A Christmas Present For My Grandson

During the Fall season I usually get the urge to make some cross-stitch gifts for the holidays.  This year I decided to make a wolf counted cross-stitch picture for one of my teenage grandsons for Christmas.  I needed something masculine and thought a wolf might be nice.

I looked at a lot of different wolf pictures and decided I liked the Wolf counted cross-stitch kit from Dimensions.

Like the other Dimensions kits I had bought the kit included the pattern, pre-sorted cotton thread, 18 count white cotton Aida, needle and instructions.

The Wolf pattern uses full counted cross-stitch, half cross-stitch, french knots and outline stitching for emphasis and depth and this detailing really makes the picture stand out. The design of this cross-stitch gives the finished picture a 3 dimensional aspect with the cross stitch, half cross-stitch, french knots and outlining being used for artistic effect.

The pattern came with starting and working order instructions as well as samples of the various stitches required, color coded keys (with code #'s, lengths, color names, and cross-stitch symbols) and a chart with color coded symbols.

While I was very pleased with the end results of this design there are some things in the kit and in the instructions that can be improved upon.

I was very happy with the color coded chart as it was quite large at 13" by 9" and very easy to read.

As was the case with previous Dimensions kits the thread sorter was poorly designed. The embroidery threads were glued to foam backed 4" by 1 1/4" strips of cardboard that had a picture of the color of the thread and it's number. In order to get to the threads you had to separate the foam back from the cardboard strip. Very quickly the threads separated from their section and then you no longer knew what the thread number was to tie to your symbols & legends.

As I have done with other cross-stitch kits I've completed I had to alter the thread sorter to suit my needs. I pulled the thread sorter apart to get rid of the foam and then punched holes in the cardboard strip just above each color and color #. I inserted the floss threads that went with that color and color # through the hole and tied them in a loose knot. I then added color coded symbols with colored pens beneath each color so I would know what symbols went with what color.

Short of changing the thread sorter all together to make things even easier for the user the color symbol should at the very least have been shown on the thread sorter strip of cardboard as well. That way you would only need to use the thread sorter strip of cardboard to follow your chart.

I also decided to once again utilize the rectangular wood frame jig that my darling husband built for me that I could tape the edges of the 18 count white cotton Aida to. The wood frame jig is a rectangular embroidery hoop of sorts and can accommodate a 5" by 5" cross-stitch picture kit or 5" by 7" cross-stitch picture kit. He had made it out of 1/2" x 1" pine wood strips with an adjustable center strip that I use for the 5 x 5 square designs.

In the picture on the front of the kit they had chosen to mount the picture without a mat and using a thin gold metal frame.  However, the kit did not come with instructions for finishing the back of the picture.  I tend to favor 1/4" foam backed adhesive mounting boards for the cross-stitch pictures I'm inserting into my picture frames but wasn't sure which of my picture frames I would be choosing and whether or not they would be deep enough to accommodate it.

I didn't want my picture to be too big so I decided not to mat it.  I had decided to use an 8 1/2" by 10 3/4" woodland rustic frame with glass and a 5" by 7" opening that I thought I thought would compliment the thread colors in the wolf picture.   I was hoping the depth of the frame and glass was deep enough to accommodate my picture which I would be mounting to a thinner hard adhesive mounting board. 

I like to finish my cross-stitch pictures by adhering them to a mounting board and then taping the four corners so I can sew them with nylon thread in a "V" to make the corners taut with the adhesive board and then tape the remaining vertical and horizontal sides with masking tape. So, I did this but to my dismay with the glass the depth was going to be an issue with the back of the frame. So I decided to remove the glass which actually allowed you to better see the 3-dimensional aspects of the picture.

Then I inserted it again. To my dismay it still was not going to fit within the back of the frame.  So, I undid the masking tape and V corners and trimmed the white Aida so it would cover the 1/8" sides of the mounting board and still allow me to tape the sides of the Aida to the back of the mounting board.

I added the back that was included with the frame this time it fit.  Success!

It took me 59 hours to complete this picture including the framing. Despite the problems I encountered I love the way my Dimensions Wolf picture turned out. It's absolutely beautiful and the 3-dimensional aspects of the wolf, snow and woodland scene are amazing.  Hopefully my grandson will like it.

Mr. Jolly, The Pencil Tree And The "Dollies"

When we walked into Lowe's the other day I knew I was going to be in trouble.  As we entered the door my eye caught sight of the jolliest Santa you'd ever want to see.  He was just standing there greeting all the customers with the biggest smile on his face.  I, of course, instantly fell in love with him and dubbed him Mr. Jolly.

As I approached him he called me Linda and asked if I was enjoying this holiday season.  I thought he might be reading my mind but figured the joy of this holiday season was written all over my face so it was obvious to him that I was so happy.

Somehow he knew that Christmas was my most favorite time of the year.  Not just for me, but the "dollies" as well. Oh, yeah.  He knew all about the "dollies." Go figure!

I knew for sure that I would be coming home with him and wondered what hubby would think of this.  It wasn't as if we needed another Christmas decoration.  We have a few! Ya think?

Mr. Jolly asked him how he was and I knew he was smitten as well.  So, we looked at each other and knew we'd be taking him home with us.  We both thought he would look wonderful next to our new "pencil" tree, which we both love. So, we told him to follow us to the check out line.

When we were checking out there was only one cashier and one person in line ahead of us.  When we got to the cashier there was a problem.  Mr. Jolly didn't have a tag on him and she needed his item number in order to ring him in.  While she was calling the holiday department I decided to run over and read the item number off the sticker where we had found him.  I literally had to run as I could see that the line was building up already.  Yikes! People don't like waiting in line. Especially during the holidays. Yikes!

On my way back I noticed there were "a lot" of  people in the line now.  In fact, it was winding down one of the aisles. Yikes!

However, the strange thing was they didn't seem annoyed.  How could this be?  One cashier, lots of people in line and the holiday season?  They all had to be annoyed, but they weren't.  It seems Mr. Jolly had won them all over as well.  They were all smitten as well.  Phew! I wasn't looking forward to approaching an angry mob of customers.

I told the cashier his item number which she was happy to have as she was still waiting on hold on the telephone.  Two minutes later we had checked out and were walking out the door.  I thought Mr. Jolly was behind us, but when I looked back he wasn't.  He was still talking to the customers in line and they were all still smiling, laughing and carrying on.  Simply amazing.

I went over to him and whispered in his ear that we had to go home now so he waved to all the customers and off we went.

I was anxious to bring him home as I knew he was going to look so wonderful next to our new "pencil" tree.

As we were driving home hubby reminded me that the "dollies" weren't very happy the last time we brought giant nutcracker decorations home.  In fact, there was a big brouhaha when we brought them inside the house.

  

You see, the last time I brought two wonderful nutcrackers home without consulting the "dollies" I nearly had World War III in my house. I wrote about it in a  post entitled, "I Should Have Known Better!"

They were, however,  the most adorable decorations for our family room and perfect to frame our family room fireplace.  The problem was they weren't handmade like all the "dollies." 

The "dollies" were infuriated that I would bring non handmade dolls into the house without consulting them first. So, to keep the peace I apologized and said, "it wouldn't happen again."

