TEN Great Years of FDQ!!

The issue currently of Fashion Doll Quarterly on the shelves of your favorite bookstore marks the TENTH year for FD Q, and CoutureDollShop.com couldn’t be more proud for them.  It has been a pleasure working with Pat Henry, and reading this wonderful magazine is always a great experience.  In fact, we get excited just anticipating when we’ll receive the next issue, and we’re never disappointed.  May Fashion Doll Quarterly flourish for a very long time!

For this special issue we decided to salute our Perfect TEN.  Our shop owners demonstrate their TEN's qualities by the dolls we use as well as by the fashions they create.  This is because we know how much FDQ loves fashion dolls and their fashions.

Each of the show owners followed these guidelines.  They were told about Bo Derek as an example because she was the unquestionable TEN of the 80s after she appeared in the movie with the same name.  Then they were asked to decide who their TEN might be, and to use her as their muse.

Their muse could be an actress, a model, or anyone out there in the public arena.  She could be modern or come from a different time period.  They did not have to do face painting or anything like that to bring this character to life if this was not something they were comfortable doing.  They just needed their final model to have similar traits as their perfect TEN, and they had to make sure she was dressed appropriately to satisfy the twist.

And here is the twist!  This fashionable TEN perfect diva will be dressed to go to a Gothic style party - whatever kind, cocktail or formal, was theirs to decide.  The trick was to convey a Gothic look while still letting her classic beauty shine through.  Shop owners who make accessories and diorama items were also invited to step up to the plate.  After all, even a TEN "needs" lots of luxury items to keep her content.  

Here are the designs from  the brave ones who were willing to take on this Event – aren’t they ghoulishly great? Read on as each artist describes their outfit and tells you about their muse.  Click on the small pictures to see a larger one, and be sure to visit their website to see more.

Jenny Catalano
Just Jenny's Crafts

My Muse is Elizabeth "Lzzy" Hale, Lead Guitarist/Vocals for Halestorm.  She is a Grammy winner, has been on several magazine covers, and is always dressed in a style all her own. From Goth to Punk she has worn it all, and worn it well.  She plays Hard Rock in cut off jeans and thigh high boots, wears low cut, form fitting dresses with lots of chains at award ceremonies, and tops it off with her signature messy long tresses.  My Lzzy is headed to another award ceremony and then off to the Gothic themed After Party to celebrate with her band mates.  


I used 16" Goth Antoinette for my model.  This original design is a collage of several of the outfits and accessories I've seen Lzzy Hale wear. The skin tight, low cut, modified tank dress comes with a lace trimmed decolletage, thigh-high slits, extra low cut arm holes and a V-back.  The dress is accessorized with gold platform boots, thigh-high lace stockings, a three strand beaded necklace, crucifix with matching earrings, and a low slung wide belt with gold tone buckle. Topping it off is a black curly wig to simulate Lzzy Hale's messy, wavy tresses.

Christine Loff
The Black Ibis

Fei Fei Sun was thrilled to become the first Chinese cover model for Italian Vogue Magazine! She'd worked hard to become a TEN among fashion models, and her friends thought she needed a little celebration. They invited her to a Goth party where everyone would be dressed in Goth outfits.

Sun pulled some things out of her closet and came up with an edgy outfit. Her grey plaid jacket is set off by her black lace skirt that is knee length in front and floor-length in back. The perfect accessory is her thigh-high lace-up boots. A black "leather" midriff corset pulls it all together!  This outfit is modeled by JamieShow Sun and is sized to fit JamieShow dolls, but it may fit other 16-inch dolls as well.

Rebecca Castillo

House of RodMichael

The fashion and movie world remembers her as the star who glided down the red carpet with a sheer gown, adorned with flower appliques strategically attached, and who later proudly accepted an Oscar for a best actress performance.  Occasionally, though, she is seen just simply strolling in perfect leather pants. She is none other than Halle Berry, and she has been invited to a Gothic themed party, and has requested the House of Rod Michael design an elegant gown for her that is true to the Gothic theme of the party she'll be attending.

House of Rod Michael responded with a long fitted skirt with a matching peplum blouse made from a beautiful dark red, hand painted. kimono-style silk fabric.  Providing a dark contrast is a belt and necklace made of glass beads, and long black gloves that are anchored on the wrists by wide bead cuffs embellished with roughly shaped orange stones.  The beaded headband with a black veil envelopes her finely chiseled face.  It is meant to convey strength, darkness, and an aura of mystery - and Halle carries it off in an entirely beautiful Gothic way.

Cindi Stowell

BJD Designs

This gorgeous TEN gothic girl represents the beautiful, haunting singer/songwriter Amy Lee from the rock band Evanescence.  She is known for her sweet, melodic vocals backed by a power house rock band; and she graces the concert stage and her album covers dressed in beautiful gothic gowns. She is going to the after concert party that has a Gothic theme.  Its secret location is only known to be hidden deep in the woods.  Finding the place where the party is held is a treasure hunt of mysterious clues hidden under rocks and tacked to trees. Each new clue is a mystery and each clue has to be decoded; all part of this fun challenge.

