Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Another drive-by treasury alert!
This one by Deena, who shows us that's it's not always Black and White, sometimes, it's grey or pink or red and sometimes even a little bit blue.
Monday, September 28, 2009
New treasury!
Whatever you do don't read the title!
I did and now I'll have it in my head all day! Thanks alot Abi!!
Really nice head shots though! I love Grandma Bean!
More Monster Madness! ADO Halloween Challenge 3!
Hello Lovelies!
This Monday we continue our tour of the haunted, creepy, and cuddly with the third installment of the ADO Halloween Challenge! Here, our artists were challenged to make a doll in any way as long as it pertained to Halloween! If you think YOU love Halloween, check out our dolls this week! You know ADO artists love Halloween in the larger than normal number of participants this week! So sit back and enjoy our freaky and fun offerings. Enjoy!
Lisa Johnson of Skunk Hollow Country Store
1. What inspired you to participate in the ADO Halloween Challenge?
I love Halloween and all the colors of fall. In the 32 years I have lived here in the foothills of Northern California, I have only had 2 trick-or-treaters when my own kids were young.
2. What type of doll did you create and why?
I'm working on "The Count" because he is the only one I think I have never done. I wanted him cartoon like.
3. What materials and methods did you use to create your doll?
I used coffee stained muslin and needle sculpting. I even did a few expressions with needle sculpting on the cheeks.
4. What were the easier aspects of creating your doll? What were the most challenging?
The doll was the easiest to make. The most challenging are his clothes; I hate making clothes since I make everything without the use of a sewing machine so sometimes it can be a challenge.
5. Were you satisfied with the outcome of your doll? Did you learn anything new?
I had fun making him and watching him come to life. I did learn something new...I experimented with tucks and expressions in the face.
Marcie Hart of A Work of Hart
Christina Meisolle Hoi
1. What inspired you to participate in the Halloween Challenge?
In Scandinavia, we do not really celebrate Halloween. It is not in our culture.
The young ones, however, seem to take on Halloween more readily, probably primarily because the death aspect is interesting. But it also could be because Scandinavia lacks a proper
celebration in the autumn.
However, we have in Denmark, where I am from, an evening on June 24th labeled St. Hans day. Here we make a big bonfire in a safe place, such as a beach. In the middle of the bonfire we erect a homemade witch. Then we eat good food on the beach, have a cozy time together with family and friends, and aproximately at 22:00 (10pm) o' clock we light the fire and send the witch away, singing around the bonfire.
In the old days, as late as1693, we burned witches in Denmark. We believed that the witches were most active in the holy days. And to scare them away we set fire every holy day.
Now as times go by we only set fire on some holy days, the most popular is the June 24th, St. John the Baptist's day. In Danish, John has turned into Hans. The witch at the top of the bonfire came later about 100 years ago.
2. What sort of doll did you make, and why?
In the time of St. Hans we put up little witches in our houses. And that's why I got inspired to make on of my own. I use to say "A house is nothing without a witch."
3. What materials did you use to create your doll(s)?
I use all kinds of materials but I made this doll in super sculpey on wire.
4. What was the easiest aspect of creating your doll? What was the most challenging?
I can't really say that something was the easiest or most challenging. When I am making dolls I work on several dolls at a time; it is like I need to think of my dolls' character for some time, while working on something else, and then when I come back I have more details to add, and then I can work some more.
5. Are you satisfied with the outcome of your doll?
I am satisfied with my doll, but could have made her more scary... I think!
Yve Hooson of Freaky Little Things
1. What inspired you to participate in the Halloween Challenge?
I absolutely love Halloween, although it's maybe a bit different here in the UK to the American celebration. I'm Welsh and the old Celtic idea is that on this night the veil that separates us from the Annwyn (the otherworld) is at it's flimsiest. We can see those that dwell there and they can come to mess with us... even more than usual! So it's spooky but also mischievous, there's a connection to our ancestors too, and all that's right up my street.
2. What sort of doll did you make, and why?
Belladonna is going to be a fairy when she's finished and I hope her wings come out as raggedy as I'm seeing them in my head, like dirty, sooty, cobwebs that a breeze has blown apart. Fingers crossed! She has come to tempt small children with her berries of Deadly Nightshade, they look like black cherries and taste so sweet, but are quite literally deadly to humans. She will have a coffin box too!
3. What materials did you use to create your doll(s)?
Well, she WAS going to be a real departure for me, as I wanted to try a sculpted piece, but I just ran out of time so fell back on my usual techniques. I make a calico rag doll with button joints then add features with paper-dough and paint away with acrylics!
4. What was the easiest aspect of creating your doll? What was the most challenging?
Well, I guess most of my dolls have a whimsical gothic/spooky air about them so this time I want her to stand out from the crowd...this gal has murder on her mind! The challenge is just finding the time right now, sadly.
5. Were you satisfied with the outcome of your doll? Did you learn anything new while making this doll?
Eeeer... guess I'll be getting back to you on that when she's finished!
Delores Marple of Troll Tracks
Miss Oblivious of Payne Creations
This Monday we continue our tour of the haunted, creepy, and cuddly with the third installment of the ADO Halloween Challenge! Here, our artists were challenged to make a doll in any way as long as it pertained to Halloween! If you think YOU love Halloween, check out our dolls this week! You know ADO artists love Halloween in the larger than normal number of participants this week! So sit back and enjoy our freaky and fun offerings. Enjoy!
Lisa Johnson of Skunk Hollow Country Store
1. What inspired you to participate in the ADO Halloween Challenge?
I love Halloween and all the colors of fall. In the 32 years I have lived here in the foothills of Northern California, I have only had 2 trick-or-treaters when my own kids were young.
2. What type of doll did you create and why?
I'm working on "The Count" because he is the only one I think I have never done. I wanted him cartoon like.
3. What materials and methods did you use to create your doll?
I used coffee stained muslin and needle sculpting. I even did a few expressions with needle sculpting on the cheeks.
4. What were the easier aspects of creating your doll? What were the most challenging?The doll was the easiest to make. The most challenging are his clothes; I hate making clothes since I make everything without the use of a sewing machine so sometimes it can be a challenge.
5. Were you satisfied with the outcome of your doll? Did you learn anything new?I had fun making him and watching him come to life. I did learn something new...I experimented with tucks and expressions in the face.
Marcie Hart of A Work of Hart
1. What inspired you to participate in the ADO Halloween Challenge?
Halloween is a holiday made to let go and have some good wicked fun. Who doesn’t get a little shiver run up their spine at the thought of little ghouls, witches and goblins mucking about. It is a silly time of year to just let go and have some creative fun.
I wanted to participate in this challenge because I had never done one before. This is my very first challenge of any kind. It has been a hoot and I have loved every minute of it!
2. What kind of doll did you make, and why?
My piece “Be Back At Midnight” is a combination OOAK sculpted doll with mixed media elements. I chose a pumpkin because to me they have such a mystical quality about them, not only for Halloween but in Fairytales in general. I wanted to incorporate the doll into the pumpkin and have a small scene inside depicting a story. I also love vintage German ornaments and figurines the way they were made with old crepe paper, mica, and tinsel.
