Mary Kathleen Part 7 - The End

It has been months since the UFDC convention and it has all gone so quickly. I have finished the dress pictures and I have reported almost everything to you. I do have one more dealer I want to share with you and will be doing that soon. There are some final notes to take and I will share them with you, too.
As you can see from the fashion plate, I was trying my best to copy the center pink dress. The theme for the display was “Girls in White Dresses with Blue Satin Sashes”. I changed colors accordingly. Here you see my completed figure dressed in her ball gown, completely accessorized, dance card at the ready for signatures. What excitement or drama would the evening bring?
I thought she was lovely. The pieces of the evening costume packed away, in truth, probably never worn again. I am on to the next creation, a much simpler one.
I wonder sometimes about the young miss who has worn this dress. Did she meet her special someone that night? Were there tears of joy and giggling with friends? Was her heart broken instead? The only thing I can be sure of is if I had been able to wear this confection, I would have entered a ball room with my head high and all the confidence in the world. The candlelight mesmerizes me; I feel the music. A young man is asking for my hand, it is a waltz, he places his gloved hand at my waist, we sway, and swirl. I would be lost in the joy!

Kathi

Mary Kathleen Part 5 - The Finishing Touches

Finally! The dress is complete. So much sewing, figuring, drafting and cutting and sewing again and it was complete. That felt great! I had no idea what I was getting into when I began this ball gown.

Alas, there was more to do. I created the wig of mohair diligently trying to copy the style of the fashion plate. I think that was a success. The floral headpiece seemed quite easy after all the embroidery on the skirt. I did punch a comb of brass with a punch and attach the silk ribbons and leaves to a florists wire to make the accent complete.

The earrings simple creations made with an “S” hook to hang on her ear wires. I did have a problem with the necklace however. This might be interesting. I made the necklace originally on a gold chain. It looked beautiful. I do not know what doll’s do while I am sleeping, but that little chain went down into her neck! What? Each time her head turned or I shifted something it would get lost. Really! It took a week for me to figure out to add those pearls and resting that necklace. It NEVER occurred to me that the necklace would work its way into the neck join and the breast plate. The finished look is pretty and the pearls do add some richness to the “look”.

She now needed only to grab her dance card and fan. The carriage was waiting. One last look in the mirror….

Kathi

The Dance Card

Mary Kathleen Part 4 - The Bodice

It was time to fit the bodice and I thought it would be much easier than anything I had done on the skirt. Au Contraire! The bodice on this dress also went through many variations. I wanted a nice tight fit and slim waistline, (who of us does not?), but found myself juggling seams and remaking constantly. I wanted the bodice to be authentic, but could not find the best way to achieve the result of the lining showing on the turn back. I looked at a Louise Hedrick example and the construction was not even similar. What lesson was I missing? I read “Costumes in Detail” and the Janet Arnold books and could not find the answers there. It was up to me to create everything I could see in the fashion plate and make the garment as correctly as possible. The neckline turned out beautiful. The chemise lace shows ever so little and matches the rounding wonderfully. The hooks in back alternate so there is no specific pulling in any one are. While there, I spoke with several experts and have learned that I should not have lined this bodice the way I did, as that is what is causing some bunching. This was the best lesson I learned. In speaking with those who know, that best way might have been to snip the lining at the center and finish off the edges of the cut area. This would have released any pressure and pulling from the inside. The linings would also have been apparent in the turn back and I would not have forfeited the style. Having completed this costume, I do believe I can take on other challenges with more success. I intend to try it. To date, however, this is the most complicated thing I have made.
I think it is time to get her accessories and a wig on, don’t you?

Kathi Mendenhall

Mary Kathleen Part 3

The Apron
I cannot imagine the help women needed to dress in days gone by. Making this evening dress made me think about how much has changed in the last 50 years and the last 150 years. So much HAS changed. I do love jeans and t-shirts. (Or a turtleneck with a pretty sweater in winter)

The apron shown front and back is of ivory and blue taffeta. The blue is very fine. The embroidery is silk ribbon set along the side. The flaps showing the lining fold to the front the position secured with tiny baby buttons. (I really debated covered buttons, but they were just not “right” so I went with these.) The reverse of the bib shows hooks attached. These will fit into thread loops on the front of the skirt. We don’t want her apron to flap while dancing, do we?

Notice the elastic loops, yes there was elastic then, fit the buttons attached just below the waistband. The apron covers the front closures, front and side views demonstrate this.