The doll is a white skinned, 52 cm. tall Dollmore BJD named Zaoll Luv.  The face-up is by the talented Cristy Stone.  She wears an eight piece outfit that includes the top, arm band sleeves, stockings, hat, necklace, skirt and underskirt, and shoes. The skirt flows with lots of soft fabric. The fullness is added to the skirt by an underskirt made of lace tulle.

Ina Murphey

La Petite Fashion Promenade

My Goth TEN Muse is Kate Beckett of Castle who is played by Stana Katic.  Season 5 ended with Castle getting down on one knee to ask Kate Beckett to marry him.  We waited all summer long to hear her response in the Season 6 Premiere.  However, as anyone who is a fan of the show would know, her initial response may not necessarily be her final one!  But, one could easily expect to see a wedding, either real or imagined, at some point during Season 6.

Since both Beckett and Castle love the fun of doing the unexpected, I envisioned them showing up at a Halloween party dressed as Dracula and his Bride.  The always glamorous Kate would arrive in a fabulous black satin gown embellished with hand beaded purple lame’ bats and black feathers.  Her “veil” would be a cascade of silver chains accented by a Celtic cross and blood red Swarovski crystals. The viewer would be left wondering if the Halloween “wedding” was a spoof or if it was the real thing.

Anna Castanes

Somethings Old Somethings New

Eartha Kitt began her career in 1943, and spent her early years in Europe where she learned four languages as well as how to sing in seven.  With an enduring career that has spanned theater, cabaret, television, and the recording industry, she became a household name. Miss Kitt electrified audiences with her one of a kind persona and sultry voice, often peppering her flirty set with gold digging songs about champagne, stretch limos, and pearls.  She was honored with a star on Hollywood Boulevard's Walk of Fame, and wowed audiences for decades with her outstanding vocals, curvaceous frame, and sex appeal.  She was a TEN who made a lasting impression.

Eartha knew her Gothic party had been a success when she stood outside her bedroom door and heard her guests complimenting all of her decor, including her wonderful new bedding set.  She listened quietly to the two ladies as they described how lovely the pumpkin coverlet with the black pillows was.  Eartha smiled to herself, knowing  if they only knew what was on the other side or about the individual pillows that matched them, they'd surely want a set for themselves.

But this was an OOAK set bought for her by a very special friend, so that wasn't going to happen.  It was hers alone, and it brought back so many memories of her time in France.  Le Danses du Paon, The Dance of the Peacocks, was printed on the coverlet and she had pillows with Monsieur and Madame printed on one side.  Yes, indeed, she'd leave that her little secret and go back and enjoy her Gothic party while it lasted.

Gaylejoy Chavez

Oohlalaz

Dita Von Teese grew up fascinated by the Golden Age of Cinema, pin-up imagery, and vintage lingerie. She was once married to Marilyn Manson.  It was her influence that helped me create her Goth TEN persona, as she is a fabulously dressed glamour Goth queen ready for a haunting Halloween martini party.

I chose a Tonner doll, Raven Daphne, to emulate Mistress Dita Von Teese.   Scarlet taffeta with a black lace overlay, pinstripe black chiffon flounce embellished with ribbon lacing, fringe, and beading were used to create her ensemble.  Everything is fully lined, and the bolero has removable sleeve cuffs in case you'd like to create a different look. I can just imagine her strolling into the party and quickly feeling all eyes upon her.

Peggy Burney

Creative Couture

Catherine Zeta Jones is my idea of a TEN.  However, today I found her not too happy.  You see, she had agreed to be the muse for a fashion design contest and even agreed she'd wear the winning creation to a charity event chosen by the show's producers.  However,  she was surprised when she opened the box. The wrapping paper and the box itself looked expensive, and the dress was crafted from the finest of fabrics - in fact, she loved it.  What she wasn't excited about, though, was the invitation she found when she pulled the flowing gown up.  She would be attending a Goth cocktail party - definitely not her cuppa.  All she could do is remind herself that the whole thing was for the charity nearest to her heart, and sigh as she slipped on the luxurious gown.  She’d worn the most famous designers in the world but they had nothing on this.  She decided the Goth theme would not ruin her evening.  She would have the time of her life, and perhaps even be discovered wearing the next big thing in fashion.

Catherine's attire for the Goth cocktail party is a two piece concoction of silk dupioni and lace.  The skirt has a fitted yoke of  dupioni silk and is lined.  It features gathered fullness in the style of the short front and the longer back which is made of more black dupioni silk and lined with black silk habotai.  It has an overskirt of the finest, softest netting embroidered with red roses and vines.  The skirt has a snap closure in back.  The bustier is made of lined red silk dupioni, and has a bra of fine black netting trimmed with black lace.  It closes in back with eyelets and lacings.  It is decorated with a chain hanging from the front.  Accessories include a dog collar of black lace with a rhinestone encrusted cross, and black lace gauntlets on her arms.  Under the skirt is a red lace petticoat. 

Maril Adrian

Goldifrocks

Actress Emilia Clarke plays Daenerys Targaryen, a character from the best selling series The Game of Thrones, and is a TEN in anyone’s book. Men and women alike fall under the spell of her beauty, brains, and courage as she seeks to regain her kingdom. With her confidence and killer fashion sense, she steps out of her alternative universe and into a contemporary Gothic cocktail party – and it’s just another world to conquer.

