DOLLS Magazine July 2024

Edition Doll by Master Artist Ping Lau

e Ashton-Drake Di erence • RealTouch ® vinyl that feels so lifelike

• Ensemble and storybook with enchanting artwork

• Soft hand-rooted hair!

•

•

•

•

e

e

There’s nothing little Maria loves more than story time, especially when Mom reads her favorite fairytale Thumbelina. Precious and petite just like Thumbelina, Maria by artist Ping Lau is alive with starry blue eyes and the sweetest smile. For realism, she’s crafted from lifelike RealTouch ® vinyl, features hand-rooted hair, and feels natural with a weighted cloth body. And then there’s that ensemble! Her custom dress is accented with ruffles, ribbons, and 3D owers, and showcases vibrant artwork from her favorite story. Best yet, she includes a storybook with stunning original watercolor artwork by Ashton-Drake’s own Victoria Jordan which matches her dress! Stunning storytelling art adorns her dress!

July 2024

10 A Lasting Dream

Dianna Effner’s Sculpts Are Timeless By

KC Eddy

12 Creature Comforts

Sophie Louis’ Characters Embody a World of Love and Happiness By

Stephanie Finnegan

14 A Decade of Dolls

Miroslava Brodlova Plans

Exciting Releases

16 Endless Possibilities

Ashton-Drake Combines Quality, Innovation, and Variety

Vol. 43, No. 5

Departments Departments

On the Cover: Kayci, the newest Li’l Dreamer #2, was released on May 15 by Dianna Effner Dolls, Inc. She is 11 inches tall and made of vinyl. Her outfit was designed by Magalie Dawson.

Editor’s Notebook

A Little Bit of Everything

We are nearing the end of May, and in Wisconsin, this has meant warmer weather, the return of migratory birds, a chorus of spring peepers, and the first blossoms of the year. Everything is quickly springing back to life, and I am starting to prepare for a summer filled with gardening, community theater, and news from the doll community.

In this issue, we are excited to share what doll artists have already been working on this year, as well as some of what you can look forward to in the coming months. From brand-new sculpts to skillfully designed face-ups to new outfits, these artists have been keeping busy and are eager to share their creations with you. You will want to make sure you are closely monitoring the websites of the artists featured in this issue and your other favorite creators, so you can be among the first to learn about new releases, collaborations, and events they will be attending.

Speaking of events, we have highlighted two that are happening this summer: the Sturbridge MA Doll, Bear & Miniature Show and Sale and the Modern Doll Collectors Convention. Both are sure to be a fun time as collectors and doll enthusiasts gather to buy, discuss, and learn about a variety of dolls. Additional events are listed in the event calendar at the end of this issue, while even more are included on the DOLLS website (dollsmagazine.com/events/). Now is the perfect time to mark your calendars for events that are open to the public. Spaces are filling up fast for events requiring preregistration, so don’t wait too long to sign up or you risk missing out on a unique experience.

For collectors of vintage doll items, this issue has content for you, too. There is an article by Judith Izen about the popular vintage Tressy and Crissy dolls, both of which have adjustable-length hair. Articles about a rare vintage dollhouse and general antique dolls are included as well.

If you are in the mood for some crafting, Adeline Panamaroff has you covered. She created a tutorial for making a doll outfit using old handkerchiefs. It is an easy way to repurpose handkerchiefs that would otherwise continue to stay folded in a drawer or tucked away in a box in the closet.

Whether you are interested in new dolls, vintage dolls, upcoming events, or a relaxing craft project, this issue is sure to have something for you. I hope you enjoy!

Circulation/Subscriptions 800-753-1491

customercare@jpmediallc.com

DOLLS Circulation P.O. Box 8551 Big Sandy, TX 75755-9766

President/Publisher Diana Jones dianaj@jpmediallc.com

Editor Hannah Kelley editor@dollsmagazine.com

Associate Editor Angie Landsverk

Senior Contributor Stephanie Finnegan

Sales Account Executive Jill Maggio jillm@jpmediallc.com 715-445-5000 ext. 115

Senior Graphic Designer Bill Kuffel

Specialty Shop Sales Angela Gauerke angelag@jpmediallc.com 715-445-5000 ext. 122

Founder Joe Jones

Editorial Office JP Media LLC N7528 Aanstad Road P.O. Box 5000 Iola, WI 54945-5000 715-445-5000 Visit us online at www.dollsmagazine.com

Hannah Kelley, Editor

The

Dianna Effner’s Sculpts Are Timeless

A Lasting Dream

By KC Eddy

Last fall, we introduced the first edition of our new Li’l Dreamer #2. This is the second sculpt in the Li’l Dreamer line. The second edition of Li’l Dreamer #2 — Kayci — was released on May 15, 2024, as a limited edition of 200. Kayci stands 11 inches tall and is made of vinyl. She comes dressed in a flowered summer outfit designed by Magalie Dawson of MHD Designs that can be worn two ways: as a layered sundress or a fun summer play outfit. Li’l Dreamer dolls’ toes were sculpted to accept flip-flop-style shoes, so this outfit includes white flip-flops.

The third edition of Li’l Dreamer #2 will be released later in the fall and will be a limited edition of 200 as well.

There are also plans for some smaller limited editions of Li’l Dreamer. These will be editions of 50 to 100 and will come with customized outfits, wigs, and an artist touch-up done by Geri Uribe.

In Little Darling news, we introduced a new sculpt to the Little Darling line in February. Sculpt #5 was produced from Dianna’s April mold and is quickly becoming a collector favorite. Little Darlings are available from Doll Dreamers Guild artists. For more information on these artists, please visit studiodollpro.com/dolldreamersguild.

Below: Kayci, the newest Li’l Dreamer #2, is 11 inches tall, made of vinyl, and dressed in an adorable play outfit designed by Magalie Dawson. She makes a great little sister to Little Darlings.

Beyond the new dolls, we are beginning an education initiative for people who are interested in learning how to paint vinyl dolls. We will have instructional videos, as well as a painting kit, brushes, and vinyl heads to practice on. Watch for more information on this project in the coming months.

Above:

recently released Little Darling #5 sculpt is the fifth one for the Little Darling line. Pictured here are (from left) Fern, Ivy, and Kaitlyn all three were created using the new sculpt and were painted by Geri Uribe.

Sturbridge Ma Doll, Bear & Miniature Show and Sale

Sunday June 2, 2024 10am-3pm

Admission: $7.00 Children 12 and under free.

A Spectacular Selection of Dolls, Teddy Bears & Folk Art. This includes Antique, Collectible, Fashion, Barbie, Reborns & Original Artist Dolls & Bears From The 18th Century To The 21st Century... Plus Vintage Clothing & Linens, Furniture, Doll Houses, Doll Parts, Miniatures, Toys, American Girl Clothing. Doll repair and appraisal. Steiff Trunk Show.

Sturbridge Host Hotel, 366 Main St. Sturbridge, MA

Mention the show for a special room rate at Sturbridge Host Hotel~ The rate is good for the weekend. 508-347-7393

Creature

Comforts

Sophie Louis’ Characters Embody a World of Love and Happiness

By Stephanie Finnegan

Doll artists and their admirers inhabit a mutual world of pure imagination. Willy Wonka and his chocolate factory have nothing on the power of make-believe that creators and collectors share. This is especially true of French artist Sophie Louis, who is also known as K6. The talented dreamer behind Nympheas Dolls envisions a realm populated by sweet woodland creatures and cute mythical beasts.

The characters she brings to life cohabitate in a fantastical for est. She said, “My dolls live in a fantasy world of peace, harmony, and joy. Every one needs to know this kind of place to feel better, right?” When customers en counter her dolls, she wants them to feel “reconfort” — the French word for “comfort.”

One of the enchanting animals the artist has coaxed into being is a lovely fawn. The Bambi-esque doll has special significance to Louis, who said, “Fan ny is a kind of animal totem for me, so she was the first animal I made. Now I think she could be perfect for taller dolls, like Yo-SD, so I made her taller too.”