Kathi

Mary Kathleen Part 3

Making the skirt was quite the event and I am sorry now I did not take pictures during the making. It was a remarkable sight with all that silk and silk tulle. Figuring out the layout and how to make it look like the picture. Whew! Those panels and pleats and ruching, and embroidery were a challenge. I lay awake at night to figure out which step came next, just thinking through the construction was tiring. Ultimately, it was a nine-panel skirt with silk tulle ruching over six panels. (It looks like three.) There is pleating running vertically in the rear of the skirt, lace attachments and pleating running horizontally around the lower edge above the top frills. Embroidered silk flowers round the ruffle, and lace collar edges show around the lower ruffle. The theme was “Girls in White Dresses with Blue Satin Sashes”. The blue taffeta sashes are on the back of the skirt. I opted out of a blue waistband as it was not correct for the dress, and the sash did not circle the waist. Had I read the directions simply, and not READ INTO the directions, the result might have been different, sadly disqualification was the result. I am not sad, nor should you be, rules are rules. The real result was I became a better sewer and learned many couture techniques.
I have taken a photograph of the underside of the dress for you to see the ties that hold the skirt in place at the rear of the figure. This enables the wearer to walk in measured and uncomfortable steps, but also keeps the skirt from entangling in the legs.
A close-up front closure shows the hooks with thread eyelets. The back is quite decorative and a front apron is part of the display. The front closures will not show when the apron buttons to the waistband. (Notice the buttons.)
The apron will be next.
Kathi

Inside the Skirt

Mary Kathleen Part 2

Today we continue discussing the undergarments of the 12” French Fashion Doll. I named this doll Mary Kathleen. I call her “Molly” after my grandmother. The next garment to go on the figure is a corset. I made six of them. The first five did not go so well. Then I changed to a pattern made by someone else. (I will not try my own again; I like this one too well.) Last year, at the UFDC convention, we received a digital journal. A chapter of the journal contained patterns. Lucille Clay’s Lingerie Project was included. Marie Scopel and Susan Sirkis presented the patterns and instructions of Lucille’s project and from this is the pattern for the corset. I did a tiny bit of fitting, but in general, it is the loveliest pattern. I did use a sewing machine and the stays are not whalebone or metal but plastic. You will see in the construction, the corset closed in front with hooks and eyes, and laced in the back through eyelets. The corset is tightly fitting. Very tightly, I can barely get it off and on myself. The lace binding is chain stitched by hand for a nice finish. The eyes added to the bottom of the corset hold the hook portion of the slip. The corset helps support the weight of the slip, and I have taken advantage of the low position to keep the waist small.
The slip hooked to the corset is full and trains in the back to support the fullness of the skirt. This formal slip holds more decoration than a chemise or an everyday petticoat.
Kathi Mendenhall

The Convention Dress

I made a dress to take to the UFDC convention this past summer for My Favorite Things. This took 2 ½ months to make. I selected a fashion plate from a period I wanted to try, 1877 and researched to make things as authentically as I possibly could. As we go through these garments, please understand that “authentic” to me is, as a woman of the day would have worn her clothes. I try to sew as authentically to the period as I can. When sewing for antique dolls, “authentic” is a technical term for sewing of the period. I try to do both, but sometimes I miss.
The doll model is my Ultimate Fashion Doll by Alice Leverett Henderson, www.justalice.com. She is a Portrait Jumeau reproduction with green eyes. (Not authentic, but I wanted it that way.)
As I went through my processes I decided remake every pattern as I dressed the figure. What a lot of work. The split drawers trimmed with French beaded edging at the knees and the waist. Using a multipurpose trim aided the gathering of the edges to fit much easier.
The stockings are silk knit cut into a stocking shape and sewn with very close stitches along the back of the leg. The garters for this doll are simply tied ribbons.
I selected an antique shoe design, which consisted of ribbon stripes across the toe. As I sewed the stripes of 2mm silk ribbon, I realized I was not going to make those shoes a success. The scale was just off. I then tried to locate a small blue striped fabric, to no avail. Plan two, (or three or four), make the shoes of the same silk as the dress, and add a piping and bow. How boring. They are pretty, however!
The final addition is the chemise. I should have written down the book I researched that showed a full-length chemise. Generally, we see them hemmed at the knee. The chemise looks a tiny bit long, but when the corset goes on the chemise raises from the floor.
Stay tuned for the corset and formal slip. You just cannot beat a good foundation!
Kathi

Friday the last day.....

