“I made these dolls for my own children as well as many of the clothes kits, in the 1980’s and have since made them for my grandchildren.
My mum (aged 97) still wears one of your quilted jackets from the 80’s.”
“My third rag doll from Clothkits. I like the quality of the material and the printed pattern pieces, especially the names of each piece being integral to reduce the risk of making a mistake. The instructions are detailed and easy to follow, which is important as I'm not an overly experienced sewist. I also like the way each doll becomes a brief member of the family before being presented to the new owner.”
“I loved making Polly for my Granddaughter. I found her easy to put together and enjoyed making extra garments for her. She was very well received and has spent most of the last year naked !! Jess likes her dolls that way”
“The printed fabric is identical to the original design and works up beautifully.
I made Kitty and Polly for my daughter in 1985 and she played with them imaginatively for many years. They are now stored in our attic with her other precious childhood toys, faded and soft but still intact.
For my granddaughter, I had a lot more experience of sewing, and time at my disposal, to make a better job of it this time around. I felt she would be more interested in dressing Polly in different clothes. So I made Polly, then made Kitty's clothes as well as Polly's, and made up some pyjamas too. I used slightly different techniques to the instructions for things like setting the sleeves and binding the neck edges. I used narrow hat elastic encased in a zig zag stitch instead of shirring, as I felt it would be more robust.
My granddaughter was delighted with her! I also made a bag to keep Polly's spare clothes in, with each outfit in a different pouch. I have no photographs of her with Polly yet, but I will do that when we see the family next time.
I did show my daughter the finished Polly dolly before I made the clothes, and she was quite emotional at seeing her again! Polly and Kitty were good companions for her when she was young!”
“I made the original for my daughter and now she has made this for her daughter. Lovely to see Clothkits being made again. I made many of my own clothes (some still in use!) and most of my children's clothes. I wanted them to have something different from the run-of-the-mill high street shop items. Still the same quality and unique style.”
“I have made lots of these over the years and was thrilled to find the kit available again when our grandchildren turned up! I then gave one to my Godson for his daughter. His wife was very touched as she had had it as a child! Thank you for bringing it back to life.
Lorna”