Mr. Jolly could tell from my face that something was up.  Then he reminded me that when "Theo" came into our lives I had honored that promise.  How Mr. Jolly knew this I'll never know.  Maybe he read my blog post.  Hmmm....

I don't know if you remember but Theo was a large Christmas bear that we bought at BJ's one year at Christmas that wasn't handmade either. I wrote about him in a blog post entitled "It Was The Holiday Season After All -When Anything Magical Could Happen."

When I wanted to bring him home hubby pulled out his cell phone and called the "dollies." A promise is a promise even if it is to inanimate objects.

As hubby was talking to the "dollies" Theo and I were holding hands and pacing back and forth in the middle of the aisle at BJ's. His hand was five times the size of mine. But, boy was it soft.

Back then when I looked into Theo's big brown eyes I could see that he was holding back the tears at the thought of not coming home with me. It nearly broke my heart. I knew I had to take him home with me whether the "dollies" agreed or not. Handmade or not didn't matter. Theo needed a loving home and we had one. He belonged with us.

Just as I was about to tell hubby we were taking Theo home with us whether the "dollies" liked it or not he got off the phone and said, "The dollies said to tell Theo - welcome home. We'd LOVE to have you join our family. You're HUGE and cuddly and adorable. Plus, you'd be perfect for the dining room North Pole Christmas scene."

Theo and I were delighted and he came home with us.

I began to wonder if the "dollies" would welcome Mr. Jolly as well.  The problem was I hadn't consulted them and we were already pulling into the driveway. I was bracing for WWIII.

To my delight the door opened and all the "dollies" poured out to form a welcome line for Mr. Jolly.  It seems they already knew he would be coming home with us today.  They'd known for weeks.

How could that be?  We just saw him at Lowe's today.

I looked at hubby and said, "what's going on?" It's almost as if they've already met him.  Well, it seems they already had.   Mr. Jolly had asked them ahead of time if it was okay if he came home with us today.  What? How could he know we'd want to take him home with us?

Just then Mr. Jolly jumped out of the car and went to greet all the "dollies."  They surrounded him and that was the last we saw of him that day.  They took him up to "the dollie storage room" and had a grand old time.  It was like they'd been friends forever.

That evening, after supper, I happen to glance over at the "pencil" tree and saw Mr. Jolly standing next to it.  He just looked so happy and so adorable standing there.  I couldn't help but smile.

He had put several presents under the tree for the "dollies" and had hung their stockings all over the house.  As he was preparing his "dollie naughty or nice" Christmas list he looked up and saw me looking at him.  I wondered which of the "dollies" was on his naughty list.  I had a few in mind, but to my surprise there weren't any names on the naughty side.   Hmmm..... Did they buy him off? Hmmm...... There had to be a few..... Hmmm.....

As I was looking at him he gave me the jolliest smile I've ever seen and I knew I would be smitten with him every Christmas season from now on.

He was a member of our family  now along with the "pencil" tree.  I had no doubt Mr. Jolly, the "pencil" tree and the "dollies" were going to make this the best Christmas holiday season ever.  And, every Christmas season thereafter.

I decided that we had more than enough Christmas decorations to last a lifetime.  No more shopping trips and coming home with Christmas decorations.  Now if you believe that I have a bridge I could sell you.........

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all.  Ho! Ho! Ho!

The "Pencil" Tree - Perfect In Every Way

Every year I tell myself that I'm not going to buy any new Christmas decorations.  Well, this year I saw some tall, skinny artificial Christmas trees that I call "pencil" trees and thought they might look nice in our family room.  My sister had bought a tall, skinny artificial tree a few years ago for her living room as the tree she had was just too big for the room and was really happy with it.

The problem with our Christmas trees every year is they always end up in the dining room, living room, or sun-room.  That's okay but we spend most of our time in the kitchen and family room and there really isn't any room for a big Christmas tree.

So, I mentioned this to hubby and we went to look at them as they were on sale.  We both thought it would be nice to see a lighted Christmas tree (albeit tall and skinny) in the family room.  So, we bought one as the sale price was good and brought it home.

Each year the only decorations I put on the Christmas tree are one's I've made, my mother or sister made, or were given to me by family members and I was determined to uphold this tradition as well.  I wasn't sure the tree would be big enough to hold them all but decided I would give it my best shot.

The tree was really easy to set up and when it was finished I was happy to see that all my decorations fit perfectly.  In fact, I love the way they look on the "pencil" tree as it really highlights the decorations.

I love it.  The "dollies" love it and hubby loves it as well. It's tall, skinny, like a "pencil." It's a perfect tree.  What could be better than that?

Needle Felted Snowman Picture Free E-Pattern

One of the free style needle felted e-patterns that I wanted to create recently was a needle felted snowman picture that I made years ago using the wonderful white roving that my sister had given me from her alpaca Sunflower.  She and her husband are the owners of Rock Garden Alpacas and Rock Garden Alpacas Fiber.

I thought it would be nice to create a Christmas and Winter scene type picture with a snowman, stars, a tree with presents underneath and then create a free e-pattern so you could create one of your own. The e-pattern includes tips for needle felting, step-by-step instructions for completing the picture, a colored snowman picture instruction steps sheet so you can see what piece belongs to what step, a colored snowman picture layout sheet that is the actual size of your needle felted snowman picture, and pattern pieces.

Needle Felted Snowman Picture E-Pattern for 5 1/2" by 5 1/2" Needle Felted Picture in 6 1/2" by 6 1/2" Tabletop Shadowbox Frame With 5" by 5" Opening - Needle Felting Series- Pattern Category - Skill Level - Beginner

To view and download my free e-book please CLICK HERE. You'll be brought to Google Drive where you can view my free e-book. Then just download my free .pdf e-book by clicking on the down arrow in the top center.

For more information on all my free e-patterns, e-printables and e-books please CLICK HERE.

Please respect My Terms of Use:  All patterns, e-patterns, printables, e-printables, e-books, graphics, tutorials, how-to's, articles and other e-products © 2004-2023 Linda Walsh Originals-Designs by Linda Walsh. All rights reserved. Commercial selling or reselling by any means prohibited without the written consent of Linda Walsh.

Patterns, e-patterns, printables, e-printables, e-books, graphics, tutorials, how-to's, articles and other e-products are for personal use only. You may not modify, photocopy, download, upload, post, transmit, display, perform, publish, license, reprint, create derivative works from, mass duplicate, re-sell, digitize, and reproduce in any other form (print, digital or electric) or commercially apply, embed, share, Email, or redistribution in any other means. Use of any of the above is prohibited without the written permission of Linda Walsh.

However, you may link to my website(s)/blog(s) and the individual page(s)/blog post(s) (including 1 picture) but do not copy, reprint or duplicate my website(s)/blog(s) or individual page(s)/post(s ) without my permission.

Items made from Linda Walsh Originals E-Patterns are intended for personal use for fun or small scale personal and business profit as long as you credit us with the design. Large scale commercial use (i.e. mass production) of items made from Linda Walsh Originals E-Patterns are by permission only.

Please see my Terms and Conditions for additional information.

Copyright © 2004 - 2023 - All Rights Reserved - Written By Linda Walsh of Linda Walsh Originals and Linda's Blog. Linda is a doll maker and doll pattern designer.

