kidding around

The “Doll” category will primarily be given to girls from ages 3-10. However, if you choose to make a “softie” -whether its an animal, “wee” or a child/baby, these gifts could be given to infants as well. (I’ll be sure to set aside toys that could potentially be harmful for a baby. For example: buttons, beads, etc.)

Total needed: 75

Wooden Doll tutorial

Check out any craft store for the unpainted wooden dolls. They are reminiscent of the beloved Fischer Price “Peoples”. They have a variety of shapes and are really fun to paint!

The supplies are simple. Paint, brushes (multiple sizes, be sure to have a fine tipped one for details. A toothpick could also be a good alternative.) and imagination. Think like a little girl! Feel free to paint babies, boys, women, men…even animals! I think keeping the doll’s ethnicity more Asian would appeal to the girls, since for many they have not seen many “Westerners”.

This is when your doll becomes REAL! I love painting on their faces!

I finished off “Jane” (named after my niece) with a heart. A personal touch that makes this a gift! Do what you want- give a name, paint a flower…whatever!

Another simple doll idea can be Hillary’s adorable “Wees”. Check out her FREE pattern you can download from her blog. Please note that her pattern is purely for the fun of GIVING, not selling later on down the road…These are easy to make. Check out her gallery of “Wees” shown on her blog for inspiration.

Of course Martha Stewart Kids magazine had a sweet doll that can easily be made as well.