They have a special feel to them that I love and tried to incorporate into this piece, a combination of magic and wonder.
3. What materials/methods did you use to create your doll?
The doll is sculpted of Fimo Polymer clay, handmade glass eyes, mohair and various trimmings both old and new.
The pumpkin is carved out and the scene placed inside.
4. What was the easiest aspect of creating your doll? What was the most challenging?
The hardest part in designing this doll was to make sure the focus of the doll didn’t get lost in the scene.
I wanted something simple but elegant to represent my story. The idea for silhouettes came to me because I have
always been drawn to them. Very beautiful in their own simple way. The easiest was once I figured that part out it all seemed to fall into place.
5. Are you satisfied with your doll so far? Did you learn anything new while creating this doll?
I am happy with her and it is now time to move on to some new pieces I am working on.
I have always felt that you can keep going and going but knowing when it is “Finished” and stopping at that point is the hard part. There is always more you can do…tweaking here and there…adding this or that…but knowing when it is done can be difficult at times.
I always look forward to a new piece in the works and even though it was enjoyable working on the current project there is always something new waiting to be created and discovered.
Christina Meisolle Hoi
1. What inspired you to participate in the Halloween Challenge?
In Scandinavia, we do not really celebrate Halloween. It is not in our culture.
The young ones, however, seem to take on Halloween more readily, probably primarily because the death aspect is interesting. But it also could be because Scandinavia lacks a proper
celebration in the autumn.
However, we have in Denmark, where I am from, an evening on June 24th labeled St. Hans day. Here we make a big bonfire in a safe place, such as a beach. In the middle of the bonfire we erect a homemade witch. Then we eat good food on the beach, have a cozy time together with family and friends, and aproximately at 22:00 (10pm) o' clock we light the fire and send the witch away, singing around the bonfire.
In the old days, as late as1693, we burned witches in Denmark. We believed that the witches were most active in the holy days. And to scare them away we set fire every holy day.
Now as times go by we only set fire on some holy days, the most popular is the June 24th, St. John the Baptist's day. In Danish, John has turned into Hans. The witch at the top of the bonfire came later about 100 years ago.
2. What sort of doll did you make, and why?
In the time of St. Hans we put up little witches in our houses. And that's why I got inspired to make on of my own. I use to say "A house is nothing without a witch."
3. What materials did you use to create your doll(s)?I use all kinds of materials but I made this doll in super sculpey on wire.
4. What was the easiest aspect of creating your doll? What was the most challenging?
I can't really say that something was the easiest or most challenging. When I am making dolls I work on several dolls at a time; it is like I need to think of my dolls' character for some time, while working on something else, and then when I come back I have more details to add, and then I can work some more.
5. Are you satisfied with the outcome of your doll?I am satisfied with my doll, but could have made her more scary... I think!
Yve Hooson of Freaky Little Things
1. What inspired you to participate in the Halloween Challenge?
I absolutely love Halloween, although it's maybe a bit different here in the UK to the American celebration. I'm Welsh and the old Celtic idea is that on this night the veil that separates us from the Annwyn (the otherworld) is at it's flimsiest. We can see those that dwell there and they can come to mess with us... even more than usual! So it's spooky but also mischievous, there's a connection to our ancestors too, and all that's right up my street.
2. What sort of doll did you make, and why?
Belladonna is going to be a fairy when she's finished and I hope her wings come out as raggedy as I'm seeing them in my head, like dirty, sooty, cobwebs that a breeze has blown apart. Fingers crossed! She has come to tempt small children with her berries of Deadly Nightshade, they look like black cherries and taste so sweet, but are quite literally deadly to humans. She will have a coffin box too!
3. What materials did you use to create your doll(s)?
Well, she WAS going to be a real departure for me, as I wanted to try a sculpted piece, but I just ran out of time so fell back on my usual techniques. I make a calico rag doll with button joints then add features with paper-dough and paint away with acrylics!
4. What was the easiest aspect of creating your doll? What was the most challenging?
Well, I guess most of my dolls have a whimsical gothic/spooky air about them so this time I want her to stand out from the crowd...this gal has murder on her mind! The challenge is just finding the time right now, sadly.
5. Were you satisfied with the outcome of your doll? Did you learn anything new while making this doll?
Eeeer... guess I'll be getting back to you on that when she's finished!
Delores Marple of Troll Tracks
1. What inspired you to participate in the ADO Halloween Challenge?
My inspiration came from the traditions and memories from my childhood that are now being handed down to my grandchildren. Carving pumpkins, dressing up, donuts and cider and the smells of the season are very special to me.
2. What kind of doll did you make and why?
I make little trolls that live in a dollhouse. Sometimes I'll make a slightly larger size, but I make dolls to play with and tell a story. For Halloween, I wanted to have a big party with my trolls. I never tried dressing them in costumes or making masks, so this was an experiment for me.
I had intended to include a couple of frightening looking trolls, but found that mine are always "cute". I cannot seem to make the bloodshot eyes and monster dolls that I so admire.
I had intended to include a couple of frightening looking trolls, but found that mine are always "cute". I cannot seem to make the bloodshot eyes and monster dolls that I so admire.3.What materials and methods did you use?
I love to use polymer clay that I blush lightly with powder. I sometimes try to make simple outfits, but cloth and sewing do not agree with me.
4. What was the easiest aspect and the most challenging?
The easiest aspect was coming up with ideas for the Halloween party. The most challenging was making the little cape that my vampire wears. That took me forever. After that I went with the polymer clay masks!
5. Are you satisfied with your doll so far, did you learn anything new?
I am very happy with my Halloween Party so far.
I learned so much about expanding my mind to have trolls that do more than just hang out. I am now thinking towards that big Christmas bash!
Susie McMahon 
I learned so much about expanding my mind to have trolls that do more than just hang out. I am now thinking towards that big Christmas bash!1. What inspired you to join the ADO Halloween Challenge?
I was inspired to participate in the ADO Halloween Challenge because I have never made anything with a Halloween theme.
I was inspired to participate in the ADO Halloween Challenge because I have never made anything with a Halloween theme.
Halloween is not really celebrated in Australia - it passes by without any fanfare. I think the ADO Challenges are great - excellent themes with lots of creative leeway so I enter all that I can.
2. What type of doll did you make, and why?
The doll I made is a young witch called "Serafina" - I have made old, ugly hag witches in the true stereotype in the past and I wanted this witch to be a bit different. I wanted this doll to have a certain kind of expression - a kind of "Well, what do YOU want" expression as she looks sidelong at her 'familiar'.
3. What materials/methods did you use to create your doll?
I used a fairly conventional padded armature construction for this doll. She has a fabric-covered paperclay head and strengthened clay lower arms and legs. I dyed the laces and fabrics that I made her clothing from - they are not black, but more a dark brown/black. Her stripy stockings and shoes are painted on.
The doll I made is a young witch called "Serafina" - I have made old, ugly hag witches in the true stereotype in the past and I wanted this witch to be a bit different. I wanted this doll to have a certain kind of expression - a kind of "Well, what do YOU want" expression as she looks sidelong at her 'familiar'.
