A little sparkle goes a long way.

There are times when an artist should just know when to stop. After 2 attempts to correct the red paint that had seeped around Lavinia's mouth the designer became discouraged. Then, instead of leaving well enough alone, the designer opted for yet another redo, which added a white pallor to the doll's face that is close to a period look. Finally, Lavinia was set aside and considered a protoype/practice doll for awhile. She became a fit model, showed off new hats, and served as a wig stand. 

The final repaint certainly helped Lavinia's visage and many lessons were learned. But the designer was still not content and had been mithering about it for weeks. Especially since a review of the very first face paint photos was not that bad, really. And she probably should have quit while ahead. Deep deep sigh.

Luckily the wig stylist stepped in and changed Lavinia's stark brunette wig for a softer style and colour. This certainly changed both Lavinia's and the designer's outlook. So the shop was inspired to finish up her arms and legs so Lavinia could finally join the ladies. A full figure photo will be added to the gallery.

               Much softer. Much prettier. There might even be a hint of a smile on Lavinia's face.

The shop also dug out the designer's fabric choices and got to work on the new and improved Lavinia's wardrobe. The garments are featured in the Gallery right now. But here's a peek:

While researching new paint and decoration techniques, (Will she ever stop?!), the designer came across the best hint ever from Gail Wilson Designs. https://www.gailwilsondesigns.com/index.html

If your ladies do not have real glass eyes, paint them with clear nail polish and you will be surprised by how well it works! It took several coats for Lavinia, but added such a sparkle that the designer almost cried. 

                                                  Even wigless, Lavinia has at last come to life. 

Abigail got the new eye treatment too, and now both ladies look even more 18th Century correct. Charlotte and Arabella have different paint and pen choices, so tests need to be made first. 

Do visit Gail Wilson Designs. She does such amazing work and maybe some day the boss will own one of Gail's wooden Queen Anne kits. There are lots of hints and tips for doll makers, not to mention sooooo many lovely dolls, on the website.

Now the shop can relax with some more knitting. Stockings and mitts have already been produced for the ladies. And research for Armand's knitted garment needs is ongoing. The shop promises to get Armand cut out and ready to stitch soon. The buyer, who never rests, found more hat placemats and a lovely bit of printed cotton for dresses. So Abigail's wardrobe will be up next. And the milliner wants to make some tricorns.

Oh, the boss just invested in another book about 18th Century textiles, Selling Silks, A Merchant's Sample Book 1764 by Lesley Ellis Miller. The page below helped inspire Lavinia's new outfit. 

Check out the What's New and Gallery for all that has come to fruition recently. Comments and feedback are appreciated. Now, where are those knitting pins stashed?