In Louis’ peaceful paradise, dragons are also friendly and ready to frolic. Her brand-new Epsy lon proves that a mythological character can be filled with surprises and joyful abundance. “I dreamed about a baby dragon for a long time. It’s a must-make doll,” she said. “I had a lot of work in

Above:

illustration — my second job — so I did not have much free time to make him. I spent two years on him!”

The time she spent perfecting his gleeful appearance was well worth it. The baby dragon is a charmer — a creature that rivals the pop culture icon Baby Yoda (aka Grogu) for adorability.

“It’s pretty funny that he was ready in the Chinese Year of the Dragon!” Louis said. While she was searching for a name for the dragon, she said her son was having fun learning the Greek alphabet. “So inspiration was easy. It was perfect for a kind of Greek mythological creature.”

The characters that leap from her mind are endearing and ethereal. They grab a collector by the heart and don’t let go. The artist places a lot of her own personality into the finished dolls: “I’m a very sensitive person. Creation is like breathing for me. I will never stop creating. I always have new ideas and I feel good, thanks to art. If I don’t make anything in a week, I feel depressed. I am happy to see people happy with my dolls. They give them smiles, and I’m smiling, too!”

You can be part of this animal and doll adoption universe by purchasing them through the Doll Peddlar (dollpeddlar.com), a U.S. retailer of Louis’ creations.

“I just finished making a baby dragon named Epsylon. We made the first casts in resin for him. He will be ready this year!” Sophie Louis said.

Above and left: Fanny is a 9.45-inch (24 cm) doe. According to the artist, the sweet fawn “had great success at 17 centimeters (6.7 inches). Now, thanks to 3D scanning technology, she’s gained 7 centimeters (2.7 inches).” The face-up was done by Le Mouton en Sucre.

Duckie by LuLu Tatum

Brownie ornament tree

Enfant BJD by Dollmore

Bathing Beauty by Nel Groothedde

Count Dracula

Wright

Octopus by Art Rogers

Shirley Temple by R.J. Wright

doll by Wako Amata

Ladies Antique dress

A Decade of Dolls

Miroslava Brodlova Plans

Exciting Releases

This year, Meadow Dolls is celebrating their 10th anniversary, which is a significant milestone in the doll industry. For collectors, this has already resulted in numerous releases of both new dolls and familiar favorites, and more are on the way. Mittu, a Chibbi doll, was made available for preorder in January. The 7.6-inch (19.5 cm) doll was created by Swedish dollmaker Miroslava Brodlova (My Meadow) and her daughter. The following month, Meadow Dolls kicked off a preorder for Yuuna, a new BB doll. Yuuna is 18 inches (46 cm) tall and can share clothes with American Girl and Gotz dolls, among others. Her sweet smile makes it challenging not to fall in love with her. When Yuuna’s preorder concluded, a preorder began for Angie (Twinkle), who was offered in tan or honey resin. Then, at the end of March, sweet Mae became available — this was the final preorder for the Moppet doll.

In addition to the open preorders that have taken place so far in 2024, Meadow Dolls has also created some limited-edition dolls. One of these is Ady, an exclusive for DOLLS magazine. The Moppet stands 15 inches (38 cm) tall, has a cream skin tone, and wears an outfit by Lori Gould and shoes by Marina Checherynda. A right-to-buy drawing was held for her on May 1. At the Modern Doll Collectors Convention in August, Lilli will make her debut as a special event doll. Part of the Dumpling line, she is 11 inches (28 cm). She is sure to be popular with those attending the “Dance Lilli Dance” Meadow Dolls dinner event.

In general, Meadow Dolls wants to continue providing opportunities for anyone who wants to own one of their dolls to do so. There are more announcements in store for the fall, so be sure to keep up to date with Meadow Dolls’ website and social media pages.

Right: Adorable Yuuna has a factory face-up.

Above from left: Yuuna is showing off her fabulous face-up by Charlene Smith. • Charlene Smith completed the face-up for this Ady doll.

Left: Miroslava Brodlova is the artist behind Meadow Dolls.

Endless Possibilities

Ashton-Drake Combines Quality, Innovation, and Variety

For more than 35 years, Ashton-Drake has been the gold standard for doll and collectible enthusiasts around the world. Whether you’re looking for realism, comfort, nostalgia, a collectible, or a meaningful gift, you’re sure to find it with Ashton-Drake. There are baby dolls designed to look and feel incredibly lifelike, collectibles inspired by popular shows and movies, premium commemorative portrait dolls, and so much more. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, premium materials, and the most innovative features, each creation is a masterpiece in its own unique way — and bound to be passed from generation to generation.

Exciting things are happening at Ashton-Drake for 2024. Incredible lifelike dolls like the award-winning Lullaby Baby will be debuting throughout the

Made from RealTouch

Master Doll Artist Myra Garza.

From Left: Princess Leia, a collector’s edition portrait figure, is made from premium artist resin. She stands 15 inches tall and boasts true-to-film features, hairstyle, costume, and Satine’s Lament blaster. • Her Majesty The Queen: Sapphire Elegance is a 15-inch portrait doll that is handcrafted from Ashton-Drake’s newest premium material, Argil porcelain. Queen Elizabeth II dons a velvet dress, faux-fur shawl, and stunning recreations of the royal crown and her jewelry.

year. Exquisite portrait figures that are made from an exclusive new Argil porcelain are now available, including Her Majesty The Queen: Sapphire Elegance. Sci-fi and fantasy collectors can look forward to new masterpieces as well, such as those in the Women of Star Wars collection.

“We truly have something special for everyone in the works,” said Ashton-Drake senior director Gwynne Gorr. “I can’t wait to see the response from our collectors!”

Above:

vinyl, this 17-inch Lullaby Baby doll gently “breathes” while she is held. She was sculpted by

Left: The Love at First Sight baby doll, sculpted by Master Doll Artist Ping Lau, is 20 inches and made from RealTouch vinyl. Adorable purple baby glasses are included.

Right: Story Time With Maria measures 17.5 inches. Sculpted by Master Doll Artist Ping Lau, the baby doll is made from RealTouch vinyl and comes with a custom-designed ensemble featuring watercolor artwork.

Forever Virginia Dolls

Exciting things are happening at Forever Virginia Dolls! Virginia Lee welcomes four new sculpts this year, including 11-inch Tater and Lotus, and their tiny 6.5-inch counterparts yet to be revealed. Lee said, “Tater was released in February this year and joins Plum in the Bubba doll line. Like all of my BJDs, Tater is made of art-quality resin and comes in several colors: vanilla, peach, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Tater looks adorably disgruntled styled as a girl or boy and will be offered again this October at ForeverVirginia.com.

“Lotus shares the same 11inch Bubba body as Tater and debuts in June at BJDC Texas. The first preorder for Lotus will be held in August with details on the Charm dolls coming soon.”

In addition to her new sculpts, Lee continues to create OOAK clothing and knitwear for the dolls, as well as new patterns and fabric designs for customers to create their own wardrobes. Join the Forever Virginia Dolls Facebook group and email list for announcements and follow Lee on Instagram for photos and videos, all linked via the website below.

Edith Schmidt Fashions New Garments

Edith Schmidt sews outfits for a variety of ball-jointed dolls and makes use of heirloom sewing techniques. One of Schmidt’s newest clothing creations was designed for Masha, who is a doll by My Meadow. The classic dress has quality lace trim on the bodice, neckline, hem, and coordinating shorts.

Edith’s Editions facebook.com/ edithseditions schmidel@icloud.com

Laura Corti Works With a New Sculpt

Pictured here is Alice, who was hand-painted by Laura Corti, a mem ber of Dianna Effner’s Doll Dreamers Guild. The adorable vinyl doll was completed in April and stands 13 inches tall. She was made using Effner’s recently released Little Darling #5 sculpt. Alice has a medium skin tone and is wearing a synthetic mohair wig and a beautiful lace dress.

