This is a 1950s Harriet Hubbard Avery doll that I found at a thrift store for $1.99. Of course, I had no idea who she was when I first saw her.
But her hair was a mess! I think most people would donate a doll like this to the thrifty store! Not me! I love the challenge of trying to restore a doll to either it's original condition - or something completely different. I did some research and found out that Harriet (in real life) lost her fortune several times, but re-invented herself each time and was a successful cosmetics manufacturer. She went through great times of poverty and times of great wealth. Interesting woman!
Remember Grandma's silver metal permanent rods? Well, I still use them in my doll repair and I think her hair came out beautiful!
Hard to believe this is the same hair in the photo above! The magic of Johnson's "no more tears"! Yep - as simple as that!
I decided to completely alter her and turn her into a peddler girl. Found the clothes on another doll at a thrift store for $4.00. Yes, I paid more for the clothes than the doll....but I can't afford to sew them myself when I can find them for $4!
The little box is wood with holes drilled in the side for the jute around her neck. Covered with paper and then distressed with ink.
I love all the little patches that came on her clothes - perfect for a peddler girl.
I left her barefoot - but she also has some vintage pantaloons on under her skirt.
I love miniatures and have been collecting them for years. Went through my stash and came up with some totally fun things! The "jack be nimble" is an actual working game - pull the lever and the ball bounces up to the top and goes back to one of the little holders. Had those as a kid but can't remember what they were called
Not sure you can see, but the little bear is holding a "Goldilocks" story book. There's a ruler, pencil, scissors, and notepad on the edge of the box. Lots of things to look at
Harriet Hubbard Avery. Restored. Remodeled. Ready to be re-loved. :o)
1 comment:
She is just darling!
Post a Comment