U do What?

My Creative Process

Dolls And Daydreams™ Designs
As an artist it is extremely important to me to ensure that what I create is not only unique, but truly one of a kind and something you have never seen, let alone made, before.

I spend a long time researching each pattern design, draw lots of sketches and make a concept/inspiration board with vintage fabric swatches.

My Daughter with my Little Sister Dolly Sewing Pattern

Next is drafting the pattern. On average I make between 8 to 10 fully finished prototypes and countless ‘section’ prototypes, testing out fabrics, face placement and shapes. This allows me to make sure my designs are easily reproducible so that your finished doll can look just like mine.

My Little Sister dolly handmade with love by Naomi (Australia) & Celine (Canada)

I have extremely high standards when it comes to my tutorials. Each one contains crisp color photos, diagrams and easy to follow instructions describing every step.  Then it’s off to my pattern testers....  lovely ladies around the world who have been sewing for years (thank you ladies all so much for your help!).

Whilst this is going on my Daydream dolly testers (My kiddies!) are rigorously challenging the prototype dollies for strength and durability …. And of course cuteness!!

Because there are numerous steps in making each pattern I usually have 3 on the go at any one time all at different phases of completion. I believe this keeps my mind fresh so that I am able to provide a range of pattern designs that all have my distinctive design aesthetics and yet are pushing me forward, sparking not only my creativity, but yours also.

How to sew a dolly neck - free tute

Dolls And Daydreams™ Patterns
My patterns aren't just patterns they are full tutorials that teach you every step. PDF books that are filled with extra dolly making tips and tricks you won’t get in the average sewing pattern. I also include links to my free online tutorials providing even more time saving tricks and easy techniques. Perfect for the beginner to start making wonderful finished dolls and yet versatile and detailed so that the experienced doll maker can produce creative alterations.

My Easy Girl Doll pattern made by Kimberly (USA), Sarah (New Zealand), Mariana (Spain)

By following my in-depth step by step photo and instructional tutorial your finished doll can look just like mine.

My Sewing Machine
I sew on a Viking. I use the straight and zigzag stitches for my patterns, nothing fancy ….  I have to admit though, after years of using one from the 1960’s (which worked wonderfully until 3 years ago) I think this one sews like butter!

I’m often asked which machine I’d recommend, I say, it’s like a car. Look after it, get it tuned up, change the oil … er I mean needle often and of course drive it!!! Get to know your machine, and you’ll love it ♥

My Fabric Choice
I love all things vintage (and no I’m not referring to my old man hahaha). Give me bright prints, flowers as big as my hand and heavy solid cottons and linens. So if you want some of the fabric you see on my dolls and softies, chances are I unpicked a fabulous retro dress for it … sorry! However, I can share with you my free tutorial for washing your vintage fabrics.

And where’s the best place to find some for yourself? Charity, thrift shops … flea markets and garage, car boot sales. That crazy cotton 1970’s shirt could be your next doll … and that ‘shag’ jacket your next teddy!!

My Creative Space
Thank goodness I have such an amazing hubby with mad building skills as I was lucky enough to get a fully functioning pattern room in the heart of the house last year …. So much better than trying to fit all my fabric and supplies into my art studio!

Oh and there’s no more art studio, let's face it I don't have time for painting, if I’m not writing up a tutorial i'm working on one of the 3 patterns I have on the go :) ... or playing dress up with my kiddie winks ♥