Fabulous Doll Fashions

Barbara M. Buetter conducts creative-writing workshops for children and
is the author of Simple Puppets from Everyday Materials.

These two books come in attractive, easy-to-open plastic cases, along
with sheets of Paper Fabric, pattern pages, glue, and decorating
essentials. Fabulous Doll Fashions introduces sewing skills (pinning,
cutting, some sewing) and gives instructions for making hats, dresses,
shorts, tops, and even a stuffed bear for small fashion dolls. Garment
seams are glued together. The projects presented in Fantastic Jewelry
include two pins, a bracelet, a beaded necklace, earrings, and a
treasure bag. Beads and jewelry findings are included. Both books give
basic directions for decorating the Paper Fabric (paint, markers, potato
prints), and use a combination of color diagrams and photography to
illustrate the finished projects.

The format is too small to allow for detailed instructions or diagrams.
Small type sizes and crowded layouts make the directions hard to follow.
Project instructions are somewhat confusing, and most children will need
adult help.

Of the two books, children may have more success with Fantastic
Jewelry. Most of the projects are fairly easy, although uninspired. The
projects in Fabulous Doll Fashions, while fun to make, are hard to fit
and tear easily. The books do give directions for easy repair of torn
spots, but this can be frustrating, especially since the projects
require long drying times and may take days to complete.

The kits come with enough Paper Fabric to make all the projects shown.
Refills can be purchased through the publisher. No suggestions are given
for alternative materials. Not first-choice purchases.