My Favorite Mattel Dolls and Why!

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First it was hard to choose.... except for barbieoldnewgreenredo I'm not a doll "collector", but I held on to my original BMR(no.3) from 1959-60. Currently she is the matriarch of BMR Ltd in my doll stories. She is at least 60 years old, and I treat her as a well botoxed matriarch instead of a teenager. Attitude and wardrobe keeps her grounded in her age. barbieoldnewgreenredo My Happy Family Grandma doll is the first non-rescue I purchased. She's not the easiest to dress, and I envision her in her 50-60's, her character is Mom(Sandi) and I gave her gray streaks some blond. She's Ryan's mother on her left and appears occasionally in my doll stories. She will soon have a storyline and home of her own. bbarbieoldnewgreenredo A girl after my own heart is Vickie, owner of Vickie's Vintage boutique. My first articulated doll, she is an entrepreneur much like myself. She's spirited... barbieoldnewgreenredo and paired with a hunky non-Mattel guy, Joe the Detective. barbieoldnewgreenredo Vickie's Vintage has been through 4 versions, this was opening day of the first one. barbieoldnewgreenredo Another new doll purchase was Lara,(1/2 off and a 20% off coupon) New Look doll, fully articulated and contemporary. Lara's BMR's niece in my doll stories, and manager of BMR LTD, in Chicago, currently in the GrandView (Grand Hotel). I plan to explore more about her in relationships, back story and working with more rehabs! barbieoldnewgreenredo Here's Ryan again with his dad, Todd. With the limited amount of faces on male Mattel dolls that were articulated, I tried to make him cool, but older. I wish Mattel, made older dolls period...or I will have to start aging some more. barbieoldnewgreenredo Emilie was a gift from a close friend for Christmas. She is lovely--and timeless and her grayhound is exquisite. Her storyline is with Colette as assistant/companion. She has the bendy legs and TNT body, so is very hard to pose, but she will find her own storyline soon. barbieoldnewgreenredo I'm creating a 20's wardrobe for her for the 2022 Barbie convention in Chicago....YAY! She even has a beauty mark. > barbieoldnewgreenredo Carly and Stephen are articulated, and are my first dolls of color. Carly works in VV's boutique and Stephen works with Ryan in the Chicago Department of Housing and Development. Stephen is an old articulation...there are very few articulated Male AA dolls by Mattel. And, I'm going outside the 'Ken's' now for AA males. PS Colette(Jazz Baby) isn't included here, because she has been quite a pain lately! So There! My dolls' stories can be found at oldest https://oldnewgreenredoblog.blogspot.com/ NEWER https://barbieoldnewgreenredo.blogspot.com/ Thank you for visiting, I will try and respond to every question and comment. I will be doing further posts on tutorials for the Hotel and contents. Please follow me at these great blog parties: Inspire Me Monday  Please do not use my photos without linking back to this blog without my permission.  Thank you for your cooperation, Sandi

Sewing for a Mattel Jazz Baby-Pt 1

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Hi, All. 

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Armed with my measurement chart, I prepared for battle with some vintage patterns. I had purchased downloads for vintage fashion doll patterns from all the way back into the early 1960's-1980's. Earlier patterns were designed for Barbie, Toni, Sindy, and a few others that were floating around. So, since Colette is very tall and thin(not busty) I chose to work with older patterns as they, with added length, were closer in size than say TNT patterns in the shoulders and hips. 

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My first project was a little romper from McCall's 6697 from 1974. I thought the longer leg would look great on the Jazz Baby body. And, I knew I could easily add height to the waist piece. 

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So, far so good, the shorts fit very well. I did fold  a little excess at the back seams and pressed the edges under. 

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Instead of gathering I made a deep pleat for the bust, thinking that would lie flatter on the Jazz Baby trimmer figure, trying on all the while.

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The added an additional 3/8" height to the waistband was perfect. 

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I used a zig-zag stitch hems to blend in with the pattern.  All the seams are the recommended 1/4". 

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And of course Colette is happy since her signature necklace looks great with the diving neckline. 

When downloading files from pattern sellers, I have found inconsistencies in how accurate they print out. I recommend checking your measurements on ALL downloaded patterns---every page...as there will be discrepancies. There are multiple dealers  for downloaded patterns on Etsy. 

Patterns in stores are now $15-20 or so, downloads are much cheaper, but for patterns out of print or a certain number of years old.

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I thought that jacket above the pink-bell bottoms had some great lines. I chose a mini-dot print, dots are always fresh and clean and lined in white, this would be classy enough for Colette's tastes. Testing the pattern against the doll, I extended the length on each piece almost 3/8".

 I also followed the angle of the sleeve edge in to the side---by .... and cut the sides in by a full 1/4". This means the entire jacket will be 1" narrower.  

