Making a Souvenir Doll
Page in Progress
In November of 2023, I submitted plans, that were accepted, to make the "Luncheon Doll" for the 2026 thirtieth anniversary of The Tallgrass Prairie Doll Club of Oklahoma (in Bartlesville), just one branch of the United Federation of Doll Clubs.
The order is for 100 luncheon souvenir dolls, 15 dolls to incorporate into center pieces and a minimum of 50 companion pieces.
I will be posting images of the massive work in progress so, check back to watch it all come together - step by step. This will be fun.
Getting Started
The process begins here
The Wood
I use balsa that comes from South America. I opt for hand picked pieces.
Example
All luncheon and companion dolls will be 2x2x6" tall. Exception will be cradleboards that will vary in size. Example: White Buffalo Calf Woman.
My Tools
Tools are simple but razor sharp in order to cut the soft wood. If not sharp enough, the knives "push" the wood. No power tools.
Carving
Work began January 2024. Deadline is June 2026. I carve in front of a movie, in the car when hubby is driving; anytime I get a chance.
First Step
Made a list of the number of luncheon dolls, center piece dolls and companion dolls along with a variety of characters.
Amassing
To date: I have carved 43 luncheon dolls, 17 companion dolls and 3 for centerpieces. No two will be alike.
Progressing
The work is ongoing
Souvenir Doll
These little darlings will be Indian maidens as folklore characters with others in historical clothing. Image: Warrior Woman
2024
This year, 2024, I plan to get all the carving done for the 100 luncheon souvenirs, 15 center pieces and 50 companion pieces.
Center Pieces
These will be 1x1x6" tall in historical clothing of various tribes to be incorporated into table center pieces that will be auctioned off at the luncheon.
2025
Next year, 2025, the plan is to paint and adorn all pieces to be completed by year end; accurately detailed according to museum and auction records.
Companion Pieces
These will be warriors, hunters, characters from folklore and cradleboards (with papoose) in historical clothing of various tribes.
2026
I will have only 6 months to order boxes for luncheon dolls with packing materials and stickers. They will need to be packed for presentation. Center piece dolls will be delivered in time for club members to create the center piece displays. Inventory will need to be gathered for the sale table along with companion pieces.