3. What materials/methods did you use to create your doll?I used a fairly conventional padded armature construction for this doll. She has a fabric-covered paperclay head and strengthened clay lower arms and legs. I dyed the laces and fabrics that I made her clothing from - they are not black, but more a dark brown/black. Her stripy stockings and shoes are painted on.
4.What was the easiest aspect of creating your doll? What was the most challenging?
The easiest aspect was coming up with the idea and probably the most challenging part was making expressive hands with separate fingers that are strong enough not to break. It took a while to work that one out, but I think they are pretty strong. The most fun aspect of making this doll was working out all the little bits - the mouse she is holding, the bag with the toadstools and stuff, and the tiny jar containing lichen.
The easiest aspect was coming up with the idea and probably the most challenging part was making expressive hands with separate fingers that are strong enough not to break. It took a while to work that one out, but I think they are pretty strong. The most fun aspect of making this doll was working out all the little bits - the mouse she is holding, the bag with the toadstools and stuff, and the tiny jar containing lichen.
5. Were you satisfied with the outcome of your doll? Did you learn anything new while creating this doll?
I quite like how this doll turned out - the final product comes fairly close to my original idea, though I did change a few things. Did I learn anything? Yes, working out how to do those hands was a learning curve for me, and sculpting with Aves Apoxiesculpt is a first. I made the mouse familiar from Aves.
I quite like how this doll turned out - the final product comes fairly close to my original idea, though I did change a few things. Did I learn anything? Yes, working out how to do those hands was a learning curve for me, and sculpting with Aves Apoxiesculpt is a first. I made the mouse familiar from Aves.
Miss Oblivious of Payne Creations
1. What inspired you to participate in the ADO Halloween Challenge?
Halloween is the most inspiring holiday and time of year for me!
2. What type of doll did you make, and why?
I made a canvas and acrylic devil, a skeleton, and black cat dolls.
3. What materials/methods did you use to make your doll?
I cut the canvas , then sewed it on my machine. Then I paint with acrylic for
features n' such, after that is dry, I put at least 4 coats of varnish to give it
a plastic look. I also include a eucalyptas nut from a tree in SF planted by
Mary Ellen Pleasant in the 1860's. A very powerful and influential woman.
http://www.mepleasant.com/story.html
4. What was the easiest part of making your doll? What was the most challenging?
Cutting and machine stitching was easiest, and the hardest is all the painting
for the character features.
5. Are you satisfied with your doll so far? Did you learn anything new while
making your doll?
I am pleased and almost finished with a set of 10. I make at least 2 batches a
year of these and they always sell very quick!
The new thing that I learned on this batch was after I let the varnish dry, I
hand stitched a contrasting color on the edges! I am so pleased with the way
they look!
Next week! Another slew of Halloween Challenge Dolls are coming!
Stay tuned!
Sunday, September 27, 2009
New Member Spotlight!
Today's ADO new member spotlight is on Kaci of Daydream Retreat! Kaci has been making dolls on and off for years, but only recently has begun to develop her own style. I think you'll agree that the results are both original and charming! You can find more examples of Kaci's work on her blog, and soon in her Etsy shop. Welcome to the team Kaci!
Saturday's Vintage Photographs
I'm not sure what's going on in any of these vintage images, but the last one sure is scarey! ~ the photograph was taken at a Flea Market in the 1920's. click on images to enlarge.....Hope everyone has a super Saturday :O)
Friday, September 25, 2009
That 70's Show
Abi brings back the 70's with this wonderful treasury of the era's popular color combo. Orange and brown.
I hope they're still as popular I wore them to work today!
I hope they're still as popular I wore them to work today!
Did You Know
Thursday, September 24, 2009
ADO Featured Artist: Abi Monroe
This week's artist feature is Abi Monroe, of An Angel At My Table
Please tell us about yourself. What is your name? Where do you live? What makes you tick?
Greetings! my name is Abi Monroe. I was born and grew up in England (I'm still working on growing up!) I met my fabulous husband whilst I was a landlady of a country pub ~ he was in the US Air Force experiencing England and English Real Ale for a few years! 18 months ago, we moved to Buffalo Gap, Texas, and have an expanding animal sanctuary! I don't know what makes me tick - I am fickle-minded.
When did you start making dolls? Why did you start making dolls?
I started making dolls just after Easter of this year - I was looking for books on how to make curtains, and came across Patti Medaris Culea's Art Doll books. Fell in love with the art doll concept, and thought I would see if I could make one! Willow was the result.
Who or what influences you? Inspires you?
Following my discovery of Patti, I found more amazing art dolls on Etsy, then ADO - I had no idea this world existed. Of course Patti was my initial influence and inspiration - now every art doll artist influences and inspires me in some shape or form - it's totally overwhelming, but rather lovely! I'm sure lots of other things influence me too, I just can't think what they are.
Tell us a little about your dolls and your process for making them. Materials, preliminary sketches, inspiration, etc.
The process is hit and miss so far!(more miss than hit LOL) I'm still learning, and experimenting with different mediums - to find what I feel 'at home with'. I'm about to try Susie McMahon's technique - incorporating cloth and clay. I'll be happy when I find my 'niche'. I like my dolls to have a theme, and to hold or be attached to something pertinent to the theme.
I am currently working on a cloth doll for a book, soon to be published ,and I don't know why, but I am totally blank - I'm guessing it's the pressure - it's not every day you get an opportunity like this! :O)
Do you have a favorite doll? It can be handmade by you, handmade by someone else, or even (gasp) mass production.
My favorite art doll? made by Grace from Little Black Crow - Tony Bear of course!
Besides making dolls, what do you do? Job, other creative pursuits, hobbies, etc.
I have just started working part-time in an arts and crafts store. The rest of the time, I try to train 6 hooligan dogs and keep 8 cats satisfied, and encourage one Dove to fly! I'm obsessed with creating Etsy Treasuries, and try to keep up with everyone's blogs!
I'd be grateful if everyone could take a moment to visit Deena's fabby Dolls Blog ~ Last year Deena's 3 teen sons were diagnosed with Choroideremia. This is a rare eye disease that results in progressive, and eventual vision loss.. At this time, there is no treatment or cure for this disease. Shocking eh? I simply cannot imagine how my life would be without my sight.
Deena has set up a fundraising site to donate to the Choroideremia Research Foundation and needs our support! I hope you can help.
What are some of your favorite: movies, books, websites, magazines, foods, TV shows? (Any or all!)
Movies - my favorite is 'A Beautiful Mind'. I'm also a sucker for romantic comedies! Books - anything by Sophie Kinsella - I day dream way too much, and her books suit my personality! Websites - Etsy! (sad I know!) Facebook - I can keep up-to-date with all my friends I dearly miss in England. I haven't found a magazine I like in the US yet. Foods - Chocolate Brownies. TV Shows - Grand Designs - mmm, that's a UK program.
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
I live in the middle of nowhere with 40 acres of fauna and flora! I'm happy with that, however, If I could pick Great Britain up and plunk it in the middle of Texas, and it will fit just about 3 times - that's where I'd like to live!! Not sure Yve from Freaky little dolls living in Wales would be happy with this though?!
Where do you see yourself in one year? Five years? Ten years?