She is wearing a two-piece silk taffeta cocktail dress fully lined in silk organza and India silk. The strapless bodice of midnight blue is accented by aubergine gores at the hips, closing with a back zipper.  The flared skirt features a top layer of blue daggered panels, variously decorated with matching top stitching and Japanese seed beads. Underneath there is a second row of aubergine. 

Wow, now that's what I call Goth!  These outfits would be perfect for a ghouly Halloween party.  Perhaps they will join the next group of  Haloweeners who wanted to come out, too, and strut their October faire for you!!

  

Another Oohlalaz beauty from Gayle Chavez!

Even Vampirettes celebrate Halloween -- but only at the strike of midnight. This outfit is designed for an older soul even though our Little fee is still in a childlike body.  This yosd-sized Vampirette outfit was constructed in Purple stretch velvet with snap closures and a long train.  Black net accents at sleeves, and a small beaded bolero also add to the beauty of this outfit.  And next up we have a family joining our party!!

Mother - Larraine Elcock

TASINA/Japan Doll Connection/SewTiny 

Pru's dress is made of Halloween printed cotton.  Under her dress she wears a crinoline of black along with stockings that are black and white striped jersey.  A chiffon cape, tiny lace half glove,s and a big Halloween printed satin hat complete the outfit.  

Daughter - Jill Elcock

FringeElements

Elle is wearing her new outfit that Prudence designed for her.  Pru said she needed something dark and foreboding to wear on her annual pilgrimage to her Great-Great-Great Grandmother Elfaba's resting place.  Legend has it that Grandma Ellfaba was tried in the Salem Witch Trials, but be that as it may, Elle is off to put some flowers on her grave in remembrance.  But now that she is coming back she is wondering,  where did the day go?  It's getting so dark.  "Well, I think this is it"  says Elle, as she lays down among the tombstones and drifts off to sleep.  Maybe she's right - but.maybe not - guess we'll find out if she emerges again!

Elle wears a red silk sheath under a black linen overdress with bustier top.  The overdress has an overlay of black lace.  Jill designed and made everything but the boots and flowers.  Next up we]re ready in case someone may need a place to crash after the party. Our hostess, Anna Castanes suggested this scenario.

Anna Castanes

Somethings Old, Somethings New

As Anna stood in the doll section of the store looking for some bedding for her doll she saw the most lovely set that she could use for her Halloween Diorama. The set included a cotton coverlet, one large rectangular pillow with orange and black tiger like stripes, two small rectangular pillows of faux suede, and one black throw which was made of faux embossed leather.

As she reached out to touch the bedding, much to her surprise it was reversible!  The back side matched the small rectangular pillows of faux suede.  What a find; she wished she could find one for her larger dolls but she'd have to make that as a special order if someone wanted It - this set would be great for her 12 inch dolls.  She just knew her lovelies (and maybe a Halloween party guest) would love this!!  Maybe even Karen Daniel's lovely who is modeling next....

  

Karen Daniel 

XXtrra Fashionable

This entire ensemble is Karen's own version of a Victorian and industrial design twisted into a sort of Steampunk number that's she's proud to wear out for Halloween.  The silk Dupioni frock coat is fully lined and closes in front with 2 industrial looking hooks. It is accented with gold ruffle around the neckline and cuff and the pocket flaps. The plaid silk bustier has front snap and hidden closures, and fits like a second skin. The pants are a twisted play on Victorian pantalets worn on display instead of hidden underneath layers of petticoats. 

The drawstring bag coordinates with the pantalets and bustier, and has a copper disk and ring as a finishing touch. The felt hat has a ribbon that is attached to the hat with a copper gear at each end. The necklace and earringx are also antique copper and are included with this outfit. Then our last guests joined the party - last but never least, the crew from Pat Stoughton's - boy, what fun we'll have now!!

Pat Stoughton

Petite Moonbeams

The Quarusians are all witches and their lineage is strong.  This family portrait was very difficult because they detest photo taking.  The family wore their day robes for the photograph.  There are several different robes for each family member, depending on the time of year.  As their family seamstress Pat created and sewed each robe, some with attached hoods.  

The black robes are of a soft panne velvet.  The blue robes were a satin blend and have attached hoods.  The family has requested new robes for 2014.  There will be a special family gathering and they wish to be robed elegantly.  The family, as shown in the picture are:  

Back row:  Katarzyna, (Tatiana’s twin); Drakul; Dimitri; Bjarne; Verrold and Luczin (twins); and Feronia.  Front row:  Tatiana (Katarzyna’s twin) who is holding Faux Paws; Aislinn; the quadruplets: Quinlan and Quentin in back; Quinn and Quillan on bench; and Rhoswyn.  There is another cat at the feet of Rhoswyn, Independent Claws (Indy for short), and the family dragon, Mirelth (who has his own family).  Then there is Nostariel, who needs a bit of love and discipline for such an event.  

