Singer Futura XL-550

Hi everyone, just thought I would let you know that the Singer Futura XL-550 is being sold by Create and Craft again. I think that it is a brilliant machine and as far as I'm aware Create and Craft is the only place in the UK that currently sells it. (Although they don't seem to sell it for long). If anyone has any questions about the machine don't hesitate to ask.

I have included the link below if anyone is interested in it.

http://www.createandcraft.tv/Singer_Futura_XL550_with_125_built-in_designs_and_
popular_fonts_for_monogramming_239176.aspx?fh_location=//createandcraft/en_GB/$s=Singer

Gene Marshall

The other day I was browsing one of my local charity shops and in the window I noticed a doll. I went into the shop to take a closer look and I was surprised to find out that it was a Gene Marshall doll with a dress and tights! Unfortunatly there was no price on her so I went up to the front desk to ask; thinking that they were probably going to say something along the lines of £20. Well imagine my surprise when they said she was £3! £3! I couldn't believe it, not for a dressed doll, so of course I payed for her and went home as quick as possible. I went online and found out she was the "Dance with me" Gene. So now my grand total of large fashion dolls is two; not many I know but my intention is to create outfits for them and maybe sell them (haven't decided yet).

Doll collecting

I wouldn't say that I was a doll collecter; seeing as I only have a few dolls. But I do love the idea of creating mini fashions for these beautiful dolls. For my birthday last year my wonderful husband bought me a gorgeous Deeanna Denton made by Tonner. I love the fact that she is curvy compared to other dolls, and seeing as I love the classic 30s,40s and 50s looks she is probably the perfect doll for me. She did not come with the original outfit but she did come with many other outfits as my husband purchased her from eBay from Sister Mary Joseph's Doll Bazaar. Although she did come with some outfits she didn't have any underwear! So the first thing I made for her was a lace slip; which was made with a piece of white scalloped edged lace with one hand stitched seam that is at the back.

 

The second garment I made for her was a black and white polka dot, 1950s inspired halter dress with a full circle skirt. I wanted it to fasten with a zipper at the back, but unfortunately the zipper I chose to use was unsuitable for her size; which caused slight fraying at the back of the dress (hence there is no picture of the back of the dress). I fully lined the dress in a white cotton because I have heard dark colours can stain the dolls. I feel that for my first attempt it wasn't terrible but there are a few things I would change, such as the right type of zipper for the dress and possibly a lower neckline (after all she is a curvy girl and this needs to be shown off).

The gloves, shoes and jewelry came with the doll. I did make the belt though using a small buckle and a strip of faux leather attached at the back with a snap fastener.

I have so many ideas for different outfits, I just need to practice to be able to make them.