Pattern Review: Keepers Dolly Duds Balmoral Holiday Coat

 I was so scared to make the Keepers Dolly Duds Balmoral Holiday Coat!

It offered some great opportunities to totally mess up- the scallops in front of the coat, the button holes, the asymmetry.

Well, I eliminated one of those hazards right off the bat by putting in snaps instead of sewing real button holes.

The pattern was easy to follow and I didn't have any problem with the asymmetrical design.

And the scallops turned out better than any I have done before. My theory is that is because these scallops are somewhat larger than any that I have sewn before.

I love this coat and the cloche hat! They are so cute.

I am so pleased that I overcame my fears and tackled this pattern!

Making Mini Books

 While I was in recovery from COVID, I was making a lot of mini books.

Sitting up was about all I could do, and making something gave me a sense of satisfaction. 

I made over 50 books. I am not sure how many, probably around 70. I stopped counting at 50.

I made the entire series of Phryne Fisher books! These are obviously under copyright, so they are just for me to enjoy.

These books are the right size for AG dolls, although they can be slightly oversized books for fashion dolls.

If you are interested in making mini books, I suggest checking out Jinjia Mixed Goods on Pixie Faire!

Here is a link to their shop.

Pattern Review: Keepers Dolly Duds 1927 Coat

 I made the Keepers Dolls Duds 1927 Coat pattern.

I am very pleased with this pattern. 

I actually made this coat twice for myself, in red and in green.

I wanted to see how they both looked on this doll.

I would have preferred a darker green, and I may try that yet.

I liked the pattern. It made a very elegant coat.

I didn't realize that the coat has a kick pleat in the back. That was the hardest part of the pattern. I kept reading the directions. BUT once I got to that step in sewing, it was clear enough what I needed to do.

The finished kick pleat looks so good! I keep turning the doll around to look at it.

I also want to share a picture of the lining, because I love the fabric that I used. The print was a little large for an AG dress, but it looked good as the coat lining!

I am very happy with this pattern and the coats that I made from it.

I know I am making a lot of coats. It's cold here, and the snow makes the perfect background.

One of these days I should try making the matching hats, I suppose.