click to enlarge

The last day of the convention arrived and the morning was a mad dash to pick up competition dolls, and remove articles I loaned to the special exhibit. Flight confirmation was the trick of the day. I did not bring a computer and the business office was packed. I called my husband and gave him the information. Click, I am confirmed, with A seating to boot. I am a happy camper. Now, where’s the post office? It was just a couple of blocks away and we know I am not afraid to walk anywhere, so off I went for boxes and tape. (Remember my suitcases were overweight before I left Nashville!)
Boxes retrieved and a tiny hike back to the hotel. I packed it all up and humped it back to the post office. That done, I stopped for my last trip to Bockwinkels for a sandwich and some of that great chocolate cake. I made it to the hotel before the weather turned bad. I continued to work on projects and read until time to get ready for the banquet. This is a great time of anticipation. I had no idea with whom I would be sitting, what would be the menu, as if it would be bad, and the anticipation for the souvenir doll was great. I’d tell you the menu, but really, once I say filet and strudel, you really stop reading and just lick your lips, don’t you?
I settled at my table and met wonderful women from the great northwest ad me, from Tennessee. However, we all speak DOLL. I learned some fun things about what they each collected, and we shared a great many stories about our marriages and dolls. We were treated to little girls dancing in their white dresses, a la Degas. Sweet. They were from the Steps Dance Center. Music during dinner was from the Wellington Strings Ensemble. Do you remember the three “B’s”, Bach, Brahms, and Beethoven? Well, add the Beatles. They could write some beautiful music and the strings showed how beautiful their music is.
The convention neared the end and our souvenir dolls, created by Alice Leverett Henderson and the Vogue Doll Company, made their way around the table. One, two, three, open the packages and wait for it, a loud cheer in unison. Marie-Terese is charming in her cotton undergarments. We received a pair of shoes as well. I was fortunate to be able to purchase two dresses and attend a luncheon where I received a winter ensemble. My little lady is set for her trip home.
This year is finished. I had a great time. I cannot begin to imagine the time and effort that goes into creating a convention of this magnitude. I did appreciate it. I had a wonderful time, made it to my plane before the flood, and I lost a pound, eating cake!
Kathi

Just Some Eye Candy

Today as a rare day. I have no special words, just sit back and enjoy some of the pictures from the UFDC Convention 2010. My Favorite Things
Kathi

Thursday and UFDC

I awoke on Thursday well rested with not a thing to do. It was glorious. Imagine, a morning to do nothing but work on my projects, read a book, take a leisurely bath and sleep again if I so desired. I caught my housekeeper early for some extra coffee, plopped that “Privacy” sign on my door, and snuggled away. Rain clouds loomed. All I needed was a fireplace; I had the murder mystery going already. The morning came and went and I found myself leisurely, not hurriedly, walking to Bockwinkles for some goodies for lunch. I sat outside to eat and the phone rang. Hubby calling to check up, he’s missing me. Right in the middle of that conversation drip, drip, drip, deluge! I thought I could get back before getting soaked and I nearly did. I had plenty of time to dry off, gather my tools for my last workshop.
Today, Cheryl Manard, was introducing us to a leather travel case for our French Fashion Dolls. It even came with the toiletry items. I have to admit now that I did not finish the case. I wanted to do something my way. I was also unsure of how many items I wanted to add to my case. I lack only the gluing in of the lining and the additions. This was a more complex case than I was used to making in a workshop, but I was able to make the whole thing and I am happy with the results. Cheryl was a good teacher.
Publisher’s Preview would open at 7:00 PM and I promised Judy I would get her a book. First things first, suppertime. Stetson’s is the high-end steakhouse inside the hotel. Why not, I had been eating sandwiches and maintaining my good balance all week. I certainly had walked enough for it. I ordered a filet and steamed broccoli. I did not order potatoes or desert. However, I did indulge in fresh bread with real butter. The service was so great. I had forgotten to order the sauce for my filet and when I got my waiter’s attention he said, “You wanted the Béarnaise?” How did he know? He had already ordered it for me. He surprised at the end with two chocolate covered strawberries, which I ate slowly.
I managed to figure out the crush called Publisher’s Preview in time to get the very last book for my friend Judy, and was able to get it signed. I was able to pay for and order my own, but it has not yet shown. I am sure it will soon. It is coming from France and I cannot wait. I purchased some new patterns and renewed my subscriptionn to the French Fashion Review. It’s all good!
Tomorrow, the banquet!
Kathi