Who knows! I'm a great believer in fate. However, I'll probably, and happily be engulfed with more animals, and hopefully beautiful Abi made unique dolls!
Where can we find you on the internet? (blog, website, Etsy shop, eBay, et al.)
http://www.AnAngelAtMyTable.etsy.com
http://www.abimonroe.blogspot.com
Please tell us about yourself. What is your name? Where do you live? What makes you tick?
Greetings! my name is Abi Monroe. I was born and grew up in England (I'm still working on growing up!) I met my fabulous husband whilst I was a landlady of a country pub ~ he was in the US Air Force experiencing England and English Real Ale for a few years! 18 months ago, we moved to Buffalo Gap, Texas, and have an expanding animal sanctuary! I don't know what makes me tick - I am fickle-minded.
When did you start making dolls? Why did you start making dolls?
I started making dolls just after Easter of this year - I was looking for books on how to make curtains, and came across Patti Medaris Culea's Art Doll books. Fell in love with the art doll concept, and thought I would see if I could make one! Willow was the result.
Who or what influences you? Inspires you?
Following my discovery of Patti, I found more amazing art dolls on Etsy, then ADO - I had no idea this world existed. Of course Patti was my initial influence and inspiration - now every art doll artist influences and inspires me in some shape or form - it's totally overwhelming, but rather lovely! I'm sure lots of other things influence me too, I just can't think what they are.
Tell us a little about your dolls and your process for making them. Materials, preliminary sketches, inspiration, etc.
The process is hit and miss so far!(more miss than hit LOL) I'm still learning, and experimenting with different mediums - to find what I feel 'at home with'. I'm about to try Susie McMahon's technique - incorporating cloth and clay. I'll be happy when I find my 'niche'. I like my dolls to have a theme, and to hold or be attached to something pertinent to the theme.
I am currently working on a cloth doll for a book, soon to be published ,and I don't know why, but I am totally blank - I'm guessing it's the pressure - it's not every day you get an opportunity like this! :O)
Do you have a favorite doll? It can be handmade by you, handmade by someone else, or even (gasp) mass production.
My favorite art doll? made by Grace from Little Black Crow - Tony Bear of course!
Besides making dolls, what do you do? Job, other creative pursuits, hobbies, etc.
I have just started working part-time in an arts and crafts store. The rest of the time, I try to train 6 hooligan dogs and keep 8 cats satisfied, and encourage one Dove to fly! I'm obsessed with creating Etsy Treasuries, and try to keep up with everyone's blogs!
I'd be grateful if everyone could take a moment to visit Deena's fabby Dolls Blog ~ Last year Deena's 3 teen sons were diagnosed with Choroideremia. This is a rare eye disease that results in progressive, and eventual vision loss.. At this time, there is no treatment or cure for this disease. Shocking eh? I simply cannot imagine how my life would be without my sight.
Deena has set up a fundraising site to donate to the Choroideremia Research Foundation and needs our support! I hope you can help.
What are some of your favorite: movies, books, websites, magazines, foods, TV shows? (Any or all!)
Movies - my favorite is 'A Beautiful Mind'. I'm also a sucker for romantic comedies! Books - anything by Sophie Kinsella - I day dream way too much, and her books suit my personality! Websites - Etsy! (sad I know!) Facebook - I can keep up-to-date with all my friends I dearly miss in England. I haven't found a magazine I like in the US yet. Foods - Chocolate Brownies. TV Shows - Grand Designs - mmm, that's a UK program.
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
I live in the middle of nowhere with 40 acres of fauna and flora! I'm happy with that, however, If I could pick Great Britain up and plunk it in the middle of Texas, and it will fit just about 3 times - that's where I'd like to live!! Not sure Yve from Freaky little dolls living in Wales would be happy with this though?!
Where do you see yourself in one year? Five years? Ten years?
Who knows! I'm a great believer in fate. However, I'll probably, and happily be engulfed with more animals, and hopefully beautiful Abi made unique dolls!
Where can we find you on the internet? (blog, website, Etsy shop, eBay, et al.)
http://www.AnAngelAtMyTable.etsy.com
http://www.abimonroe.blogspot.com
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Monday, September 21, 2009
ADO Halloween Challenge, Part 2!
Greetings, and another happy Monday! This Monday, we continue with creepy, crazy, creative and cute endeavors in our ADO Halloween Challenge! Here, our members are challenged to make fantastic Halloween Dolls of their liking.
If you missed out on last week's stellar lineup, Click HERE to check them out!
This week, we have a whole new batch of fun and frightening offerings from more of our talented ADO Artists! Enjoy!
Nicole Johnson of Mealy Monster Land
1. What inspired you to participate in the Halloween Challenge?
Halloween is my hands down favorite holiday. It is full of fun, creepy crawlies, and monsters. I love it and so does my whole family, so of course I wanted to partake in the spooky fun challenge.
2. What sort of doll did you make, and why?
I made two dolls for this challenge. The first one I made was Billy Magoo who stumbled upon a zombie and made friends. His story goes like this:
Billy Magoo had not a clue
of what he had found today,
he thought it was neat,
how it groaned and it shrieked
and he thought it really wanted to play.
For my second doll I made over a doll that was broken coming home from a gallery show. I actually like him in his new state much better. Victor the red cat with a rotten little pumpkin friend.
3. What materials did you use to create your doll(s)?
To create my two boys I used polymer clay, I prefer to use cernit, wire, mohair, my husband's old Pajama bottoms(hehehee), and random fabrics, all the detailing is with acrylic paint.
4. What was the easiest aspect of creating your doll? What was the most challenging?
This was a pretty easy challenge for me as my work as a whole could be called spooky or Halloween inspired. The biggest challenge actually was making Victor over. I had a hard time with that, not the doing it, but more mentally feeling ok with it.
I don’t know for some reason it just did not seem right at first, but now that it is done I am really happy with the results and hopefully his new owner will be too.
5. Were you satisfied with the outcome of your doll? Did you learn anything new while making this doll?
I was very happy with the outcome but I need to work on my zombie making skills, my little zombie that Billy is holding seems too cute.
Denise Lynne of DLynne Art Dolls
1. What inspired you to participate in the ADO Halloween Challenge?
Each year I miss the window to create a Halloween piece and Halloween is one
of my favorite holidays! So this year with the challenge I decided to give it a try
and not miss this holiday this year.
Donna Tibbs of Cameo Moon
1. What inspired you to participate in the Halloween Challenge?
Next week: more monster madness! Stay tuned, friends!
If you missed out on last week's stellar lineup, Click HERE to check them out!
This week, we have a whole new batch of fun and frightening offerings from more of our talented ADO Artists! Enjoy!
Nicole Johnson of Mealy Monster Land
1. What inspired you to participate in the Halloween Challenge?
Halloween is my hands down favorite holiday. It is full of fun, creepy crawlies, and monsters. I love it and so does my whole family, so of course I wanted to partake in the spooky fun challenge.
2. What sort of doll did you make, and why?
I made two dolls for this challenge. The first one I made was Billy Magoo who stumbled upon a zombie and made friends. His story goes like this:
Billy Magoo had not a clue
of what he had found today,
he thought it was neat,
how it groaned and it shrieked
and he thought it really wanted to play.
