One Week with Holland

Holland Diane was born on November 11th at 12:38 PM, weighing 7 pounds, 3 ounces. It was a surreal and beautiful experience to see her when they pulled her out. I couldn’t believe she was here! Since then, we have been on cloud nine, learning about her, enjoying getting to know her, and settling into our new life as a small family.

We were fortunate to capture her at 48 hours old in these beautiful photos taken at the hospital. Every nurse and doctor at our hospital was terrific, and I felt privileged to be there and learn from them. I spent three nights in the hospital and four days. Recovery from the c section has been challenging, but I feel better and better each day.

Before leaving the hospital I wrote Holland a little letter on social media:

Hi Holland,

It’s your Mama. Where do I start, sweet girl? One thing is for sure - your Daddy and I will always be your biggest fans. And we’re so excited and thankful.

Your Daddy Derek is on the way to pick us up and take us home. (I love it when he calls you sweetheart.)

We want you to know that you are accepted and loved. Truly loved. Not because of anything you’ll do or need to do. Not because of who you are or who you’ll become but simply because you’re our daughter.

I know you’ll read this someday, and I want you to know that I have never felt more beautiful than when I touched your face for the very first time.

Love,

Mom and Dad

Here’s a photo of us leaving the hospital. We have a car seat with wheels attached to hit the road easily.

The day we took her home, Derek and I kept peering over her every couple of minutes in awe that she was ours and she was here. She instantly became a part of who we are.

Grandpa was waiting in the hall during the delivery and visited the hospital during my stay.

Since he lives next door, he comes over for his Holland Fix every couple of days. We were almost finished with our dinner on this day, and he barely touched his meal. But, there was something on the table more exciting than food. It is a thrill for me to see my Dad enjoy her. "Look at those fingers; there she is moving again," he exclaims, tickled with every move she makes.

From bath time to bedtime, it’s been an adventure from the start. I couldn’t be more grateful for this space, and I feel such gratitude and thankfulness, even after the restless nights, slow recovery from surgery, and whirlwind of emotions.

It’s been a little over a week of Holland Diane, and I wake up every day thankful for the gift of motherhood. What didn’t have to be is now a gift in my life.

I am excited to share her with family and watch her do a wide-mouth grin with anyone who makes eye contact.

I am excited about her Christmas dress and her new fur-lined velvet boots that she has to grow into.

I am excited about her looking at the lights, and driving around our neighborhood, showing her my Mom’s favorite houses that she always asked me to go by on the way home.

I am excited to share her with you through posts, pictures, videos, and blogs.

Thank you for being a part of our story and loving our family. We will update you soon with more adventures from Holland Diane. She is visiting the doll shop next week - what an adventure that will be!

In Love and Dolls,

Rachel

Designs by Jude November Insider Blog

Tamara Casey of Designs by Jude is a sponsor of Virtual Doll Convention’s Club Grace which is a monthly doll club complete with a clothing delivery subscription, and a monthly digital component that features a fantastic new pattern by Tamara. It has been a wonderful year full of FASHION, thanks to many contributors, and especially for our sewers, Tamara Casey. This month’s pattern from Tamara Casey for Club Grace is Fashion Savvy shown on the right. The pattern features a fashionable pantsuit with full bishop sleeves and French cuffs.

Tamara has been making fabulous videos for YouTube - these sewing tutorials can help you tremendously! Don’t miss the video below for the Fashion Savvy pattern.

Here is what Club Grace Member, Marie Scopel, had to say about the pattern, plus check out her version - so much fun! “Fashion Savy” has got to be one of the best club Grace patterns yet! There’s just something so classic about this jumpsuit. I could’ve seen wearing it in 60s, 70s, 80s or even today! It lends itself to being all about the accessories. And it even came with a purse pattern.”

Club Grace member, Gale Torres, did a spectacular job with her pattern - isn’t the green fabric lush for the Holidays?

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Congratulations are in order for Tamara Casey! She reached a goal of over 1,000 subscribers on her YouTube Channel. Consistent, quality content is what she has been striving for this year and she is doing AWESOME. Congratulations, Tamara! Keep climbing!

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NEW PRODUCT SHOWCASE

Opulent - A doll clothes sewing pattern designed to fit 12" Poppy Parker, Opulent. The pattern features a floor-length Victorian-inspired gown with 3/4 sleeves and a fully lined overskirt, underskirt with ruffle and tulle petticoat. The pattern features a snap-back closure. This design is also available for Ellowyne, Deja Vu, and other dolls.

SEWING FOR BARBIE!

See how easy sewing for Barbie is in this doll clothes sewing tutorial. The video shows step by step how to sew a 1950's retro-style prom dress for Silkstone Barbie. The pattern used for the demonstration is Prom Date.

NEW MACHINE

We love a good unboxing video and Tamara has an exciting one - a new sewing machine - a Pfaff Ambition 620 sewing machine. This provides a quick overview of the machine’s main features, included accessories and sewing feet. How exciting, congratulations!

HELPFUL PRODUCT REVIEW

Reviews of products are extremely helpful for all of us - In this product review video, Tamara shows you her experience with Cordless Electric Scissors from opening the box through testing them on a variety of materials. The scissors turned out to be very useful and effective for easily cutting paper, fabric, corrugated, and plastic. There is a code for 15% off in the video.

Tamara has it ‘going on!’ You do not want to miss any of her upcoming projects, products, and updates. Be sure to follow her on Facebook for weekly inspiration. We can’t wait to see what she comes up with next!

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This blog is sponsored content for Designs By Jude in Collaboration with the Virtual Doll Convention.

