Paper Mache Doll-Finishing Touches

I must say, I'm slightly disappointed with my paper mache dolly. Only to the extent that I'd expected something else, more of a smooth texture. I did not do so well on manipulation of the materials either, look at my cheeks. If I had not put a bun on the back of the head, this face would of been made into a fairy, it's very impish. I put modge podge all over the head in a effort to get a better skin. Besides being a sealant, modge podge can be built into a sanded finish.

Here is the end result.......she is pictured with out varnish at this point. But wait! I need to show the eyes......

I have a few cloth doll patterns that call for the fabric to be pulled down over the eyeball itself and I thought I might try this. Sure looks differently than the picture from before this one, looks as if she's undergoing a eye lift! Anyway, she isn't the old fashioned looking doll of the 1800 that I had in mind for a target, she is more of a modern lady. I trudged on, Madame loves her. Maybe I'll give it to her.

Before my legs and arms were completely dried I pinched and pleated the paper mache that ran down the length of the limbs, it narrowed them up to a more appropriate size. I knew I needed to do a second coat of newspaper so the pleat wouldn't be noticed. I cut cardboard soles for the bottom of the shoes.

They didn't turn out too bad. I want to mention that the hands are cupped because I didn't feel skilled enough with the media to make fingers. It works and has been used on many rare dolls.

All varnished and painted. I still think she has a bad case of baggy skin.

I included the last picture because I found it funny that I couldn't tell right from left, and at this point I'm stitching them on! See my string? I had shaped them to be a left and right but once I painted them, it changed the perspective dramatically!

Oh well, on to the torso and clothing. C & G Design