For my second doll I made over a doll that was broken coming home from a gallery show. I actually like him in his new state much better. Victor the red cat with a rotten little pumpkin friend.
3. What materials did you use to create your doll(s)?
To create my two boys I used polymer clay, I prefer to use cernit, wire, mohair, my husband's old Pajama bottoms(hehehee), and random fabrics, all the detailing is with acrylic paint.
4. What was the easiest aspect of creating your doll? What was the most challenging? This was a pretty easy challenge for me as my work as a whole could be called spooky or Halloween inspired. The biggest challenge actually was making Victor over. I had a hard time with that, not the doing it, but more mentally feeling ok with it.
I don’t know for some reason it just did not seem right at first, but now that it is done I am really happy with the results and hopefully his new owner will be too.5. Were you satisfied with the outcome of your doll? Did you learn anything new while making this doll?
I was very happy with the outcome but I need to work on my zombie making skills, my little zombie that Billy is holding seems too cute.
Denise Lynne of DLynne Art Dolls
1. What inspired you to participate in the ADO Halloween Challenge?
Each year I miss the window to create a Halloween piece and Halloween is one
of my favorite holidays! So this year with the challenge I decided to give it a try
and not miss this holiday this year.
2. What type of doll did you create and why?
I chose to do a Halloween Witch and decided to do a poseable soft sculpture
where the limbs and head were sculptured and the rest of the body is soft
sculpture allowing her mobility.3. What materials and methods did you use to create your doll?
I used polymer clay to sculpt her limbs and head and the wrapped the doll's
body in batting. Then for the costume I used my hand dyed silk gauze in greys
and blacks. Her hat is needle felted.
4. What were the easier aspects of creating your doll? What were the most
challenging?
The face was the easiest because anything goes when you doing a witch. Big
noses, ugly warts, big eyebrows and browlines are also fun, and then of course
wrinkly ugly necks are always great for a witch!
The eye color can even be out of the ordinary and for my witch I chose purple
iridescent eyes to match her shoe buckles. The most challenging part for me is always
the assembly of a soft sculpture and then making sure it is firmly mounted onto a base
for display.
My witch has a rod inserted into her foot and that is then used to hold her to the base.
She is removable from the base as well. Costumes are sometimes challenging
as I don't particularly like to sew, so finding methods of costuming without a lot of sewing
is always a challenge for me.
5. Were you satisfied with the outcome of your doll? Did you learn anything
new?
Yes and no. I think I could have chosen a better fabric for her pantaloons
and used more of a solid black instead of a small scale weave of black and
grey. You can hardly see her pants but I think all black would have worked
nicer. I love her face and also love her hat which was made by needle felting.
Witches hats are harder than I thought to make!
Donna Tibbs of Cameo Moon
1. What inspired you to participate in the Halloween Challenge?
What a fun question! The feeling of Halloween and Fall stay with me all year...the cool falling rain, big harvest moon, candles in the window...giving off scents of baked apple pies..and pumpkins, family cuddled warmly by the fire. And some of the best parts of Fall and Halloween: witches hiding and peeking out from behind trees in the forest, or riding their brooms, shadowing the moon...goblins, ghosts, and pumpkins aglow in the night with faces to scare...or faces that make you smile. Children in costumes pretending to be fairy princesses, or monsters, and dolls that scream and laugh to be created from your mind, in any form they want to be. And then the ADO wonderful Halloween challenge comes along...and you are inspired beyond the stars!
2. What type of doll did you make, and why?
I actually am submitting two dolls...the first one is called Happy Haunting, which I made for the challenge...and to categorize her is very difficult...maybe a little gothic, scary yet fun, with her starry eyes and orange hair.
The other is called The Cauldron White, which I felt should be submitted also! She is a cloth doll that cried out to me to be created. She was made sometime ago and is in a private collection. I have made many witches...they must just call out to me this time of year.
The other is called The Cauldron White, which I felt should be submitted also! She is a cloth doll that cried out to me to be created. She was made sometime ago and is in a private collection. I have made many witches...they must just call out to me this time of year.3.What materials and methods did you use to make your doll?
Happy Haunting was mad using paper clay, paint, vintage clothes, yarn hair, and all the creativity I could muster up!
Cauldron White was quite interesting...she was made from an old farm feed bag--already aged well--and paper clay.
4. What was the easiest part of making your doll? What was the most challenging?
Cauldron White was quite interesting...she was made from an old farm feed bag--already aged well--and paper clay.
4. What was the easiest part of making your doll? What was the most challenging?The easiest part for me is always in the costuming...I have drawers full of vintage cloth and clothes I love to use. The hardest part for me is to find enough time to work on my dolls. Isn't that a problem for us all?
Sy Young of Youngish1. What inspired you to participate in the Halloween Challenge?
I too love Halloween (seems to be popular among this group), so this was perfect for my first challenge.
2. What type of doll did you make, and why?
I had a few ideas in mind but nothing that I was just crazy about. While flipping through a magazine, I came across a picture of Bride of Frankenstein and thought, “that’s it, love her!”
I based my doll on that character and I also tried to give her similar features to the actress, Elsa Lanchester.
I based my doll on that character and I also tried to give her similar features to the actress, Elsa Lanchester.
3. What materials and methods did you use to make your doll?
I sculpted her using paper clay over a styrofoam/wire/apoxie sculpt armature. I used acrylics and finished her off with mohair and vintage fabric.
4. What was the easiest part of making your doll? What was the most challenging?
I love painting the face, so I consider that easy. The hair was a challenge. After trying a few things, I wound up making a couple mini crimping irons from coffee straws, hot glue and popsicle sticks.
5. Were you satisfied with the outcome of you doll? Did you learn anything new in the process?
She might be my favorite (of my dolls), shhh, don’t tell the others.
In general I learn with each doll, but I did learn something specific this time. I used apoxie sculpt for the hands because I wanted them to be really bony and small, yet strong. I will use this material again for armatures and joining, but I found it difficult to shape and paint so I doubt I’ll use it again on surface areas.Next week: more monster madness! Stay tuned, friends!
Sunday, September 20, 2009
New Member Spotlight!
Today's spotlight is on the new ADO member Moriah Betterly of MLB Studios. Moriah makes enchanting tiny art dolls and doll house miniatures as well as other sculpture and paintings. You can find more examples of Moriah's work in her Etsy shop, on her blog, and at her website. Welcome to the team Moriah!
Saturday's Vintage Video!
The Clangers is an iconic British stop motion childrens animated television series of short stories about a family of mouse-like creatures who live on, and in, a small grey planet in dark space. They speak in whistles, and eat green soup harvested by the Soup Dragon. The programmes were originally broadcast from 1969-1972. Another fond childhood memory!
Friday, September 18, 2009
Looking Good- Making Fabulous Eyes for Cloth Dolls
This tutorial is by Rivkah Mizrahi. Thank you for sharing this with us, Rivkah!
You can see Rivkah's blog here.
You can see Rivkah's blog here.