Designs by Jude October Insider Blog

Tamara Casey of Designs by Jude is a sponsor of Virtual Doll Convention’s Club Grace which is a monthly doll club complete with a clothing delivery subscription, and a monthly digital component that features a fantastic new pattern by Tamara. It has been a wonderful year full of FASHION, thanks to many contributors, and especially for our sewers, Tamara Casey. This month’s pattern from Tamara Casey for Club Grace is Travel Chic. In the graphic above, you can see the different creations of Travel Chic by Club Grace Members.

Tamara has been making fabulous videos for YouTube - these sewing tutorials can help you tremendously!

Tamara is VERY close to her 1.000 subscribers. Once she gets there, she can control the commercials on her channel - so let’s get her there!

The members of Club Grace often share their creations from Tamara’s Pattern. One of our lovely creators is Suzanne McDonough. How utterly CHIC!

Our next look is GORGEOUS in the Travel Chic pattern, sewn by Pam Walker. The accessories make this straight out of Vogue!

Many of the Club Grace members put their own spin on this pattern - you can dress up any of Tamara’s creations in a million ways depending on the fabrics.

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VDC Member Pam Walker, created the Hallows Eve Night Robe - snag the pattern on Tamara’s website for several sizes of dolls. FUN FACT - Pam used a shirt that she found at a thrift store for this dress. GORGEOUS!

Have you been following Tamara’s Halloween Challenge? Check out her results in this video - gotta love some spooky fabric, and that crown is beautiful!

Be sure to check Tamara’s Sale on her website - she switches it up often, and right now, the Hallowes Eve Robe Pattern is on sale.

Here are a couple more of our favorite sewing tutorial videos since our last Insider Update. Make sure to subscribe to her channel so we can get her to her first 1k subscribers. Go Tamara, go!

Tamara has it ‘going on!’ You do not want to miss any of her upcoming projects, products, and updates. Be sure to follow her on Facebook for weekly inspiration. We can’t wait to see what she comes up with next!

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This blog is sponsored content for Designs By Jude in Collaboration with the Virtual Doll Convention.

It's that Magic that Makes You

Dear One,

It has been a challenging week with the eBay update, no doubt stressful for so many people because of the economic impact and the message it sends to collectors and patrons for over 20 years who helped build the website.

Wiping the page of categories for dolls, bears, miniatures, and many other major collecting segments leaves us all with tender hearts for more profound reasons than economic ones. As an early adopter of eBay, I know my Mom would have hated this.

Doll collecting is SO much more than a poor decision that a corporate giant website could ever make. And no matter what happens, we will forge ahead, link arms and stick together. We will adapt, find new ways, and most importantly, continue to flourish and love our dolls and each other.

Collectors like us have always been on the right side of history; we would never do such a thing that eBay did. We understand that our interests and love of what we surround ourselves with reflect more than a pretty dress. Our dolls tell a story about preserving history, and our dolls and playthings are a culture in and of themselves.

Not everyone uses eBay but many do, and while this is a bump in the road, today, I want to remind you to continue to dream all the dreams when you feel discouraged.

No matter how many heartbreaks you have, no matter how many times you fall…that magic you were born with, that fire that has propelled you to create, collect, sew, and dance - that magic is yours, sweet one.

It’s that magic that makes you, and if you ever feel like that magic is starting to fade, just look deeeep inside because you will realize it never went anywhere.

It just needs permission to shine again.

We will figure this out. Today, focus on the magic that is you.

Love you to pieces,

Rachel

PS - I asked Derek to take a couple of photos of me at 35 weeks in my favorite place at the shop, surrounded by my Mamma’s favorite things, which are now my favorite things. Which one do you think I should get printed for the nursery?

Designs by Jude September Insider Blog

Tamara Casey of Designs by Jude is a sponsor of Virtual Doll Convention’s Club Grace which is a monthly doll club complete with a clothing delivery subscription, and a monthly digital component that features a fantastic new pattern by Tamara. It has been a wonderful year full of FASHION, thanks to many contributors, and especially for our sewers, Tamara Casey. This month’s pattern from Tamara Casey for Club Grace is Autumn Chill. Autumn Chill is a sewing pattern perfect for fall that features a close-fitting and flared fully lined coat with princess seams, slit pockets in the front side panels, and a wide collar for the 16.5" RTB101 body dolls.

Tamara has been making fabulous videos for YouTube - these sewing tutorials can help you tremendously! In the last thirty days, she has uploaded nine tutorials. Way to go, Tamara!

The members of Club Grace often share their creations from Tamara’s Pattern. One of our lovely creators is Gale Torres, she did a great job with the Autumn Chill Pattern, didn’t she?

Here’s what another member, Pam Walker, said about the Weekender Pattern: “I made another outfit for Dee and the other girls from Tamara's "Weekender" pattern. I love this one..I think it looks so chic. I added a shawl for the chilly evenings. I love the "Weekender" pattern. I love the fit, the look, and everything about it. Best of all, it is easy and quick to make.”

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For our Outlander fans, the Jamie shirt and kilt are must-haves for your male doll wardrobe. These doll clothes sewing tutorials show you step by step how to sew an Outlander-inspired 17th-century doll kilt and shirt. The pattern used in the sewing tutorial is called Scottish Jamie. It is currently available for the 17" Matt O'Neill dolls and will soon be released for the 19" Tonner male dolls. There are links to Tamara’s favorite supplies in the YouTube video descriptions.

For our shoppers out there, bookmark Tamara’s eBay account she lists ready-to-wear clothing from time to time, snag one if you are lucky!

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It’s hard to believe that Halloween is coming up. Tamara is taking place in the modes4u’s Halloween Sewing Challenge. For the #modes4uhalloweenchallenge, each sewist will receive a surprise mystery box of Halloween themed fabric from modes4u.com and put their creativity to the test to come up with a fun project to share with the sewing community. Learn more and snag some coupon codes in this video!

