Maker In Residence

 As I'm planning my newest dolls, I am considering what happens when a Spirit Doll is created. This is the doll I'm working on at the moment.  She has a hand sculpted and painted face. Spirit Dolls in Wiccan faith, and many other mystical based faiths, are used as a channel for or barrier against spiritual forces. They are often placed on an altar, but if small enough can be carried frequently or tucked under a pillow. A doll made for healing would channel well being, health, physical strength etc. And a doll made as protection might shield against hate, fear or greed, for instance. There are dolls made specifically for malice (think of voo-doo), but I don't go anywhere near those. When a doll is made for healing or protection the creator of the doll not only aims to envision the doll's purpose as they work, they would choose materials which amplify the sentiment. For example, my doll 'inspiration' I chose amethyst, partly because it is my birth stone and I ador...

 The making of dolls is an ancient practice, and dolls as healing is just as old. I can't really remember the first doll I ever made. I'm pretty sure it was in my teens though. But my first spirit doll came along only a few years ago. Spirit dolls are used in the Wiccan faith, usually placed on the altar and imbued with positive intentions. I had a desire to make one that I would infuse with the promise of inspiration. Once 'inspiration' was finished I posted her on facebook to show my family and friends. One of my friends who saw her and read the story of how she was connected to a Wiccan tradition contacted me almost immediately. A dear friend of hers, who was a practicing Wiccan had just passed. My friend asked me to make her a spirit doll as a passing gift for the lady who being buried according to Wiccan traditions in only a shroud. This doll I called 'Flora' This doll was even more special as I was given the large collection of beads that the Wiccan lady h...