Rag Doll Fun

When I saw the Black Apple Doll tutorial and pattern at Martha Stewart, I knew that I wanted to try it, but to do something different.

My grandmother was the craft maven of my family. I still have the quilt she made for me when I was born, as well as the rag doll she hand sewed for me when I was a child. I wanted to continue the family tradition, but in a different way. My nieces both love Lalaloopsy, so I decided to adapt the Black Apple Doll Pattern and make a more Lalaloopsy style rag doll face, using buttons for the eyes, and embroidering the smile as stitches. I used yarn that I braided for the pigtails, wanting to keep that handmade look. I did stitch these dolls entirely by hand. I basically made up my own patterns for the clothes. I made pillowcase dresses, halter tops, skirts, tutus, etc.

Once pictures of these dolls were shared on Facebook, I got requests for more.

I made this one for a childhood friend's daughter, who wanted a "Purple Ballerina."

This was for a cousin's young daughter, and came with a book I picked up by one of my favorite children's book authors/illustrators:

 Last but not least, my latest (and best creation, the more I make the better I get at making them) made for another cousin's young daughter who just started kindergarten this week:

It makes me really happy to continue a family tradition. I know my grandmother would love these dolls and love that I was keeping up all of the wonderful crafting and sewing skills that she taught me.

If you'd like to take a stab at the pattern, head over to Martha Stewart's blog HERE. Have fun!