Here are a couple more of our favorite sewing tutorial videos since our last Insider Update.

Tamara has it ‘going on!’ You do not want to miss any of her upcoming projects, products, and updates. Be sure to follow her on Facebook for weekly inspiration. We can’t wait to see what she comes up with next!

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This blog is sponsored content for Designs By Jude in Collaboration with the Virtual Doll Convention.

Designs by Jude Insider Blog | Sewing Patterns and Videos

At Virtual Doll Convention, we feel blessed every month to collaborate with Tamara Casey, owner of Designs by Jude. We noticed her work early on and finally asked her if she would be interested in collaborating by making us a pattern for our Christmas Pageant. Our pie in the sky dream was to have the Rockettes pattern for our Grace doll, and she DID NOT disappoint with “Santa Baby.”

Tamara’s knack for being able to re-create any look, or better yet, dream up her own looks from inspiration in her real life, is remarkable. If you have not taken a stroll through Tamara’s online boutique of sewing patterns, you are missing out. All you need to do is click the type of doll that you are interested in sewing for, and a plethora of patterns are available to easily download and print at home.

Tamara’s latest products and patterns are always on the homepage of her website, and we are DIGGING her newest creations - wig stands! You can purchase 6” resin stands and 4” stands for 16” to 18” dolls with an approximate wig circumference of 5 1/4 which is a size 5-6 (this works for most Tonner dolls!)

One of the hottest new patterns to come to Grace Marie Fitzpatrick fans (or any Robert Tonner doll with the RTB 101 Body) is “Weekender”. The pattern features a pair of fitted leggings, sleeveless cowl neck top and a sleeveless cowl neck dress. Items are perfect for a weekend getaway. Better yet, there are sewing tutorials for the cowl neck top and the leggings on the designs by Jude YouTube channel. These videos are the best!

Here are a couple of the latest videos from Tamara Casey. We know how much time and effort goes into filming, editing, and producing videos so we appreciate every single one. Make sure to subscribe and like the videos, it helps support her channel. We would love to see her reach a milestone of 1k subscribers soon!

‘Space Buns’ are trendy and fun hairstyles on modern dolls, so we had to share this awesome wig that we found ON SALE on Tamara’s Website - it comes in a couple of colors, too!

Tamara has it ‘going on’! You do not want to miss any of her upcoming projects, products, and updates. Be sure to follow her on Facebook for weekly inspiration. We can’t wait to see what she comes up with next!

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This blog is sponsored content for Designs By Jude in Collaboration with the Virtual Doll Convention.

Surprise! I am pregnant!

Surprise! I am pregnant! 

 It feels surreal to be writing these words to you, and I have wanted to write this email for a while. After all, you're my people. We have been through a lot together. 

After my Mom went to Heaven in April of last year, life changed completely for our family. I had a lot of space open in my life, which was quickly filled with grieving, renovating the doll shop, doll events, exciting doll releases, and navigating the day-to-day of my new life. What happened most, and what I found myself saying to friends and family, is that the "sparkle" felt gone. We have done such a good job sticking together, even though Mom was the glue. I have been proud of my Dad and two brothers, yet there was still that space, and that itch grew and grew. 

I had hoped it would happen at some point this year, so you can imagine my shock when I found out the day before the Shoot for the Stars Convention started. It's been a whirlwind adventure of navigating nausea and fatigue, wrapping my head around juggling everything, and taking the time to sit back in gratitude and thankfulness and enjoy this experience. 

There are no grandchildren in my family (or Derek's), which my Mom wanted so badly to experience. My throat catches, and tears fill my eyes every time I think about it, but I am still so grateful and know she is so excited for us. She hoped a lot for my future but hoped this more than anything. She was about my age when she was pregnant with me - running the same doll shop. She had just renovated our doll shop and had so many things to manage. She was figuring it out herself, and I marvel at what she was able to accomplish. 

I grew up in the doll shop. She brought me to work, and I ran wild, dressing up in doll clothes and wigs, learning about life and dolls and antiques, potty training, and watching her work and manage a team. Not a day goes by that I don't stop and marvel that it's now ME. I am doing that. Indeed, this will be my most incredible adventure in dolls, and I don't know exactly what it will look like, but I feel SO ready because I had the greatest teacher. 

I have taken many roles in the last several years that I wasn't prepared for or even wanted, but this one - I am so ready to be a Mama. 

I look forward to future doll releases, exciting videos, sharing our day-to-day adventures in the doll shop, and I am so happy I can let you into this next phase of our lives.  

More than anything, I never want you to feel forgotten when you're living with a broken heart when I write. I will always meet you right where you are without advice or next steps, but just to say, "I see you, and I am so sorry." I don't always have the answer or perfect words, but remember that I am somewhere out there, always hoping for the best for you. 

Thank you for being a part of this journey, thank you for cheering us on, and thank you for giving me a space to share our lives with you. My job, this platform, and what we have been able to accomplish and experience together in the last several years remains one of my greatest privileges. I am thankful to have you here with me, with our little family and this tiny human that is due to join us in November. 

Love, 

Rachel 

PS - we will let you know if it is a boy or girl soon. We already know and planning a cute reveal. 

Ellowyne Wilde Collector Questions Answered by Robert Tonner

It's an exciting time for doll collectors worldwide with the release of the 2021 Ellowyne Wilde Doll Collection. Many collectors have some burning questions, and Robert Tonner sat down and answered 10 of them in this blog.

Baby Doll Basic Blonde Ellowyne Wilde. Photo by Dolldom Photography.

1) The girls, Ellowyne, Amber, Prudence, Lizette, share the same birthday--October 31st. Why?

