I am working on the doll’s clothing. I hand-stitched the bands on the waistband and leg cuffs. I am now working on the coat.
The coat is made from an antique (I think) coat or robe that I got at an estate sale. The robe is completely covered with moth holes. The design of the robe is almost exactly what I want my doll coat to look like- fitted bodice, flowing skirt.
Here is a closer picture of the bodice- maybe you can see some of the moth holes.
Here is a detail of the fabric- it is wool with chain-stitch embroidery. The lining is silk.
I has having some trouble trying to place the pattern pieces around the damaged areas so this is what I did-
I taped it onto the window! That way I could see the holes. I had no trouble finding enough fabric for the smaller pieces, but it was a real challenge to cut out the 2 pieces for the skirt. I wanted to make it out of one solid piece but that wasn’t possible.
And here is where I am now-
lots more work to do on it, but at least I know it fits. woohoo!
By the way, I have finished quilting all the circles on my quilt! Now I just have to put on the binding. I can’t believe that there is an end in sight for this forever project!
It’s beautiful; a lot of work but wonderful that you can use the old garment to make something new. I love seeing your progress and reading about your creative process. Thank you for sharing!
WOOOOHOOO on the quilt!!!! And I absolutely love the coat. I love that sort of exotic look that’s coming along there and watching it all unfold is a pleasure. I definitely can’t wait to see the end result.
The coat is wonderful, and what a beautiful choice of fabric. Great idea about taping it to the window. I will have to keep that in mind. I always avoided fabrics with moth holes, but there are some lovely ones out there that could be rescued for doll clothes using your method. I have a similar family quilt project: my mom started it when she was a girl, then I worked on it for several years as a kid. You have inspired me to pull it out again. I think this may be the summer to pass it along to my daughter – she’s 9 and likes making clothes for her Barbies (poodle skirts, etc.), so a hand-project would be perfect.
oh, the fabric is absolutly beautiful and so is the shape of the coat. i love it. what a good idea. and the doll looks so elegant with such a nice outfit. and you look so inspired by the whole project! i had a very, very nice reading this post…
I don’t know why that doll is not smiling, I would if someone made me clothes looking like that! ;-)
She is adorable!