Meet the Mermaiden

free "Mermaiden" pattern from STC Craft, out of the book Wee Wonderfuls

I love sewing for the patience it requires. I need the practice. I can't text or really even watch TV when I'm sewing. I can't wipe down the kitchen countertops or fold laundry or reply to emails. This eight-inch doll took a lot of patience. She is called a Mermaiden, but don't tell Tessa that she's really sort of a Mer-biotch. What I thought would be a simple, easy project ended up taking four hours. I love the way she turned out though, and she gave me a lot of time to think and to sit still. She's made out of fabric scraps, including the sleeves of that beloved tye-dye tee shirt I blogged about a few posts back.

I started thinking about making a doll for Tess when I saw the Sweater Dude in this month's ReadyMade. He's too cute, right?

Sweater Dude by www.etsy.com/shop/biggirlart

And then I found this blog called The Constant Gatherer, which featured Australian artist Jenni Harley. She handmakes these sweet cloth dolls and pillows from beautiful fabrics.

Made By Jenni rag doll

Made By Jenni doll cushion

Made By Jenni's daughter Ruby with a Jenni Doll

Ruby's pretty bedroom!