I have loved art, designing/sewing and dolls for most of my life. It seems very natural to incorporate the 3 activities. I began sketching, painting and drawing when I was very young... not sure how long ago, but it seems like something I've done all my life. Designing/sewing is another activity I've done for years. I began sewing around the age of 8 and actually made my first dress using another dress as a pattern when I was 9. Since I was used to designing and sewing for people, I originally found it easier to design for the larger dolls. I started repairing My Size Barbie and designing for her about 4 years ago. I decided to try working on smaller dolls (11.5") earlier this year. It was really a struggle at first, but now I like it. I have a wonderful magnifying visor I use for painting the smaller dolls. I love making unique doll creations that haven't been done before (like replacing the flat feet on the My Size Barbie with sculpted high heeled feet) or making hybid dolls (a head from here... a body from there). My next major project will be to make her more articulated with jointed arms and legs.
Our family business is in the entertainment field, so I have a tendancy to do celebrity dolls (especially music industry). I am so grateful to my husband and children for putting up with doll body parts, hair, paint, fabric, sculpting products, etc. in several rooms in our home. Hopefully one day, I'll get it all contained into 2 rooms.
If you have any questions or comments, please email me. Thanks! Lillian