I can't really say. There is something about Prudence's mother being a bit psychic and visions of past relatives--that sort of thing--kind of explains their bond--there is something otherworldly about it. Or, it's just a really weird coincidence. :)

2) Is Ellowyne still in therapy?

Absolutely. I believe she's overdue for a therapy diary entry. Ennui does not go away quickly, but she's working on it.

3) Who really won Ellowyne's heart? Rufus or Penn?

I don't think anything has been settled. Sure, Penn's better looking than Rufus, but has anyone ever been as nice to Ellowyne s Rufus has? But I'm not taking sides.

Taking Shape Ellowyne wearing “Turning Heads” outfit. Photo by Dolldom Photography.

4) What was the inspiration for the girls' names - Ellowyne, Prudence, Amber, and Lizette?

When I was developing Ellowyne, I looked for a name I could use that wasn't already being used by another company for dolls. At the time, Mattel and MGA had used up all the common names--which was okay with me because I thought this new doll should have a unique name. I like to use vintage/historic names because, in a way, they sound new now. Anyway, after much thought, the doll was named. Gwendolyn Wilde. As you all know, that's not how it turned out. It seems that the name "Gwendolyn" was being used by a toy company for something called Gwendolyn Goose. Anyway, we had to make up a name. I believe Michelle Hodge's daughter came up with Ellowyne. (Michelle used to work with me). The other names were easier--just wanted names that fit into the Wilde world.

Basic Blonde Ellowyne wearing Face Time outfit | Photo by Dolldom Photography

5) What made you want to bring Ellowyne back to us?

I never really wanted to let her go, and of all the dolls I've done, she is my favorite character. Design-wise, she really pushed me to be more creative, and I still love designing for her. There are business reasons too. It's really difficult to do dolls these days that are relatively reasonably priced. I had to set up a new way of producing dolls, by myself, without my company (and it's taken me a while to do that). I didn't want to stop doing dolls altogether, and Ellowyne is a character I can handle doing by myself. Of course, it also helps that Rachel became a fan and can spread the word! Plus, I really don't think that collectors were finished with her.

6) Is Freddie still around?

Absolutely. He's a bit more grown-up, but he still has a touch of that nasty pyromania. Although she loves him very much, Freddy is the bane of her existence.

7) Has Amber calmed down, or is she still mean to Ellowyne?

Ellowyne hasn't said. However, although they have had breakthroughs in their relationship, Amber still has a tendency to be, well, mean.

Amber wearing Ello’s “Facetime” outfit. Photo by Dolldom Photography.

Amber wearing Ello’s “Babydoll Basic” ensemble. Photo by Dolldom Photography

8) Did Ellowyne get any more pets besides Sybil.

Sadly, no. Ellowyne doesn't trust Sybil with other animals. Do you know how Lizette loves birds and has many? Well, suffice to say that Sybil is no longer welcome at Lizette's house.

9) Where does Ellowyne get all these amazing fashions to wear?

Ellowyne has a great eye and picks up a lot of things at thrift stores and re-makes them (excellent sewer). Also, her grandmother owns a design firm--her line has a classic feel, but she loves to send Ellowyne samples she picks up from all over the world. Ellowyne has more clothes than she can ever wear, and she is very generous with them to her friends. Also, she has a tendency to overdress but feels as long as the outfit makes her happy; she doesn't care what anyone thinks.

2021 Ellowyne Collection - photo by Dolldom Photography

10) How old is Ellowyne?

She's not saying, but if I had to guess, I'd say somewhere in the late teens to the early twenties.

Read the new 2021 Ellowyne Stories by Robert Tonner

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ROBERT TONNER DISCUSSES ELLOWYNE WILDE + SHOWCASES SOME OF HIS FAVORITE DOLLS IN HIS STUDIO FOR VIRTUAL DOLL CONVENTION 2021

Dress Pattern making workshop 101 with Robert Tonner for January 2020 Virtual Doll Convention

Indiana Doll Collector Adventure Blog | Virtual Doll Convention

If anyone can swoop in, get the doll stories, and get back home within 72 hours, it is Erik and me, Rachel. Over this past week, we flew to Indianapolis, Indiana, to work on an appraisal project and film two significant private doll collections for the Shoot for the Stars Virtual Doll Convention. We stayed in a cute Air B&B in the heart of downtown. On the first day of our project, we arrived at Cindy Bailey’s house at 9 AM. I was amazed at her range of vintage dolls, modern dolls, and choice antique dolls.

Cindy is such a lovely person, and her friend Kathy joined us to watch the ‘show’ as we filmed room after room of dolls. Halfway through filming, Erik’s belt broke, and Cindy went into her belt collection and gave him a new one. What a fantastic person! We filmed a program for our convention with Cindy giving us stories about her dolls, where she purchased them, and why she loves them. Of course, I loved them all, but my personal favorite was her Izannah Walker. Check out a couple more peeks below.

Our next stop later that afternoon was the home of Nicole Randall. I could NOT believe my eyes as we stepped into her first room of dolls. To start, she has the most Ellowyne Wilde dolls that I have ever seen in my life. She has the very first Ellowyne to EVERY Ellowyne. My jaw dropped! We filmed a program just on these dolls for the Ellowyne Wilde Block Party happening at the convention. YOU GO, GIRL!!!

Nicole Randall and Erik Sandoval filming a program for the Ellowyne Wilde Block Party for the Shoot for the Stars Virtual Doll Convention

Here is a couple more peeks into Nicole's Ellowyne collection. Fun fact: Robert Tonner started following Nicole on Instagram yesterday. Can you blame him? Nicole's Robert Tonner collection is iconic. She has lots of other characters besides Ellowyne, and it was cool to see our Deluxe Grace in her collection, too!

