Doll Making Runs in My Family

A random post I saw on the Internet reminded me that my Granny Flippin used to make dolls from dish soap bottles. For a time I owned one. But with many moves, I'm sure it got tossed at some point (not necessarily by me). She used to make them and sell them to friends.  I remember mine has a pale blue gingham dress and a pre-made doll's head with blond hair and felt feet. She wore little granny glasses. My grandmother also did crocheted afghans. I didn't really get to know her until she was already elderly. She had 9 kids and my mom had five kids so I don't even know if my grandmother new who I was. Maybe I should try to make a few dolls with soap bottles to carry on the family legacy of folk art.

Bottle Gourds

When my boyfriend asked if I wanted to go to the gourd farm today of course I said yes.  I soon realized I'd get to buy more bottle gourds to make dolls out of, since the bottle gourds are the perfect shape.  I like the ones that aren't symmetrical, because the bends and leans make the dolls look more animated.  Since a lot of gourd artists look for the perfect symmetrical shape, that leaves everything else for me! And when bottle gourds are 70% off, that's a great savings. I got tiny, medium, large and extra large bottle gourds so I can make doll families. I just bought my self a whole lot of work.  In the heavy rains the gourds are quite muddy and will have to be scrubbed.