As you can see, she is a little Scandinavian miss. Her hair is braided with festive red ribbons and crossed over on the top of her head. She wears a sweet black calico strewn with gay little flowers. (Yes, I know I said “gay”, but honestly, how sad that we’ve lost the original meaning of the word. It is the most appropriate word for the fabric.) Her shoes are black leather and have fabric ties around her graceful ankles. Her chemise, showing at the neckline and puffed sleeves is a vintage organdy. Even her petticoat is ready for a celebration, festooned as it is with a wide, embellished lace accented with red thread.

I did something a little different with Linnea, I made her body from a peach colored woven cotton, but made a head and chestplate from my beloved cotton knit. My supply is getting smaller and smaller and I don’t think I’ll be able to find more of it, so I’ve come up with this way of making it last. I like it for the head best because of the stretch. The head ends up with a very nice shape, don’t you think? Now, it is an unusual thing to do, so I am willing to listen to opinions about this. What do you think? Is it too weird to have the head and body made from different fabrics? I think the final effect is fine, but I may be too close to her. I think she’s beautiful!

Also, a reminder- today is the last day of Ava Grace’s auction. I am happy to say that Dot has a bid of $40. That represents a night at a Motel 6 for Ava’s parents. You see, when Ava needs surgery, the family has to travel out of town. Unfortunately, this particular hospital is located in a city with no Ronald McDonald house, so lodgings are paid for out of pocket. Both parents have jobs and they both take unpaid leave to take Ava to these surgeries. Then there is the at-home care required for little Ava. Insurance only pays so much, so this auction is going to help this family a lot. Here’s one of the coolest things about this auction- Ava’s parents do not have the internet, so imagine how surprised they’re going to be when the Humble Arts ladies tell them how much was raised! Anyway, bidding ends tonight at 6 p.m. Pacific time. Happy bidding and good luck!

Hugs to all!