The next room in Nicole’s collection was a jam-packed adventure with modern fashion dolls from Integrity Toys, lots of Barbie (so many beautiful Silkstone dolls!) Smart Dolls, Poppy Parker, and SO much more. We filmed the room wall by wall for the Virtual Doll Convention, and Nicole is a wiz remembering the names of the dolls and their outfits.

Nicole’s house does not stop here. Her basement is full of American Girl dolls and their outstanding play accessories. My favorite was the Volkswagen bus with a working radio, working turn signals, and windshield wipers. Thank you so much, Nicole Randall, for inviting us to film at your home. Follow Nicole on Instagram today!

As you can imagine, we were tired. It was a 12 hour filming day with over 6 hours of footage, but we were also buzzing with excitement for all of the VDC Conventioneers who would love seeing what we filmed. We ordered pizza for dinner and tried to relax that evening because the next 48 hours would be just as busy. We had a 9 AM appointment with the family of Dolly Mama’s Museum of Dolls and Toys. I was hired to help them consult with the collection inside the building, and decide what to do with it. The doors have been locked for several years, and it is time to figure out the next steps. The family loved the idea of a Virtual Doll Convention and welcomed all the filming we wanted. I knew the Convention would love to see what the heck I was up to, and we filmed some entertaining and fun footage in here for you as I worked through all the items in the building, and consulted with the family. Can you find me in the photo?

Yes, it was epic. We called it an “off-roading” adventure in dolls, and it definitely was. No matter what you collect, this footage will be interesting and entertaining - we guarantee that! Here are a couple more photos and a beautiful video that we filmed for the family. Erik is an accomplished videographer and editor, and we are lucky to have him on our team.

We worked for two long days, and then went straight to the airport to come home before Colorado was supposed to have an epic snowstorm. I am thankfully home in my office right now, watching the snow come down, as I write this to you.

I hope you enjoyed this travel blog, and thank you so much for reading! We have FIVE beautiful programs for you coming to the Shoot for the Stars Virtual Doll Convention from our Indiana adventure, and I have never let you down when I have said, “you do not want to miss this.”

The Virtual Doll Convention is a completely virtual doll convention experience. Attendees experience the programs, seminars, and workshops through video either on Facebook or YouTube. There is a huge range of topics from early antique dolls through modern, and programming for teddy bears. We will have doll care and repair workshops from accomplished teachers, shopping from over 20 dealers with the BEST inventory in the land, exciting downloads, and loads of surprises. To really send you over the edge, we have the new collection of Ellowyne Wilde from Robert Tonner - exclusive to VDC to offer to collectors at the event to purchase.

To make our event as accessible as possible, we have a ‘tip jar’ registration so attendees can give us a tip from $5.00 to $50.00 to gain them access to the event, and help us offset the cost. There is no better place to be for a doll collector this month than the Virtual Doll Convention. We have been rewriting the rules for years, and this event is guaranteed to be an epic and unforgettable experience. REGISTER TODAY!

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Grace's Holiday Updo Hairstyle Tutorial (With Pictures) | Robert Tonner Doll

The enchanting Grace Marie Fitzpatrick doll by Robert Tonner, is a wonderful and highly poseable doll that is a joy to design for, dress up, and display. I was first introduced to her last summer during Rachel Hoffman's Virtual Doll Convention Summer Fling. As a doll costumer who has been sewing "paper doll" clothing for the past nine years, I was thoroughly taken by the paper dolls and fashion images of Grace Marie by Diana Vining, the Virtual Doll Conventions' resident artist. I purchased one of the dolls, and since, have expanded my design and sewing challenges to include costuming for the 16" Grace Marie fashion doll. I've always felt that when displaying a doll, she comes naturally to life when holding an accessory. Moreover, when you can style her hair to change her look and compliment her outfit, the entire presentation sings. And, styling her hair can enhance your doll play, too! Here is a basic up do that you can create for your Grace Marie doll. Once you have this technique down, you can style her hair in multiple ways to suit her mood. The most important thing is to take your time, and have fun with this. Robert Tonner's wigs will hold up to hours of styling so don't be afraid to play!

Grace's Up Do: Grace Marie might enjoy a new hairdo for 2021. Let's put her hair up!

Step 1: These are some of the things you will need to get started. A misting spray bottle, doll hair pins, a wire cutter, and a men's comb, or small toothed comb. If you experience difficulty working with the silky hair, mist it lightly and it will be easier to work with. Doll wigs are generally styled damp. For this tutorial, I did not use the mist.

You can purchase doll hair pins on places like eBay or Etsy, but a sturdy bent wire works well, too, and I have used both. I actually prefer my own wire so I can trim it with wire cutters since doll hair pins are 1" long and generally too long for a head Grace Marie's size.

Step 2: Take a section of Grace's hair from the front of her face and twist it to the left, then insert a hair pin directly down and into the twist to the front. You may find the purchased hair pins too long, and they may be trimmed, but practice putting her hair up first before trimming the pins. When you're confident about the process, you can trim them about 1/4"

Step 3: Take another section and repeat the process of twist and pin to the top of her head.

Step 4: Smooth a section up from the base of the neck and repeat the process of twisting and pinning.

Step 5: This is how it should look.

Step 6: Begin the process from the other side of Grace's head.

Step 7: When all strands have been twisted and pinned up, there will be some wavy ends to tuck and pin. You can smooth them into short waves and pin in place.

Step 8: This is how the doll's style will look. You can see a hair pin sitting up to show you to continue pinning more in. The more pins you set into the hair, the more they will cross each other and give the do stability. A tip I learned this from my hairdresser!

