Through the eyes of a doll maker
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Is it
the expression in the eyes that draws you? Yes. Take a close look and
you will be amazed at the emotion that comes through a painted or
stitched doll face. That, to us, shows the talent of the doll maker. But
just as with all needlework and art, it's the details that matter as
well. Dell embellished this doll with thread, accenting carefully chosen
fabrics, using color and stitch variety to create dimension and style.
Dell is regularly featured in the special doll exhibit section of Quilt Market and Quilt Festival (for dates, see www.quilts.com).
Each year we are delighted to spot the "Dell doll" and see what she has
created. Let's hear from Dell herself, and enjoy photos of her work.
Let this inspire you, in whatever medium you work, with whichever
materials (we suggest trying Kreinik iron-on threads like Dell did…), in
any stage of life.
Doll artist Dell Jones told us…
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I
first became aware of Art Dolls at the Houston International Quilt
Festival where I saw the doll exhibit. I was amazed and wanted to make
them, too. I bought a Santa pattern and decided he looked more like a
Wise Man, so I made three by the next Christmas.
Through
a mutual friend, I met Marlene Slobin who told me about The Material
Girls Cloth Doll Club. I joined at the first meeting and have been
learning the art of doll making through classes, retreats, and the
incredible sharing of the members.
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I
have always been artistic and have tried every fabric inspired project
that came along. But I will readily admit that the world of Art Dolls
meets all of my artistic needs and I hope to continue creating them for a
long time. As I tell people who ask how I am doing after injuring my
shoulder several years ago, "As long as I can give hugs and make dolls,
I'm just fine."
Side
note: Next we will feature Marlene Slobin, mentioned by Dell above, who
created another stunning doll design for our exhibit. Wait until you
see this one! Stay tuned to the blog.
To learn about Kreinik iron-on threads, visit: http://www.kreinik.com/ shops/Iron-On-Threads/
Try Kreinik Iron-on Threads - on sale this week: http://www.kreinik.com/ shops/Iron-On-Thread-Sale- Items/