Saturday, April 23, 2011

Invitation Only Upload

                                        (this group was made for Enchanted Toys)
 
On June 26th I am having an invitation only doll sale. I will have a minimum of 15 dolls and a variety of clothes and accessories. As I wrote in my previous post, this is for families that have never owned a Moonchild doll. Whether you bought one, received one as a gift, traded for one or even bought one and no longer have it, you are not eligible to participate in this sale. I will still upload dolls and clothes to my Etsy shop
I am closing sign ups for this round at midnight (pacific time) on Monday April 25. I will send an email to all participants. On June 20th I will send and invite to you all to join the Moonchild Doll blog where you can preview the dolls, clothes and accessories. They will have descriptions and prices.
At a set time (which I will specify in the email) you will have the opportunity to place a comment under the doll you wish to purchase. The limit is 1 doll only. You may comment on clothing and accessories as well and there is not a limit on those. The first comment under each item is the person who has first option to purchase the doll. If you do not see the right doll for you, you may be stay on the list to have access to the next sale. If you receive a Moonchild doll before then you will be removed from the list.
The next invitation only sale will be in August.
xo

Thursday, April 21, 2011

These Hands


These hands make Moonchild Dolls. They are sore and tired hands. They are happy and content hands. They are not the most beautiful hands in the world but they do beautiful work. The hours these hands spend making dolls are hours very well spent. These hands are sneaking up on their 49th year.


As I see it, I will spend at least 10 more years making Moonchild dolls. Maybe more. I can comfortably see making 1800-2000 dolls during this time. A very finite amount. It is my desire that the majority of these dolls go to homes that embrace some Waldorf principles in child rearing. Homes that do not indulge the children with large quantities of dolls and toys. Homes that lean towards toys made with natural fiber, wood, metals and items straight from nature. That the children in the home are given toys that generate the desire to explore and create. Toys that help them to learn to be caring and compassionate.


I would like these dolls to stay in a family even when the child does not immediately warm to it. The child/doll relationship cannot be forced. A doll placed within reach and left alone will draw the child to it in time. A parent that takes a moment to wordlessly tuck the doll in under a small blanket, whether on a chair, in an open drawer or a in toy cradle will be gently encouraging the child to begin forming his own bond with the doll.


I understand that some of these dolls will live with people that have a true love for Waldorf style dolls and want to have a variety of them. People that collect dolls because they appreciate the skill an artistry that goes into them. I understand that some people will buy my dolls just because they are difficult to obtain and get romanced by the "gotta get it now before someone else does" bug. I understand that some people want their children to have an abundance to choose from and to possibly be collectors as well. It is okay that some of my dolls go to these homes.


Because I can only make a small amount of dolls per year and the customer base for Waldorf dolls has grown exponentially, I am placing a maximum of 2 dolls a year per family. I will make exceptions to families with more than 2 children. I know there are plenty of people that have no problem scooting around the rules and do what they can to get the dolls they want. I know I will be snookered. I will do my best to make sure this happens a little as possible so that new families will have the opportunity to own a Moonchild doll. If I need to cancel a sale and re-list a doll then that is what will happen.


I am happy to have the fortunate life that I do. I have a wonderful and supportive husband that loves me. My children are happy and healthy. The baby turns 19 tomorrow. I get to make what I want and people will buy it. This was my answer when I was asked what I wanted to do when I grew up. That and be a forest ranger. I am grateful that people like what I create. I love to sew and I love to make dolls. Thank you all for being my patrons and appreciating Moonchild Dolls.




xo

Wednesday, April 20, 2011

Hard Body?


I make a very firm doll. Yes it's true. A doll that gives some resistance when hugged has a strong presence. It has substance. I believe that squishy bodies are wonderful in stuffed animals and pillow style dolls but a human formed, dressable doll that takes on the role of companion and confidant to a child needs to "feel human" to that child. A firm doll will hold it's shape even with loads of hugs and rough and tumble play.


It has taken me years to be able to stuff a body firmly and smoothly. It is very difficult to make the proper lines on the head when it is made as firmly as I make it. My hands really pay the price. It is well worth it though. Knowing that the doll can withstand a lifetime of adventures is one of the most rewarding aspects of doll making.

I love what I do.
xo

Sunday, April 17, 2011

A new way to get a Moonchild Doll


The wonderful world of Waldorf style dolls has become so full in these past few years. So many new doll makers and so many new patrons. While it has been exciting to see this market grow it has also present a few issues. There are many more customers than there are dolls available.


I am a one woman operation and can only produce a limited amount of Moonchild dolls and clothing per month. I am searching for a fair way to get my dolls to people that are new to my dolls or have been trying with no luck to buy a Moonchild doll.


I will use the technique of a doll maker that I greatly admire and respect.
My solution for now will be to have a few scheduled uploads to an invitation only blog. This means you will be able to see the dolls and find which one speaks to you most. Then at a specified time, I will open up the comments and the first person to comment on the doll of their choice will be able to purchase that doll.
Please do not "angel" a doll for another as this is only for people who really want a Moonchild of their own.


This is for people that have never had a Moonchild doll. I will have the first sale in June.


If you would like to be on my list please send me an email with your name, email, country, your Paypal email (if different than your communication email) and the type of Moonchild doll you been hoping to have. I will have 40 spots available.

xo