Wow, so many fun looks!  Which one was your fave??  And will you or your favorite doll be wearing a similar look?  It's not too late to get all decked out...just hurry over to CoutureDollShop.com -- there you'll be able to find out exactly which of these lovelies could be yours for Halloween, and all of your other ghastly, Gothic doings!!  I guess I better scamper off and get ready for the big day, too!  See you next time with out Dolls Fashion Night Out yearly event!  Happy Halloween, and stay safe, my pretties!!

To boldly go where few divas have been

He's a Trekkie, She's a Trekkie - Wouldn't you wanna be a Trekkie too?? And if you were to design Trekkiewear would it be for a gentleman or a lady? Which character or movie would you want to represent? These are the questions put forth for the talented designers of CoutureDollShop.com.

But just making a Trekkie design was not their only consideration.  They also had to make their outfit couture, and something a woman or man of this century would wear! And they also needed to make the outfit so we would easily recognize the Star Trek influence.  There was also a place for people who made accessories or furniture or other items for dioramas.  There again they had to be something a Trekkie diva or guy would want immediately!!

Now they have finished, and without further adieu, here are the entries. Keep in mind the explanations of the outfits come straight from the artists with just a little editing.  Also, don't forget to click on the pictures to see a bigger version of what we have here. Bring out the popcorn and your dollies - this will be fun!!

Karen Daniel

Xxtrafashionable

I chose to base my design on one of my favourite of all the Trekkie movies, Star Trek: The Motion Picture. Their traditional dress uniform is a costume that I felt could be the base for an outfit that any woman would be proud to own and wear today. The crossover jacket doing up on the upper chest best exemplifies the enduring wearability of this outfit. I have chosen a houndstooth woven, wool blend fabric edged in black velvet with silver buttons and buckles. The fully lined jacket has 4 decorative buttons with a snap closing along the left front.  It is also fully edged in velvet with a velvet band around the lower sleeve.

The fully lined pants have slash pockets and are trimmed in velvet, with slash sides at the hem,  just like the Start Trek trousers. The low waisted trousers close in the back with a zipper, and have an opening to use with a stand. The handbag coordinates with the clothing and closes simply with the flap down. She also has a laptop bag in faux leather with a black chain handle and a button closure that matches the jacket. Her wonderful white buckram hat has a crown covered with fabric, a black velvet headband, and a perfect bow with a silver buckle as an accent that matches the handbag.

Rebecca Castillo

House of Rod Michael

My outfit is influenced by Uhura's outfit in Star Trek into Darkness.  Uhura, played by Zoe Saldana, personifies a modern woman: strong willed, ambitious, assertive and capable - as evidenced by her breaking the boys’ barrier by becoming one of the central trio that includes Captain Kirk and Spock.  She is free to take on a role of equal dimension, just as her name Uhuru in Swahili means. Yet, she remains true to herself and is free to be a woman of style and fashion.  

In contrast to Uhura’s dark red attire, House of RodMichael has designed a three piece black pseudo leather ensemble comprised of skinny pants, a jacket with a wide collar, a wide belt with a buckle,  and a see through blouse.  Black is used to accentuate the strength and beauty of Uhura.  A Star Trek Logo on the lapel completes the ensemble.  I think it is worth noting that in 2012 a poll was conducted by SFX Magazine to find the 100 sexiest female characters in science fiction and fantasy.  Uhura, as portrayed by Saldana in the 2009 ST film, was voted number one.

Kevin Kilmer

Click Designs by Kevin

My outfit, titled "Trekesque," is what I imagine Lady Gaga would wear.  If she put her stamp of approval on it, it would have to be the definitive TREK inspired gown. Inspiration for this designer would come from several things; First of which is The Original Series (TOS) - to give the the overall flavor of the design, and there would be noticeable influences from designers Alexander McQueen and Philip Treacy. The dress is  most influenced by McQueen and made from a red micro sequined material with beaded and sequined accents. It features a red tulle train.

The hat is another clearly Gaga inspiration; and this time I was further influenced by the works of London designer Philip Treacy.  The base hat is faux red silk along with huge red tulle, and then the obvious tie to TOS is the Communicator accent tilted at a roguish angle.  It also comes with the golden toned hoop earrings my muse is wearing.  Gaga loves this homage to two of her favorite designers.

Anna Castanes

Somethings Old, Somethings New

This bedding set will please the most diehard Trekkie Diva.  Because of the style and coloring it could serve for most of the crew - from Kirk to Uhura.  This set can be made for larger dolls but is shown here in 1/6 scale.;  for further info on a larger size, just use the contact information on my website to discuss it.  This set includes one reversible coverlet made with faux suede and faux leather; and two large European type pillows made with faux suede that carry a Star Trek logo.  

Petra Elisa

 Petra Elise Fashion Doll Couture

One of the best things about the Star Trek universe is that it is filled with strong, dynamic women.  My model would love to impress Uhura, the epitome of female strength, in this years Star Trek Into Darkness.  

Wearing a modern cocktail dress inspired by Uhura's traditional Star Trek uniform, my model is dressed to impress.  The dress features fitted silk charmeuse, a dramatic black collar, and beading.

