The babies are finished and yesterday I started some new tattooed men. They are a little different from the first four- more about that below. I’ve reworked the pattern, dyed several batches of fabric,  cut and stitched together six guys.
That is probably the easy part. Now, 2 of them have their stitched fingers and are mostly stuffed. Lots more fine detail work to go.
Here is what I was thinking about today as I worked on these dolls. I got a lot of positive feedback about my tattooed guys. I thrive on positive feedback. Yeah, internet! Sometimes though, the positive feedback can make me afraid to make changes or take the next step. Once I admit that, I can move forward. The issue was, who were these guys that I was making? I struggled with the lower torsos on the first four. Also, I couldn’t get their shoes right- it was driving me nuts! Well, this batch is circus tattooed men. Now everything is working for me- the body design, the shoes, the colors, and I’ve got lots more ideas for hair and faces. Tattoo man 2.0 Yes!
I looooooove your tattooed guys. They look perfect. I’ve been thinking a lot about guy dolls lately because it seems to be what I make for my boys.
Mimi,
I just found your blog after listening to your interview on the crafty podcast! It was great to hear your journey about creating your dolls and your philosophy! Really wonderfully creative! Thanks so much for creating and sharing. Looking more to seeing more of your beautiful creations!
best,
Lisa
I love the circus idea! They look great and I can’t wait to see them all detailed out. :)
Tattooed circus men.. be still my gypsy heart!
I do love the stripey tights!
These are even better than the first ones!! Love them..so original-I have never seen tattooed guys in doll form anywhere.
:) Christine
LOVE tattoo man 2.0! the striped pants and black flats are brilliant! circus men, perfect!
I noticed the little circus slippers right away, Mimi. They are perfect as are the striped leggings! Love these! So clever.
It all works now. They look terrific. They’re character is fully developed and they will sell like hotcakes!
Very cool! I was looking at the pix thinking they looked just like the tattooed guys in the circus, and then you said that’s what they were! Great minds…
oh yes , the circus makes it all work – those lovely stripey tights – I can just see them lurking around the tents.
Can’t wait to see them all finished
I like how you must know their story before you make them.
yes yes yes! love love love the feet! VERY carny! brilliant, as usual.
Mimi, I saw your tattooed men for the first time a couple of weeks ago and they sure made me smile! (I think I may have actually squealed when I saw them!!) What an incredibly creative idea. Of course, I love ALL of your dolls and I’m normally not a big doll fan, but your dolls changed my thinking on that! Your dolls rock!!!….Anyway, I was just talking to a friend tonight and telling her about the incredible tattooed dolls made from toille fabric and she was equally impressed with the cleverness of your idea. How fun to come here tonight and see you working on a new batch! :)
Brilliant Mimi!
I’ve recently found your webpage, by accident, and was deeply impressed by your artworks. I just wanted to say, it’s b-e-a-u-tifull, perfect and really amazing – do you have more than 24 hours a day? :)
I love their shoes!!!