

[Bluesky]

Love them artjunkie

[notinkansas]

Amazing dolls a_j and TherapeuticArt!

[art_junkie]

I have a theme: Magical Charm Birds for the Modern World.

Please select a bird head from the stash and make a bird that has a special power that would be useful in the modern world. Examples: Thrift Store Bird, good for sniffing out fabulous finds in thrift shops, or Zombie Hunter Bird, useful for avoiding zombies.

All birds will display in the nest which is in the kit. My journal is an accordion book, the pages are ATC sized, so if you can write your entry on ATC blanks and paste them in if you wish.

[CiCiCreates]

What a fun idea!

[Bluesky]

The birds are going to be so fun!

[notinkansas]

Already mulling over my ideas for a bird! Got ideas for all the other dollies too....just have to see what's left for me to do when I get them.....the real challenge is not to do too much so that ya'll have room to play!

[notinkansas]

My journal will have blank tags for each of you to write on/art up. You'll also be able to decorate, doodle, whatever on your "page". I'll post pics when I can.

[CiCiCreates]

I'm thinking about a bird idea too! I'm not sure whether to leave my doll just basic or add maybe one thing (maybe panties). Are we going to get a list of each other's addresses, or how will that work?

[notinkansas]

yep...I've got everyone's addresses and will pm them to the group soon.

[aaeshelman]

Hello everyone. All these ideas are great and your dolls and wonderful. Sorry I hav sheen MIA for a few days. Twins turned thirteen and we did a major trip and at the same time my computer crashed. Trying to do this on my phone is super annoying. LOL. I will be off to North. Carolina on Wednesday for an art conference and I would love to get my wood nymph in the mail before I leave. Did I miss the address list somehow? If not I will search for it or pm my first partner for the address.

[notinkansas]

I've been MIA a little bit too. My 83 year old father has been in the hospital for a week and I have been my mom's moral support. He has dementia so we have to be there because he can't remember anything doctors or nurses tell him. Although I have been trying to work on my journal in the evenings, I haven't started on my doll. Looking at my pattern today I think she may be too small...need to bulk her up a bit.
Good news is that the address list should be in your Inbox.
200042
Here's a peek at the first page of my journal

[CiCiCreates]

That is so clever, I love it!

[CiCiCreates]

Excuse me, I’m feeling a little dense here - maybe overthinking it...but do we always mail to the same person? Do I send my doll (and the following ones that come my way) to Bluesky?

[art_junkie]

You do end up mailing to the same artist each time. What changes is what stage of the doll you get to work on.

The rotation schedule is identifies the travel plan for each doll.

Example for Marilyn's doll




TherapeuticArt's Doll : Art_Junkie ( received Oct )aaeshelman (received Nov) CiCiCreates (received Jan) Bluesky (received Feb) NotinKansas (received Mar)

[aaeshelman]

NIK I love your journal. very creative.

[CiCiCreates]

Thank-you, Art_junkie! That’s kinda what I thought.

[TherapeuticArt]

Thanks for the clarification, that helps! My address sent out is correct. I love your journal NIK very cool!! It was so much fun to hang out with A_J and make dolls and other art!! She is a great teacher!!

[aaeshelman]

My address is correct.

[notinkansas]

200118

Here she is...Juniper Moon! Hoping she looks better with flowing locks of hair! :unsure:;)

[Bluesky]

Like your fabric choice for underclothes. Name is super cool.

[CiCiCreates]

Love Juniper Moon! I really love them all, that I have seen here. It will be so fun to work on each one. I have added some underpants to Princess Filigree, and a pink ribbon bow at her neck (that certainly doesn't mean everything has to be pink, it's a very narrow ribbon, I just thought she needed it right there). Will try to take a pic tomorrow, and I plan to have her in the mail by Friday.

[TherapeuticArt]

Jupiter Moon is very lovely, I look forward to helping beautify her more!!!

[notinkansas]

She'll be on her way to you first Marilyn!

[CiCiCreates]

Princess Filigree is finally ready for her trip. I added underpants in a different filigree print, and a little neck bow accessory. I will mail her out tomorrow!

[notinkansas]

She's adorable Carol!

[CiCiCreates]

Thank-you!!

[TherapeuticArt]

OMG Kelly, I will be ready and start to think of some creative ideas for her now!! My doll is already in NM with A_J so I am lucky!!

[art_junkie]

Why yes, your DotD Freida doll is here in New Mexico, and I have done EVIL things to her!

I stuck my nest of birds in the mail yesterday.

[CiCiCreates]

I received the forest nymph from aaeshelman today! Mine will go out to Bluesky tomorrow.

[notinkansas]

Mine won't go out til Monday.

[Bluesky]

Monday as well for me.

[TherapeuticArt]

A_J I am sure your evil things to Frida are wonderful and will look great!! Happy Friday!

[CiCiCreates]

In the subject of mailing boxes, I found one that worked measurement-wise at the PO, but it opened from the end. I wanted mine to open from a top flap, so I bought one from Office Max. Lengthwise measurement was perfect, but width wise was a bit spacious. So I put her and her journal in a shoebox in the center of the mailing box and filled the sides with packing paper. It works - the box is sounding bigger than it really is, and she will surely travel safely.