UFDC - Wednesday continued

We continue with Wednesday, as there was a couple more things on which to comment. Right after supper, (I have no idea what I ate, no notes. Probably something I ate all of since I seem consumed with food this week. Or is that consuming food this week?)
AT 6 PM sharp, I entered the competition rooms to take pictures. I did not know where to start, so I took pictures of those dolls that really interested me for some specific reason. Each table, each category, had a mystery and a beauty, all of them were wonderful. I read an article once; today I cannot remember the particulars, of a woman who purchased an antique needlework sampler. She became curious about the maker and made her work to expose the child and tell of her life. When I look at the dolls we revere, I think of the “child” who received the doll as a plaything. What happened to her, why is the doll here today, what history is there to explore? Vintage and contemporary dolls today have quite a recorded history. We understand our own history. The pictures I took are pictures of beautiful dolls, an interesting detail, an idea to remember, something I learned this week.
One picture I will share today is of the “Study Set”. I had to ask Susan Sirkis, see meet an idol; make a friend, what a Study Set was. She explained that sometimes there comes along a collection of things that are as complete and valuable as a set that a special case is set up just for this viewing. What an opportunity for people to see this exquisite set. The case contains a nursing Bru and quite an extraordinary layette. Susan tells me there is often a slide program or video of these sets that go into more detail. I cannot remember exactly, but I believe I read in “Antique Doll Magazine” (or possible another periodical) more about this particular set. Please enjoy my photos, as the set is quite possibly the most exquisite set of sewing you will see for quite some time. The photographs do not do justice to the beauty.
Time’s Up! At 6:30, I photographed the Special Exhibits. I made my way through those exhibits as well. This year my own sewing for the French Fashion Doll, Ultimate Fashion Doll by Alice Leverett Henderson had joined the table with other fine dressmakers.
I attended the “Around the World with BJD’s” program and learned so much about the new sensation in modern dolls. Ball Jointed Dolls, which I discussed in a previous post, are a fabulous medium for dressmakers to free themselves of the constraints of antique fashions and let the imagination soar. I intend to make time for the one I purchased earlier in the week. I think I learned a new doll language in about an hour and many questions answered.
“The Gathering for the Ultimate Fashion Doll was to end my excitement for the day. The room filled to Standing Room Only of doll collectors. Fashions and books were on display. Alice presided, among others, over us all. A quick game of Jeopardy pitted left of room against right and all had great fun. I buzzed out of the room quickly as I needed some sleep. Out the door, down the hall, around the corner and up the escalator I went. Up another escalator and another, to the elevator I progressed. I took a chance and mashed (pressed for no-southerners) and oh, my word, an empty elevator! I stepped in and waited. The door closed and zipped me to my floor, what a quiet closing to a busy day. I called my husband, read a chapter in my book, and then precious sleep. Tomorrow is another day!
Kathi

Revlon Special Exhibit

The Study Sets

UFDC - Wednesday

The days are growing less hectic. This is good as some of my energy is waning. Not really, I was getting into the sewing of things mostly; knowing where to go, familiar with east and west, silver and gold, up and down. It was nice to manage my time so well. Wednesday, was still a busy one for me.
My morning routine was wonderful. Chat with hubby over coffee, read some, project some, and shower and dress. Always ready and waiting for class at 9:00 AM. This particular morning was no different. Some of you know me and know that I am quiet. Not necessarily introverted, but could be if I let myself. Could be a hermit and be happy, too! In my cave, with my toys, mail order items delivered straight to me and left on my doorstep. However, I digress.
For the first time, EVER, I went straight to the front of the class and sat down in front of the teacher. (I have sat in front before but not usually by choice.) I got a pink bag! That is a big deal, as I love pink. Today I was dead front with one of my favorite teachers. Sheryl Williams. Today we were making a Hat, muff and stole to fit our 12” French Fashion Dolls. In addition, she and her sister made us presentation boxes to go with them; so sweet. At the end of three hours, I had not finished, but I was close.
It was lunchtime now. I will never again complain about the walking, as I was able to get my sandwich some fruit and a piece of chocolate cake. I adore chocolate cake. (With white icing) During this year of dieting (no carbs, no sugar), I have learned to live without bread and pasta. I no longer pine for cookies, pies, or even chocolate candy as sacrilegious as that sounds. Nevertheless, I have NOT been able to get over chocolate cake or PIZZA! I need them as surely as I need air and water. This week only, I eat cake! We already know it did not matter I still lost weight. One pound! I will take it and be thrilled. (Yes, I think about food a lot!)
I took my lunch to my room to eat; and was able to finish my project. I am so proud. I worry real life will get in the way and I will not get back to finish my projects.
Two o’clock came fast and I went to the “Artistry of Kathy Redmond” seminar. Last year in the blog regarding my purchase of two half dolls, I learned they were Kathy Redmond half dolls and have learned a bit more about her since then. The seminar was wonderfully informative and now I know more about the artist who made them. I did not know how to finish them and had to learn much about the process before the convention. There was a category in the competition room for Kathy Redmond and I decided to enter. (Crazy me, if you do not try, you will never know.) Jennifer last year suggested in her comments that I should do one in her wedding dress and one in an anniversary mode. I took her advice. http://creativedoll.blogspot.com/2009/07/ufdc-report-day-4-still.html
The wedding dress is not completed. I have a picture of the finished pincushion doll for you today. Thanks, Jennifer I could not have figured it without you.
I had another two hours before the “Around the World with BJD’s” program and at 8 PM the Gathering for the Ultimate Fashion Dolls. I think there is too much to say here for one day, so will continue in another blog post.
Kathi