Snow Me Some Toys, Santa! Doll

While "Snow Me Some Toys, Santa!" absolutely loves Christmas, he also loves snow. He loves it because he gets to unwind from the stressful holiday season and make "snow angels" which he absolutely loves to do. His "snow angels" might not look like the typical "snow angels" due to his round and rotund body, but he tries his best. And, even if they don't look like regular "snow angels" he doesn't care as they serve his purpose which is to relax him.

"Snow Me Some Toys, Santa!" is a 8" self-sitting primitive cloth Santa snowman doll. He has a 3-tier warm and natural round and rotund body. His face is embroidered with black cross eyes, orange blushed cheeks, a resin carrot nose, wool fleece mustache, and eyebrows. His straggly beard is is wavy wool fleece. "Snow Me Some Toys, Santa" just loves his plaid and red Santa hat with matching plaid jacket with fold back cuffs and fold back front edge. His jacket is lined and top stitched along the edges. He is coffee stained throughout. Santa is holding his bag filled with all the toys he and the elves have made.

When it snows "Snow Me Up Some Toys, Santa" gets the elves and Rudolph and all the other reindeer to come out in the snow and make "snow angels" with him. The snow can't bring him new toys, but it can relax him and he hopes - relax his reindeer and elves. And, if you want to talk talk about strange "snow angels" just look at the "snow angels" created by the reindeer. They are definitely unlike any "snow angels" you might have seen. "Come on everyone. It's snowing!" Let's make some snow angels!"

Snow Me Some Toys Santa Handmade Primitive Santa Snowman Doll

Copyright © 2004 - 2023 - All Rights Reserved - Designed and Written By Linda Walsh

Please Vote For Me!

I entered this design in the Spoonflower Gingerbread Design Contest. Please look for this design and vote for me.

There's a lot of designs so please be patient finding it.

https://www.spoonflower.com/contest_voters_temp/new?contest_id=418

“Brr... It's Cold Outside, Bruce! and Brr... Why Is It So Cold, Laura!”

If you love making snowmen and snow-ladies cloth dolls then you're going to love our “Brr... It's Cold Outside, Bruce! and Brr... Why Is It So Cold, Laura!” Victorian Snow-Boy and Snow-Lady dolls and their product lines.

"Brr...Why Is It So Cold, Laura! " is a very unusual snow-lady. You see, she really doesn't like the cold weather. She's much rather stay inside her finely decorated "pink lady" Victorian house than be outside in the cold.

However, she promised her son, "Brr... It's Cold Outside, Bruce!" that she'd take him to the Victorian skating party at Regency Park this weekend. Bruce just loves to skate and is getting quite good at it. In fact, he's won several figure skating trophies which his mother has displayed on the living room mantle. But, he doesn't just love figure skating. He loves ice hockey too and is also very accomplished at that sport as well. So much so that everyone wants him on their team.

Bruce is looking forward to the skating party at Regency Park. Laura would much rather stay inside where it's warm.

"Brr...It's Cold Outside, Bruce!" is a 9" three-tiered self-standing Victorian snowman warm & natural cloth doll. He has an embroidered face with X-crossed eyes, resin carrot nose, X-crossed embroidered mouth, and blushed cheeks. He has a full head of straight mohair hair which is barely controlled under his flannel Sculley cap. He is wearing his favorite lined and coordinated Victorian jacket with top stitching, and cuffed sleeves. His jacket is secured in the front with three buttons. A fringed flannel scarf is wrapped around his neck and tied in a knot in the front. His skates are flung over his shoulder and he is carrying his newspaper sack. He figured he might as well deliver his papers on the way to the skating party.

Brr It's Cold Outside Bruce Handmade Victorian Snow-Boy Art Doll

"Brr...Why Is It So Cold, Laura! " is a very unusual snow-lady. You see, she really doesn't like the cold weather. She's much rather stay inside her finely decorated "pink lady" Victorian house than be outside in the cold.

However, she promised her son, "Brr... It's Cold Outside, Bruce!" that she'd take him to the Victorian skating party at Regency Park this weekend. Bruce just loves to skate and is getting quite good at it. In fact, he's won several figure skating trophies which his mother has displayed on the living room mantle. But, he doesn't just love figure skating. He loves ice hockey too and is also very accomplished at that sport as well. So much so that everyone wants him on their team.

Bruce is looking forward to the skating party at Regency Park. Laura would much rather stay inside where it's warm.

"Brr... Why Is It So Cold, Laura!" is a 9" three-tiered self-standing Victorian snow-lady warm & natural cloth doll. She has an embroidered face with X-crossed eyes, resin carrot nose, X-crossed embroidered mouth, and blushed cheeks. She has curly white yarn hair on the top of her head. Her coordinated Victorian lined bonnet has a center band, gathered bonnet and bonnet brim with ear flaps. It sits wonderfully on the top and back of her head. She is wearing her favorite lined and coordinated Victorian jacket with front and back darts, and cuffed sleeves. Her jacket is secured in the front with two buttons and a lined jacket tie is wrapped tightly around her waist and knotted in the back. She is also wearing a coordinated and lined cape and a fringed flannel scarf is wrapped around her neck and tied in a knot in the front. Her skates are flung over her shoulder and she is carrying a tiny Victorian gathered purse. Her hands are being kept warm inside her fur puff.

Brr Why Is It So Cold Laura Handmade Victorian Snow-Lady Doll

Copyright © 2004 - 2023 - All Rights Reserved - Designed and Written By Linda Walsh

“Snow Go! Noodles” Country Snowman Doll Decoration

"Snow Go! Noodles" couldn't been any nicer. He couldn't be anymore positive and goodhearted. He couldn't be anymore charming, or intelligent, or distinctly dressed. He couldn't be any more of a philanthropist than he already is. He couldn't be any more helpful or physically fit. He couldn't be..... Well, let's just say he's perfect. Perfect for a snowman - that is!

"Snow Go! Noodles" is a 28" squared bottomed self-standing cloth and wood country snowman. His arms and hands are wired and his warm & natural cloth head and warm & natural cloth body are supported by a wood dowel and wood base. His face is embroidered and he has indented black bead eyes, a resin carrot nose, and outline embroidered mouth. His eyebrows and eyelashes are embroidered and his cheeks are blushed and slightly indented. He has a mass of thick, straight, cream colored hair along the side seams of his head with the back left bald.

His large brimmed and lined hat with contrast bands and decorated bows sits slightly tilted to the left of his head. He is wearing his favorite blue top stitched jacket with cuffed sleeves, facing along the edges, a large button for front closure. A bow decorated pocket with coordinated fabric is affixed to the front of his body. A fringed scarf is wrapped around his neck and overlapped in the front and a fringed scarf is wrapped around his waist and tied in a bow in the front. He has a corn cob pipe inserted behind his waist scarf and is holding a large wood and metal shovel in his hands.

"Snow Go! Noodles" is so positive and so nice that nothing can get him down. Not a little snow, not a little cold, not even a little thaw. Certainly nothing that can get the average snowman down. But, "Snow Go! Noodles" isn't just any snowman. He couldn't be happier. He couldn't be ..... Well, let's just say he's perfect.

Copyright © 2004 - 2023 - All Rights Reserved - Designed and Written By Linda Walsh

“Olde St. Nick - Plump & Jolly!”