Above (from left): Plum (in peach) and Tater (in nutmeg) sit side by side.

Left: Lotus is pictured in vanilla resin.

Joyce Mathews Strives for Balance

By Joyce Mathews

When I retired as an RN, two of the most gratifying benefits were the elimination of alarm clocks and time demands. I still greatly appreciate the absence of alarm clocks, but somewhere along the way, work demands have crept back to a stressful level. Beautiful dolls with hand-painted eyes and features are a limited niche and can become very time consuming. My life is so enriched by dollmaking, but I find that my enjoyment and creativity are often hampered by deadlines and time demands.

This year, I plan to devote myself to more joy and less stress — working at my own pace and taking time to explore all aspects of dollmaking, from sculpting and costume design to creating accessories for dynamic presentations. I will continue to explore the versatility of my three little Joy Forever faces, as well as paint Dianna Effner’s

Beverly Stoehr Keeps Creating

Nancy Anne, who Beverly Stoehr cast in resin, was released on Mother’s Day 2024 as a limited edition of three dolls. The doll has a toddler body, and she is dressed in a cute hand-knit outfit. Accompanying her is a wonderful layette, which includes outfits made by Bonnie Larson. In addition to Nancy Anne and a pair of new Raggies (Creamsicle and Fudgsicle), Stoehr has plans to make dolls of color.

fabulous dolls. While that may result in fewer dolls, they will be more unique and exclusive, and more enjoyable for me and my blood pressure. I will add more storybook, avant-garde, and fantasy dolls, which I totally love doing. We are presenting at MDCC this year and will continue to offer dolls on our website. Please visit us.

Kuwahi Dolls kuwahidolls.com joyce@kuwahidolls.com

April Norton, the artist behind Aprilart Dolls, said, “This year, I’m having a lot of fun trying to come up with new looks for our brand-new Little Darling #5, as well as trying to create new looks for the other beautiful sculpts gifted to us by Dianna Effner.” While she has not determined a theme yet, Norton plans to create a collection of three to five special edition porcelain dolls, which will be released this fall.

Above: Joyce Mathews hand-painted and costumed these Joy Forever storybook dolls.

Left: This Joy Forever #3 fantasy doll was handpainted and costumed by Joyce Mathews.

Sandy Anderson Undertakes Exciting Projects

Sandy Anderson said, “We have been very busy this year at Anderson Art Dolls.” For starters, their 18-inch Ava dolls arrived and are now available for sale in four resin colors. They are a limited edition of 100 dolls, with some resin colors being very limited. Andrea’s Doll Boutique provided wigs for the Ava dolls and will also have sizes available for all other dolls by Anderson Art Dolls.

In addition to Ava, Anderson is ex cited to debut two more dolls this year. First is Millie, a brand-new sculpt. She will be offered exclusively through DOLLS magazine. “She is 15 inches tall and is in honor of my love for bunnies,” Anderson said, adding that the doll will come with a super-sweet and whimsical bunny toy. Erin Green of Cottontail Doll Designs made the adorable outfits for Millie. More details will be provided in DOLLS’ August/September issue.

The other new doll is Sage, who is 12 inches tall. She will be available at this year’s Modern Doll Collectors Convention. “I was thrilled to be asked to come back to MDCC again this year and do a luncheon event,” Anderson said, add ing that Sage will come with her trusty side

Brenda Mize Pays

Attention to Details

Paulina, a 14-inch fullporcelain doll, was created by Brenda Mize using Dianna Effner’s Molly face sculpt. She is wearing Mize’s rendition of an 1882 Victorian ensemble, with silk dupioni fabric, vintage lace, marabou feathers, and an antique brooch. Mize made the miniature doll a matching dress.

“As a porcelain doll artist since 2015, I much prefer fullporcelain dolls over clothbodied dolls,” Mize said. “In 2024, I have ventured into creating other artist dolls but find that Dianna’s doll molds will always be my favorites.”

kick, King Hopper. “I can’t wait to share their story, Sage Saves

The Bayou, in New Orleans.”

Follow Anderson Art Dolls on Facebook and Instagram to see photos and learn about updates and upcoming doll sales.

sandy@andersonartdolls.com

Above from left: These are two of the new 18-inch Ava dolls.

• Ava is dressed for a day at the beach.

Left: Wearing a light jacket, Ava is ready to spend time outside.

What

Makes a Doll ‘Antique’?

A Guide to Pre-1930 Treasures

By Vicki Steensma

If you’re like many doll lovers, you cannot walk past an antique shop without at least a peek at the antique dolls sitting so properly on a shelf, displayed with other doll memorabilia. When flipping over a tag, though, smiles often turn to gasps as sticker shock registers. To better understand why antiques are highly priced, it helps to understand what actually makes a doll (or most any toy) “antique.”

Unless you are an antiques dealer or doll-identifying expert, you might not know what element classifies a doll as an antique. In general, most experts label all pre-1930 bisque, china, papiermâché, wood, and wax dolls as antiques. Most all-composition dolls are considered “vintage,” but many of those made before 1930 are now classified as antiques.

The vintage classification is generally applied to dolls made from the ’30s through the ’70s, although there’s less consensus about the exact definition among experts. Dolls made in the ’80s through the present are considered “modern” or “contemporary.”

Facing page clockwise from top left: This is a classic French bisque Bébé A.T. by Thuillier. She stands 24 inches tall and wears her own antique clothing. • A French bisque Bébé Bru Jne by Leon Casimir Bru, this doll is 24 inches and dates to 1883. • This 25-inch French bisque is a Bébé Triste by Jumeau. She has a blond mohair wig over a cork pate and a French composition and wooden ball-jointed body. Her cutworkembroidered dress is original. • Dating to circa 1884 is this 25-inch French bisque Bébé by Schmitt et Fils. The composition doll has a pressed bisque socket-head and ball-jointed body with straight wrists and a flat-cut derrière.

Above from top: This German bisque lady doll was made circa 1880 and has unusual eye painting. The artist took extra time and energy to create a doll with “eyeshadow” not a common practice. The 20-inch doll has a muslin stitch-jointed body with leather arms and is wearing a vintage outfit. • This 21-inch German bisque doll is made of pale bisque with blue glass inset eyes and a flat-cut neck socket that allows her head to turn from side to side. She was made circa 1875, but her neck-swivel system is nearly identical to ones created by several French dollmakers in the preceding decade.

Left: This is a fine example of early German pressedporcelain dolls. The porcelain is tinted pink, and she has pale-blue eyes, a brunette human-hair wig, a muslin stitchjointed body, leather lower arms, and leather stitched-on boots. She’s from 1865 and wears an antique costume. www.dollsmagazine.com

Although the date used to define a doll as antique is not exact, it has been chosen by experts because most European manufacturers of bisque dolls made them from the 1890s through about 1930. Since the dolls are often similar, it’s the original clothing and wigs that usually provide the keys to pinpointing the exact decade or date of creation. Unfortunately, most dolls we find today are not wearing original clothing, wigs, shoes, or undergarments — but some do come costumed in vintage outfits that are quite valuable.

When you find a true antique doll, chances are it was manufactured during the mid-1800s or later. It’s difficult to find dolls made before that time, but some do exist, of course — and command a hefty sum. Many early dolls were made in England by individual artisans who hand carved them from wood, meticulously painted their features, and costumed them in outfits modeled on the apparel of the time.

Other early examples include the papier-mâché dolls mass-produced in Europe and the U.S. from the early 1800s through the early 1900s. These were less expensive to produce than the individually made wooden dolls. With the introduction of papier-mâché dolls, the astonishing German dollmaking era began, dominating the doll industry, along with the popular French Bébé, until World War I.

