Rag dolls

Some time ago in my sewing journey, I came across the lovely dolls of Jess Brown. I was enchanted by their sweet expressions, simple construction, and beautiful fabrics. The first time I saw one was in the children's book, Kiki & Coco in Paris. 

 

Soon after, I discovered that Jess had written a book of how to make a doll like hers. This excited me as it was a simple form that I knew I could tackle myself. In the process, I made adjustments to the original pattern such as making the arms with button joints instead of just sewn as part of the body of the doll. The original has arms with buttons although a bit bigger in size. At the time I started, I didn't have any muslin fabric so I used some heavy linen-like designer decorator fabric turned inside out. 

I had just received some of that cashmere fabric I mentioned before from my sister, and I clumsily fashioned hair for my doll. I didn't care for the star eyes so I stitched my own plain black eyes with a simple embroidered mouth. For a dress, I used a vintage handkerchief I found in the collection of my friend the puppeteer. She was simple, and I loved that. 

Sally Sarah, named by a little friend who lives in Cape Cod

For the legs, I turned the fabric right side out to mimic stockings.

My sister who gave me the fabric and sewed my other sister her bear, decided to give it a try as well. She is a master seamstress, and her dolls were made with the most delicate details and luscious fabrics. Here are two that she gave me as a gift. They are treasures!

Complete with a cap, scarf, and stockings from the tiniest knitted stitches I have ever seen. The lace on her bloomers from my great grandmother’s collection

I am jealous that she was able to mimic the hair shown in the book.

This lovely lady has a gorgeous dress made of the softest velvet.

I adore her headband and real fur stole.

A couple years ago, I was going through some health challenges. My sister came to visit me and brought me a special gift. I couldn't believe it, but it was a real Jess Brown doll made especially for me. It was amazing to see one in person, and it was even better that she belonged to me! Her dress is this intricate lace that appears to be a scrap of something antique. 

Here they are all together. The best of friends.

I continue to make these dolls although I reconfigured the pattern again to make it a rabbit. I'll feature that one another day. My sister is a constant source of inspiration and guidance. Without her help, I wouldn't be as far as I am with my sewing. I am so grateful to her!
 

One of my favorite pictures of us - taken at Chuck E. Cheese of all places. Haha!