Thursday, January 2, 2014

ain't nothing in the world like a big-eyed girl

Tanyusha and Isadora discuss whose turn it is to go shopping.

Do you know Blythe? Well, I thought I did, having a few of them in the house among our other dollies, but only recently did I discover what a following she has around the world, and what a treasure she is for serious collectors. A beautiful Blythe really is a work of art -- a OOAK piece equal to any sought after painting or haute couture outfit. Collectible Blythes can easily cost into the thousands, and dressing and photographing Blythes has in itself become an art form.

Ro et al.

Personally, I've always found Blythe plain adorable; while she can have any number of personas -- cute, geeky, sultry, sad -- my Blythes have always been chosen for their endearing sweetness, their lovable expressions of innocence, wonder and affection (yes, even Rebecca's vampire Blythe, Persephone).

When the kids were younger, they did find Blythe a little unnerving, mainly because of their discomfitingly large, staring eyes. But now that they're older, they're appreciating the artistry of the dolls as much as dressing them up and taking photographs of them (Becky has in fact been doing this with Isadora -- see here).

Isadora and Orso share their thoughts on safety and sizing.

Anyway, since Isadora and company were starting to go out more, it was only a matter of time before I had to come up with something for travelling with Blythe. It simply isn't practical, or even cool, to go around clutching a doll in your hand, even if it is Blythe, and even if you are five.

A lady who saw Becky's post on Isadora's Beijing trip emailed me about the messenger-style bag we'd used to carry Isadora around -- a week later, I'd sent her two of the satchels and have now decided to include them in the shop.

As any Blythe owner knows, carrying Blythe out is a tricky venture -- you can't just zip her up in your handbag or knapsack (especially if she cost you a mint!), and if you try sticking her in a tote, her big head makes her lean forward dangerously and look like she's hanging herself.

Happily strapped in. Most Blythe dolls also have a pet they'd want to have along.

Having discussed these concerns with the mini Blythe moms at home, I realised that I had to think up a satchel that had the ease and convenience of an open tote, but also some safety feature that prevented Blythe from leaning over and falling out. Well, this satchel is designed for carrying Blythe upright, and for showing her off -- she can see the world and the world can see her. What stops her from leaning down and out? A strap inside the satchel that holds her in place. You just tuck her in and belt her up, and off the two of you go on your adventures -- hands free!

Orso demonstrates that the satchel isn't just for Blythe. 

The satchel features a protective sueded interior and on the outside is a carefully hand-painted Tabby Cat pocket. This particular satchel is available here and ready to ship -- custom satchels are available through the shop or via email.

Have a lovely rest of the week everyone!

24 comments:

Debbie Nolan said...

Jan - I was not familiar with Blythe dolls - but she is adorable and love your sachel - great creation my friend. Have a lovely day. It is snowing here and getting colder by the minute!

Poppy Miau said...

first photo: doll on left this is baby lily? :)

justynapolska said...

cute!

The Dainty Dolls House said...

I think they are cut dolls :) I have a pair of red shoes with their face on them. Gorgeous pictures doll. I hope you have a marvellous weekend xx

Sara said...

the bag is just wonderful - growing up I had the same problem with dolls - we want to show them, but we don't want to carry them and I was always afraid I would lose them. this is perfect, your kids are very lucky :) stay well!

Jane Chérie said...

I must admit I was not a fan of Blythe either but as I see more photos of them taken by adoring fans, I realized how cute they can be! My child and nephews are scared of them though LOL (they don't like my Pullip and Dal dolls either!).

I love how your daughter is posing with Isadora! I think you can probably make a whole album of them interacting together throughout the years and it would become quite a keepsake :) (well that's what I intend to do with my girl!)

The bag you have created is really beautiful! I want to take my dolls out for photos but it's hard carrying them around and I don't want them to get scratched or tangled with other stuff in my bag!

Pizziricco said...

Wow yr Tabbie Satchels are so versatile,i just gotta get that Blythe carrier,how did u guess?Gollee! B&R are soo lucky to hve a mom so creatively imaginative with solutions. Keep it up doll, umm i mean u, not Blythe {:-)

Magic Love Crow said...

This is so adorable! I have to admit, not until last year, had I heard of "Blythe". I can't believe there is even people in there 60's and 80's who have them. There is an entire group of people out there, that even do swaps and have blogs about them! They are adorable! Great idea for the bag ;o) Hugs ;o)

Plowing Through Life (Martha) said...

I'd never heard of 'Blythe' before you wrote about her, and I must say I find her utterly adorable!

Introverted Art said...

Jan they are so cute! and your little one such a cutie! Happy new year!!!!

Elena said...

Oh I hadn't heard of Blythe either! But how cute they are and what a cool satchel idea! You're so talented :)

Elizabeth Brown said...

I've never heard of Blythe dolls, but I'll certainly show them to my sister. She loves ball jointed dolls of all sorts, and she may very well like to look at these. =D

And making a little tote to hold them in -- brilliant! I can see how they would be great photo subjects, so carrying them safely is ideal. Your totes do these little dollies justice, my friend. Lovely work as usual!

Berry said...

Wow! So cute Blythe dolls<3<3

Unknown said...

Very cute indeed!

sonia said...

I love Blythe, too. My daughter has a mini one that came with her Littlest Pet Shop toys. Blythe is even in the cartoons!

Unknown said...

I do like her big eyes. They are a little creepy but at the same time a little comic. Thank your for sharing the photographs.

My Garden Diaries said...

Oh I have never heard of these dolls!!! They are fantastic! And that shot of your daughter is precious!!!! And beautiful work on your tote friend!!! Nicole xoxo

Miss Val's Creations said...

I wish I had a Blythe doll!!! What an adorable idea creating this satchel. Blythe needs to get out and see the world too! My favorite things about these dolls are the huge eyes.

CraveCute said...

The Blythe dolls and your cute little kitties looks so darling together!

Farida said...

I guess nothing comes cheap these days but you're right; those dolls look adorable. With your fancy for sewing, you can easily dress them up too! Happy 2014!

AntiquityTravelers said...

What a cute post Janice! The girls sure do enjoy their Blythes!

Almost Precious said...

Blythe dolls have become quite the celebrities these days. I know so many people who collect them and play with them (and they are all grown ups - lol).

Your satchel ideal is both clever and pretty and makes for a perfect way to carry a beloved Blythe doll around, with no fear of her taking a tumble out of her carrier.

Almost Precious said...

Also want to say thank you. Your kind and gracious comment was most appreciated. :)

Glamour ZONE said...

great post.followed via gfc & bloglovin
hope you follow back.kisses
keep intouch

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