Wax dolls are from the same era as papiermâché dolls. Those found today are most likely poured-wax dolls made in England from about 1840 through the remainder of the 19th century. The heads were made, as their name implies, by pouring liquid wax into warm molds. After the head was formed, the hair and glass eyes were set in place — not an easy task. The bodies were made from other available materials — wood, clay,

Left: Pictured are two large papier-mâché German dolls: The lady doll from the 1830s is 25 inches tall, with an elaborate hairstyle, painted eyes, and a kid-leather body with wooden limbs. The boy doll was made in the 1840s and is 28 inches tall, has black enamel glass inset eyes, sculpted ears, and a muslin stitch-jointed body. He’s dressed in an antique costume.

Below: This very rare French bisque poupee by Levard & Cie has a Depose head and body. The bisque swivel-head on a kid-edged bisque shoulder plate has an impressed outline of the wig around the head. Her body is kid leather pulled over wood, with V-shaped hips; dowel-jointing at the shoulders, elbows, and knees; pivot-jointing at mid-thigh; and bisque arms up to the elbow. This model was made for only one or two years, beginning in 1869. The unique body was created to allow for various poses, and a defined wig placement set this doll far above others. Only a few examples are known to exist in the world.

cloth, leather, and/or papier-mâché. In many instances, a head was molded from papier-mâché and the wax was poured over it to give the doll a more lifelike appearance. If you collect wax dolls and spend some time in search of these sought-after treasures, you might get lucky and find a pressed-wax doll, which is much rarer — they were made for the very wealthy in the early 1800s. Next in doll genealogy is the china doll and her close cousin, the rarer parian. The china doll was popular from the 1840s to the 1880s, before bisque dolls became the preferred playthings for children. Even when their popularity subsided, these dolls were massproduced until the 1920s. China doll heads are glazed porcelain, while parians have unglazed porcelain heads. From 1850 onward, Germany produced the majority of these dolls. One clear-cut way to determine a china or parian doll’s age is to look at the doll’s hairstyle, as the makers were proud of their up-to-date hairstyles and fashions. The dolls have kid-leather, cloth, or wood bodies, and in later years, just the heads, hands, and feet were offered for sale so that people could make a body of their choice.

Below: Ranging from 3 to 11 inches, these Grödnertal wooden dolls are circa 1840. Each is all-wooden with a one-piece head and torso. They have painted facial features and dowel-jointed bodies with painted shoes, except for the costumed doll on the far left. Since she was designed as a pen wiper, she does not have legs.

Above from left: This German child-type doll was made by Shilling in 1875. The thick wax-over-papier-mâché head is crowned by a blond mohair wig. She has a soft muslin body with poured-wax arms. • This pouredwax portrait doll is from England, circa 1885. She has blue glass inset eyes, and her hair is an elegant coiffure of mohair. • This poured-wax child doll was created by Lucy Peck in 1890. She has shoulder-plate modeling and blue glass inset eyes, and she can turn her head from side to side. She has wax eyelids with mohair eyelashes, painted eyebrows, and a closed mouth with pouty lips. She has a soft muslin body with poured-wax arms and legs and is dressed in an antique baby gown and bonnet.

The best-known antique dolls are the German and French bisque dolls. These dolls were made from the 1840s until after World War I. The peak year was around 1860, when the number of dolls in production and the number of manufacturers both increased dramatically. These elaborately dressed fashion dolls dominated the market from 1860 through 1890. Their hairstyles were perfect and detailed for the era, and they were dressed in elaborate reproductions of the current fashions. Some dolls were trendsetters, with one-of-a-kind (OOAK) costumes custom designed for the owner. Most of these dolls were made in France with Germanproduced doll heads. Exceptions were Jumeau, Bru, Huret, and a few other manufacturers that produced their own heads. A majority of the doll heads were made by German company Simon & Halbig. These beautiful dolls had inset glass eyes, human-hair or mohair wigs, and shapely kid-leather or all-bisque female bodies. Other well-known companies are Armand Marseille, Jumeau, Bru, Gaultier, Rohmer, Simone and Huret, and Kammer & Reinhardt. Although referred to as “fashion” dolls, German and French bisque dolls were definitely created as playthings for young girls.

If you are a serious collector or just starting out, you would be wise to check price guide references on dolls before you buy. Check your local library for resources or search the internet for reputable doll websites and check prices realized at auction houses or on eBay. Look at photos of dolls and compare them to the ones you might want to purchase. Browse doll shops and doll shows to become familiar with what’s available. Most importantly, when it comes time to make that purchase, buy a doll because you want it and love it — while antique dolls may make a good investment, that should not be the only reason guiding your decision. Knowing you have something to enjoy and relive happy memories with holds a priceless value.

Hankie Dresses

To Make and Model on Barbie

By Adeline Panamaroff

Barbie has her own official line of clothing, comprised of highly collectable and attractive outfits, but what if you have a style in mind that Mattel never seems to produce? Sometimes you want something different for your favorite fashion doll. If you know how to sew and also happen to collect antique hankies, you can mash these interests together to design and make hankie dresses for that Barbie doll in your collection, creating a unique, one-of-a-kind look for her.

I have been sewing hankie dresses for Barbie dolls for several years now and find that putting the finishing touches on a new creation can be the funnest part of the process, along with hunting antiques shops for cute hankies.

With the ongoing war in Ukraine top of mind, I have found inspiration in my Ukrainian heritage for this dress. While not strictly traditional, this dress is made with a love for where I come from and a hope that Ukraine will soon win their freedom.

To Begin

Start by finding suitable hankies for your project. Look not only for cute designs but also for hankies that have the right thickness of material, and think about how you can use parts of each hankie’s design in different parts of the dress. For me, I chose the crows-baked-in-a-pie hankie for its border, not the main graphic in the middle, using the edging to represent embroidery at the cuffs and neck of the blouse. I also used some of the edging from a larger blue hankie to represent embroidery on the shoulders. The “Mother” hankie was chosen not for the embroidery on it but for the light weight of the fabric. I only used the embroidered part

because I ran out of plain fabric, but it turned out to be a nice choice. The rabbit hankie was used for the apron-like effect that the main graphic and border created when gathered at the top for the skirt.

One nice thing about hankies is that their edges are hemmed or finished in some way. This makes hemming any doll garment made from them unnecessary and allows you to use the whole hankie. It also saves a few quarter inches of fabric that would be lost to hemming.

All pieces of this dress are sewn together by hand, due to the fragility of the materials used, the short seams involved, and the narrow seam allowance needed.

Peasant-Style Blouse

1. Cut out the four pieces from the paper pattern — one for the front, one for the back, and two for the sleeves.

2. Sew the shoulder seams of the front and back of the blouse together.

3. Baste the wider “embroidery” pieces across the shoulder seams (in this case, they are blue). Use a blind hem stitch to sew down the other three edges, while turning the raw shorter edges under.

4. Stitch the cuffs to the bottom of the sleeves. Then fold each cuff toward the shoulder, stitching down with a blind hem stitch.

5. Pin and stitch the sleeves onto the shoulders of the blouse, centering on the shoulder seams.

6. Cut one whole edge off a hankie and sew it around the neck of the blouse. Turn to the front and stitch the finished edge down with a blind hem stitch.

7. Turn the blouse inside out and stitch together the sides and the underarm of the sleeve using one long, continuous seam. Turn the blouse right-side out and place it on the doll.

Skirt

1. Cut the hankie for the skirt to the length desired, measuring against the doll for visual aesthetic. Cut the undesired length off from the top of the hankie, so the finished edge at the bottom can be used as the hem.

2. Turn down about ¼ inch at the top of the skirt and finger press flat. Sew a loose running stitch through the two layers of fabric to gently gather and adjust to the waist size of the doll. Sew a band of floral ribbon over the gathers to secure them in place, folding under the raw edges at either end. The ribbon represents the traditional belt that is worn with this style of dress.

3. Sew the back edges of the hankie together to about 1 ½ inches from the top edge. Sew one ¼-inch snap at the top of the back opening, as a closure for the skirt.