John Prewitt

JC Dream Designs

This 1:6 scale modern, yet retro "Rounded Aqua Couch" is a perfect fit for any Star Trek fan. I can just see James Kirk relaxing on it now. This couch has a wood base that has been padded and covered with a gorgeous aqua fabric. The couch measures approximately 17 inches wide and can easily seat most of the Star Trek crew. The couch is accented by geometric design pillows and brushed aluminum legs. For more photos and pricing information please visit my website.

Ina Murphey

La Petite Fashion Promenade

My muse for this fashion was the character Uhura, as played by Zoe Saldana in both the 2009 Star Trek film and again in the 2013 version, Star Trek Into Darkness.  The uniform, normally worn by Star Fleet officers, has been transformed into a sparkling gold and black two-piece cocktail dress with a matching jacket. This outfit would be as stylish and appropriate for a night on the town down here on earth as it is for an evening in the Cocktail Lounge on the Holodeck of the Starship Enterprise.  Wearing this ensemble Uhura may definitely make the always logical, and somewhat oblivious, Spock take notice of her exquisite beauty.

The strapless dress and the matching jacket are made of sparkling knit to give a flexible, body conscious fit on almost any 16 inch fashion doll.  Both pieces are fully lined with white knit fabric to guard against stains that can be created when dark fabrics come in contact with your doll’s skin surface.  Just imagine how many admiring glances your diva would get in this outfit!

Wow, I loved all this eye candy!  But, my dear Trekkies, that's all for this presentation.  But there are rumors that this last entry's creator,  Ina Murphey, got inspired and created even more outfits influenced by this treasured series.  Look for these designs on her website. You won't want to miss out on any of the other shops that may have more Trekkiewear available either.  Now is the perfect time to check out  the other shops, too, to see all who have new merchandise available.

 And don't forget to turn in next month.  As you know it will be October, so look for the gang at CoutureDollShop.com to conjure up all the ghosties and goths your pretty little hearts may desire - see you again soon! 

Studios That Work

Let's take a look inside the Ateliers of the proprietors of CoutureDollShop.com. 

There is no set formula for producing doll garments month after month that the public will love.  One contributing factor that would seem sensible to explore, however, would be where these artists work, and how they have their studios, workrooms, or whatever you call their work area, set up.

For the purpose of this article, we will be looking inside the studios of sixteen unique shop owners on CoutureDollShop.com (CDS). As we explore each studio you will realize that this is far from an exact science - what works best for one artist might easily turn off another. Their philosophies run the gamut from a “stress equals mess” type of thinking, to thoughts that favor clutter as a necessity.  Among other things, they feel a little clutter provides a visual reminder of how much work they have to do for any given project. One thing is for sure– no matter what one believes, these shop owners get it - they can't go wrong if their work space is working to help them produce; then their studio is already a success!  

We will begin with my personal studio, and as you read the descriptions and tips throughout this article, we urge you to use anything that you find you might like to adapt for your own use.   There is one thing for sure about doll people, we’re always happiest when we can share something useful with another “doller!”  Now run along and enjoy - and don't forget to click on the individual pictures to make them larger so you can see everything more clear.  And, if you'd like to see more from a particular artist, just click on their store name and the link will take you right there.

Dot Festeu, Dollenchantments

My shop is located on Main Street,  but my actual studio resides in an unused room that is only 7x8 feet. For this reason I have placed shelving from ceiling to floor, and I have incorporated a push-in-and-out feature using a cart. As you enter you’ll see a little buffet with a chest of drawers on top. Though unconventional, it gives me more storage for the space than I could get using a conventional hutch and buffet.  Next, there is my desk that holds lots of goodies and my sewing machine when needed. Above are three shelves with lots of boxes, drawers, and a “Clip-it” for holding stuff, and, of course, important documentation. I keep my patterns in file boxes under the desk.

 The counter space on the right holds a photo box ready for lighting that can be removed if I need more room. Underneath are barrister cabinets and a wood cart with two outer fold-up shelves that roll out to give me more work area.  The last wall  has a double door cabinet that holds more stuff,  another Clip-it, and a thread cabinet.

Tips: 1. Clip-Its hold many items in zip-loc bags that are clipped on the stand.  I got mine at Hobby Lobby. (See the black rotating stand in my top picture.)

2. When you are confined to a small space, you will have to store some things out of your studio. My fabric is stored in canvas-covered boxes, and then placed in 2 leather trunks that work as ottomans in my living room.  

Deanna Torigian, Babette Doll Fashions

Deanna’s shop is on Couture Court. She designs for all kinds of dolls, including contemporary and vintage dolls. She enjoys her work, and calls her studio,“My happy place.”  Her sewing room is separated into task areas: sewing on one side, computer and shipping are on the other side. Pattern cutting area and pressing are in another area. It is most functional that way.

Tip: Necessary tools and supplies should be stored in the areas they are used.

  

Denise Beaudin, Deni Doll Designs

                   

Denise’s shop is on Main Street. She designs for 15 to 24 inch fashion dolls. Her sewing room is an 8 ft. x 9 ft.bedroom. The floors are hardwood; walls are an ecru color. Counter tops (6 ft. x 2 ft.) extend along two walls, and one is under a window to take advantage of the morning light.  The ironing board becomes the third arm of the U-shaped working space. Above the ironing board is a cork bulletin board for ideas, pattern instructions, etc.