"Olde St. Nick - Plump & Jolly!" doesn't know what he would do without Mrs. Claus. He just adores her and is astonished at the amount of work she can get done in one day. She's ready, willing, and able to do anything and anything she can to help.

 She might be cooking for him and the elves. They do tend to get a little hungry after all that hard work. Or she might be crafting something for the good boys and girls. There's always so many presents that have to be made. Everyone has to pitch in and help. Or she might be decorating for the holidays. They do tend to have a lot of decorations at the North Pole! Floral crafts are her favorite. Or she might be washing and cleaning. Elves do tend to be messy - especially the boy elves. Or, she might be exercising the reindeer. They, too, need to be in shape for their journey. Or, she may be playing nurse to the elves who have the flu. Elves tend to overwork themselves and get a little run down - especially the boy elves.

Or she might be running to the grocery store. Even Santa and Mrs. Claus need to get supplies. They like to shop at the North Pole Walmart. Or she might be paying the bills. Santa does tend to rack up the bills. Or she might be babysitting some of the little elves. Reading a story to the little elves is her favorite time because she just loves to embellish. Or she might be mending some of his suits.

He does tend to put on some weight around the holidays and Mrs. Clause has to let his suits out a little. Okay - has to let his suits out a LOT!

"Olde St. Nick - Plump & Jolly!" is a 24" country St. Nick from our "Pleasantly Plump Series." He is a squared bottomed self-standing cloth and wood doll. His arms and hands are wired and his cloth head and cloth body are supported by a wood dowel and wood base. His face is embroidered and he has blue water colored and sunken eyes, an embroidered and raised nose, and a red mouth. His eyebrows, mustache, and full beard are made of raw mohair. His cheeks are pencil colored and blushed rosy. He has shading under his eyes and around his nose. St. Nick has a mass of white wool roving hair under his Santa cap. His cap is lined, fur trimmed, tassel and pompom decorated, and is attached to the top and back of his head. His round frame glasses sit on the bridge of his nose. St. Nick is wearing his favorite holiday jacket and cap. His long jacket is fur trimmed along the sleeve edges, bottom edge, and front edges. It is gathered at the neck and fastened in the front with six DMC embroidery bows. A gold cord is wrapped around his waist and tied in a knot in the front. He is holding a bag of Christmas toys that is gathered and tied with zig-zag trim.

Santa really doesn't know what he would do without Mrs. Claus. Whether it's cooking, sewing, crafting, cleaning, exercising, shopping, nursing, bookkeeping, babysitting, decorating, reading stories, or one of one hundred other tasks that need to be done she's always there to help. She is one busy lady and indispensable to Santa.

Olde St Nick Plump and Jolly Handmade Country Santa Claus Doll

Copyright © 2004 - 2023 - All Rights Reserved - Designed and Written By Linda Walsh

“Mrs. St. Nicholas - A Little Plump, But Happy!”

"Mrs. St. Nicholas - A Little Plump, But Happy!" is one of the nicest woman you'd ever want to meet. She loves her life at the North Pole, loves her husband, and loves doing whatever she can to help him get ready for Christmas Eve. She's ready, willing, and able.

Now don't let a little bit of "plumpness" fool you. Mrs. Claus may be "plump" but she is as fit as a fiddle. She has to be to get everything done that needs to be done for Christmas Eve. She might be cooking for the elves and Santa - they do tend to get a little hungry after all that hard work. Or she might be crafting something for the good boys and girls. There's always so many presents that have to be made. Everyone has to pitch in and help.

Or she might be decorating for the holidays. They do tend to have a lot of decorations at the North Pole! Floral crafts are her favorite. Or she might be washing and cleaning. Elves do tend to be messy - especially the boy elves. Or, she might be exercising the reindeer. They, too, need to be in shape for their journey.

Or, she may be playing nurse to the elves who have the flu. Elves tend to overwork themselves and get a little run down - especially the boy elves. Or she might be running to the grocery store. Even Santa and Mrs. Claus need to get supplies. They like to shop at the North Pole Walmart. Or she might be paying the bills. Santa does tend to rack up the bills.

Or she might be babysitting some of the little elves. Reading a story to the little elves is her favorite time because she just loves to embellish. Or she might be mending some of Santa's suits. He does tend to put on some weight around the holidays and Mrs. Clause has to let his suits out a little.

"Mrs. St. Nicholas - A Little Plump, But Happy!" is a 23" country Mrs. Claus from our "Pleasantly Plump Series." She is a squared bottomed self-standing cloth and wood doll. Her arms and hands are wired and her cloth head and cloth body are supported by a wood dowel and wood base. Her face is embroidered and she has brown water colored and sunken eyes, an embroidered and raised nose, and a red outline embroidered mouth. Her eyebrows are embroidered as are her eyelashes and she has rosy pencil colored and blushed cheeks. She has shading under her eyes and around her nose and pencil colored wrinkle lines.

Mrs. Claus has a mass of gray hair fastened in a bun with bangs under her cap. Her cap is lined, and gathered and is attached to the top and back of her head. Her square frame glasses sit on the bridge of her nose. Mrs. Claus is wearing her favorite holiday ensemble with matching vest and cap. Her dress has two layers of lace trim on the bottom and is gathered at the waist and neck. Her dress sleeves have two layers of lace trim and are gathered at the shoulders and wrists. She is wearing a long lined vest that is top stitched along all the edges and fastened in the front with DMC Embroidery bows. Mrs. Claus is carrying a pine cone, ,berry and ribbon decorated basket that she made for the front foyer.

She might be cooking, sewing, crafting, cleaning, exercising, shopping, nursing, bookkeeping, babysitting, decorating, reading stories, or one of one hundred other tasks that need to be done. She loves her life - but, she is one busy lady. She's a little plump, but certainly happy and CERTAINLY able.

Mrs St. Nicholas A Little Plump But Happy Handmade Doll

Copyright © 2004 - 2023 - All Rights Reserved - Designed and Written By Linda Walsh

“Caroling Time, Jim and I Love Carols, Penny” Victorian Caroler Art Dolls

If you love making Victorian Christmas caroling cloth dolls then you're going to love our “Caroling Time, Jim and I Love Carols, Penny” dolls.

"Caroling Time, Jim" and his family look forward to the caroling season every year. In fact, it is their favorite time of the year. It's so joyous and so festive and Jim and his family are good singers. Truth be told - they practice several times over the course of the year. They enjoy singing together and enjoy caroling from house to house. And, truth be told - they're really good at it. Jim, and Katie, and John get so into caroling that they lose track of time. Penny, on the other hand never loses track of time. She loves the holiday season and loves to carol, too. But, it's such a busy time of the year for her that when it comes time to carol she has 100 other things on her mind. So, sometimes, she appears to be a little angry. But, that's not really what she is. She's harried. She loves to carol, but she's harried. And, she loves spending time with Jim and the kids. They can really get into it and sing their hearts out. It's just that with so many things to do.....

"Caroling Time, Jim" really enjoys spending this time with his family. It is their special time of the year and he really looks forward to it. However, he wishes it weren't as hectic a time of the year for his wife, Penny, as he wishes she could enjoy caroling with them. He knows she does - it's just that she has 100 other things on her mind. So, Jim makes sure that he pays extra special attention to Penny and the kids so they all have a great time caroling. If Penny is having such a good time - maybe she won't be thinking of all the other things she needs to do. Maybe, but unlikely. In any event, "Caroling Time, Jim" will try his best. "Here we go a caroling..............."