Lining the jacket with white, nicely finished the sleeve edges, the collar edges, neck edges and front. Do all this before sewing up the sides and after trimming and clipping all the edges, you can turn it all out. Then sew the side seams, and hand finish the bottom edge/or blind stitch on the machine. I didn't want any stitching to show on the white inside, so I used white thread. Any white stitches showing on the black were easily touched up with a permanent marker pen.

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For the Pants I used Simplicity 6901 from 1963. This is before TNT and fat legs...and better for the hip measurements of Jazz Baby. This is the lavender pant in the I view to the left. I added a full 3/4"+ to the length, and reduced the darts just a bit. 1974 barbie was very small in the waist.

I really like these pants have enough butt room for the dolls to sit down. I like this pattern because it sits a bit higher than bought clothing for that reason. You can taper the legs on the inside as much as you want...just make sure you can get the doll's leg through the bottom. This will be my go-to pattern for woven fabrics.

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I added a fabric tie (cut on the bias) and lined with the white. 

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One thing about dress styles, they come and go and come in style again.---and this winged shoulder is definitely classy look, anytime.

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I'm sure this would work for any doll today, with the proper fitting.

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I used the top from the 6901 pattern for this fabric. I didn't add length as the pattern ran long to begin with. I did cut in to the sides a full 3/8" though. this gave a slimmer body and still leaving plenty of room.

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I used two snaps to hold this together and did all edges with a straight top stitch.

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I used the 6901 pants again for the stretch dark denim, again tapering the leg in from the inside leg seam, tapering from the crotch to the bottom leg edge. 

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Colette thinks they are nice and slim on her long legs. I hand hem the bottom edges.

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The next project is a dress from a purchased original McCall's 6232  from 2010, so post TNT body, and using Barbie's current body shape. I chose the silver purple woven fabric for a cocktail dress. I extended the length of the skirt by an 1" at mid thigh on both pieces. 

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If I make this again, I will do a full length fold on the pattern to bring the back in just a bit. Other than that, everything is pretty much to pattern.

I also cut out a similar dress to compare for knits McCall's 6876 which was a downloaded pattern originally from 1994. Definitely styled for the TNT body, I kept this in mind while fitting the pattern. I extended the body 1/4" below the bust, and 1/4" below the hip as TNT's are taller than the original body type. I also cut the armholes up a full 1/4" tapering from 0" to 1/4" at the neck seam. I fitted the original neck piece to the new images.

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The beauty of working with knits as they are a bit more forgiving and ususally don't unravel. This sequin looking fabric was quite light-weight and gave my machine some issues. Eventually I found the needle would become gummed up from going through the plastic 'sequins', and had to be cleaned regularly. 

I ended up hand sewing all the edges and the neck piece.

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Colette likes the cut-up leg, of course you can let it go as high as you want.

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The top could be smaller across the bust. Since I took off the extra 1/4" at the shoulder, I suppose I could tighten the bodice from the center front, if I use this again. (Which I will) this is a classic style and certainly still usable for a 'performer' that my doll is.

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The back looks great and the lines are fine. I did roll an extra bit in the turning the back slit and used one hook and eye at the top.

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Colette says, magnifique'!

Tips---for adapting patterns for your dolls, measure-measure-measure, everything. I'm not going to make a recommendation for any one company with down-load patterns, as I found discrepancies with all of them. 

You may have to adjust your printers parameters and % to get an accurate pattern. But, then always measure your doll, and the pattern pieces. 

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I will eventually (when perfected) post the altered pattern pieces for the Jazz Baby, but I hope this helps to give you an idea how to adjust your own patterns. 

Thank you for visiting, I will try and respond to every question and comment. I will be doing further posts on tutorials for the Hotel and contents.

Please follow me at these great blog parties:

All About Home

Wonderful Wednesday

Inspire Me Monday

Over the Moon

Metamorphisis Monday

Thursday Favorite Things

Vintage Charm

 Please do not use my photos without linking back to this blog without my permission. 

Thank you for your cooperation, Sandi

Friday Night Fights?

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It's Friday Night, and the city is opening up. Outdoor dining is allowed with masks and social distancing. 

Ian and Lara are embarking on a 'date' for a hotdog in the park. 

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Lara: Hi, Ian. I think it will be great to walk in the park, thanks for asking me. And, who can resist a Chicago Dog!

Ian: Sure feels strange doesn't it. I don't know if I should assist you walking down the curb or not. And, your mask is slipping. 

Lara: I'm okay, we will just have to keep at a distance. Blue's a great color on you!

Ian: You, too. I like that you are smiling, (chuckle.)

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Lara: (This is worse than my first date in Junior High). 

Ian: (Awkward---MUCH???)

A couple of hours later, the lights are down low in the lobby and Ian sees Lara to her door on the second floor.

Lara: Would you like to come in, I have some desert  for us.

Ian: Sure, when do you find time to bake?

Lara: Don't be silly, I live above a bakery. 

