Designs by Jude Insider: Celebrating Creativity with Tamara Casey
Welcome back to another edition of the Designs by Jude Insider, where we shine the spotlight on the talented designer and pattern maker Tamara Casey, whose work continues to inspire doll collectors and seamstresses around the world.
In this post, we’ll be chatting about Tamara’s two most recent sewing patterns created in proud sponsorship of the Virtual Doll Convention’s Grace and Ellowyne Subscription Boxes. As many of you know, the Grace Historical Subscription officially wrapped up its beautiful run in October, and Tamara’s final design for the series — the “Gilded Age” pattern — quickly became one of her most loved and requested. It was a stunning finale that perfectly captured the elegance and craftsmanship collectors have come to expect from both Designs by Jude and VDC.
Meanwhile, as one door closes, another opens — and October also marked the launch of Season Three of the Ellowyne Wilde Subscription Box. Tamara kicked things off in high style with “High Drama,” the first of four exclusive patterns she’ll create for Ellowyne’s new season. This striking design set the tone for what’s to come: bold silhouettes, refined details, and that signature Designs by Jude flair.
We’ll also take a peek at some of Tamara’s latest releases, including her fantastic new line of doll wigs that have collectors buzzing. From historical to high fashion, Tamara continues to offer fresh inspiration for every kind of doll enthusiast — and we can’t wait to show you what she’s been working on next.
A Grand Finale: “Gilded Age” for Grace Marie Fitzpatrick
It’s only fitting that the Grace Historical Subscription ended its remarkable run with one of Tamara Casey’s most striking designs to date — the “Gilded Age” pattern. Created exclusively for the Virtual Doll Convention and Grace Marie Fitzpatrick collectors, this ensemble captures the opulence and sophistication of the late Victorian era while maintaining the charm and wearability that Tamara is known for.
The design features a fully lined jacket with a structured front inset, high collar, and graceful trumpet sleeves trimmed with ruffles and lace. Paired with it is a floor-length skirt boasting an attached overskirt that drapes beautifully into a gathered front apron and a cascading back train, finished with a delicate ruffled edge that adds just the right amount of drama. The look is completed with a teardrop hat and an optional neck scarf, both of which lend an extra layer of period-perfect detail.
Tamara’s example features a rich red fabric and subtle pinstripes evoke the confidence and flourish of the 1890s — a time when women’s fashion began to mirror their growing independence and influence. It’s a statement of strength and elegance, just like Grace herself.
“Gilded Age” became an instant favorite among VDC members, not just for its intricate construction but for the way it closed the chapter on Grace’s historical journey — a fitting farewell that celebrates craftsmanship, beauty, and Tamara’s unmatched eye for detail.
Below, you’ll find a few wonderful creations made by VDC members who brought their own creativity and flair to the Gilded Age design. It’s always inspiring to see how each collector interprets Tamara’s patterns through different fabrics, trims, and color palettes.
And if you’re ready to sew your own version, be sure to watch Tamara’s step-by-step video tutorial on her Designs by Jude YouTube channel — it’s a fantastic resource for both new and experienced seamstresses alike.
A Striking Beginning: “High Drama” for Ellowyne Wilde
October marked the launch of Season Three of the Ellowyne Wilde Subscription Box, and Tamara Casey opened the season in unforgettable style with “High Drama.”
This stunning pattern features a figure-hugging satin dress with a lace overlay, collared neckline, and ostrich feather trim at the wrists and hemline. Elegant, moody, and unmistakably Ellowyne, it captures the perfect balance of sophistication and theatrical flair.
Tamara will be creating three more exclusive patterns for this Ellowyne season and will also join VDC for unboxings and product reviews along the way. If High Drama is any preview of what’s to come, collectors are in for a spectacular season ahead.
New from Designs by Jude: Fabulous Wigs and Smart Doll Patterns
Tamara has been busier than ever, expanding her creative reach in new and exciting directions. Along with her fantastic new line of doll wigs—available now on the Designs by Jude website at wonderfully affordable prices—she’s also begun designing for the Pear Smart Doll body.
Her first pattern for this scale, called “Joyful Tiers,” is a fresh and breezy ensemble that includes a cropped peasant-style top paired with a tiered skirt or wide-leg pants. It’s the perfect blend of modern playfulness and Tamara’s signature craftsmanship, giving Smart Doll collectors something truly special to sew and enjoy.
As always, we’re so grateful to have Tamara as part of the VDC creative family. Her talent, generosity, and endless imagination continue to inspire collectors and creators alike. We can’t wait to see what she dreams up next!