4. Place the skirt on the doll, tucking in the bottom of the blouse. For added effect, you can add two yarn ties to the neck of the blouse and a wreath of flowers for the hair.

Endless Possibilities

Blue and white are only two possible color options. You can also use red, black, or oranges on a white blouse. Using a full floral pattern with a red background on the skirt would be more traditional. Alternatively, you could make the apron portion of the skirt as a separate piece (they’re usually white or brown) and decorate it with small rickrack or ribbon.

While ethnic wear is not new to the world of Barbie, using a selection of hankies puts a new spin on old items. If you have inherited some from a cherished relative, it can be a nice way to create a unique memento.

There are many hankie Barbie dresses and garment styles out there. Whole books have even been written on the subject. These outfits create a vintage feel with the material used to construct them. Depending on the era and origin of a specific hankie, you can create a Hawaiian-themed 1960s dress or a cozy 1950s American pajama set.

The options are as endless as your imagination, your supply of hankies, and how far you reach into the crafting rabbit hole that is the internet.

Madison Area Doll Club Collectors Come

Together To Celebrate Dolls

By Marie Crawford

The Madison Area Doll Club (MADC) of Wisconsin was formed in 1966 by several local women who met in their homes to talk about their shared passion for dolls. The club continued to grow in membership over the following years. In 1971, the club voted to become affiliated with the United Federation of Doll Clubs (UFDC), as part of Region 10 of the Federation. Its purpose is to promote the study and appreciation of dolls, because “the study of dolls is the study of mankind,” as is noted on the UFDC website (ufdc.org). Our club’s vision is to “have fun with dolls and doll friends through learning and sharing,” and our mission statement is “to provide and promote awareness of the historical value, artistic elements and restoration processes that support an ongoing appreciation of dolls.” We were proud to celebrate 50 years together in 2021. Our club members’ interests vary greatly. Some are collectors of only antique dolls, while other members collect a variety of both modern and antique dolls. Some members

Below: The Madison Area Doll Club’s 52nd Annual Doll Show and Sale featured a doll display that included many club member’s dolls. The theme was “Through the Years” and there were dolls from 1750 to the present day.

Right from top: This was the Madison Area Doll Club’s display at its first show and sale in 1972. • Pictured in the early years of the Madison Area Doll Club are charter members Gloria Laundrie (left) and Marietta Gribb (right).

also collect miniatures, bears, paper dolls, and books about dolls. We have about 25 members in our club. Those interested in joining need to attend at least three meetings, own 10 or more dolls, and fill out a member application form.

The Madison Area Doll Club meets the first Tuesday of every month (unless otherwise noted) at the Dean House in Monona, Wisconsin. We do not meet in July or August. Each month, our members share a program on a doll they collect, so others can learn more about it. Past programs have included themes such as Native American dolls, Ginny, Barbie, American Girl, antique dolls and fashions from 1860-1970, 1950s dolls, and how to make a felt doll hat. Our club has an annual Christmas party, as well as a club picnic in June. During the summer months, we may go on a road trip to check out a doll museum or doll show a few hours away.

Every year, our club hosts a wonderful doll show and sale on a Saturday in April in Madison. Currently, the doll show and sale is held in the Exhibition Hall at the Alliant Energy Center from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. There is a new theme for the doll show each year. The theme for 2024’s event was “Through the Years.” Our show includes a large sales room full of dolls and a display that our club members put together for the education and enjoyment of the public. In addition, doll appraisals are available at the show. The sale features a grand prize each year, and this year’s event also featured hourly door prizes. Our club has hosted a doll show and sale for the past 52 years, and it is now the only doll sale left in Wisconsin.

To learn more about our club, check out our Facebook page, Madison Area Doll Club, which has the club’s most current information. For additional details about the club and its activities, please contact Vicki Kutz at dollcoll@charter.net

Above from top: Charter members Gloria Laundrie (left) and Marietta Gribb (right) attended the club’s 50th anniversary celebration at the Dean House in Monona, Wisconsin. • Madison Area Doll Club members came together in 2021 at the Dean House, where monthly meetings take place, to celebrate 50 years together. • The club’s 2023 Christmas party was held at a member’s home.

Left: Alaskan dolls were displayed by club member Patti Shechter at the club’s monthly meeting in April 2024. Several club members shared their Native American dolls, which were the featured program. www.dollsmagazine.com 29

Preview: Sturbridge MA Doll, Bear & Miniature Show and Sale

June 2 and Oct. 6,

Sturbridge, Massachusetts

Doll, bear, and miniature collectors have two more dates to mark on their calendars. Promoter Wendy Collins of Collins Gifts in New Hampshire has announced the dates of the two Sturbridge MA Doll, Bear & Miniature Shows and Sales. Both events will take place at the Sturbridge Host Hotel in Sturbridge, Massachusetts. Doors will be open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Sturbridge shows are very popular and well attended. They offer a wonderful array of merchandise to choose from. You can find anything and everything related to dolls, bears, and miniatures. These shows are also known as the Steiff Trunk Shows because they feature a fine selection of vintage and modern Steiff items from respected and well-known Steiff dealers Ben and Beth Savino from The Toy Store in Toledo, Ohio. The Sturbridge shows will have something for everyone and will offer collectors the chance to explore a variety of dolls, bears, and miniatures that fall in the antique, vintage, and modern categories. In addition to a large sales floor, there will be door-prize drawings and opportunities for on-site doll repair and free appraisals. You do not want to miss these events.

For more information, contact Wendy Collins at collinsgifts14@aol.com or 603-969-1699.

Left: Steiff blank button antique bear and Ideal antique teddy bear, both early 1900s.

Above: Ideal 18-inch Miss Revlon doll, mint in box.

Left: Antique German apothecary room scene with dolls.

Above: Vintage 1960s Barbie dolls.

Right: Size 7 antique French Tête Jumeau.

Left: 24-inch Kammer & Reinhardt mold 117 Mein Liebling.

Shows of Note

Preview: Modern Doll Collectors Convention (MDCC)

Aug. 14-17, New Orleans

By Allison Hernández

Modern Doll Collectors Convention will kick off its 46th annual convention — All Jazzed Up — on August 14. We are excited to welcome old and new friends, collectors, and artists alike as we enjoy four days of fun, food, and dolls!

If you’re new to MDCC, we recommend you attend the Newcomer Orientation, hosted by Patsy Moyer, before our traditional welcome lunch gets underway. This is where Master of Ceremonies Billie Stevens gets attendees pumped up about what’s to come and sets the tone for an unforgettable experience. Our special convention doll, Allegra, the new Little Darling #5 sculpt by Dianna Effner (dolls available), will be revealed and distributed at the end of lunch. A special CreamSoda BJD “To the Moon” seminar (dolls available) will follow. Then, Kailyn Carr of Oddnomalies will present a “Behind the Scenes” program. For the craftier types, Wednesday includes a doll millinery workshop and a Voodoo doll workshop. At dinner, we’ll meet a new doll by My Meadow, presented by Charlene Smith (dolls available), followed by the opening of the MDCC salesroom!

Thursday starts with entry into the competition, which is run by Competition Chair Susan Fowler. Attendees can enter their

dolls based upon several different themes, showcasing their creative costumes and collectible dolls. Thursday’s luncheon welcomes Ana Salvador, a new artist to MDCC, and we’ll meet our exclusive Peggy BJD (sold out). Next, we welcome another new artist via seminar, Bree Banks of Le Petit Monde, who will introduce her doll Sunny (dolls available). Our International Playline Doll social will take place next — this year featuring Sindy dolls from England. At dinner, Connie Lowe of Marbled Halls will present The Girl in Blue, a 16-inch Stella (sold out). The day will conclude with a late-night dessert party to celebrate with Ruby Red, who is bringing an exclusive Fashion Friend created just for MDCC. There will be multiple chances throughout the day to revisit the salesroom.