"Caroling Time, Jim" is a 13" squared bottomed self-standing Victorian caroler cloth doll. He has a 1/2 muslin body and 1/2 denim body. His face is embroidered and he has water colored blue eyes, rosy cheeks, and a shaded nose. His eyebrows are embroidered as are his eyelashes. His mouth is open and embroidered and water colored red. He is sporting an auburn mustache and gold embroidered glasses.. Jim has a mass of thick curly bubble doll hair all over his head that is barely controlled under his lined hat. He is wearing his favorite brown denim outfit with coordinating shirt, lining, bowtie, and hat. His short is brown check and gathered at the neck and matches the bowtie under his chin. The lining of his jacket matches his shirt and bowtie. His jacket is lined, double breasted with 4 buttons, has two flap pockets in the front, a collar, and top stitching along all the edges. He is carrying his favorite caroling book.

Caroling Time Jim Handmade Victorian Gentleman Caroler Art Doll

"Caroling Time, Jim" and his family look forward to the caroling season every year. In fact, it is their favorite time of the year. It's so joyous and so festive and Jim and his family are good singers. Truth be told - they practice several times over the course of the year. They enjoy singing together and enjoy caroling from house to house. And, truth be told - they're really good at it. Jim, and Katie, and John get so into caroling that they lose track of time. Penny, on the other hand never loses track of time. She loves the holiday season and loves to carol, too. But, it's such a busy time of the year for her that when it comes time to carol she has 100 other things on her mind. So, sometimes, she appears to be a little angry. But, that's not really what she is. She's harried. She loves to carol, but she's harried. And, she loves spending time with Jim and the kids. They can really get into it and sing their hearts out. It's just that with so many things to do.....

"Caroling Time, Jim" really enjoys spending this time with his family. It is their special time of the year and he really looks forward to it. However, he wishes it weren't as hectic a time of the year for his wife, Penny, as he wishes she could enjoy caroling with them. He knows she does - it's just that she has 100 other things on her mind. So, Jim makes sure that he pays extra special attention to Penny and the kids so they all have a great time caroling. If Penny is having such a good time - maybe she won't be thinking of all the other things she needs to do. Maybe, but unlikely. In any event, "Caroling Time, Jim" will try his best. "Here we go a caroling..............."

"I Love Carols, Penny" is a 12" squared bottomed self-standing Victorian caroler cloth doll. She has a muslin body and embroidered face. She has a muslin body and embroidered face. She has brown embroidered eyes, gold shaded eyelids, rosy cheeks, and a shaded nose. Her eyebrows are embroidered as are her eyelashes. Her mouth is open and embroidered and water colored red. I Love Carols, Penny has a mass of thick curly burgundy colored bubbles doll hair all over her head that is barely controlled under her bonnet. Her lined bonnet has an extra large brim to keep the cold and bad weather out and Penny is thankful for that. Penny has two layers of lace trim along the lower part of her body. She is wearing her favorite slip with lace overslip that is gathered at the waist. Her green dress has gathered sleeves with lace trim and a gathered lace trim bottom. It is gathered along the neck edge and decorated along the neck edge with lace trim. Her wool felt cape is lined and two-tiered to keep out the cold. Penny's cape is wrapped around her shoulders and tied in a knot in the front. She is carrying her favorite caroling book.

I Love Carols, Penny Handmade Victorian Caroling Doll

Copyright © 2004 - 2023 - All Rights Reserved - Designed and Written By Linda Walsh

“Nellie” Victorian Snow Lady Art Doll

Two things today got me to thinking about "Nellie" my Victorian snow-lady doll pattern. The first is that winter is right around the corner. I hope Mother Nature takes pity upon is this year and doesn't inundate us with snow.

The second is a comment my husband made years ago. When the Christmas decorations are put away the Winter decorations, also known as snow-people, make their appearance. I always have a seasonal display in the  front foyer of our house.  For the winter season there is a large floral basket with all the winter blue colors and three of my snow-people dolls. The focal point of the winter display is my "Nellie" Victorian snow-lady doll.

"Nellie" was named after my husband's GrandAunt who was born in May of 1889, definitely during the Victorian Era. Or, at the very least, towards the end of the Victorian Era. All I could think of while I was designing her was that "Nellie" had to have been a bit on the shy, defined, and eloquent side. So, my "Nellie" had to be also.

Yah, so? Linda, will you please get to the second reason!!! Okay, okay. You know how I love to get off track. In any event, my husband told me years ago that he thinks that my "Nellie" Victorian snow-lady doll is the best doll I've ever made. Well, I couldn't agree with him more. She really is quite stunning. I have to keep that to myself though as "Nellie" is quite full of herself as are most of the dolls I've made. She just loves to be on display and begged me to show you the new pictures that I've just taken of her so you could judge for yourselves..

"Nellie" is one of my more advanced patterns and requires a more experienced sewer. It's not that she is "difficult" herself (she told me to tell you that) it's just that her clothing is intricately designed. Her lined coat is adorned with lace both inside and out.

So, what do you think? Is she stunning? If you think so, please don't tell her. Make sure you send me a confidential e-mail. "Nellie" is quite the snoop and if she found out there would be no living with her then. She'd want to be on display year round. And then I'd have "Dollie WWIII" going on in my house. Please, please if you think she's gorgeous let me know. Just don't tell"Nellie."

Nellie Snow Lady" is a free-standing doll and such a beautiful snow lady dressed in her best street costume. She has a fancy double-tiered lace trimmed dress, full length double-tiered laced trimmed (inside and out) lined jacket with long puffed sleeves, fancy lace and floral decorated lined hat, lace trimmed and gathered slip, lace trimmed and gathered bloomers, lace trimmed parasol, and lace gloves. Her arms are wire-shaped and covered. Her hair is white with bangs and is fastened in a bun. Her face is partly embroidered and she has a covered Styrofoam head and cloth body supported by a wood dowel and covered wood base. Her fancy hat is tied with a lace ribbon into a bow on the side of her head.

"Nellie Snow Lady" is the epitome of elegance in snow gals. She just loves her Victorian outfit and blue colors. It is a good compliment to her "snow" complexion. "Nellie Snow Lady" prides herself on her composure, her style, and her demeanor. She is everything you could want in a Victorian Snow Lady.

Nellie Snow-Lady Handmade Victorian Snow-Lady Art Doll

Copyright © 2004 - 2023 - All Rights Reserved - Designed and Written By Linda Walsh

“John - The First Noel Caroler! and Katie - The Noel Caroler!”

"Caroling Time, Jim" and his family look forward to the caroling season every year. In fact, it is their favorite time of the year. It's so joyous and so festive and Jim and his family are good singers. Truth be told - they practice several times over the course of the year. They enjoy singing together and enjoy caroling from house to house. And, truth be told - they're really good at it. Jim, and his daughter, Katie, and her brother, John get so into caroling that they lose track of time. Their mother, Penny, on the other hand never loses track of time. She loves the holiday season and loves to carol, too. But, it's such a busy time of the year for her that when it comes time to carol she has 100 other things on her mind. So, sometimes, she appears to be a little angry. But, that's not really what she is. She's harried. She loves to carol, but she's harried. And, she loves spending time with Jim and the kids. They can really get into it and sing their hearts out. It's just that with so many things to do.....

