Vintage Fashion – 1850s

What Is A Chemisette? “A chemisette (from French, “little chemise“) is an article of women’s clothing worn to fill in the front and neckline of any garment. Chemisettes give the appearance of a blouse or shirt worn under the outer garment without adding bulk at the waist or upper arm. Godey’s Lady’s Book January 1851 “Chemisettes of linen or cotton were often worn with day dresses in the mid-19th century, and…

How to Create the Barbara Willis Doll – Holly

Holly 18″ Tall Barbara Willis Cloth Doll Cloth Doll Workshop Barbara Willis’s  Mermaid Doll Holly’s Pattern is available in the book Cloth Doll Workshop-which is an invaluable resource for Cloth Doll Makers.               Barbara Willis’s Holly Doll is part of a trio of dolls–the parts and faces are interchangeable–with…

How to Create the Barbara Willis Mermaid Doll – Shy

Shy – The Mermaid 20″ Tall Barbara Willis Cloth Doll Cloth Doll Workshop Barbara Willis’s  Mermaid Doll Shy’s Pattern is available in the book Cloth Doll Workshop-which is an invaluable resource for Cloth Doll Makers. I like the fact that Shy’s lower body is a space for creative fibers, laces, and needlework to combine in…

Patti Medaris Culea – Cloth Doll Maker

Prolific — Patti Medaris Culea’s Contribution to the Cloth Doll Making World is Prolific. And much of her contribution is recorded in her vast network of books and videos about the art and craft of making cloth dolls. The following notes are from Culea’s Book: Cloth Doll Workshop Tracing the Patterns There are a few…