I have had multiple requests for this article, which appeared in Soft Dolls and Animals Magazine some time ago. This is probably my "signature technique"- I learned how to do it by trial and error and it's my favorite cloth doll face - making method. Here it is- unabridged, unedited and un-resistable! HAVE FUN!
One of the most gratifying parts of creating a on
e-of-a-kind doll is composing the face. That’s right- composing. Like a spectacular painting, an enthralling musical composition or any other work of art, a doll’s face is “composed” of many parts-which as a whole, makes for a composition. What makes a composition successful? That depends on whether the piece captivates the viewer and holds his or her attention. In the case of a face, what is more captivating than eyes? Eyes tell a story about the character. They are the focus- the window to the soul.Let’s learn one way to create eyes that will capture attention- and make your doll a masterpiece.
In classic sculpture, and in science for that matter, we are reminded that eyes are essentially round balls.
In this regard, cloth dolls need not be different. We’ll create our own eye balls, and carefully insert them into the doll face. We can create eye lids, too. False eyelashes, lots of make-up… by making “real eyes,” you’ll open up so many new possibilities that lend themselves to a distinctive look. In fact, I am willing to bet that the way you make eyes will become your “artistic signature!”Essentially, we will be making beads. The beads are strung into the head, secured by a strong thread that runs from ear to ear. What can be more stra
ightforward than that? It doesn’t sound complicated or difficult, and it isn’t. In fact, it’s fun!
e-of-a-kind doll is composing the face. That’s right- composing. Like a spectacular painting, an enthralling musical composition or any other work of art, a doll’s face is “composed” of many parts-which as a whole, makes for a composition. What makes a composition successful? That depends on whether the piece captivates the viewer and holds his or her attention. In the case of a face, what is more captivating than eyes? Eyes tell a story about the character. They are the focus- the window to the soul.Let’s learn one way to create eyes that will capture attention- and make your doll a masterpiece.
In classic sculpture, and in science for that matter, we are reminded that eyes are essentially round balls.
In this regard, cloth dolls need not be different. We’ll create our own eye balls, and carefully insert them into the doll face. We can create eye lids, too. False eyelashes, lots of make-up… by making “real eyes,” you’ll open up so many new possibilities that lend themselves to a distinctive look. In fact, I am willing to bet that the way you make eyes will become your “artistic signature!”Essentially, we will be making beads. The beads are strung into the head, secured by a strong thread that runs from ear to ear. What can be more stra
ightforward than that? It doesn’t sound complicated or difficult, and it isn’t. In fact, it’s fun!
MATERIALS NEEDED
1. White polymer clay OR air dry clay (if you use air dry clay you must wait until it hardens before painting)2. Long dollmakers’ needle
3. Tin foil
4. Paint of your choice- white and black, and a combination of colors for the iris, depending on what color you want your eyes to be:
· Blue eyes: blue, green, gray and maybe some yellow
· Green eyes: dark green, light green, yellow, maybe some blue or brown
· Brown eyes: Brown, yellow, green
(By all means, choose any color combination you like. These ar
e just suggestions).
5. Diamond Glaze or 3D Crystal Lacquer- to make a cornea
6. Micron pen in black
7. Very fine paintbrush
8. Red Sweater, yarn, or something with red lint
9. An enlarged photograph of the human iris (helpful as a guide but optional)
10. Eye sizing tools (optional)
Before we start, let’s talk about size.
If you buy eyes commercially- glass, silicone, etc.- then you know they come in different sizes. Some are flat-backed, some are round… whatever the shape, doll eyes a
re all sold by the millimeter. Depending on the size of the doll’s head, you know what size eyes to purchase.
Now let’s talk about classic sculpture and eye placement.
When sculpting a head in polymer or air dry clay, eyes are incorporated right into the sculpt. Eyes made from glass, silicone or porcelain can withstand the oven temperature needed to cure polymer clay. After the eyes are placed on the face, the artist will add eyelids and outer eye structures. It’s relatively straightforward.
For porcelain dolls, which require a mold into which liquid porcelain is poured and fired in a kiln, there is another step involved. Due to the extremely high firing t
emperature, eyes must be added later- after the firing is completed. Therefore, eye sockets (holes) are created. The eyes are adhered to the inside of the [hollow] head with glue or some form of putty.
Creating a porcelain mold is a very tedious process. First, a basic sculpt is made from molding clay, and later a mold is cast from it. In order to know the exact size of the eye sockets-and to make them perfectly round and precise every time, a simple yet precise tool is used. That tool is of interest to us.
THEORY
These tools remind me of toy drumsticks! Made of wood, each one is a simple wooden stick with two different sized balls on each end. Like eyes, the balls are exact to the millimeter, and the size is conveniently marked for us on the stick. By pushing the correct size ball into the clay, a perfect eye socket is created with precision and ease.
For our purposes, we don’t need to sculpt eye sockets- we are working with a fabric head. A slash with an X-acto knife or a snip with embroidery scissors is our eye socket! However, these tools are particularly helpful because by using them as visual guides, we can create eyes that fit the “standard,” and eliminate guesswork. We’ll know exactly what size the eyes are, and won’t have to sit there and try to measure the circumference in millimeters. By knowing the size, the chance of accidentally making eyes that are larger or smaller than intended is reduced. (details to follow).
An extra perk: this can be helpful in case you want to sell your creations!
Note: The tools are completely optional. If you are making a OOAK, then you can gauge the size eyes you need by using your own judgment.
GETTING STARTED
Now that we have the concept down, let’s go through the eye-making process step-by step.
1. Roll out a pair of polymer clay “marbles.”
2. Trim them with an X-acto knife as needed, until they are the same size. Do the best you can but don’t spend too long seeking perfection. The eyes are going to be beautiful and fabric is more forgiving for sockets than a clay sculpture!
3. When you are satisfied, pass a thick needle through the clay balls. You now have beads.
Note: if you want to create several pairs of eyes, then use a long doll maker’s needle.
These beads are 14mm. They are perfect for a doll’s head whose standard proportions are suited to a 20 – 22” doll.
OPTIONAL
4. Simulate tiny blood vessels in the eyes by rolling them in a red sweater. The lint will stick to the clay and give the eyes a realistic look.
5. Support the eye beads so they do not touch the work surface. Do this by sticking each end of the needle into two wads of tin foil, or lay the ends on blocks of wood. Do what is convenient for you. The important thing is that your support mechanism be oven proof.
6. Place the supported eyes into the oven and bake according to the manufacturer’s direction.
NOTE : If you are using air dry clay, skip that step. Let your eye beads harden and come back in a few days!
PAINTING THE EYES
This is the fun part. For help getting started, refer to the eye diagram for shading samples. It’s also a good idea to look at enlarged photos of eyes while you work. Magazines are great for that, or if you can work near a computer, search for clip art of eyes. Microsoft’s website has very good samples.
1. Using a pencil, lightly draw a circle in the middle of each marble. This represents the iris (colored portion of eye).
2. Decide which color you want the eyes to be. Have two shades available- one lighter than the other. Since you are using paint, you can mix white with your color to obtain the lighter color.
SHADING
Light source plays an important factor in shading the eye. If the light is coming from the Right side, then the Left part of the eye (and the rest of the face for that matter) is colored with a lighter shade. The white reflective dot in the pupil will be on the upper right, closest to the light source.