Friday begins with the Jazz Up Your Dollies workshop. Lunch will be Rose Bbflockling’s “Somewhere in Time” with ShooHoo Adeleigh (dolls available). The Stellabration will take place after lunch, giving collectors of Connie Lowe’s Stella family of dolls a chance to come together. Next up is a social featuring The Mushroom Peddler, presenting “How the Turtle Got Its Shell” (dolls available). Our final meal of the day will be “Bayou Rhythms,” presented by Nikki Britt and featuring her new Angelique sculpt (sold out).

The final day starts with a program on doll photography, presented by Debbie Hood. There will be a last call for the salesroom, followed by our Anderson Art Dolls luncheon, “Sage Saves the Bayou” (sold out). Then, we will present the Artists’ Forum, an intimate discussion with the MDCC doll artists where attendees get the opportunity to ask their favorite artists questions about their craft. The popular Helper Room drawing will follow. Immediately after will be the DOLLS magazine artist signing event, where attendees can get artists’ autographs in the latest issue of DOLLS magazine. Our final event is the MDCC Banquet, this year featuring our souvenir doll company, the Dianna Effner Doll Company.

We at MDCC pride ourselves on presenting dolls for all budgets, introducing new and exciting dolls, and affording collectors the chance to meet their favorite artists and online friends in person. We hope to see you this year in New Orleans!

Visit moderndoll.org or facebook.com/ModernDollInc for more information.

Above from left: Attendees enjoy 2023’s Stellabration, celebrating Connie Lowe’s Stella family of dolls. • From left: Dodie, Karen, and Leslie enjoy the 2023 Nikki Britt luncheon.

Below: MDCC attendees gather for a Smart Doll Meet.

Above: This is a sneak peek of Allegra, the 2024 convention doll.

Left: MDCC staff prepare for the convention.

Collector Corner

Jane Rank said, “I bought this 24-inch doll in a shop in old Gatlinburg, Tennessee. I knew she was not very old not anywhere near antique but something about her drew me. I had several old, old dress patterns and some costume patterns. I reduced the human pattern to fit this doll and made her open-seam pantaloons, slip, corset, hoop crinoline, and the two-piece dress. It is a very similar design (and fabric pattern) to my great-grandmother’s wedding dress of 1876.”

Eva Siu said her Nora Briar (Sweetheart) doll by Forever Virginia is wearing a dress by Luby’s Wardrobe and “daydreaming at the playground about flying away with wind, like dandelion seeds.”

Lynda-Marie Hauptman said, “Ashlea (Poison Ivy by Robert Tonner) meets Bo, in a photo I call Beauty and the Cutie. Ashlea is wearing the bodysuit from her original outfit, also by Tonner. This is actually a bit of an optical illusion, since Ashlea was standing about 6 inches away, but it looks like Bo is really enjoying a nice scritch.”

Ava, an 18-inch doll in caramel latte resin, was created by Anderson

Hernandez said, “She’s an earthy girl and has been helping me in my Hobbit Garden.”

Medina said, “These two are

and

They are me to the Bahamas/Virgin Islands ribbean Wonder of the Seas. I made especially for the cruise. I always take photograph on cruises.”

Art Dolls. Allison

Cheryl

mini Maurice

Gracie.

Stacey Graves said, “These are the Smart Doll Pear Body dolls from Danny Choo of Culture Japan / Smart Doll. Their official names are Live and Let Live. I have named the redhead Elle and the brunette Ella. I made their outfits, and they are hanging out in New York City’s Manhattan.”

Monique Baa’s Mattel Christie, four Mattel Barbie Fashionistas, and Big Beautiful Dolls Dasia are wearing outfits she made. Baa said, “These dolls represent bamboula dancers commemorating the Coal Workers Strike of Sept. 12, 1892, on St. Thomas, Danish Virgin Islands, where protesters fought for and won their right to be paid in Danish coin instead of the devalued Mexican dollar. The larger doll, Dasia, represents the leader and is carrying a basket of coals on her head, as coal workers formerly did.”

Tonner Evangeline Ghastly wearing a custom spring Tess of Raccoon’s Rags. “Evangeline is taking the time to our fallen heroes on Day,” Ralph Gilson said.

Janice Wassmuth has a collection of original painted dolls. She said, “The doll in the middle is from the Dianna Effner personal collection auction, along with the baby it’s holding. The doll on the right is a recently commissioned doll made by Sonja Bryer. The doll on the left was made by Brenda Mize of Eyes of Texas Dolls. I love the handpainted eyes on each of them!”

and

Left: Mae by Meadow Dolls belongs to Joan Robtison. Her outfit is by Darla’s Delights, and Michelle Olrich completed her face-up. She is relaxing at home.

Right: Kathy Barton’s Little Darling #5 dolls are ready for spring. From left, they are Beatrice by Wixana’s Doll House, Iris by Geri Uribe, Amberlee by Ashley Rose (dress by Mimi James), and Allison by Laura Corti.

Arylissia Nichols said her Brielle by Judy Porter “is enjoying a Sunday morning at her local farmers market with her little doll.”

Olga Borontova made an outfit

jewelry for her Iplehouse S.I.D. Harace doll.

Dollmaker Q&A History Meets the Present

Joann Cartiglia Designs

High-Quality Products

DOLLS: What do you make?

Joann Cartiglia: I make vinyl dolls, doll clothes, doll accessories, and doll furniture.

DOLLS: How did you get your start in dollmaking?

Cartiglia: I was a doll collector as a child, and I focused on dolls depicting different countries and cultures. I enjoyed playing Barbie with my sister. We didn’t have a lot of money growing up. I loved making doll furniture out of any material I could find (mostly out of cardboard). As an adult, I was so happy to have a little girl! Our family could not afford Pleasant Company furniture, so I set out to design my own. Later, we expanded into clothing and accessories. In 2016, I designed my first doll after carefully studying dolls.

DOLLS: Is your dollmaking influenced by anything in particular?

Cartiglia: Yes! Quality and materials, and realism for our clothing and accessories, are important for what we do. I look at our world today and realize that children are not developing dialogue, creativity, and social skills while being transfixed to an electronic prompt. I also see that young children have no idea what “history” is. They cannot imagine themselves in our world as it was over 100 years ago. This is what drives me to create our products.

DOLLS: What do you like most about dollmaking?

Cartiglia: The best thing about what I do is taking an idea, sketching it, and then creating a three-dimensional product. Seeing our products used in photos taken by our customers is so rewarding

and validating. I’m not a person with great confidence in myself, so every time I see our products in a post or look at the orders we receive, it makes me feel happy.

DOLLS: What is your goal for these products?

Cartiglia: My intention is always to create something that a child can play with safely, learn something, create a story, and encourage dialogue. We design them to be the type of toy I coveted, like the hutch my grandfather made me that was handed down to my daughter and the doll clothing my grandmother made for me (that I still have).

I am truly honored that doll collectors enjoy our products. That is confirmation that I am achieving my goal of quality and realism.

Right: Vintage-style furniture shows children what life was like before electricity. The ice box even comes with information about how things were refrigerated back in the day.

Above: This new Little House on the Prairie Oleson’s Mercantile play set offers hours of creative play. A variety of accessories are available to fill the store.

Below: Everything is designed with maximum play value, including this covered wagon. It comes with sleigh runners so it can be converted into a horse-drawn sleigh.

DOLLS: Where can your products be purchased?

Cartiglia: Our products are available on our website. You can also find them online on different retail websites.

DOLLS: If someone wants to learn more about your products, what should they do?

Cartiglia: Call us! We have a small staff of real people who answer the phone with no prompts. Our office is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. If you call after business hours, you will get a recording and we will call back the next business day. We also answer all emails.

Creative, OOAK, High End, Fantasy

Alternative reborn dolls, made by Momma Star Shea.

Above: The Little House on the Prairie doll trunk is designed to hold two dolls, and doll clothing can be hung in both middle sections. It is also perfect for displaying treasures.