UFDC Wednesday

UFDC - Tuesday

It’s Tuesday and I awoke rested. Wonder of wonders! Do you think the previous day’s activities helped? I hit the individual coffee maker (cute I need one of these in my studio for winter, hot chocolate, spiced teas, and flavored coffees, yummy) There were no real time pressures that morning. I relaxed, read, showered at my leisure until 9 o’clock. At 9:00 AM, the Special Exhibits opened. I wanted to see all the wonderful Ultimate Fashion Doll ™ clothes and other surprises they had in store. This was the first time I had ever loaned my things to an exhibit, so I was anxious to see the displays. The competition room would open this night at 9:00 in the evening. It would be another long day. (More than likely, a fun one, too!)
Each year the theme emphasized with Special Exhibits. Topics are developed that member with collections can share their passions. This year’s theme, “My Favorite Things” brought four Special Exhibits to fore. Alice Leverett Henderson, the year’s souvenir doll artist, also created the Ultimate Fashion Doll, and other exquisite dolls, brought her sculptures and some lovely items from her collection. (www.justalice.com) Those of us who owned the UFD and sewed for her brought some articles from our doll’s wardrobes to share in the exhibit. There were also some EXTRAORDINARY favorite things gracing the cabinets allowing all of us to enjoy their doll passions, too.
The other Special Exhibits were just as amazing. Ladies and a Woman of Glamour featured Miss Revlon and the extraordinary collection of Robert Tonner. (http://www.tonnerdoll.com/) Miss Revlon hails from my childhood days in the mid 50’s from Ideal. Raggedy Ann is celebrating her 95th year. (http://www.raggedy-ann.com/patty.html) Can you believe that? Finally, a room filled with beautiful collection of dolls from Jessie McCutcheon Raleigh of Chicago. (http://lmmontgomeryliterarysociety.weebly.com/uploads/2/2/6/5/226525/the_good_fairy_1916.pdf)
I finished looking early and really wanted to see a Program regarding Fashion Dolls of WWI. Seeing the first program underway, and a seat in the back, I popped in to hear Andy Ourant and his program, Inside the Antiques Road Show.” I am so happy I did. What a wonderful speaker and his insights and descriptions of the inner workings of the show were so interesting. Another reason to be grateful for Andy’s program, he went a bit overlong as our next Program, yes, the one I really wanted to see, canceled. Sigh! However, his program was a delight and I was glad I stopped in. http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/roadshow/index.html
Well, my event was exciting. I thrilled to be selected to go the themed luncheon, “Snowflakes that Stay on My Nose and Eyelashes”. The luncheon hosted by the Maryland Doll club, honored Alice Leverett Henderson, and Ann Coleman presented a lighthearted slide show and discussion of doll clothes. What a delight! Since I have been discussing food choices this week, I thought I would tell you, the menu did not sound great at all. My lack of sophistication is showing. If your menu stated the first course was Avgolemono Soup, what would you do? I tried it! It is a Greek, Egg-lemon soup. Delicious! I am going to run out of superlatives. I had bread, with real butter, and Mascarpone Cheesecake with fresh fruit. I ate those, too. It did not matter; I was going to take the stairs. The beautiful Winter Ensemble, prize for attending the luncheon, for our souvenir was so pretty. I felt like a child at Christmas!
Kathi

Monday UFDC - The Begining....