Step 9: This is how Grace Marie's hair will look once her hair is pinned and tucked up.  Each time you do this, it may look a bit different, but that's the fun in hairstyling a doll's tresses.  The process will be easier with a shoulder-length wig but will require trimmed hair pins.

Step 9a: Back image of Grace's Up Do.

Step 9b: An elegant style for Grace. You can now add flowers, or a tiara, or tuck the up do into a beret. The more you do this, the more confident you will become and understand what works best. Try different styles with the hair pins. They will work for simply pulling her tresses away from her face. Have fun!

Visit Melissa’s Blog “From My Little Hole in the Wall” for lots more musings and inspiration: www.missemouse.blogspot.com

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Valentine's Day Date

When I wake up in the mornings, I am usually the first one to rustle around. I write to-do lists, drink water, make coffee, and take the Big Mamas, Dolly, and Remmie Lou (dogs) outside. I look at my Dad’s house behind me and wonder if he’s up yet. (I know he is.)

It's Valentine's Day today, and the only special thing I did was wear my red coat outside because, if there was a perfect day for it, it's today.

If the doorbell rang, I'd welcome you with open arms. I'd pour you some coffee (I always make too much) and ask if I could make you some breakfast. I would apologize for Remmie trying to jump in your lap, and we would sit and chat, and I would listen to you.

I would tell you all those hard things you are going through; oh sweet friend, it's tough, and I also know it will also make you so strong. And you will need to call on that strength one day and be so glad you know what you're made of. That resistance that you didn't want to learn but now know how to walk through the muddiest of gunk, that you.

You did that. You.

I would sit in awe of you as you sip your coffee and tell you that you are just as beautiful this morning as you are strong. Remmie would still be trying to french kiss you, so would you miss half of what I was trying to say, but you would walk away knowing one more person believed in you, and that would help YOU believe in yourself a little more that day.

By the time Remmie settled in to nap on the other side of the room with Dolly, it would be time for you to go. Keep that mug though, Derek made it for a special someone, he just didn’t know who.

As you stepped down the porch and turned around to wave goodbye, I would whisper just loud enough, "You are all those things." And you nod and smile, believing it for real today.

Have the best morning, Sweet one. Let's catch up next week about the next Virtual Convention. I think it's time for one, don't you?

Love you so much, and then some.

Happy Valentine's Day!

Rachel

THE SKY IS THE LIMIT, SO LET’S SHOOT FOR THE STARS! REGISTRATION COMING SOON FOR THE 2021 VIRTUAL DOLL CONVENTION HAPPENING MARCH 26-28, 2021.

Avoiding Your Doll's Worst Nightmare: Tricks On How to Treat Your Dolls

Avoiding Your Doll's Worst Nightmare: Tricks On How to Treat Your Dolls

by Diana E. Vining

Dolly Dingle got a bit creative for Halloween this year. She wanted to come up with a scary costume. But not just scary to the average person, scary to dolls! Besides being a fun and quirky Halloween costume, her outfit also gives us doll collectors something to think about, i.e., the things that bring gloom and doom to our beloved treasures. Let's take a look at each of these:

1. Direct Sunlight- Displaying your dolls in direct sunlight can fade the colors on both the doll and her clothing over time. The ideal spot for a doll is an area that is dry, clean, and that doesn't have direct sunlight.

2. Permanent Markers- Needless to say, you don't want permanent markers anywhere near your dolls! This is especially important to note in households with children. Not only are marks from pens and markers practically impossible to remove, but even if you do remove it, it may leave a permanent stain behind.

3. Playful Pets - They are adorable as can be and so much fun to play with, but while they are known as man's best friend, pets can be a doll's worst enemy. When displaying your dolls, make sure that they are placed in a safe spot, preferably free of pet hair, and where pets will not disturb them.

4. Dirt - The handprints on Dolly's costume are a reminder for collectors, and anyone who handles our dolls, to make sure their hands are clean. By doing this, we can help our dolls to last a very long time. Of course, with age, they and their clothing become more fragile and, therefore more difficult to clean.

5. Smoke - Playfully represented by a toy pipe hanging from Dolly's wrist, this is a reminder to keep our dolls' environment free of cigarette smoke, etc. Doll hair and clothing absorb these odors and make them unpleasant and more difficult to sell in the future if you choose to do so. Many doll listings on eBay specifically note that their item "comes from a smoke-free home." This is a big plus when selling an item, as it gives the buyer confidence that their item will be clean and odor-free.

6. Paint Remover - Of course, this is an essential tool for repainting or customizing a doll. However, if you are working on a different project, or doing your nails, make sure there are no dolls around your work area. It just takes one accidental bump to make a spill that could potentially damage your doll.

7. Yard Sale! - This one, of course, is just in good fun. Of course, collectors' interests, tastes, and philosophies change over time, and many times we do need to re-home some of our dolls. (And of course, everyone loves to find a great bargain now and then!) What you can do to ensure a good future for your dolls is to research and know what you have, and it's also a good idea to document that information for others who might not know the value or significance of your collection. This way, your dolls have a better chance of finding a home where they will be better appreciated and cared for.

A lot of these "tips" are common sense, but it's always a good idea to review them as we change our doll displays around and evolve in our doll collecting. The trick is to avoid these "dolly dangers," and the treat is a doll that you will get to enjoy for years to come.

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Sometimes Courage is Shaped Like Teddy Bears.

It has been a week of transformation at the doll shop as we plan for our Teddy Bear Expert, who is now safely in Colorado. The Teddy Bear Den is pure magic, and I want to show you a little of the behind-the-scenes of it coming together. Our set is ready to film this coming Monday for the January 2021 Virtual Doll Convention. I cleared the floor to get ready for the magic just yesterday. My dear friend Eron Johnson helped me with my vision and showed up with his crew and the pieces yesterday afternoon. The larger pieces were built out front on the lawn and then brought inside.