Tressy and Crissy

These Dolls Have Hair That Grows

By Judith Izen

Adoll whose hair grows — what a revolutionary idea! Many children through the ages wished for such a doll after they gave their doll a haircut. Fortunately for us, one child’s mother came up with the idea for a doll with growing hair, and their father made it happen.

Tressy

The most popular grow-hair doll was Tressy, who was introduced in 1964 by the American Character Doll Company of New York. Tressy was an 11.5-inch all-vinyl fashion doll with rooted Saran hair. She had a button on her stomach to make her hair grow and a large knob on her back to make it shorter. Just like the popular Barbie doll by Mattel of the same era, Tressy came with a little fashion booklet that enticed children to purchase all of her outfits. Tressy’s grow-hair feature and vast selection of fashions made her one of the most popular dolls of all time.

Left: Tressy (1964-65) is an 11.5-inch all-vinyl straightleg doll with growing hair. She is wearing the outfit she was sold in. Courtesy of J.B. Goldsmith

The idea for a doll whose hair could grow was originated by Diane Dean when her toddler, Lisa, cut all of the hair off a new doll. Diane’s husband, Jesse W. Dean, a furniture designer, designed the grow-hair mechanism that brought Tressy into reality.

Tressy’s novelty, in combination with heavy advertising on children’s television programs such as Captain Kangaroo, spurred such growth of American Character that they added other versions of Tressy. These included bending legs in 1965 and a “Magic Makeup” face that same year. They also added dolls to the Tressy line — a younger sister, Cricket, and a friend, Mary Makeup.

from top:

guitar and harmonica. Courtesy of Audrey Fletcher •

Left: Beautiful Crissy (1969-70) is dressed in the Sleeper Bells outfit and standing beside the Fashion Boutique box.

Courtesy of Nikki Hill

Right

Wearing her iconic Hootenanny outfit, Tressy comes complete with

Tressy’s Bowling Beauty outfit is shown here mint in the box. It includes bowling pins, a ball, and an award. Courtesy of Tina Ritari

All three versions of Tressy were jointed at the neck, arms, and legs. The first version of Tressy had straight legs, painted side-glancing black eyes, and blue eyeshadow. This Tressy came dressed in a red knit shift, white soutache belt, and white vinyl heels. Also included in her box were a hair-styling book and a fashion stand with her name on it.

Tressy was available in an assortment of hair colors: brunette, reddish brown, golden brown, platinum blond, and blond. She sold for $4.50. All Tressy dolls are marked “Amer.Char. / 1963” (in a circle on her head).

The second version was introduced in 1965 and had posable legs. In July 1965, the Tressy Makeup version was released. This version had a pale face so the makeup kit (sold separately) could be used to give Tressy a makeover.

winning a beauty contest. Also indicative of the early ’60s was her professional outfit “Executive Suite,” where the accessories were a steno pad, eyeglasses, and a dictionary. Clearly, Tressy hadn’t yet broken through the glass ceiling.

Tressy had many accessories, an apartment, and a budget line of clothing. The most coveted Tressy for collectors due to her rarity is Black Tressy, who was introduced in 1965 and had a makeup face.

Crissy

Growing hair truly was Tressy’s crowning glory. There was such an emphasis on her growing hair that the pamphlet included with each doll devoted as much space to explaining how to produce certain hair styles as it did to her outfits.

The outfits designed for Tressy were very “au courant” and came with adorable little accessories. The fashions were representative of the early 1960s era, especially “Hootenanny” — complete with a harmonica, guitar, and black sweater — and “World’s Fair,” which came with a camera to commemorate the 1964 New York World’s Fair. Tressy had outfits for an active lifestyle. She could enjoy bowling, a summer holiday, swimming, sailing, a surprise party, and even

American Character, maker of Tressy, went out of business in 1968. The Ideal Toy Company of New York bought the rights to Tressy’s grow-hair feature and her name. Ideal then produced a larger version of a grow-hair doll in 1969 and named her Beautiful Crissy. This doll was 17.5 inches and had a preteen body with a bright smile, auburn hair, black iris-less eyes, and a mod and stylish wardrobe. The first version of Crissy had hair that grew to the floor. Hair to Floor Crissy, as she is called by collectors, is marked “© 1968 IDEAL TOY CORP. / GH-17-H126” on her neck and “1969 IDEAL-TOY-CORP / GH 18 / US

PAT 3,162,976” on her back. Later Crissy dolls had hair that just grew to her hips.

Above: Executive Suite comes with a steno pad, dictionary, and eyeglasses. Courtesy of Tina Ritari

Right: Black Tressy with a makeup face is from 1965. Courtesy of Debby Lynn Davis

Crissy was such a huge success for Ideal that millions of Crissy dolls and her outfits were produced. For this reason, Crissy is a doll that is affordable and very accessible to collectors.

Crissy’s clothing, especially the Fashion Boutique outfits available from 1969 to 1970, captures the essence of the mod and hippie period in the U.S. Most of her pants are bell-bottoms and the dresses are miniskirts. There is even a “Peace Poncho” that is most evocative of the era’s anti-war movement. This hippie theme was very evident in the later Crissy fashions from 1971 to 1972.

Ideal manufactured many Crissy variations in the early 1970s, including a Black Crissy, a Talking Crissy, and even a Talking Crissy that spoke Spanish! Other variations included Movin’ and Groovin’ Crissy, whose waist twisted around when her string was pulled; Look Around Crissy, whose waist could be moved manually; Swirla-Curler Crissy, who had hair accessories; and Twirly Beads Crissy, who came with beads.

Ideal added to the Crissy line with an extended family, which included younger cousins 15.5-inch Velvet and 13.5-inch Cinnamon; 17.5-inch friends Tressy, Kerry, and Brandi; Velvet’s friends Mia, Cricket, and Dina; and Baby Crissy. These dolls were each sold for a year or two, with Baby Crissy being sold until 1976. Notice that Ideal used the Tressy name for one of their large-sized grow-hair dolls.

Luckily, because it is not difficult to find a working Crissy in mint condition, we can play with her hair and even cut it if we wish. Crissy and Tressy are fun, affordable dolls that allow us to relive a portion of our mod past. They can really let their hair down!

Judith Izen is the author of several books on collectible dolls: Collector’s Encyclopedia of Vogue Dolls, coauthored by Carol Stover; Collector’s Guide to Ideal Dolls; and American Character Dolls: Identification & Value Guide

Above from left: These Beautiful Crissy dolls are modeling the Peace Poncho, With It Knit, Seventies Satin, Turned on Mini, Fun Fur Cape, and Bold Blazer outfits. Courtesy of Susan Mobley

Below: Swirla-Curler Crissy (1973) is in mint condition with the original plastic still on her head. She even has her curling device. Courtesy of Nikki Hill

Rose of Versailles

The Inspiration Behind a Dollhouse and Dolls

By The Doll Historian

Rose of Versailles, an animated television series that ran from 1979 to 1980 in Japan, was based on a comic book by Riyoko Ikeda. Set in France in the 18th century, it tells the story of fictional character Lady Oscar François de Jarjayes, whose father had wanted a son and heir. After another daughter was born to the family, her father decided to raise her like a son, naming her Oscar and teaching her how to fight. Years later, she would be sent to the Palace of Versailles to become a bodyguard for a recently arrived princess, Marie Antoinette.

Having been raised as a general’s heir, Lady Oscar was given opportunities that weren’t always available to women at the time. But it wasn’t without its challenges. Parts of the story revolve around her encountering sexism while trying to be true to herself and balancing the expectations of her job.

Over the years, the story has been adapted into various stage musicals, as well as a live action film (1979) that was a co-production between French and Japanese film studios. However, the animated show just might be the most well-known incarnation. The show’s directorial style and aesthetics became iconic and have had a major influence on Japanese animation.

Although already a popular franchise in Japan and many parts of Europe, the animated series didn’t arrive in the U.S. until a DVD was released in 2013. As a result, the series is more obscure in North America, although it has gained traction.

