Her feets are cold!

Stockings were a must have accessory in the 18th Century and no respectable Queen Anne doll would be caught without a pair. After yet more research on the web the boss came across this great book on knitting doll socks. Good thing we have a determined knitter on staff.  She adapted the terrific instructions provided by the author to create a prototype for Arabella. Really this book is a gem!

SmallsAndDollsCo on Etsy sells a clean and clear pdf copy if you are interested. 

While examples of ribbed stockings don't appear until later in the century, it was decided that ribbing would work best for a first try and fit. The knitter used sock yarn and size 1 (US) needles. The result fit the first time, yay! But they do look a bit heavy duty. Oh well, Arabella has some great winter stockings now. Not sure if she approves though.

So then it was on to working up a prototype for Charlotte. Going with something less bulky a pair out of crochet cotton was next on the list, using size 0 (US)knitting pins. They do look pretty but are still bulky. Not sure the knitter wants to give even smaller thread and needles a try yet. Sorry, photo does not show the lovely pearl grey colour of the thread.

The designer now wants to make both ladies a smoother pair closer to a historical look. Then there might be some embroidery for clocking in the future. Hmmmmmmm.

Bonus item from the sock book is a reticule pattern. So here is Arabella modelling her drawstring purse made just for her. Beading and tassle to come.