Eron owns Eron Johnson Antiques, which is a couple of miles from the doll shop. He staged our Teddy Bear Den with fabulous antiques from his shop. You can see the history of all of the antiques that he curated in this video on YouTube - a “Home Tour of the Teddy Bear Den.”

Erik and Stanley worked on the entrance to the Den for over a week, and I couldn't be happier with how it looks. It's amazingly REAL, and to think they started with chicken wire and some crumpled paper. One of my favorite parts is the “Bear Den” sign that they made with sticks from the doll shop yard and doll packing foam pieces. They discuss their project in this video. Stanley has been a creative and invaluable member of our doll shop team for over 40 years, and he said that yesterday was one of the best days in the doll shop that he’s ever had.

Everywhere I turned, there was dirt on the floor from the old and weathered wood, so I spent the day scurrying around with the vacuum and dust mop to pick up all of the dirt. I know I did not get it all, but hey, bears live here, so we can't expect it to be squeaky clean all the time. In the afternoon, I took a moment just to sit in the den. I knew it was going to come together, but I wasn't sure exactly how. I had trust in the universe and in my creative friends, whom I let do anything they wanted with this to pull it together. I have always wanted a cabin in the Colorado mountains. Now I have one, and it will be difficult to take this down as we prepare for the Christmas Pageant.

I am sitting here now writing this blog in the Bear Den only now, it is filled with my Mom’s bears. Oh, she dearly loved Teddy bears as much as she loved dolls, and I can’t help but think that I am spending my Saturday with her right now. I know, I KNOW, she would love this. In fact, I think she would have done it just like this. This is one of the few things that we would both totally agree on.

As much as my Mom and I were a team, we sometimes had different ideas about doing things, and that’s OK. I know that she understands the steps I am taking and the decisions I am making. Choosing to move forward in my own way using the gifts she gave me and the path she paved has been the most difficult yet, most precious experience of my life, and not a day goes by that I am not grateful for something that I can do that I believe really matters and makes a difference.

There are also days where I make mistakes and it feels overwhelming or like it’s just too much, and on those days, it’s OK if it is. Sometimes things feel like too much because they are too much. The thing I have learned about the harder feelings is that they do not last forever.

Maybe you have those days, too. And if you do, I hope when you feel overwhelmed by who you are not, that you take a moment to remember who you are. I hope you are able to see that beyond all the things that you were told that you couldn’t be, and during your most uncertain, shadowy seasons, you are able to wake up every day, and carry on with strength and beauty.

Just how I built a cabin in the middle of my doll shop, I hope you do the things that ignite the fire that is inside of you. I hope you continue to do the things that speak to you, no matter how unpopular or seemingly ordinary or “against the grain” they may be.

I hope little pieces of my story point you to the beautiful reality that even in the darkest times, there is always light peeking through. There is always more. You are no less than anyone because of what you are going through, and you are worthy of being heard.

When I look over at my Mom’s best loved teddy, and remember what it took for him to be here with us, I see a story worth telling, and I am going to tell it. And, well, I think we can also say, courage is sometimes shaped like Teddy Bears.

The January 2021 ‘California Dreamin’ Virtual Doll Convention is taking place on January 13-17, 2021, and we are thrilled to host John Port as our presenter and Teddy bear Expert. Registration will open immediately following the VDC Christmas Pageant.

Building a Teddy Bear Den for a Special Guest

Hi There!

After a whirlwind week talking miniature houses and enjoying our Halloween setup at the Doll Shop, can you believe that we had to take it ALL down yesterday? It is because we have a special teddy bear guest coming to town. He will be joining us next weekend to film all kinds of teddy bear content for the upcoming Christmas Pageant and the January 2021 Convention. We have not made an official announcement about who it is but wondering if you can guess based on this photo of him surrounded by his teddy bears as a child.

To make our film set special, I asked the guys to build a teddy bear den in the front of the doll shop. It will be a grand entrance and when you walk inside, it will be FILLED with vintage and antique Teddy bears. The guys ran out and gathered supplies and got to work yesterday afternoon. They certainly didn't expect this week's project to be building a teddy bear den, but I know they were relieved to have a break from their usual doll tasks.

I don't know their plan, but they are both very creative, so I know it will be the best! I gave them full creative power to take this project to the max, and most importantly, have FUN being creative. Just look at the start to this sign; they put this together with sticks they found in our front yard.

We will keep you updated on social media and YouTube about the progress of the bear den. We are planning a teddy bear tea party, a seminar on repairing one of my Steiff teddies, and holding a virtual bear sale. More details are coming, and you just have to be there!

Enjoy more of the behind-the-scenes footage of the start of the den in the video below.

Big Bear Hugs,

Rachel and the Guys

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Amazing Doll Cape Pattern by Sheryl Williams (Free!) + Cute Grace Comic Strip

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

Historical Mantle Cape Pattern and Instructions by Sheryl Williams {FREE PATTERN DOWNLOAD}

$0.00

Add To Cart

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

How to Make...Fabulous Freckled Friends! | Grace Marie Fitzpatrick Dolls

Hi Sweet Friends! Resident VDC Artist Diana Vining posted a photo of her blonde Grace doll with FRECKLES in the Summer Fling group. We all loved this so much that I asked her to make us a little blog on how to do this for your dolls if you want to change the look. I love this idea, and hope you like the possibilities, too. Enjoy the blog, and thank you so much, Diana Vining!

