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 for my tutorials. Each one contains step by step crisp color photos, diagrams and easy to follow instructions.

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™ Sewing Patterns

My PDF patterns aren't just patterns they are full Step by Step Photo Tutorials. Each PDF Sewing Pattern is 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 for the experienced doll maker.

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 Creative Space
Thank you to my wonderful husband for converting our basement into a fully functioning pattern room! If you'd like a tour please pop over to this post.

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!

My Embroidery Machine
I use a Brother and test from a 4x4 up to an 8x12 size.

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!

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Hope you have enjoyed a peek into my dolly sewing world ..... and the next time you are sewing you can think of me ... creating away with you!  hugs xxxxx