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Press Releases >
Country Register Article
Country Register Article
Colorado Springs, CO -- Feb 1, 2005 -- History is being made in Colorado Springs. No, not the kind you read about on the front page of your local newspaper. A quiet, handcrafted 'history' - the kind that is passed down to future generations, is being made at All Dolled Up, Inc., a porcelain doll studio in northeast Colorado Springs.
In this delightful and decidedly feminine world, you will find hand-made porcelain dolls of every size, color, and shape imaginable. Here, you’ll discover dolls ranging from antique reproductions of a bygone era, to the latest modern doll artists’ creations. You’ll find a two-inch 'Wee Bee Raggedy Ann' or a five-foot, life size 'Lady Grace'; a simple baby doll, or the most elaborate Victorian lady. But the most devoted aficionado will be disappointed to know that none of these beautiful babes are for sale. They are pure inspiration for those pursuing the fine art of porcelain doll making.
All Dolled Up, Inc. has been owned and operated by Jean and Grant Edsall since 1996. Jean is a Seeley Certified Distributor / Instructor, and member of the Doll Artisans Guild. Her childhood love of dolls has grown into an enchanting and gratifying business. As an experienced and meticulous caster of the porcelain green ware - the beginning of all dolls, Grant is also an essential part of the business. Together, they have created a wonderful escape from the stresses of modern life. Here, students work on dolls, share ideas, enjoy music, coffee and the fellowship of ‘doll buddies’.
There are inexpensive beginner projects, which allow a new student to complete a baby doll in just three sessions, without investing in all the usual paraphernalia. There is even development of a pre-painted, ready-to-assemble doll, for 'instant gratification'. One popular concept is the 'portrait doll' - made to resemble a favorite child or grandchild. With a wide selection of molds, colors, eyes, and wigs, anything is possible. What is most surprising is the attendance of a few male students. They find it very relaxing, although they don’t make dolls-they make 'action figures'.
All Dolled Up, Inc. is also home to a new chapter of the Red Hat Society, 'The Dolly Mamas'. Members are currently working on 18-inch porcelain Red Hat Lady dolls, complete with handmade red boots, and soon to learn the art of straw-hat making - red, of course. You don’t have to be a doll maker to join the group, but who could resist creating your very own little Red Hatter!
If one asks, "Why not just buy from the vast array of 'collector dolls' on the market?"...The answer is obvious - QUALITY! Unlike a mass-produced doll, which is made to a repetitive standard, a handcrafted doll is a one-of-a-kind work of art, having a depth and life simply not found in the retail market. And in the course of making a doll, there is no rush because it’s all about the journey. Some dolls are a clear vision of what they are to be, and some are more inclined to evolve in the process. It’s exciting to watch them come to life. Says Ms. Edsall, "If you can hold a brush, you can make a doll. It’s incredibly therapeutic." The results are beautiful gifts to give, pass on to heirs, or keep all to yourself. Whether you’re young and stressed, or an empty nester with time to spare, all you need is imagination, and the sky is the limit!
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