Two beautiful sewing baskets that hold sewing notions, and the sewing machine and serger are positioned one next to the other so she can move between the machines with ease. Her room also includes a hutch that displays dolls and holds sewing notions. Patterns and fabric are stored in see-through plastic totes so contents are visible at a glance. The totes are in the closet of the room.

Tips: 1. Store things in see-through totes.

2. Use pins with large colored heads, as they are much easier to spot on the floor.

PetraElise, PetraElise Doll Couture

PetraElise resides on Main Street, and feels fortunate to have a small loft area for her studio that provides a place in which she can incorporate her computer space, sewing area, fabric storage, and photography set-up. Her simple wall boxes are easily taken down to double as photo props and sales displays at conventions.

She keeps all of her fabric sorted by color and type so that she can easily find what she needs during the design process. She also uses a combination of larger storage boxes and small photo boxes which are ideal for small bits of fabric or lightweight silk chiffons. Her yarn is kept handy in open canvas baskets; she loves the little pop of color it brings into her work environment.

Tip: PetraElise would love to have colored walls, but finds white works best because it allows her to get a more accurate color assessment. 

Frances Weir, Francesca Doll Couture

 Frances’ shop is on Designer Drive, and she thinks it would be wonderful to have a real studio for all her dolly creating.  But in a little condo, by necessity, her work space spreads from room to room of her home. The sewing area nestles in one corner of the upstairs guest bedroom where she has claimed half a closet for storing fabrics, notions, and other supplies, while pattern making, cutting and pressing take place atop the washer and dryer on the main floor laundry room.  Frances has her mother’s much-treasured 1949 Singer Featherweight sewing machine. Both she and her sisters learned to sew on this machine.  Modern computerized machines can do amazing things, but this little one does everything Frances needs, and she would not dream of replacing it. 

Knitting tends to be a nightly evening activity and her tools occupy a corner of the living room. A favorite chair is where she knits up her imaginings using Granny’s tiny sock needles, slightly curved by years of use.  

There is nothing to compare with the feel of knitting fine, soft yarns especially bamboo, silk and merino wool. A boxed rainbow of yarns and a book of over 1000 stitch patterns keep her fingers busy. Sewing two or three days a week is possible, but Frances is also forever tidying up the bits of thread and snippets of fabric which trail up and down the stairs. When guests are imminent, the Singer is tucked away and a huge magnet traps stray pins. Yes, it would be wonderful to have a real studio.... but what Frances does have works for her.

Frances’ Tip: Frances is sharing her "Recipe" for making Felt Doll Hats as her tip.

1. Haunt thrift shops or garage sales for old, real felt hats; most will be felted wool, but the ones that feel very soft are fur felt ... they are the nicest to use.

2. Deconstruct the hat and save everything. I often use the trimmings, too 

3.  Cut the hat into roughly 4-inch squares.

4. Soak one to three squares in hot water with Oxyclean. Rinse thoroughly. Pat excess water out on a paper towel. 

5. Stretch the felt in all directions.

6. Pull the square of felt firmly over a form of your choice and fix in place with elastic bands. Allow the felt to dry for a day or so. For forms, I use a cork-fishing float of the right diameter, which my husband mounted atop a heavy spring on a block of wood. However, I also use small upside down glasses or plastic bottle caps. The dry felt will keep whatever shape you make. 

7. Trim the hat forms into the desired shape and embellish with creative whimsy. 

8. Have fun!

Ina Murphey, LaPetite Fashion Promenade

Ina’s shop is on Couture Court.  And, should installing a kitchenette in her studio seem extravagant, Ina explained she is recently widowed and lives in a three-story colonial style house. The 10-year plan is to convert her walkout basement into a “mother-in-law suite” for her with younger family members taking over the upstairs house. 

For the past fifteen years her studio has been located in the basement room that was originally designated as a “family room.” She uses the entire room with her "stuff" spread out all over in stacks of plastic tote boxes.  She had three sewing machines, two sergers, and an unused embroidery machine. - a sewing utopia! She needed all of that when she was working full time and frequently had to prepare numerous demos for the high school and college sewing and design classes she was teaching. Now that she is retired and the fashions she designs are one-quarter the size of the clothes she used to make, all those machines were more than she needed. So she decided she needed to do a renovation, and to bite the bullet and get rid of things that were no longer needed.

This past summer, along with the kitchenette, she added a screened-in porch just outside the studio. Now she practically lives in the basement. Her first project in her studio renovation was to develop some boxes to store her “stuff” that fit her décor better, and she has included how she did this as her tip.

Ina’s Tip: Black men’s shoe boxes were found and ordered.  She then photographed vintage dress forms and/or used photos of her own creations for stickers and labels. Ina found two Kimberly Polson graphics for her cardboard boxes  (see picture). Finally, she created a template in MS Word and printed 2” X 4” Avery Ink Jet labels, Item #18163. Voilà – boxes for storage that fit her decor!

Rosy Basile, L’Atelier de Rosy

I use a room of my apartment for my “Atelier” that is complete with necessary displays for my dolls. Big closets are used for stocking fabrics as well as elements of dioramas and pictures. Some places have dual usefulness such as a table for sewing and making pictures of my creations, and a drawing board to make patterns and cut fabrics.