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Ian: Nice place, small but really nice for a studio.

Lara: I hardly notice, I always end up in the last unit in a project. This is my sixth one in almost three years. Most of my things are still in storage.

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Ian: That must be hard to do, keep moving all the time.

Lara: Cream or sugar with your tea?

Ian: Neither, this desert looks really good, is it Sindy's? 

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Ian: And you have piped in music in the building?

Lara: No, I think Colette has music on, not her usual though. 

Ian: Is that from Phantom of the Opera...pretty dramatic.

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Lara: Strange she usually has Blues or quiet Jazz on. Now, it seems to be louder, and "I Will Always Love You." Whoever. is playing the piano is quite good...and now slides right back into another Phantom song. 

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Ian: Music and desert what could be better and with a beautiful girl! 

Lara: You are too kind....

Across the hall, Colette and Emilie are trying on clothes purchased at Vickie's Vintage. 

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Colette: Dees ees too short, or dees legs are too long. Zees fits on top, though! 

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Emilie: I luv this jacket, how about this one?

Colette: I vill try zees fleur abomination, first.

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Colette: I like the top, but dees needs more skirt! Vat ees dat music. Lara must be playing it...very loud! You try one, Emilie!

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Colette: 'Tis not my legs are too long, yours are also, Ha!

Emilie: I love the colors...and it weighs nothing. What else should I try?

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Colette: Uh, oh, zat ees a stand frock...not for bending over! Goodness that music...Phantom theme...from the Paree Opera House... oh, I miss Paree, and...."

Emilie: We will have to ask who the artist is ...very nice piano...reminds me of..."

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(Colette waves and motions to Laura to turn the sound down).

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Lara: That's strange, Colette is motioning me to turn down the music? If she's not playing it, where's it coming from? Excuse me, I'll be right back I need to check and see what was left on, downstairs.

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Lara: Oh, my, there's a Grand Piano in the lobby and a man playing it? Hey, YOU! What are you doing in our Lobby?

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Man: Mumbles, "I'm playing to heal my broken heart."

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(Runs his fingers across the keys, up and down...then bangs into ...

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...some Stevie Wonder....)

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Lara: Where did that piano come from and who are you? I'm coming down there now! You are trespassing!

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(Pounding out Count Basie)

Suddenly Man sings: And, I-i-i....will always love you--hoohoohooo, I"ll always love you...bittersweet memories.....(more piano playing)

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Lara: Please Stop! 

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Man: Fini!

Lara: What is this piano doing in our lobby, and who are you?

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 Lara: I will call 911.
Man: And what say I'm on Fire! Yeoooow! 
(pounds the keys---"Goodness, Gracious, Great Balls of Fire"

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Colette: Get out! Be Gone! I will....

Ian: Be careful before you go over the rail!

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Colette: Gerard, you vile, horrible human, no zee ees not human, you're a DOG! 

Ian reaches for her as she throws ....

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Colette: Gerard, Leave me alone....!

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The wig lands on the Man...(Gerard)

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Gerard: My beautiful sweet, I will bring you my love and your ...hair. 

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Lara: No you won't. She has clearly said you are not welcome, and as far as I'm concerned you are trespassing and that piano needs to be gone, by morning. Do you understand?

Gerard: Another beautiful woman banishes me. Sigh, what is a poor piano artist to do? I imagine, you would love to hear Rachmaninoff, perhaps some Ravel, I will play just for you....!

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Lara: And remove that piano in the morning, or I will have it removed to the alley!

(Gerard disappears into the night!)

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Lara: He is gone for now....who is he?

Colette: My manager and... from Paree. I will take care of him, I will call the police.

Lara: Well, we really don't need to do that, but I can have security here in five minutes if need be.

Colette: I need to be alone now. (She leaves and slams the door).

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Ian: Well that was an end to an interesting evening? 

Lara: Sorry, I'm always on duty when it comes to this building. I guess we should end tonight. Now, I have to make arrangements to have that piano gone by 7 AM before the shops open.

Ian: Sure, understand...maybe we can try this another time. 

Lara: Sure...take care, and thanks, Ian...it was really  nice.

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Colette: He is impossible! 

Emilie: Maybe he brought your wardrobe trunks.

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Emilie: You knew he wouldn't give up...!

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Colette: I will never take him back...never....(sobbing...and wailing, and...)

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Lara: Piano movers will be here at 6 AM double-time on Saturday. I guess that was a good date..for a 'masked' date. Now, I really don't need to have a second piece of cake...but, what a day!

How did Gerard know, I simply love Ravel...?

Thank you for visiting, I will try and respond to every question and comment. I will be doing further posts on tutorials for the Hotel and contents.

Please follow me at these great blog parties:

Vintage Charm

Wonderful Wednesday

Pink Saturday

 Please do not use my photos without linking back to this blog without my permission. 

Thank you for your cooperation, Sandi