Sewing Elegant Rag Dolls - with Ann Wood Handmade
Recently, my good friend JoAnne took at trip to Los Angeles to take an art class. What a renegade idea! If she could do it, then so could I! The opportunity arose, to do just that, when I got an email from Ann Wood Handmade back in January or February, announcing a class she would be teaching in Los Angeles, in March. I jumped at the chance, because 1. She's awesome, & 2. The class was about making dolls, one of my (secret, not-so-secret) favorite things to do.
We had so many vintage and antique textiles to choose from
Mid phase doll examples were around the room, for Ann to visually help us to understand the next step.
Ann has an amazing aesthetic - organic, whimsical and dotted with character. To describe what she does, I would say she's a textile artist and toy maker. These toys are not ordinary toys, however, they are very special little (and some big) art pieces. These are toys that adults love as well as kids. Additionally, Ann makes kits and patterns for her amazing creations, so you can make what she makes as well. I get her emails every week (or whenever she sends them) and they always inspire me. You can sign up for her email on her website.
Julie (Left & Gretchen (right)
The class was from 10am-6pm at French General, in Los Angeles. I took a very early flight down and a very late flight back, but definitely worth all the traveling for such an amazing experience. Best of all, I convinced my dear friend Julie to join the class. She, along with her other friend, Gretchen, came along with me for the ride. French General is something of a wonder, in and of itself. The walls are lined with antique curios, beautiful fabrics, embroidery kits and glass jars holding every color of vintage beads imaginable.
Vintage Ribbons and Embroidery kits for sale
Each table was equipped with two table lamps, lovely table clothing and covered chairs. Every detail impeccable.
One of the French General Embroidery Kits
Ann was a fabulous teacher. So patient and flexible, she walked us through each step of making the doll. I was eager to move forward, but she wasn't divulging any information before it's time. I'm really glad for that, as I might have jumped ahead and completely missed one of the steps. This doll is very detailed and there were so many tips and tricks that she gave along the way. I feel fortified to make more and can't wait to get started.
I love that Ann's pattern has some anatomical features if you so desire to use them. I decided for this doll, I would use the printed Fortuny fabric that Ann Brought along.
making progress with the body parts.
Stuffing the head from behind was a brilliant idea.
Adding lace bloomers to the legs. So cute!
Another bloomer idea
Her sweet embroidered face
Waiting to fly home
Here I am with Ann!
The three of us with our dolls!
I hope you've enjoyed the pictures and have been inspired. Even though I was up for almost 22 hours, that Saturday, I was refreshed and energized. Thank you Ann for all you do! I look forward to seeing what you have in store, next.
Until next time, Happy Sewing!
xo Jenifer