On another subject, we have all been posting pictures of our basic dolls. Will this continue during all the rotations, or should everything be a surprise at the end?

[Bluesky]

Post tracking number for anything sent to me, I have multiple mail people some have more intelligence than others...never know where the package will be put.

[CiCiCreates]

Oh, so glad to hear your suggestion Bluesky! Yours is going in the mail today, will let you know.

[notinkansas]

Yes, posting tracking numbers is a must!!! Thanks Bluesky!

[notinkansas]

Feel free to post pics of progress....that's part of the fun! Just remember to leave room for other artists to add their touches....as tempting as it is to keep going!!! Resist the temptation! ;)

[CiCiCreates]

I hear ya about leaving room for others! We need some self control there.

Bluesky, I PMd you the tracking number, and package should arrive on Monday.

[art_junkie]

Leaving room for other artists was a problem the last time I participated in a doll rotation swap.

[Bluesky]

Okay, my journal leaves three pages per artist to please add to my dolls story/journey . I have a fourth page per artist with a paper doll in each section that if can add to her a representation of what you did to the actual doll. (Otherwise I can do this when she gets back to me). I'm going to try to attach some pics.

[Bluesky]

This my page. I left the crosspiece plain so you can write you name.

[CiCiCreates]

So very clever! I can’t wait to add my bits to the doll and to her journal, though she will travel to me last. I hope I can find something fun and interesting to add.

[Bluesky]

I'm sure you will add some fabulous finishing touches that I will go "wow" look at what you did!

[notinkansas]

Very creative Bluesky!

[art_junkie]

My journal is an accordion book with 22 pages front and back. It is best that you write your bits on atcs, then paste them into the book, so that art work does not bleed through the paper.

[CiCiCreates]

Will do, aj. Thanks for the tip. Can't wait for the birdies, glad I'm the second one!

[Bluesky]

Princess filigree has arrived safely at my home.

[Bluesky]

Notinkansas. My doll/journal was mailed to you today. Expect them on Wednesday. USPS tracking number is 9505515224478288264054. I divided the shipping box into two sections. I have a cardboard strip taped into the middle.

[CiCiCreates]

Thanks for letting me know, Bluesky.

[notinkansas]

Can't wait Bluesky!

Marilyn, my package went postal today too. Tracking # 9505514387888288167780. You should get it Wednesday.

[aaeshelman]

I have A-J's crows. I wish I had time to start on them now!! maybe in a couple of weeks. I have a child having surgery tomorrow so I may be out for a week or two. Can't wait to see how they all transform!

[notinkansas]

Good luck with the surgery. Hope all goes well!

[TherapeuticArt]

Thanks Kelly, I will be on the lookout for the package tomorrow! Thanks for letting me know. Good luck with the surgery aaeschelman! Hi there A_J. Hope you and Frida are getting along swimmingly well!

[notinkansas]

It was like Christmas opening Bluesky's box today, I was so excited! You should see the doll and journal!!! Amazing! My head is filling with ideas!

[TherapeuticArt]

Kelly! I got your lovely doll and very clever book today. I love the tag in the pocket, cant wait to make mine!! Jupiter Moon was patiently waiting on my porch when I got home from work, she is safe and warm here with me!!

[Bluesky]

So happy that the doll and journal got there safely. I was concerned that my journal would freak you gals out. It kinda had a life of it's own.

[notinkansas]

I am a little intimidated by the gorgeous journal....it's so lovely. It will be such a treasure when it's done!

[Bluesky]

Fear it not. It will be enriched by all.

[Bluesky]

Princess filigree has an appointment at my local beauty salon.

[CiCiCreates]

So exciting!!

[CiCiCreates]

I am also working on some basic things for aaeshelman's little wood nymph. I hope the surgery went well yesterday and there will be a smooth recovery.

[notinkansas]

Exciting things in the works here too!

[TherapeuticArt]

Jupiter Moon was looking through magazines to pick out a skirt for her- we are working on it. Soon she may go on a trip to downtown DC and museums and Capitol Hill (in our minds)!! She is having a grand time here in DC!!

[notinkansas]

DC is one of my favorite places! I am sure she will love it there too!

[notinkansas]

Are we posting sneak peeks of journals too?

[TherapeuticArt]

I was wondering that too. Jupiter Moon got her gypsy skirt and I will post a photo of her with it and her journal card is done but I think it may be better to leave that as a fun surprise- but I am ok either way depending on what the group wants! Cheers!

[CiCiCreates]

Are you done already, Marilyn? I really think I am too. As the first round, I don't want to do too much. If we finish well before the next date (Nov. 26), should we wait to mail, or mail anytime (or would that get confusing??)

[notinkansas]

I'll wait to post ...maybe the journal should be a fun surprise.

I beileve I will actually be done early too. I really think we should stick to the November 26th mailing schedule if possible . I guess 6 weeks may have been too long between mailing dates but I was thinking that during the holidays things may be a little too hectic for four weeks.

[Bluesky]

Princess filigree is blonde! Aka golden...dore....Dorado.