Plastic storage boxes are also used for different little things like elements to make jewels, hats, bags etc. but can also be used for materials needed for sewing and painting. The important thing is I set up definite areas to help me move from step to step in my design process.

Rosy's Tip: When I decide to make clothes for my doll I do it in this order. Drawings, patterns, and then choose one or two of them; sometimes combined, and sometimes not. Cut patterns. Make muslin. Then multiple fittings and alterations until everything is just right, and then I choose the final fabric to cut and make the finished product.

Pat Stoughton, Petite Moonbeams

Since I do so much, I have spaces designated for genealogy papers/records; polymer clay; scrapbooking/ card making; doll magazines; miniature-making; sewing; office supplies and odds/ ends crafts. Usually it is easy to get to any area and it is helpful if I want to ask hubby to get something for me.

Pat’s Tip: Try to organize your space according to which project you are working on.

Durelle Brown, Chic Indulgence

Chic Indulgence is located on Main Street. Durelle Brown gets double duty from her workspace. Her tropical office is appropriate for this interior designer to see clients and work on design projects as well as to “play” dolls.  When she wants to sew she then tucks away the laptop and pulls out the sewing machine atop her ample (36” x 72”) desk. The drawers of the desk house all of her sewing supplies (thread, scissors, needles, clover irons and pressing hams) and the one file drawer contain doll related drawings, patterns, project designs, and other useful items.

Since this office is a converted fourth bedroom, Durelle is lucky enough to have a very nice size walk-in closet. The door has been removed for easy access and covered with a beaded curtain for an airy and tropical feeling. The closet has been fitted with wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling shelving that houses multiple plastic covered tubs which organize fabrics, trims and hobby tools. The top shelf stores collected boxed dolls as well as a few dolls to play with.

Tip: 1. Anyone who needs to share a sewing space with an office would be wise to buy a very large self-healing cutting mat to pull out to cover your desk. Most sport a useful 1-inch grid and are convenient when you want to push aside the sewing machine to cut out sewing projects with a rotary cutter (and it also protects the desktop).

 2. When extra storage is needed, you can roll in the hobbyist “classic” - an inexpensive plastic rolling cart that can go from the closet to the desk for convenience.

Phyllis Erlenbusch, Our Eclectic Closet

Our Eclectic Closet is on Main Street. Phyllis says she hates working in a messy environment so when the spirit moves her to sew she needs to clean up first! Her sewing/doll room is a small bedroom in her house. Phyllis removed the closet doors so she can see and access her quilting fabrics easily. Doll fabrics are sorted by type (silks, cottons, velvets, etc.) in their own drawers in the plastic units. 

She really likes being able to separate items like this - then when she needs something in particular she knows exactly where to look even when things are a bit messy. Her cutting table rests on an adjustable keyboard stand that is a little higher than average, and at a more comfortable height. Most of her doll doings involve knitting, but when Phyllis needs to sew or design,  she has adequate room. Most of her supplies are kept in plastic and wire rolling carts that make it simple to find just what is needed for both quilting and sewing.

Tip: 1. ALWAYS swatch any new yarn or thread before using since even if the label says it will knit to a particular gauge. When you are working with smaller than recommended needle size, yarns that are similar in a larger size needle may not yield the same results when working smaller. 

2. Another knitting/crochet tip - Try each yarn or thread with different sizes of needles or hooks; keep a record of how many stitches per inch and how many rows for each yarn/thread and type of needle or hook. Don’t guess, since guessing will often get you in trouble. For example, if you swatch a yarn that knits eight stitches and eight rows to the inch with size 0 needles, don’t expect that size 00 needles will give you nine stitches and rows.

George Gonzalez, Angelic Dreamz

Angelic Dreamz (AD), located on Main Street, is well known as “A Collector’s Paradise” - the premium online and brick and mortar doll store for all kinds of doll collectors. AD brought our readers the first BJD fashion doll, JAMIEshow, produced exclusively for the U.S. market and marketed directly by a U.S. dealer. Working with the factory directly, the company is able to bring you the most exquisite resin doll at factory direct pricing, thus saving the consumer as much as 50%, compared to dolls of similar size and quality. The JAMIEshow 1/4-scale fashion BJDs combine the poseable ball structure of an Asian ball-jointed dolls, with the elegant figure of a 16-inch fashion doll in just the right way. In addition, they are ideal models for the latest doll couture.

Photography is an important job for AD’s owner, George Gonzalez. Therefore, he decided

to include this shot of his studio with a doll on the photo table. Notice how backdrops and lighting are placed in order to capture the doll most photogenically.

Tips: 1. When photographing a doll, always look at the pose, try it yourself, and if a human can’t pose that way it’s probably not natural looking for a doll either.

 2. Take a good long look at what you are photographing before shooting. It will save you a mountain of time in Photoshop if the hair is out of the face before shooting, for example.

Mary Watson, Green Thread Design Studio

Welcome to Green Thread Design Studio on Designer Drive where Mary Watson, a semi-retired art teacher, creates fabulous clothing for 1/6-scale dolls. Recently moving from a suburban home to a city condominium, Mary’s studio is now the corner of a shared office space, a big downsizing from the full bedroom she had before.  This has meant her collection of vintage fabric, trims, flowers, and lace has had to come down in size as well.