"John - The First Noel Caroler!" really enjoys spending this time with his family. It is their special time of the year and he really looks forward to it. He loves to be out with his family and even enjoys the cold weather. Sometimes, in fact, he wishes it would start snowing while they are caroling. In his mind, that would be magical. Cold, but, magical. "Here we go a caroling..............."

"John - The First Noel Caroler!" is an 11" squared bottomed self-standing Victorian caroler cloth doll. He has a 1/2 muslin body and 1/2 fabric body. His face is water colored and he has water colored brown eyes, and rosy cheeks with white highlight dots. His mouth is open and water colored red. His eyebrows are water colored brown. John has a mass of thick curly brown doll hair all over his head that is barely controlled under his lined top hat. He is wearing his favorite blue outfit with gathered at the waist and hips pantaloons. His shirt matches the lining of his jacket and is gathered at the neck. His sleeves are gathered at the shoulders and wrists. The lining of his jacket matches his shirt and tie. His jacket is lined and is gathered along the bottom band. His jacket sleeves are gathered at the shoulders, and gathered at the cuffs and his lapels are folded down. He is carrying his favorite caroling book.

"Caroling Time, Jim" and his family look forward to the caroling season every year. In fact, it is their favorite time of the year. It's so joyous and so festive and Jim and his family are good singers. Truth be told - they practice several times over the course of the year. They enjoy singing together and enjoy caroling from house to house. And, truth be told - they're really good at it. Jim, and his daughter, Katie, and her brother, John get so into caroling that they lose track of time. Their mother, Penny, on the other hand never loses track of time. She loves the holiday season and loves to carol, too. But, it's such a busy time of the year for her that when it comes time to carol she has 100 other things on her mind. So, sometimes, she appears to be a little angry. But, that's not really what she is. She's harried. She loves to carol, but she's harried. And, she loves spending time with Jim and the kids. They can really get into it and sing their hearts out. It's just that with so many things to do.....

"Katie - The Noel Caroler!" really enjoys spending this time with her family. It is their special time of the year and she really does looks forward to it. She just loves to sing carols with "The First Noel" being her favorite. However, Katie wishes it wasn't as hectic a time of the year as it is for her mother. So, she tries to do everything she can to help her mother, Penny, so she and her family can enjoy their caroling time together. "Here we go a caroling..............."

"Katie - The Noel Caroler!" is a 10" squared bottomed self-standing Victorian caroler cloth doll. She has a muslin body and water colored face. She has water colored brown eyes, brown shaded eyelids, and rosy cheeks with white highlighting dots. Her mouth is open and water colored red. "Katie - The Noel Caroler!" has a mass of thick curly brown colored bubbles doll hair all over her head that is barely controlled under her large bonnet. Her lined bonnet has an extra large brim to keep the cold and bad weather out and Katie is thankful for that. Katie has one layer of pleated lace trim along the lower part of her body. She is wearing her favorite blue print dress with lace trimmed sleeves that are gathered at her wrists and two layers of lace trim along the bottom. It is gathered along the neck edge and decorated along the neck edge with lace trim. Katie is wearing a two-sectional lined jacket with a gathered bottom and lapels. Her matching cape is lined and wrapped around her shoulders then tied in a knot int he front. She is carrying her favorite caroling book.

Copyright © 2004 - 2023 - All Rights Reserved - Designed and Written By Linda Walsh

“Call Me Margaretta Claus and Crazy Claus At Your Service!”

I just love making Christmas dolls - especially ornaments that I can use for decorating.  

"Call Me Margaretta Claus" and her husband, "Crazy Claus At Your Service!" just love to laugh and love to have fun. They just love to hang out and enjoy the holiday festivities. Whether it's at your house or at the North Pole, they're comfortable anywhere. Especially "Call Me Margaretta Claus."

"Call Me Margaretta Claus" loves to laugh and can get to laughing so hard that she'll start to cry, too. She, too gets to laughing so hard she starts to cry and then she can't stop herself. Maybe then things can get a little crazy. All this laughing and crying and laughing and crying could turn anyone crazy. Whether she's at your house or the North Pole get ready to laugh, and laugh, and laugh.

"Call Me Margaretta Claus" is an 8" primitive Mrs. Claus cloth doll ornament She has a muslin body. Her face is embroidered and her cheeks are blushed and rosy. Her red striped boots are cross laced. Margaretta has a mass of white wool roving hair fashioned in a rolled under style that is nicely covered by her bonnet. Her fringed bloomers are gathered at the waist and knees. Her fringed dress is gathered at the neck and wrists and her fringed apron is tied around her waist and knotted in the back.

"Call Me Margaretta Claus" and her husband, "Crazy Claus At Your Service!" just love to laugh and love to have fun. They just love to hang out and enjoy the holiday festivities. Whether it's at your house or at the North Pole, they're comfortable anywhere. Especially "Call Me Margaretta Claus."

"Crazy Claus At Your Service!" really isn't "crazy!" He's a bit of a kidder and when he gets to laughing he can't stop. He gets to laughing so hard he starts to cry and then he can't stop himself. Maybe then things can get a little crazy. All this laughing and crying and laughing and crying could turn anyone crazy. Whether he's at your house or the North Pole get ready to laugh, and laugh, and laugh.

"Crazy Claus At Your Service!" is an 8" primitive Santa cloth doll ornament He has a muslin body. His face is embroidered and his cheeks are blushed and rosy. His mustache and scraggly beard are made of raw mohair. His black boots are cross laced. Crazy Claus has a mass of white wool roving hair all over his head. He is wearing his favorite red and green plaid Santa outfit. The pants are fringed and gathered at the waist and knees. His fringed jacket has a center panel and hood that barely contains his thick head of hair.

Copyright © 2004 - 2023 - All Rights Reserved - Designed and Written By Linda Walsh

“Just Call Me Jeremiah Claus and Please Call Me Mrs. Karen Claus”

"Just Call Me Jeremiah Claus" just loves the Christmas season and loves being Santa. However, what he looks forward to the most during the Christmas season is the "Annual Christmas Ball." And, the reason he looks forward to the "Annual Christmas Ball" is because he can finally wear something other than his typical red suit and can take his wife, "Please Call me Mrs. Karen Claus!" to the annual Christmas ball. 

He loves to take his wife to the ball because she just looks so beautiful in her red velour dress. Why, she's the most beautiful woman there. At least, in his eyes she is. And, she's a fabulous dancer. They can dance, and dance, and dance all night long and never get tired of being in each others arms. It's sheer heaven for "Just Call Me Jeremiah Claus" and something he loves to attend every year. Plus, he gets to wear his favorite green velvet Victorian suit. And, if he doesn't say so himself - he's quite dashing in it! A Victorian gentleman to the core.

"Just Call Me Jeremiah Claus" loves being Santa. However, he dearly loves his wife and looks forward to the "Annual Christmas Ball" so he can twirl her around and around the dance floor. Waltzing to his heart's content. What could be better than that? A Victorian gentleman to the core on the arms of a Victorian Lady of the highest regard.

