As we celebrate the 65th birthday of Barbie, we're not just honoring a doll but an enduring icon that has inspired generations, transcended cultural boundaries, and evolved to mirror the diverse beauty of our world. From her debut in 1959 to her current status as a symbol of empowerment and style, Barbie's journey encompasses fun facts, fascinating milestones, and a deep impact on fashion and dreams alike. Here are highlights from each year of her legacy that showcase her significance and evolution.
This time of year, while often filled with joy and celebration, isn't always sparkly for everyone. If you find yourself navigating through grief, loss, or a swirl of complicated emotions, please know that you're not alone.
As we welcome 2024 with open arms and hopeful hearts, we're spotlighting Tamara Casey, a name synonymous with innovation and artistry in the world of doll fashion sewing patterns. Her recent projects seamlessly blend traditional charm with contemporary flair, creating a diverse range of dolls that captivate both nostalgia and trendsetting aesthetics.
Hey You! We are popping in today with some pretty gifts - as always, feel free to share with friends.
We have a special sewing treat for you! The fantastic Sheryl Williams designed this beautiful mantle cape for the Beyond All Limits 2020 Free Virtual Doll Convention attendees. It is a fabulous Mantle (Cape) for 12.5" Jointed Resin Body Doll, a pattern with instructions compliments of Sheryl Williams. This convention was orchestrated as a team effort to support doll collectors worldwide during the start of the pandemic. Thank you so much to Sheryl Williams for this beautiful project for us all to share and enjoy. Download this project and receive the pattern and instructions.
“This charming wardrobe addition can be used for many dolls – both antique and contemporary. It is easy to enlarge or reduce the pattern to suit your needs. Use your imagination for trimming this very versatile cape. Ruched ribbon, fringe, woven trims, or embroidery could be used to embellish this piece. Feel free to experiment and have fun! This cape is really “Beyond All Limits.” - Sheryl Williams
Do you remember the comics section of the newspaper? It used to be my FAVORITE part. When Diana Vining sent me this cute Halloween themed comic strip, it brought me right back to those days. This is one of her art pieces that you will want to print for your VDC Scrapbooks. It’s on the homepage of the VDC website, so cute! Doesn’t it make you want to dress up your Grace doll as Dorothy?
We have announcements coming soon about the Christmas Pageant AND the Showtime 2020 Convention. I also want to let you in on a little secret this month - we have a VIP Teddy Bear friend visiting the shop this month. He has delighted us in the past with lots of entertaining and educational content. You can expect all kinds of happenings from us - can you guess who it is?
Love ya, mean it!
Rachel
Hey there! Are you SO excited for your Grace dolls?! We have a special treat for you today - a free sewing workshop, sewing resource, and pattern for your Grace dolls or any Robert Tonner doll with the RTB101 body.
In January 2020, we enjoyed a beginner’s class in sewing for our Grace dolls with our resident instructor, Linda Wall. In this two-part series, Linda reviews past sewing techniques that she has shared with us in previous events plus we dive right into the London Society dress, hat, clutch, and wedge shoes that she designed exclusively for the Virtual Doll Convention. Linda Wall generously provides a handy sewing reference booklet, instructions, and pattern for you which can be downloaded here. Here is a picture of our original Grace doll sporting the ensemble at the doll shop today. Don’t you just love that hat and those wedge shoes? The outfit was inspired by one of our favorites worn by Kate Middleton.
DOWNLOAD THE SEWING REFERENCE BOOK, INSTRUCTIONS, AND PATTERN HERE FOR FREE - THANK YOU, LINDA!
Michael Canadas and David Robinson of the Carmel Doll Shop and Grovian Doll Museum have been working day and night, creating incredible Haute Couture sewing kits and ready-to-wear Huret ensembles for the Summer Fling Attendees.
Summer Fling Registrants will be the first to be notified when these Limited Edition Haute Couture Kits are released for purchase at the Carmel Doll Shop Boutique. All are utilizing the same basic pattern are: “Maison du Chocolat” - “Train Bleu” and “Gare de Lyon.”
Please note that this ensemble will be available only in classic size 4 - suitable for your genuine antique Hurets and other fine enfantine-era antique dolls who stand 17-18" in height.