[CiCiCreates]

How exciting! I had no idea what color her hair might be.

[notinkansas]

Mlle Felicite' et Perpetue got a dainty chemise today. Working on an overskirt for her lovely petticoat. That will be my contribution to Bluesky's dolly. :D

[CiCiCreates]

NIK, I think 6 weeks is fine, especially since it works out for no mailing in December. There are bound to be certain doll contributions and certain times where some of us are finished before the rotation date, that’s ok. I may just have a hectic December, so I think this schedule is fine!

[CiCiCreates]

Alyson, how did the surgery go? I hope all is well.

[notinkansas]

I'm with CiCi....Hope things went well with the surgery Alyson.

[TherapeuticArt]

Just to be clear, I am supposed to post a photo of what work I did, right? I also added a gypsy bracelet for Ms. Moon. If I am supposed to post photos, I will do that as soon as I know!! Cheers

[notinkansas]

Posting pics of dolly progress is highly encouraged!!!

[TherapeuticArt]

Great, here we go!! This is Ms Moon with her new friend the (unpainted) Berlin Bear!! She is modelling her new skirt with the bead bracelet on her arm. I left room for someone to make a top for her which either complements the "v" of the waistline or covers it up, whatever works best. I have the journal card done too, but it will be a surprise!

[CiCiCreates]

Marilyn, that skirt is so cute! Looks great on her. I also put little pointed edges on the underpants for Alyson's Wood Nymph. I will probably post a picture in a few days.

[notinkansas]

OMGee!!! I love it! So amazingly colorful...just like Juniper's personality!

[notinkansas]

I'm hoping to be able to post pictures tomorrow....fingers crossed!

[aaeshelman]

Thanks for asking ladies. She is slowly recovering. Back to school tomorrow. We will see how it goes. Her twin was also sick this week so all in all a crazy week at my house. Hope to balance it out with a Saturday in the studio.

[notinkansas]

Mlle Felicite' et Perpetue with overskirt and chemise!
200545

[CiCiCreates]

That is just wonderful! Very Eighteenth Century looking. I love the rose pink color. I must wait until the last rotation to get her, but I think there are several little accessories I may be able to choose from. Wonderful job!!

[Bluesky]

Wow! She is going to such a lovely lady!

[notinkansas]

I loved working on her. There was, admittedly, some trial and effort I am pretty happy with the result. Just need to work on her journal now!

[Bluesky]

Well, here is the princess. The braid wraps around her head and goes down to her waist. I thought she needed a picture of queen mom to travel with her while she tours the states. However a princess touring does need an extensive wardrobe for formal and informal occasions. Her top is drawstring and can taken off. Someone can make a skirt and a dress

[Bluesky]

Well, a princess needs a crown.....in talking with her queen mother, it has come out that Catherine the great of Russia was an ancestor. So here is a kokoshik and collar that has been passed down. I used snaps so the collar has two looks.

[CiCiCreates]

Wow, she is already starting to look like royalty! Love all your thoughtful additions, Bluesky! The mom portrait is a wonderful little touch. I’m glad you gave her shoes, I was concerned that her feet were so small. Love the Russian style crown as well!

[Bluesky]

My pleasure...shoes come off easy...so she can have more, lots more....lol.

[notinkansas]

So adorable!

[janina]

I'm really enjoying watching all the fun that you all are having... can't wait to see each stop of their journey... by the time each doll gets 'home" they will definitely be wonderful keepsakes of collaboration & creativity!! :jiggy:

[CiCiCreates]

Here is our little wood nymph. I painted her face, giving her green eyes for the leaves she plays among. She also now has underpants and shoes. I couldn't resist making her a little bag from a leaf print I had. Maybe someone will give her a little forest animal to put inside....She also got to pretend that my back yard in Arizona could possibly be "the woods". She has a great imagination and is a good sport!

[notinkansas]

Thanks for popping in janina! Nice to see you!

Fabulous work CiCi!!! I love how these dollies are coming along!

[art_junkie]

200554
Frieda stopped in Santa Fe and got her hair and make-up done

[CiCiCreates]

Fantastic job! Looks like you really had fun!

[notinkansas]

Looks fantastic a_j!

[Bluesky]

Beautiful makeup.! Cici.......I know what to put in the leaf bag!!

[CiCiCreates]

Great, I’m so glad I went ahead and made it! Now I’m so curious.....

[Bluesky]

Hee! Hee! Gonna have to wait.

[notinkansas]

Hee! Hee! Gonna have to wait.

Tease!!!

[TherapeuticArt]

wow, everything looks so cool!! I am glad you are hanging out with us Janina!! Frida LOVES Santa Fe!!!

[aaeshelman]

These are great. I still haven't gotten the chance to work on the birds. Glad we have some time.

[notinkansas]

thanks for checking in Alyson! Plenty of time!
I finished the paper doll part of the journal. Now to continue the story....

[Bluesky]

Cicicreates.....my boss is asking for princess filigree to make a royal visit to my job.

[notinkansas]

Oh sweet! Dollies on field trips!

[CiCiCreates]

Well, she certainly has my permission. Tell her to have fun and be mindful of protocol.

[Bluesky]

Great!