My light source will be on the Right.
3. Paint the entire iris in the lighter shade of your desired color.
4. Blend the darker color into the Left side (remember, my light source is on the right)
5. Allow paint to dry.
6. Paint a black pupil in the middle of the iris.
7. With a very steady hand, pull some paint out from the pupil and into the iris, to form spokes. If necessary, add a bit more paint to the iris after making spokes. Alternatively, use a micron pen. The nib on a micron pen is so thin, you’ll get more spokes. That means more detail!
If you use a micron pen, be sure the paint is completely dry or it will become clogged.
HIGHLIGHTS
9. Use some green (for brown eyes) or gold (for blue or green eyes) to make dots between the spokes. Do this sporadically (not between every spoke.) This creates a bit of contrast and grabs attention. It really makes the eyes look very special!
10. Do a little more blending in the iris as needed. Remember, every person’s eyes are different, and you want to draw attention to your doll’s unique and beautiful eyes.
11. Allow the entire eye to dry. Outline in a dark micron pen, as with the pencil. If the eyes are brown, use black. If blue, use either navy, brown or black. If green, use a dark shade of green, brown or black.
12. Add a white highlight spot to “reflect the light.” Use a ball stylus or the back of a sewing machine needle. It’s round and will produce a nice “dab” that’s easier to control than a paintbrush. If you get a “peak, don’t worry.” Use your paintbrush to gently remove the excess paint.
Here’s the eye so far, super magnified so you can see the way the colors have been mixed.
And here is a pair.
CORNEA
When the pupil is completely dry, use 3-D Crystal Lacquer or Diamond Glaze to create a cornea. These products are suprisingly easy to control and contain right on the pupil. It looks like glass! (By the way, you can use them to make fingernails.)
WHITE OF THE EYE
If you are making a faerie or some kind of “enchanted” doll, then this might be just the thing.
There are paints out there with gorgeous metallic pigment, called ‘interference _ _ _’ These colors have a soft, subtle “glowing” look. For eyes, interference blue or interference gold are stunning. Try painting the white of the eye with these.
If you still want to use the red lint, try aggravating the sweater or yarn over the eyes, and let the fibers fall and get stuck inside the paint.
Another fabulous product is Pearl Ex Pigment powder. It also comes in these interference colors. If you have it, mix it into white paint or just smudge it on a cotton swab. Be careful not to let it stray into the iris.
NEEDLE SCULPTING
If you are planning to make a head with needle sculptured features, do the sculpting before inserting the eyes. It’s a great idea to combine these techniques, since they are both add a third dimension. They look great together!
Don’t color the face until after the eyes are in, though. They have a great influence on the doll’s personality, and you want them to be your starting point.
The face will be colored after the eyes are inserted.
PREPARING TO INSERT THE EYES INTO THE CLOTH HEAd
After you’ve done your needle sculpting, there is one more step. Create eyelids that will cradle the eyes, and make them look natural.
CREATING EYELIDS
1. With the same fabric used for the doll, make a bias strip. Simply fold the fabric in half, leaving the rough edges alone. Don’t iron it. You’ll need two- one for each eye (so just cut it in half). The length needed for each eye is the diameter of the eyeball (from hole to hole), plus a seam allowance.
1. White polymer clay OR air dry clay (if you use air dry clay you must wait until it hardens before painting)2. Long dollmakers’ needle
3. Tin foil
4. Paint of your choice- white and black, and a combination of colors for the iris, depending on what color you want your eyes to be:
· Blue eyes: blue, green, gray and maybe some yellow
· Green eyes: dark green, light green, yellow, maybe some blue or brown
· Brown eyes: Brown, yellow, green
(By all means, choose any color combination you like. These ar
e just suggestions).
5. Diamond Glaze or 3D Crystal Lacquer- to make a cornea
6. Micron pen in black
7. Very fine paintbrush
8. Red Sweater, yarn, or something with red lint
9. An enlarged photograph of the human iris (helpful as a guide but optional)
10. Eye sizing tools (optional)
Before we start, let’s talk about size.
If you buy eyes commercially- glass, silicone, etc.- then you know they come in different sizes. Some are flat-backed, some are round… whatever the shape, doll eyes a
re all sold by the millimeter. Depending on the size of the doll’s head, you know what size eyes to purchase.
Now let’s talk about classic sculpture and eye placement.
When sculpting a head in polymer or air dry clay, eyes are incorporated right into the sculpt. Eyes made from glass, silicone or porcelain can withstand the oven temperature needed to cure polymer clay. After the eyes are placed on the face, the artist will add eyelids and outer eye structures. It’s relatively straightforward.
For porcelain dolls, which require a mold into which liquid porcelain is poured and fired in a kiln, there is another step involved. Due to the extremely high firing t
emperature, eyes must be added later- after the firing is completed. Therefore, eye sockets (holes) are created. The eyes are adhered to the inside of the [hollow] head with glue or some form of putty.
Creating a porcelain mold is a very tedious process. First, a basic sculpt is made from molding clay, and later a mold is cast from it. In order to know the exact size of the eye sockets-and to make them perfectly round and precise every time, a simple yet precise tool is used. That tool is of interest to us.
THEORY
These tools remind me of toy drumsticks! Made of wood, each one is a simple wooden stick with two different sized balls on each end. Like eyes, the balls are exact to the millimeter, and the size is conveniently marked for us on the stick. By pushing the correct size ball into the clay, a perfect eye socket is created with precision and ease.
For our purposes, we don’t need to sculpt eye sockets- we are working with a fabric head. A slash with an X-acto knife or a snip with embroidery scissors is our eye socket! However, these tools are particularly helpful because by using them as visual guides, we can create eyes that fit the “standard,” and eliminate guesswork. We’ll know exactly what size the eyes are, and won’t have to sit there and try to measure the circumference in millimeters. By knowing the size, the chance of accidentally making eyes that are larger or smaller than intended is reduced. (details to follow).
An extra perk: this can be helpful in case you want to sell your creations!
Note: The tools are completely optional. If you are making a OOAK, then you can gauge the size eyes you need by using your own judgment.
GETTING STARTED
Now that we have the concept down, let’s go through the eye-making process step-by step.
1. Roll out a pair of polymer clay “marbles.”
2. Trim them with an X-acto knife as needed, until they are the same size. Do the best you can but don’t spend too long seeking perfection. The eyes are going to be beautiful and fabric is more forgiving for sockets than a clay sculpture!
3. When you are satisfied, pass a thick needle through the clay balls. You now have beads.
Note: if you want to create several pairs of eyes, then use a long doll maker’s needle.
These beads are 14mm. They are perfect for a doll’s head whose standard proportions are suited to a 20 – 22” doll.
OPTIONAL4. Simulate tiny blood vessels in the eyes by rolling them in a red sweater. The lint will stick to the clay and give the eyes a realistic look.
5. Support the eye beads so they do not touch the work surface. Do this by sticking each end of the needle into two wads of tin foil, or lay the ends on blocks of wood. Do what is convenient for you. The important thing is that your support mechanism be oven proof.6. Place the supported eyes into the oven and bake according to the manufacturer’s direction.