Sleeping has been my number one enemy, as I have grown older; add excitement to the mix and the problem compounds. Luckily, I brought toys to kill time. (Kindle, Nintendo, sewing) For the sake of this writing, let’s say I had some time to kill before going to my first event, the 7:30 breakfast entitled “Wild Geese That Fly”.
As all good people, event goers we filed in and grabbed up seats and began a round robin of introductions. I love to hear where people are from, what they collect, we had a diverse crowd at our table. There were a couple of costumers in the crowd, too. Delightful conversation. (Might I digress a bit? It has taken me a year to lose 65 pounds. I am quite the chubby miss and with a bit more to go, I was appalled when the plate set before me had pancakes and sausage. Let me tell you this. When you go somewhere like a convention, forget the diet. Make as good an eating decision as possible and enjoy yourself. Do not bother other people with your diet concerns. It is boring. I lapped up half the pancakes with all the syrup I could get my hands on, ate all my sausage and fruit, and enjoyed every minute of it.)
The Southern Illinois Doll Club hosted this occasion for us to look at the world of BJD’s. (Ball jointed dolls) with guest speaker Jill Kaar Hanson. Her presentation of BJD’s and Maxfield Parrish art kept me glued to the screen. The delightful souvenir was from the Goodreau Doll Company, my very first BJD. (I was going shopping after wards for my first, which would become my second.)
What fun that was, but I needed to hop to it and drop off my doll so I could go shopping at National Doll Festival at a nearby hotel. Elevator full, I took the stairs. Flapjack number one was gone. I waited on the bus merrily chatting with like-minded women. Arrived at the show and purchased a present at the first go. That felt good! Next stop; find a BJD. Did you know that they are thoroughly customizable? I did not. I said I wanted a doll that looked like this, and was this size and this hair, etc. No problem says the shopkeeper, off comes the wig, pop goes the head, out come the eyes, and 30 minutes later, I have the eyes I want and TWO wigs. Now is that service or what? She is taller than I like, but I have a plan. On to Luc, I need laces. One hundred dollars later, I am almost out the door and oh, no! Is that not the cutest thing you have ever seen? I need to do another picture for you all. I forgot to put the Cat’s Paw chatelaine in the picture. To die for! I got the last one. They can be ordered, of course. I am almost out the door; time is getting away from me. Oh, please, yet another beautiful display! I had to get her card as I was running out of time. There is currently no website, but if you need anything for your French Fashion like hose and other accessories, you must see Dollie-Wrap™. I will not bother to make stockings again. Pat and Laura Allen are from Phoenix, AZ. As soon as I get a pair, and I will, I will show you how beautiful they are.
Finally, I made it out without spending everything and there is no bus. I decided to walk! Go up the stairs, across the river, up another set of stairs, across the street and into the hotel, it is time for a quick salad. Say goodbye to flap jacks I just burned those calories walking. The salad was great, service impeccable, but I needed to get to my first workshop. The elevator was full again. Now I really am grateful for the lower floor as I needed to climb the stairs.
I picked up the dolls for competition and my tools for class and was on the way down again. I had never entered into a competition, it is a little hectic, but the method is down to a science so if you wait your turn and do as you are told you can be in and out in a jiffy. My Workshop was WONDERFUL. See my little Nellie’s Necessaire. The project is easy, especially since Nellie did the hard parts for us. I pictured my finished project, but there are no contents yet. I have not decided all that will go into the basket, but I will share when I do. (See Nellie’s original here: http://www.pnbdoll.com/store/Default.asp)
Are you tired yet? Well, it is just 5:00 pm and there is still more to do. I need supper! I found a deli around the corner; (Bockwinkels) picked up a basket and ordered my supper, a snack and breakfast the next morning. Walked back to the hotel and up the stairs, are you getting the walking picture here? Hint, hint, I lost weight while I was there. Never underestimate the value of walking. The opening ceremonies were sweet, too, with another presentation via screen about two best friends separated and brought together again in Chicago, such a sweet and funny story. I loved it.
Finally, the 2010 convention declared convened! Ladies and Gentlemen, the shopping was about to commence. Cheers heard upstairs I am sure. Lined up as lemmings to hit the salesroom, I waited patiently for about 15 minutes. I was petering out fast. I can’t believe what I am about to say, but I exited the line, grabbed the first empty elevator I had seen since I arrived and took it to my end of the hall and around the corner digs. I mean the very last room. I chatted with my husband and slept. I slept the whole night through!
Kathi

UFDC 2010

I went to Chicago to the Convention this year and I am back. In fact, I have been back about a week. It never ceases to amaze me how long it takes to “catch up” when I have been gone for a week. I am so OVER stimulated I hardly know where to begin, so let us start at the beginning and take it as we go. My decision to go to the convention this year came late, and on top of deciding to go, I decided to enter a competition for the first time. Well, it takes courage to fail is all I can say. It is a real learning experience and I am glad I did it.

I met, finally, my “idol” Susan Sirkis. Since I first read of her in Needlework in Miniature, I have strived to create as beautifully as she does. Susan was wonderful and we were able to chat about new things she is doing and more things in which to look forward. Not understanding how the judging works in competition, Susan introduced me to Pat Gosh, judge and writer of wonderful and informative Costumer’s Guild Newsletter. Pat explained the details of the decision-making and frankly helped me past the belief that it was my sewing, but where I missed on the theme. I have still so much to learn. Do we really ever stop? I find myself looking forward to the possibility of a trip to Indiana to learn more from Pat and to seeing more of the items Susan will be sending our way. More delights to temp us!

Other than a late flight, what’s new, once departed the flight was uneventful, which is the best flight to have. Bags were claimed and a shuttle caught to arrive at the hotel amid crowds watching the filming by Paramount for “Transformers 3”. All I can say is I wound my way through the people and into the lobby just in time as the sky opened up and we had a quick torrential rain. Initially, I was confused about the hotel layout, but after a trip or two, I was familiar and negotiated the halls, and stairs, quite well. I opted for a lower room from last year as there were not elevators with windows, but that meant I was to use the stairs often, as the elevators were full. It didn’t kill me!

I settled in and looked forward to my routine of breakfasts, luncheons, shopping, seminars, workshops, shopping, walking, eating, and meeting new people. My dolls were dressed and my special exhibit items were delivered, I had found a deli (for me to stay on budget on diet). Life was good. Tess Gerritson was in my Kindle and I relaxed with a little TV and a phone call home. There would be no more TV for the rest of the week.

More to come.

Kathi

Coming Attractions!

