Once retired, the boredom set in. After reading every book I could get my hands on by my favorite authors, I needed something else to do to keep busy. I'd been so busy with my career that I had not sewn for more that 35 years... wasn't even sure that I still could (due to severe arthritis in my left hand). Luckily, I'm right-handed and adapted my methods to minimize the amount of hand stitching required. Using the machine, my left hand is merely used to guide. Sewing by hand for several minutes at a time can be painful. I found that doll clothes for American Girl 18 inch and 15 inch baby dolls, with the smaller pattern pieces, were easier to sew than I feared. Besides, having a seven year old Granddaughter at the time gave me the incentive to try it again.

Historic/Colonial fashions, including prairie, frontier, pioneer, and old fashioned dresses, are especially suited to American Girls Caroline, and the two "retired" dolls, Felicity and Elizabeth. However, these fashions also fit any other 18 inch doll. For those looking for "American Girl Doll Pets", TY "Beanie Babies" are the perfect scale and can be purchased most anywhere. Doll shoes to fit these 18 inch dolls can be purchased at any Michael's or JoAnn Fabric and Craft stores for around $5 a pair. Look for the "Springfield" collection.

I actually use my experience as a Color Scientist to find matching and pleasing color combinations of fabric and trim. That's also why I only use light bulbs that are designated "full-spectrum daylight" in my sewing area .

I use ALL NEW MATERIALS in the construction of each item unless it appears in the "Repurposed Fabric" Section. A fabric is designated REPURPOSED under Item Details. All "repurposed" fabrics are "like new" and first carefully washed with allergen free laundry detergent. All other supplies used are brand new.

How do I know my home is "smoke, pet, and mold free"? With my allergies, I couldn't live here if any of those were present!