NOTE : If you are using air dry clay, skip that step. Let your eye beads harden and come back in a few days!
PAINTING THE EYES
This is the fun part. For help getting started, refer to the eye diagram for shading samples. It’s also a good idea to look at enlarged photos of eyes while you work. Magazines are great for that, or if you can work near a computer, search for clip art of eyes. Microsoft’s website has very good samples.
1. Using a pencil, lightly draw a circle in the middle of each marble. This represents the iris (colored portion of eye).
2. Decide which color you want the eyes to be. Have two shades available- one lighter than the other. Since you are using paint, you can mix white with your color to obtain the lighter color.SHADING
Light source plays an important factor in shading the eye. If the light is coming from the Right side, then the Left part of the eye (and the rest of the face for that matter) is colored with a lighter shade. The white reflective dot in the pupil will be on the upper right, closest to the light source.
My light source will be on the Right.
3. Paint the entire iris in the lighter shade of your desired color.
4. Blend the darker color into the Left side (remember, my light source is on the right)
5. Allow paint to dry.
6. Paint a black pupil in the middle of the iris.
7. With a very steady hand, pull some paint out from the pupil and into the iris, to form spokes. If necessary, add a bit more paint to the iris after making spokes. Alternatively, use a micron pen. The nib on a micron pen is so thin, you’ll get more spokes. That means more detail!If you use a micron pen, be sure the paint is completely dry or it will become clogged.
HIGHLIGHTS9. Use some green (for brown eyes) or gold (for blue or green eyes) to make dots between the spokes. Do this sporadically (not between every spoke.) This creates a bit of contrast and grabs attention. It really makes the eyes look very special!
10. Do a little more blending in the iris as needed. Remember, every person’s eyes are different, and you want to draw attention to your doll’s unique and beautiful eyes.
11. Allow the entire eye to dry. Outline in a dark micron pen, as with the pencil. If the eyes are brown, use black. If blue, use either navy, brown or black. If green, use a dark shade of green, brown or black.
12. Add a white highlight spot to “reflect the light.” Use a ball stylus or the back of a sewing machine needle. It’s round and will produce a nice “dab” that’s easier to control than a paintbrush. If you get a “peak, don’t worry.” Use your paintbrush to gently remove the excess paint.
Here’s the eye so far, super magnified so you can see the way the colors have been mixed.
And here is a pair.
CORNEAWhen the pupil is completely dry, use 3-D Crystal Lacquer or Diamond Glaze to create a cornea. These products are suprisingly easy to control and contain right on the pupil. It looks like glass! (By the way, you can use them to make fingernails.)
WHITE OF THE EYEIf you are making a faerie or some kind of “enchanted” doll, then this might be just the thing.
There are paints out there with gorgeous metallic pigment, called ‘interference _ _ _’ These colors have a soft, subtle “glowing” look. For eyes, interference blue or interference gold are stunning. Try painting the white of the eye with these.
If you still want to use the red lint, try aggravating the sweater or yarn over the eyes, and let the fibers fall and get stuck inside the paint.
Another fabulous product is Pearl Ex Pigment powder. It also comes in these interference colors. If you have it, mix it into white paint or just smudge it on a cotton swab. Be careful not to let it stray into the iris.
NEEDLE SCULPTING
If you are planning to make a head with needle sculptured features, do the sculpting before inserting the eyes. It’s a great idea to combine these techniques, since they are both add a third dimension. They look great together!
Don’t color the face until after the eyes are in, though. They have a great influence on the doll’s personality, and you want them to be your starting point.
The face will be colored after the eyes are inserted.
PREPARING TO INSERT THE EYES INTO THE CLOTH HEAd
After you’ve done your needle sculpting, there is one more step. Create eyelids that will cradle the eyes, and make them look natural.
CREATING EYELIDS
1. With the same fabric used for the doll, make a bias strip. Simply fold the fabric in half, leaving the rough edges alone. Don’t iron it. You’ll need two- one for each eye (so just cut it in half). The length needed for each eye is the diameter of the eyeball (from hole to hole), plus a seam allowance.
Cut fabric
Fold in half to make bias strip
2. Thread up a needle. Lay the bias strips on the topside of the eye, and attach the eyelid by bringing the needle from one side to the other. (Enter left, pass to right, re-enter right, exit left and tie off.
Repeat for other eye.
INSERT THE EYES INTO THE HEAD
1. Using an X-acto knife or small embroidery scissors, cut a slit for each eye. Better to make them slightly small, so you can cut them a bit more if needed. Turn the raw edges under.
Prepare yourself to insert the eyes!
This part is very tricky. Sometimes you can attach the eyes in with a long dollmakers needle and thread- by stringing them like beads from ear to ear. Sometimes it won’t work, and the eyes tend to “sink” too far in. It depends on the size of the head, the fabric you use, and sometimes luck. If you have a hard time with the following technique, get your glue handy and just glue the eyes into the head.
1. Enter the needle at the ear area. Bring the needle through the head and through eyes, bias strip “eyelids” included. Exit at the opposite ear.
2. Re-enter and repeat; exit at the ear you started from and knot off.
At this point, the folds or eyelids probably need adjustment.
3. Using a sharp needle, manipulate the eyelids and folds until they sit over the eye and in the socket properly. This takes patience, but it works!
Pull the eyelids out as desired, like an awning on a sunny day.
Give the doll eyelashes. Just stick them right onto the eyeball, under the eyelid and out of the line of sight. If they don’t stay so well, carefully appy a drop of crazy glue with a pin.
Add make-up, false eyelashes, etc. as desired.
WALLA! A beautiful face.
Fold in half to make bias strip
2. Thread up a needle. Lay the bias strips on the topside of the eye, and attach the eyelid by bringing the needle from one side to the other. (Enter left, pass to right, re-enter right, exit left and tie off.Repeat for other eye. INSERT THE EYES INTO THE HEAD1. Using an X-acto knife or small embroidery scissors, cut a slit for each eye. Better to make them slightly small, so you can cut them a bit more if needed. Turn the raw edges under.
Prepare yourself to insert the eyes!This part is very tricky. Sometimes you can attach the eyes in with a long dollmakers needle and thread- by stringing them like beads from ear to ear. Sometimes it won’t work, and the eyes tend to “sink” too far in. It depends on the size of the head, the fabric you use, and sometimes luck. If you have a hard time with the following technique, get your glue handy and just glue the eyes into the head.
1. Enter the needle at the ear area. Bring the needle through the head and through eyes, bias strip “eyelids” included. Exit at the opposite ear.
2. Re-enter and repeat; exit at the ear you started from and knot off.At this point, the folds or eyelids probably need adjustment.
3. Using a sharp needle, manipulate the eyelids and folds until they sit over the eye and in the socket properly. This takes patience, but it works!
Pull the eyelids out as desired, like an awning on a sunny day.
Give the doll eyelashes. Just stick them right onto the eyeball, under the eyelid and out of the line of sight. If they don’t stay so well, carefully appy a drop of crazy glue with a pin.
Add make-up, false eyelashes, etc. as desired.WALLA! A beautiful face.
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