Dear Everyone,
It is that time of year again, the UFDC Doll Convention. (www.ufdc.org) If you recall there was a great bit of saving and I finally went to my FIRST convention last year in Atlanta. It was great fun for me. I even met up with my friends from here and we did a luncheon and some shopping together.
This year was a last minute decision and I am glad to say I am getting into a breakfast, a luncheon, three classes, and a seminar. Woo-hoo! I am blessed. I still have no idea of the location of the Robear's show and sale. (Did I even spell it correctly?) I did do a sign up for notice last year, but have not gotten anything this year, so will keep my eyes and ears open.
Last year it was all about the budget, this year even more so, as the hotel is expensive and my roommate had a change in plans. All for the good for her and it will most likely work out for me as well. (I plan to take some long over do sewing with me.)
I have been so quiet with the blog and Michelle has picked up all my slack. I so appreciate her. She takes care of posting anything I write. I have been working hard for two entries in the doll competition. One doll is in the antique category and one is in the modern. I have never entered this type of competition so I am trying to do my BEST work. I have little experience in the “antique style” and no hope of winning anything, but I do hope to come home with some wonderful information to make me a better sewer. The volunteers who have answered my questions and guided me through the correct submission and rules have been wonderful. I understand the judges will also answer questions about the how’s and why’s. That will be a wonderful learning experience if I can really have a chat.
The convention is in Chicago in mid July and I will be photographing and making a diary so I can blog it here…again. I hope you will find it interesting.
Am very excited about the convention souvenir this year, as my friend, Alice Leverett Henderson has created her, and a wonderful wardrobe to enhance her. It all looks precious. You can see Alice’s work at justalice.com. I can only dream of being that talented.
Susan Sirkis has been my idol for years, and this year I plan to meet her. When I first started doll making in miniature she set the standard for me. I have more artisans who are inspirational, but Susan is the first. I missed her last year, and that was so disappointing.
Also, am delighted to say Sheryl Williams is teaching class again this year and I am in it. She convinced me last year to learn as much as possible about the way the garments were made in the 19th century. I have tried, but I think I need more exposure to the real thing. Again, the competition will help a lot toward my goals.
I will report on all the classes and seminars, watch for it. I am hoping to add a Ball Jointed Doll to my little sewing array of dolls. I am hoping the doll artist will answer my email. If she does not, I will take my chances. It is a difficult time and the vendors have so much to do and prepare before the convention. Patience is a virtue. (At least that is what I hear!) I cannot wait to see the sales room. Be patient with me dear friends, I am creating as fast as I can.
Kathi

UFDC Convention – Day 6 - 3 of 3

Day 6, Friday
We finally arrived at the time everyone has been anxiously waiting, the Convention Banquet. Each year a doll is created especially for the convention. How people are able to create this many dolls is extraordinary. Each one is a handmade beauty.
When everyone arrives at the table we count heads, take tickets, and do a little tiny bit of convention business. My table mates and I share gifts for everyone at the table. (I’ll show you mine in another post.) Each gift is original and fun and really represents the giver in special ways. Perhaps it is a way to share a love of dolls, something representing your area or country, something made by you. It is all great fun to receive 10 separate gifts. It’s like Christmas.
The program was a power point type of presentation with beautiful music, pictures of the people, places, and classes, luncheons of the entire week; a retrospective of dolls, where they started, where they are today and all those in between. The show was nostalgic, emotional and well done. I enjoyed it immensely.
Okay, now I get to say it, the food was GREAT! Dinner was all about fillet and vegetables and potatoes.
The convention doll, Grace, which you see in the photos, was created by an extraordinary artist, Beverly Walter. Beverly began her career in doll making in 1969. She creates one-of-a-kind period ladies. Each piece of porcelain artistry is a combination of porcelain sculptures, add-ons and multiple china paint firings. Her pieces have semi-precious stones applied. The costuming, completed by well known dressmakers, is period correct, meticulously sewn and embellished. I took so many pictures of her work at the special exhibit; I hope to share them with you in future posts.
There is one really serendipitous moment in all of this that I must tell you. I arrived at the special exhibit for my appointed time to photograph and was stopped in my tracks at the beauty of the dolls before me. I started taking pictures like crazy. I could not believe what I was seeing. While photographing I stopped at this small doll, always my favorites, and stared, appreciating all her little details. Her clothing was perfection. She had a chemise a la Reine (the peasant dress style of Marie Antoinette), she was dressed in a Robe a La Francaise, an additional court costume was placed on a mannequin and a wonderful little lace mantle was created for her. I enjoyed at her for a long time. Another thing I noticed is that I had somehow picked out and purchased or even had in my stash at home the same fabrics as this wonderful little wardrobe.
When I opened the box with the little lady in it, I cried. I thought I had died and gone to heaven. I had in my hands the doll I was mesmerized by in the exhibit room. Imagine my surprise, when I had fallen in love with, and been photographing the convention doll. She was a secret and hiding in plain sight. And the surprised did not stop there! Within the digital journal of the week we received on Tuesday night are the patterns for this exquisite doll created by Sheryl Williams. I have the patterns, I have the fabric, and I have the doll. Can life be anymore fortuitous? I am so lucky. (And grateful, as now I do not have to envy all the people who have own one of these precious dolls.)

