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!