Although difficult at first, it is a change which has led to a much more focused collection of materials. Looking back on the change, Mary has found it a positive one, releasing creativity that has been bogged down with too much stuff.

Tips: 1. Use clear containers so you can find your materials.

2. Stay singularly focused on the designs so that the materials do not slowly take over the home.

Tamara Casey, Designs By Jude

Designs by Jude is located on Couture Court. Tamara describes her workshop as her sanctuary. She feels so blessed to love what she does, and tends to spend hours in her space. It functions as an office, print shop, mail room, photo studio and sewing room.  Since her product line includes small sewing notions, buttons and eyelets, it is key to stay organized and return items back to their designated storage space.

Tip: When creating something new let ideas percolate. When I feel like I have hit a roadblock I usually walk away from the project for a bit and wait for inspiration before returning. I like to Google clothing images from different times and imagine how they were made. Some of my most popular patterns I have were suggestions from current customers.

Gayle Chavez, Oohlalaz

Oohlalaz is located on Couture Court. Pictured is some of Gayle’s sewing room which is currently a work in progress; when complete it will be her dream sewing room. As a result of the renovation thus far, she now has wonderful light from new windows, a plus when both creating and doing photography. Everything is in clear boxes so they can be found quite easily. Gayle is looking forward to the completion of her dream studio.

Tips: 1. Mac earplugs for thread condition; these are small silicone pads that I pull/drag the thread through once, and condition my needles when sewing thick fabrics.

 2.  Clear plastic baseball boxes for ribbons, bows, flowers etc. Bigger plushy clear plastic boxes for larger items. 

3. Old doll stands with saddle removed for small ribbon spools.

 4. Plastic spice rack/steps for displaying thread spool, shoes, etc.

5. My sewing models are always hanging around naked, no wasting time - just grab a doll and go sew! 

6. Maintain your machines (oil/clean) for best results in sewing. 

7. Be inspired with all things around you and let your imagination flow.

John Prewitt, JC Dream Designs

JC Dream Designs is located on Main Street. John Prewitt welcomes us into his work areas where he and his wife Cindy (his muse) create 12 and 16 inch doll furniture and diorama accessories.  Today they wanted to share a little bit about their creative process and work areas.  John actually uses three different workspaces. First, there is the great outdoors. All the furniture is created from primarily solid wood, so John uses a lot of woodworking equipment including a table saw, band saw, mitre saw, and sander. All work is done outside. He also does any wood staining or painting outdoors, but one day he hopes to have his own workshop.

Templates (see picture above) are needed to make sure duplicated items can be recreated exactly the same way as the first time; so part of John’s design process is making a template for prototypes.  Once all the pieces are cut out, sanded, and ready to be put together, John moves inside to his office workspace where he applies padding and upholstery, sews pillows or other pieces, and fully assembles the final project.  

When the pieces are finished John uses the photo area in Cindy’s doll room that has a 24-inch lighting device by My Studio with a daylight fluorescent bulb and two small halogen lights with reflector cards for indirect lighting.  Getting great photos is important for displaying John’s work.

Tip: Whatever you decide to do as a business, make sure it is something you really enjoy; it will never feel like work!

Pauline Lyngard, BW Designs

BW Designs is located on Main Street. Pauline started in 2003 selling OOAK fashions for vintage dolls on eBay.  From there her creative journey led her to Mattel Silkstone Barbie dolls, then the Fashion Royalty line, until she evolved from creating 1/6-scale to stretching her creativity to design for the 1/4-scale work she does today for the popular 16-17” dolls like Tyler, Gene, Evangeline Ghastly, Sybarites, and JAMIEshow.

She was a competitor in two separate design contests; the first Project Dollway at Home and the first Couture Doll Design Competition; she started working with CDS at its inception. Pauline enjoys being surrounded by her doll collection and feels like they are all there behind her cheering her on as she designs each new fashion. Her life is very busy with her dogs and her artistic life in her tiny Victorian cottage with beautiful gardens.

Tip: A” vision board” for new ideas and designs helps Pauline visualize what she wants to accomplish.

This concludes our tour of our Artist's Ateliers.  We hope you enjoyed it and find something useful to use. We also hope you will visit the shops on CDS and become acquainted with some of its merchants.  They are some of the nicest people around

.Now before I go I would like to give you an update on one of our cornerstone shops, Angelic Dreamz, and remind you their JamieShow line now has its own webpage.  Yes, that line has grown so much, and is so busy, that it needed its own space.

 George Gonzalez, AD owner, wanted me to remind you that he still has some of the limited edition At the Opera gowns; Scarmouche, and Salome are available in limited quantities   And the big news is they fit Gene beautifully!! Check out these latest pictures.  AD is a good spot to keep in your favorites so you can visit them often to see their latest creations.  Right now my faves are the Havana Nights collection and his Revelry, but I'm always anxious to see what he has new, too! 

  That's it for the CDS news of the month, too.  Happy dolling - see you again in September when we will boldly go where few have gone before.  I look forward to seeing you again!