Thus ends my story of the convention. But there is more to tell you and more to show and more inspiration coming. So, hang with us and we will find more things to inspire you. Thank you for all your comments.
Kathi

p.s. This is Kathi's first published Digital Scrapbook page...Bravo Kathi!! Michelle

UFDC Convention – Day 6 - 2 of 3

Luncheon
Having completed my class for Mary, I was able to excuse myself and run to stand in line for the luncheon entitled “Girl with a Pearl Earring. Of course we all were wondering about the program and what the souvenir would be. The doll club of Vermont (if this was New Hampshire I will scream as I did not take notes) did the best job at our table favors, prizes (they had something for every person there) and the overall program. My first lunch was proving a delight. And lest you think I like everything I eat and do not complain, that is not so. The sandwich plates were very good, but I was saving myself for some pecan pie. We were in Georgia, right? But, they said they RAN OUT! What! So we got a lemon curd with a raspberry and some whipped cream instead. I like lemon in my tea and, of course, my lemonade, but I am not a fan of lemon pies, lemon bars, lemon tarts, lemon drizzle or icing and other concoctions. At least I got to save those calories. There is a positive. The room was so cold, it made the luncheon uncomfortable. AND I HAD A SWEATER! My poor friend in her sleeveless tank-type dress was positively turning blue.
The speaker was informative talking about the Dutch dolls in painting and in history, really interesting subject. Door prizes were given out and I thought I would get lucky and win a wooden shoe, some were antique, but my ticket number was called and I won a wonderful little doll dress with beautiful smocking on it. I was informed it would fit the doll from the luncheon. Oh, Goody! As the program drew to a close and we shook so badly from the cold, we were at last given our darling little girls from the Boneka Company. (http://homepage.mac.com/boneka/Menu10.html) She is a Dianna Effner sculpt especially for them. My little girl came with a tag, her name is Grietje, (after the character in the movie) and she is Edition 103 / 145. I took the net off her head to release her curls and you can see her here in her darling regional and period costume. She arrived in an unbleached cotton bag; a lovely souvenir for the event. (For a few dollars more I could have purchased her boy – friend. But then we would have to discuss the budget again. And I didn’t want to blow all my good works.
Kathi

UFDC Convention – Day Six

Part One of Three
I was on a waiting list for Mary Zoch’s Wigging Class. (I borrowed the prototype picture, too!) If you have not taken a Mary Zoch class before, you should. She’s wonderful as a teacher, informative, patient and encouraging. Mary allows students to progress at their own speed and also allows them to create whatever they want. This was no different. I loved the class as I learned the techniques and products, but did not have to make a little girl wig. She had prepared the wigging materials and curls for us in advance, so mostly we learned what to do, how to do it, and then were allowed to style the hair our own way. This made the class remarkably fast and I was able to finish. Yea! For me there is nothing worse than taking home another unfinished project. I have enough of those I created without adding more. You do, too. You know who you are.
Kathi R. Mendenhall, IGMA Artisan
La Petite Belle Patterns

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UFDC Convention – Day 5

Very Quiet
You don’t have to be in a club to be a member of the UFDC. Did you know that? I didn’t at first. You can enroll as a Member at Large. (My friends and I call ourselves the MALcontents!) We meet once a month at Barbara’s house and play dolls and work on projects. We are not large enough to be a club, but we do the outings and shows and things of interest to us. It is fun and relaxing.
So, on Thursday, while those who are members did the annual meeting (and yes anyone can go) I stayed in my room and worked on sewing, reading, resting and playing with my fabrics. At lunchtime I met a friend from dinner on an earlier occasion and we went next door to a traveling exhibit of poster art. The subject of the exhibit was political statements regarding war, racism and the environment. Oi! (I picked that up from Harry Potter.) How depressing. What a waste of $8.00. Well made points in some of them, but really, I was on a nice vacation and had not been away from my house in two years. I was running from depression and didn’t need it here. I know I need to be socially aware, but this was in your face. To get over it we went to the shopping center food mall and had a “cheap” lunch. And I knew it all afternoon. TMI?
When we finished I was back up to the room and having a go at finishing my Saque du Voyage. (Yes the one I ran out of thread on and am currently trying to finish. I bought the thread.) And I took a nap.
I volunteered to be a monitor for the competition room. That was a learning experience, loved it. I got to sit in front of the Dorothy Heizer display. Yes, it was torture to examine some of the work of a modern day artist, who has sadly passed, and learn as much as I could in the 3 ½ hours I was there. I did take pictures and are sharing them today. I had the opportunity to HOLD one a few years back when I was taking a class from George Stuart who has one in his collection. I am jealous.
I will be sharing some of the pictures I took along the way of this blog. There were too many to share with you today. Friday was going to be a busy day so I returned for more reading and squishing into my comfy bed.
Kathi