2021 Thoughts and Aspirations

2020 has been quite the year. I've done a lot of testing as the pandemic had the designers reaching for their pencils and designing lots of new patterns. My doll's wardrobes are large and varied. 

As this year comes to an end, I've been thinking about what I want to do for the dolls next year. Which direction am I going to take? What would I like to focus on? 

Testing Patterns

I have been waffling around about pattern testing (sewing and knitting) for quite a while. I thought about quitting because I did a lot of testing and what I wanted to sew and knit. I was diligent to follow the rules and now that I have slacked off, I haven't been kicked out so I will stay until I get kicked out. Stay means on my terms. 

Pattern Drafting

I'm going to look at this once again and figure out how I can do it like a course. I need to get a program for writing up my patterns. Will I publish them? Maybe. But, I would like to have a few patterns to work with for the Gotz dolls. Basics that I can use pattern design techniques to make different necklines, sleeves, etc.

The other thing I want to do is change patterns a bit. One is making a facing for the inside of a jacket so the lapels match the outer garment fabric. 

Easy To Sew Patterns

I'm still wanting to sew a bunch of easy to sew patterns. They are the patterns that clear my brain and allow me to try a new technique or two. They are the ones that give you instant gratification when you really need it. They are the ones that complete an outfit with something that isn't the star of the outfit. 

Historical Patterns

As a person interested in history, I have read/watched a lot on the Victorian/Edwardian era. I have been mulling this around a lot this fall and I'm going to start sewing historical clothing in the new year. I'm going to combine it with couture sewing (a course I need to finish) and have a bit of fun. These will not be quick sews as I want them to be outstanding items. The goal is to use a lot of fabric from the doll's stash. 

The other era I like to sew for is the 1930-50's as the outfits are great on Kit. I don't research this era, I just sew them for fun. 

Techniques and Tutorials

I want to continue on doing different techniques and do tutorials on some of them. One is how to place embroidery on an article of clothing. What works well for me. I enjoy sharing what I've learned with others. 

I also want to share some hacks that I plan on doing in the new year. And I want to share how to sew with leather. Though it has its own rules, sewing leather is not scary. 

Photography

I want to improve my photography skills and need to get a ring light and an area to photograph. Using the ledge by the window gives less than professional pictures. I want to use my Cannon camera and learn how to use it correctly. There is a lot to learn but I can learn by photographing the dolls. 

What Else?

To sew up as many of the patterns I have on hand as possible. That could take me years to do but I hope to do some each year. 

To sew down the dolls' stash. I have lots of nice fabric to sew and I should be using it up rather than looking at fabric in the stores. This includes lace, ribbon, and buttons. 

To look deeper into selling doll's clothing on Etsy. I have questions to be answered by a friend.