"Just Call Me Jeremiah Claus" is a 15" squared bottomed self-standing Victorian Santa cloth doll. He has a 1/2 muslin body and 1/2 velvet body. His face is embroidered with black satin stitched and blue water colored eyes, pink cheeks, and a raised nose. His eyebrows are mohair as is his mustache and beard. His mouth is embroidered and water colored red. Jeremiah has a mass of thick white roving hair that he thinks makes him look quite debonair under his green lined and matching velvet top hat. Jeremiah is wearing his favorite Christmas shirt that is gathered at the neck and wrists. He has fancy lace cummerbund wrapped around his waist and coordinating green velvet and lace bow tie under his chin. His red vest is lined and top stitched along the edges. It is fastened with a button and has fold down lapels. His green velvet jacket is the latest in Victorian gentleman's fashion and has a lining, fold down collar and lapels, and red waist length buttons. Jeremiah is carrying his Santa bag filled with presents for all the "Annual Christmas Ball" attendees.

"Just Call Me Jeremiah Claus" just loves the Christmas season and loves being Santa. However, what he looks forward to the most during the Christmas season is the "Annual Christmas Ball." And, the reason he looks forward to the "Annual Christmas Ball" is because he can finally wear something other than his typical red suit and can take his wife, "Please Call me Mrs. Karen Claus!" to the annual Christmas ball. He loves to take his wife to the ball because she just looks so beautiful in her red velour dress. Why, she's the most beautiful woman there. At least, in his eyes she is. And, she's a fabulous dancer. They can dance, and dance, and dance all night long and never get tired of being in each others arms. It's sheer heaven for "Just Call Me Jeremiah Claus" and something he loves to attend every year. Plus, he gets to wear his favorite green velvet Victorian suit. And, if he doesn't say so himself - he's quite dashing in it! A Victorian gentleman to the core.

"Please Call Me Mrs. Karen Claus!" loves being married to Santa and loves being Mrs. Claus. She dearly loves her husband and looks forward to the "Annual Christmas Ball" because her husband gets to unwind and thoroughly enjoy himself. For "Please Call Me Mrs. Karen Claus!" if her husband is happy and can relax and enjoy himself then she is happy, too.

"Please Call Me Mrs. Karen Claus!" is a 14" squared bottomed self-standing Victorian Mrs. Claus cloth doll. She\e has a muslin body with 2 layers of lace trim along the bottom of her body. Her face is embroidered with black satin stitched and brown water colored eyes, pink cheeks, and a raised nose. His eyebrows are embroidered and brown water colored her mouth is embroidered. Karen has a mass of thick mohair hair fastened in a turned under style with bangs. She is her favorite slip with lace over-slip that is gathered at the waist. Her beautiful red velour dress is gathered at the waist and has beautiful ribbon trim along the waistline and beautiful lace trim along the bottom edge and neck edge. Her matching lined short jacket is also beautifully ribbon trimmed along the bottom edge and is gathered at the wrists. Her matching cape is lined and lace trimmed along the edges and is wrapped around her shoulders and tied in a knot in the front. Her coordinated and matching lined bonnet is also beautifully lace ribbon trimmed and is tied in a knot under her chin.

Copyright © 2004 - 2023 - All Rights Reserved - Designed and Written By Linda Walsh

“Morning Walk, Karl” Woodland Santa Doll Decoration

Morning Walk, Karl just loves walking in the woods. In fact, the mornings are his favorite time of the day. He gets to collect his thoughts and enjoy his walk with nature. Ah, there's nothing like the early morning sun to put you in the right frame of mind for the coming day.

He is a free-standing woodsman. He has a long embroidered jacket decorated with a painted wood canoe and painted wood spruce tree covered with snow. His shirt is white and he has cuffed velour pants, socks and green sock slippers. His hat is a wool cap and he has a very full beard and mustache and long white hair. His face is drawn and he has clear plastic and wire glasses. He also has a fabric covered head and wood body and feet. Rope is tied around his waist and his snow shoes so that he can carry them around his waist. He is using a walking stick.

"Morning Walk, Karl" is a likeable guy. But, he's usually in his best frame of mind in the morning. If you want to ask him something or get him to do something - ask him in the morning after his "morning walk." He'll probably say "sure."

Copyright © 2004 - 2023 - All Rights Reserved - Designed and Written By Linda Walsh

“Caroling Gertie and Bah! Carols! Harpo” Country Caroling Ornaments

I used to love caroling as a child which might explain my love of  making all kinds of Christmas carolers. 

"Caroling Gertie" just loves to carol. She loves to sing and she loves to be out among her best friends. Traveling from house to house singing all, their favorite carols. And, best of all, receiving hot cocoa. She just loves the hot cocoa. Especially when it's freezing cold outside and her cheeks are bright red. She loves caroling so much even the cold can't keep her from singing.

"Caroling Gertie!" is an 8" primitive cloth caroling ornament. She has a muslin body and embroidered face with black zig-zag stitched nose, red satin stitched mouth and rosy red cheeks. Her eyebrows are embroidered as are her eyelashes . Her boots are black and cross-laced. Gertie has a mass of thick bubbles doll hair that is gathered into pigtails and tied in the front. She is wearing fringed bloomers that are gathered at the waist and legs. Her flannel dress is fringed and gathered at the neck and wrist. Gertie's wool felt jacket has a hood that barely covers Gertie's thick, braided hair. A matching flannel and fringed scarf is wrapped around the outside of her jacket. She is carrying her favorite caroling book.

"Caroling Gertie!" has an excellent voice and knows all the hymns by heart. She carries her favorite caroling book with her just in case one of her friends needs it. "The first noel the angels did ..........."

"Bah! Carols! Harpo!" really does love to carol. He just pretends not to just to get a laugh. He really does love to sing and loves to be out among his best friends. Traveling from house to house singing all, their favorite carols. And, best of all, receiving hot cocoa and roasted chestnuts. Ah, just the thought of the hot cocoa and roasted chestnuts makes his mouth start to water.

"Bah! Carols! Harpo!" is an 8" primitive cloth caroling ornament. He has a muslin body and embroidered face with black zig-zag stitched nose, red satin stitched mouth and rosy red cheeks. His eyebrows are embroidered as are his eyelashes. His boots are black and cross-laced. Gertie has a mass of thick bubbles doll hair that is barely contained under his flannel hat. He is wearing velour pantaloons that are gathered at the waist and legs. His flannel shirt is fringed and gathered at the neck. Harpo's wool felt jacket is double breasted with two rows of two buttons each. A matching flannel and fringed scarf is wrapped around the outside of his jacket and tied in a knot in the front. He is carrying her favorite caroling book.

"Bah! Carols! Harpo!" has an excellent voice and knows all the hymns by heart. He pretends not to like caroling so all his friends will laugh and have a good time. He really is good-natured and loves to sing. Especially when he is singing his favorite carols with his friends. "The first noel the angels did ..........."

Copyright © 2004 - 2023 - All Rights Reserved - Designed and Written By Linda Walsh

Put Up Your Dukes, Santa!

"Put Up Your Dukes! Santa" loves being Santa, and usually is pretty even tempered. But, he also Irish. And, being Irish his temper can get the better of him. Now you might be wondering how that is. Nothing could possibly rattle Santa. Well, that might be true if he wasn't "Irish" and have an "Irish" temper.