Products of the Franchise

The Versailles Palace dollhouse was released in Japan circa the late 1970s or early 1980s. On the front, it has an illustration of Lady Oscar and Marie Antoinette, looking like they stepped right out of an episode. The building’s roof is made of molded plastic with some stickers for the windows. The palace is designed to fold and unfold for easy storage.

Measuring about 14 inches high, the walls add an extra 10 inches on each side once the dollhouse is opened. It is smaller than other dollhouses from that time. A 12-inch fashion doll can still stand up in front of the room, but it is out of proportion with the scenery, which feels more like a background here.

Above: While the dollhouse is folded up for storage, an illustration of the television characters can be seen.

art is not readily available. The interior illustrations would have been especially important because this was before the age of giant plastic dollhouses or elaborate moving parts. Without the artwork, all you’d have is a blank box.

While the dollhouse remains rare, the 1970s Rose of Versailles dolls are more plentiful, albeit expensive. There are multiple versions of the Lady Oscar and Marie Antoinette dolls — Marie usually wears a red gown, while Lady Oscar wears either a red or blue soldier’s uniform. The Lady Oscar doll pictured here is about the size of a Barbie and was originally found wearing a 1970s Barbie dress. She is now borrowing an outfit from a Ken prince set instead. It’s not a perfect match, time-period wise, and the sleeves are a bit long, but it’s close enough.

There are 6-inch versions of the dolls, so it’s likely the building was designed for them instead.

The room interiors are elaborately designed, with colorful graphics depicting a ballroom and a balcony. One has to wonder who provided the artwork for these releases. The Lady Oscar and Marie Antoinette character designs were taken from the TV show, but information regarding who drew the rest of the dollhouse

It’s currently unknown if other characters were included in the initial release, but it would make sense for there to have been dolls based on supporting characters like Rosalie. Also unknown is whether these dolls and the dollhouse were released around the world or if they were exclusive to Japan.

In 2022, to celebrate the series’ 50th anniversary, it was announced that a new animated Rose of Versailles film was in production. However, there has been sparse mention of the project since that initial announcement. It remains to be seen whether Rose of Versailles will make a return and captivate new and existing audiences. If it does, there are sure to be more dolls and accompanying accessories in our future.

Above: The palace measures about 14 inches tall, 10 inches across in the front room, and an extra 10 inches on each side once the walls are opened.

Right: This 12-inch Lady Oscar doll is wearing a Ken doll outfit, not the original fashion.

Curious Collector

By A. Glenn Mandeville

1954

Madame Alexander Binnie Walker

QI found this 18-inch, all-hardplastic doll with sleep eyes and a glued-on wig at an estate sale. She is all original and tagged “Binnie.” I had never heard of this doll and wondered what you could tell me?

AWhat a fantastic find! It is increasingly difficult to find dolls from 1954 in this condition.

Madame Alexander had a great year in 1954. Not only were dolls available but also there were fashions galore.

Your doll is #1822, “Winsome Binnie Walker.”

You are correct that the doll is in near mint condition. Missing are the round hat box and the white felt gloves. These can be found easily on eBay. If her face looks familiar to you, it is because it was used on the 21inch, high-heeled, full-figured Cissy doll. Madame cleverly thought that if a child doll face were used on a doll with an adult figure, it would not be as threatening to buyers. She was correct, as Cissy was one of the bestselling dolls for decades. One does not often find dolls in this condition from that period. As a result, it is difficult to come up with an exact valuation. A guestimate might be $150 to $175.

Thank you for sharing this great find.

1967 Colored Francie

QFor years, I have searched for what collectors refer to as “Black Francie.” Finally, I found one. The price was high. I paid $4,000 for her, but the other prices were higher! Did I make a mistake?

ANo! The reality of the situation is that the doll, which Mattel originally called “Colored Francie” in the 1967 catalog, was a failure. It basically was the white doll, just with a darker skin tone.

The following year, Mattel issued “Christie,” Barbie’s Black friend. This doll was — and still is — a success.

Your doll was hard to find then and is even harder to find today. I have seen

c/o DOLLS, P.O. Box 5000, Iola, WI 54945-5000.

Event Calendar CLASSIFIEDS

IT PAYS TO ADVERTISE! $1.50 per word, 20 word minimum. Ad must run minimum of 3 times. Prepayment is required. We accept check, money order, Visa, MasterCard, Am. Exp. and Discover (U.S. funds). Email jillm@jpmediallc.com or call at 715-4455000 ext. 115 to place your order.

900+ Modern, vintage, artist, paper dolls, accessories. Vogue, Tonner, Kish, Precious Moments, Effanbee, Alexanders, Raggedys, Barbies, more. LS4SE for list. Donna’s Korner. 2689 N. Galley, Orange, CA 92865. 714-974-3779. http://www.dkkdolls.com/store

COLLECTIBLE DOLLS, BEARS, PAPER DOLLS, 1930’s to 1990’s Doll Hospital. Deja Vu Collectibles. PO Box 12328, Philadelphia, PA 19119. www.dejavucollectibles.biz

ROTRAUT SCHROTT Collection: Martina, Marlene, Puyi, Suzi, Ricardo, Trixie, Jasmine, Katalin 2, Ninotschka, Laura, Baby. Pristine condition. Original boxes. marciagrieves@comcast.net

GORHAM DOLLS Allison, Rosamond, Ashley, Cassandra, Nicole, Clara, Joy, & others. WORLD DOLL Elvis & Marilyn Monroe. Bob 516-459-5594 evenings.

California

Sept. 21: World Doll Day Shows – SF Bay Area. Concord Plaza Hotel, 45 John Glenn Drive, Concord. Contact: Mary Senko, worlddolldayshows. com or facebook.com/WDDShowsEvents, mary. senko@comcast.net, 425-330-1770.

Oct. 19: World Doll Day Shows – Santa Clara. American Legion Post #419, 958 Homestead Road, Santa Clara. Contact: Mary Senko, worlddolldayshows.com or facebook.com/ WDDShowsEvents, mary.senko@comcast.net, 425-330-1770.

Nov. 16: World Doll Day Shows – Arcadia. Arcadia Masonic Lodge, 50 W. Duarte Road, Arcadia. Contact: Mary Senko, worlddolldayshows.com or facebook.com/WDDShowsEvents, mary.senko@comcast.net, 425-330-1770.

Louisiana

Aug. 14-17: Modern Doll Collectors Convention. Hotel Monteleone, 214 Royal Street, New Orleans. Contact: moderndoll.org, mdcccon@gmail.com, 763-634-2614.

Before leaving for a show, it’s always a good idea to check the show’s website or email the organizer in case of last-minute changes or cancellations.

Advertiser Index

Minnesota

Oct. 13: Dolls & Toys & Bears OH MY! 15th Annual Fall Doll Show & Sale. Crowne Plaza Hotel, 3131 Campus Drive, Plymouth. Contact: Bernadette Able, dollstoysbearsohmy.wixsite.com/classiclayout , dolls_toys_bears_ohmy@yahoo.com, 239-282-9499.

North Carolina

Nov. 2: Salisbury Doll, Toy & Miniature Show. Salisbury Civic Center, 315 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., Salisbury. Contact: ashevilledollshow. com/salisbury-1.

Virginia

Sept. 21: Richmond Doll, Toy, and Bear Show and Sale. American Legion Post 175, 8700 Bell Creek Road, Mechanicsville. Contact: Van Davis, vodavis59@gmail.com, 252-523-4002 (please leave a message).

To list your event in our free online calendar, go to dollsmagazine.com/events and click the “add an event” link. Contact Jill Maggio at jillm@jpmediallc.com to have your event listing printed in the magazine’s Event Calendar.

Nympheas Fanny

Pink Lady

Pink Garden

Bonbon Blonde

Bonbon Red

Dory

Bonbon Cinnamon

Pink Kitty Dory

Luulikki Faun