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How to Make...Fabulous Freckled Friends!
by Diana Vining

There's just something so fun about dolls with freckles! They add a certain playful and sweet look to a doll's personality. When I'm painting (or enhancing) a doll, I often find myself adding a light sprinkle of freckles to add a little bit of that sweet and cheerful presence. I have two different methods that I like to use to do this. One is a temporary method, which is perfect if you're a beginner, or if you're not quite sure that you want to keep the freckles on your doll for a long period of time. The other is a more permanent one if you are already confident in your painting skills, and you're sure that you want to keep them on your doll. Keep in mind that there are many different ways to do this. I'm just sharing my own personal favorite methods. I hope these simple tips will inspire you to give it a try!

Applying Temporary Freckles:
(Materials: Brown Colored Pencil)

Use a light brown colored pencil to draw on the freckles. For a more realistic approach, space them unevenly, and draw some smaller than others. I just like to sprinkle them across the top of the cheeks and across the nose, but you can place them anywhere you like. Once you've drawn on the freckles, take your thumb and kind of wipe it across the freckles. This will lighten them up and smooth them out so that they will look more natural. To remove these, you can lightly wipe them off with a soft eraser. (Note: My favorite pencils for this project are Prismacolor "Burnt Ochre" or "Chocolate.")

Painting Permanent Freckles
(Materials: Ultrafine brush or toothpick, brown acrylic paint, cosmetic wedge, a drop of water, (optional) matte sealer spray)

You can use either a very fine paintbrush, or a toothpick to paint the freckles on. (I prefer a paintbrush, but many people find a toothpick easier)

Use light brown acrylic paint (available at any craft store or even Walmart). All you need is a drop of paint and a drop of water mixed together. Paint the freckles onto the doll (unevenly spaced, and in different sizes), but paint only about three or four at a time, because acrylic paint dries quickly. After you draw four freckles, pounce them with a *slightly* damp cosmetic wedge to lighten them up and soften them. Then do the next four freckles the same way, and so on. Once you're happy with the freckles, let them dry completely. If you like, you can lightly spray them with a matte sealer spray (also available at craft stores) after they are completely dry. (If you spray matte sealer on the freckles, make sure you have your doll completely covered in a towel or plastic wrap, exposing only the areas that are being sprayed.)

Good luck, and have fun! I would love to see photos of your dolls with freckles when they're done!

Thank you so much, Diana Vining, for this fun tutorial. Be sure to visit Diana’s website, The Paper Doll Shoppe.

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Discover New Designers: Vince Nowell Joins Grace's Dream Closet Team

Grace Marie Fitzpatrick has a team of designers working to create expertly-crafted collections that bring the styles and fits of your dreams into her closet. Our goal is to create a collection that gives you the freedom to experiment and have fun with fashion.

The result is Grace’s Dream Closet.

The Virtual Doll Convention is excited to announce Vince Nowell to Grace’s Dream Closet Design Team. Vince has an eye for classic fashion and a flair for design. In his own words:

“I’ve always loved dolls, especially fashion dolls. I got my first Barbie doll when I was four, and my Mother taught me to sew clothes for her when I was twelve. Of course, I can sew clothing in human sizes, but I prefer making fashions for dolls. In 1996, I began collecting Gene fashion dolls, and had the privilege to be part of her design team from 1998-2002. I discovered Robert Tonner’s fashion dolls in 1999 with the introduction of Tyler Wentworth, and have been in love with his dolls ever since. Grace is no exception. Her beauty and style captured me from the very beginning, and now I am thrilled to be part of Grace’s design team. Grace is proving to be the perfect muse for my style of classic and elegant designs. Thank you, Rachel Hoffman, for giving me this amazing opportunity.”

Dots Amazing, Floral Glory, and Diamond Girl by Vince Nowell

The Virtual Doll Convention Grace Boutique will unleash the first three of many exclusive creations for Grace in the coming months. The first collection is a gorgeous belted sheath dress with a coordinating clutch. Nobody does a fit quite like Vince Nowell. The collection includes Floral Glory, Diamond Girl, and Dots Amazing. The beautiful illustrations are frame-worthy, and VDC resident artist Diana Vining created them.

Floral Glory by Vince Nowell

Diamond Girl by Vince Nowell

Dots Amazing by Vince Nowell

Join us tomorrow at 10 AM MDT in the Grace Boutique for a Fashion Update. Rachel will be live on her Facebook page discussing the new fashions at 9 AM MDT. The video will release shortly after on YouTube. You can expect a monthly fashion update from the Virtual Doll Convention. As seasons change, so too will our collections.

The outfits will be available TOMORROW at 10 AM MDT.

Keep checking in for the newest partnerships and noteworthy pieces for your GMF Dream Closet.

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FREE SEWING WORKSHOP + PATTERN FOR ROBERT TONNER GRACE DOLL

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.

Linda has an optional sewing kit that can be purchased with the materials to make this ensemble through her website.

DOWNLOAD THE SEWING REFERENCE BOOK, INSTRUCTIONS, AND PATTERN HERE FOR FREE - THANK YOU, LINDA!

The sewing videos are in two parts and you can watch them right here in this blog or on YouTube now.

Thank you so much, Linda Wall for this opportunity! You can learn more about Linda on her website, and look forward to another sewing class with Linda for Grace at the January 2021 ‘Showtime’ Virtual Doll Convention.

Back To School Composition Book For Your Dolls {FREE PRINTABLE CRAFT}

Hi, Virtual Doll Convention friends! It’s a beautiful Saturday in our part of the world, and we thought it would be fun to give you a doll-size printable this week. Our printable is for you is just so sweet. Do you remember going back to school and using the old-style Composition books for taking notes? I still use them! We have a doll-size book for you that is adorned with VDC stickers. You can print this on card stock, and have a 'Back to School' book for your dolls and teddy bears. Reduce this to any size you like! If you use this in any of your displays, send us a photo, and we will feature it on our Facebook page. Have fun!