"Put Up Your Dukes! Santa" is a 16" country Santa doll with a muslin cloth body. His face is embroidered and he has brown button eyes, wired glasses, and pink cheeks. His eyebrows and mustache are made of raw mohair as is his scraggly beard. His black boots are cross laced. He has a wonderful heard of hair on the lower back and sides of his head with the top and center being bald. He is wearing his favorite fringed shirt which is gathered at the neck and wrists. He is also wearing his favorite fringed and cuffed pantaloons with cross suspenders. His Christmas carpenter's apron has two large pockets in the front - large enough to fit a few of the toys he has made. And, his hands are ready for "putting up your dukes!".

"Put Up Your Dukes! Santa" works very hard at not letting his "Irish" temper show. Sometimes, however he may just have you "putting up your dukes!"

Copyright © 2004 - 2023 - All Rights Reserved - Designed and Written By Linda Walsh

“Susanna” Victorian Angel Art Doll E-Pattern

"Susanna" is a young, but very special angel with some very beautiful qualities and a very special charge. She is a kind and loving angel who has a very special heart. One who manifests nothing but goodness in everyone and everything. Her charge is to spread compassion, love, understanding, peace, contentment, and grace to everyone she meets. It's a tall order for such a young angel, but Susanna feels she is up to it.

"Susanna" is a 12" Victorian faceless cloth angel doll. She has a muslin body and her boots are black and cross laced. Her blond hair is fashioned into bangs in the front and long pigtails tied in the front with ribbon. Wrapped around the top of her head is a floral garland. She is wearing lace trimmed pinafore bloomers that are gathered at the waist and a lace trimmed pinafore slip that is also gathered at the waist. Her beautiful white dress has a lace trimmed center bodice with lace trimmed front to back straps, lined and lace trimmed over sleeves, and lace trimmed sleeves. Her dress is three tiered with lace trimming on each tier and gathered along the waistline. It is gathered at the neck edge and then adorned with a pearl and lace ribbon trim. Her wings are wired satin ribbons and fashioned in a bow in the back. She is carrying a small pink floral bouquet.

Susanna is anxious to fulfill her mission. Spreading compassion, love, understanding, peace, contentment, and grace to everyone she meets is a tall order but Susanna feels she can do it with your help. Will you help her?

Copyright © 2004 - 2023 - All Rights Reserved - Designed and Written By Linda Walsh

My “Presents For You” Victorian Santa Claus Doll Decoration E-Pattern

Several years ago I decided to enter one of the doll challenges on the Cloth Doll Artistry community that I belong to. I didn't win, but that was okay with my Santa. So, a pattern he became. And, that suits him just fine.

I had previously written about being "In Sewing Heaven" on a post on my Linda's Blog when I was creating him but, wasn't able to tell you the details of the challenge at that time.

Well, the rules of the challenge were that we would each have a partner that we would swap 3 different holiday fat quarters with. Each of us would use the fat quarters sent by our partner to make a Santa doll. We were each sent a simple body pattern to use that could be altered anyway we wanted. The clothing was entirely up to us as long as we used the fat quarters we were sent and, as a bonus, could add 2 solid colors. There were three categories we could enter our doll in: Silliest Cartoon Character Type Santa, Most Creative In Color In Style, and Most Traditional In Style To Father Christmas.

My partner had sent me a bright red/green fancy floral fabric, rustic pine cone printed fabric, and a light beige/cream fabric. I decided to make my Santa Victorian in nature (pray tell now why would I choose that? LOL LOL) with a long lined coat and cuffed and gathered pantaloons.

I also decided to partially embroider and watercolor his face and give him silver embroidered glasses, as well as a raised nose. He had a full curly mohair mustache, full combination straight and curly mohair beard, and a straight mohair full head of hair.

His lined jacket was adorned with gold trim on the inside and outside edges of his jacket with the front lapels folded back and tied in place with red DMC floss bows. His lined jacket was fastened with a wired gold bow with wood button and the lined sleeves were gathered and cuffed with bright red fabric.

You can't tell from the pictures, but he's also wearing a solid green tunic that is gathered at the neck and wrists and fastened around his waist with a gold rope. His hat had a lined band, large red pompom and matched both his coat and cuffed two colored pantaloons.His black boots had criss-cross laces of white DMC embroidery floss. And, I decided to sit him atop a wrapped box with a large wired ribbon bow and have him hold a pre-bought decorated wooden sled.

It was a tough challenge as all the Santa's that were submitted were excellent. I submitted mine under the Most Creative In Color and Style category. It was hard choosing which one I liked for each category - besides my own, of course!! LOL LOL

Alas, he didn't win. Of course, I'd hoped I would win. I didn't but - a pattern he'll be for all of you to make. And, he's just fine with that.

Copyright © 2004 - 2023 - All Rights Reserved - Designed and Written By Linda Walsh

My 2 in 1 "Yikes, Santa and Snow Me Some Toys, Santa!" Santa Claus Dolls

I just love the Christmas holiday season as I get to decorate my home with all sorts of holiday decorations including Santa's.  I love making them and have made quite a few over the years.  

Yikes! Santa is is running out of time. He is sitting in his stenciled and painted wood chair, checking his list and he doesn't know what to do. He is running out of time.

He is sitting in his stenciled and painted wood chair, checking his list. He has an embroidered vest , shirt, pantaloons, socks, laced boots, Santa cap, a beard and mustache and long white hair. His face is drawn and he has wire glasses. He also has a fabric covered head and body. He has a blackboard, “naughty & nice” list, feather pen, and Santa bag filled with toys and decorated with holly.

There are so many things he has yet to do. Oh, where does the time go? Where are my elves? Where's Mrs. Claus? I need help. I'm running out of time!

Designer - Linda Walsh Originals

While "Snow Me Some Toys, Santa!" absolutely loves Christmas, he also loves snow. He loves it because he gets to unwind from the stressful holiday season and make "snow angels" which he absolutely loves to do. His "snow angels" might not look like the typical "snow angels" due to his round and rotund body, but he tries his best. And, even if they don't look like regular "snow angels" he doesn't care as they serve his purpose which is to relax him.

"Snow Me Some Toys, Santa!" is a 8" self-sitting primitive cloth Santa snowman doll. He has a 3-tier warm and natural round and rotund body. His face is embroidered with black cross eyes, orange blushed cheeks, a resin carrot nose, wool fleece mustache, and eyebrows. His straggly beard is is wavy wool fleece. "Snow Me Some Toys, Santa" just loves his plaid and red Santa hat with matching plaid jacket with fold back cuffs and fold back front edge. His jacket is lined and top stitched along the edges. He is coffee stained throughout. Santa is holding his bag filled with all the toys he and the elves have made.

When it snows "Snow Me Up Some Toys, Santa" gets the elves and Rudolph and all the other reindeer to come out in the snow and make "snow angels" with him. The snow can't bring him new toys, but it can relax him and he hopes - relax his reindeer and elves. And, if you want to talk talk about strange "snow angels" just look at the "snow angels" created by the reindeer. They are definitely unlike any "snow angels" you might have seen. "Come on everyone. It's snowing!" Let's make some snow angels!"

Copyright © 2004 - 2023 - All Rights Reserved - Designed and Written By Linda Walsh