Book Review: Doll Studio Boutique

Most of you know that I like nothing better than a good value for my money!

That’s exactly what you get with all of Erin Hentzel’s wonderful sewing books. All titles include full sewing patterns that you download and print on your home printer. I’ve told you about Erin and her books for 18″ dolls before. In case you missed that, check out my blog posts here and here and here.

Her latest release – hot off the press – The Doll Studio Boutique.

Here’s the delicious cover for The Doll Studio Boutique

What’s really exciting here? Erin has waved her designing wand and extended the sewing fun to 14″-15″ dolls such as the popular Mattel brand Wellie Wisher. Projects also fit other dolls of similar size such as the Ruby Red Fashion Friends dolls, Glitter Girls and more. Every pattern and project in this volume caters specifically to this size range.

SEW what all is included? A whopping ’46 Garments and Accessories’! If you’ve sewn anything from Erin’s previous books, you’ll recognize a few of her 18″ styles, now re-sized for these smaller dolls.

Fat quarters or scrap fabrics are advised for most of these projects. Fat quarters are fun to choose, and easy to find. There’s no large cash outlay for these clothes!

It’s impossible not to ooh and aah over these darling outfits – especially when one takes in the absolutely adorable photography of these little gals! That may not be related to the actual sewing, but it sure makes the book more fun.

Let’s start right out with a road trip, shall we? These darling dresses will take our dolls anywhere they’d like to go!

They’re having fun already, and they haven’t yet left the driveway!

Dresses shown here are from the Vintage Party Dress pattern. This dress was a favorite of mine in the 18″ size , and it’s just as lovely in the 14″ size! Oh, hey! It’s a perfect matching opportunity for ‘big sister-little sister’ looks! Whether stitching this up with a collar, or without; with sleeve bands or simple elastic casings, this dress is a quick-stitch and it fits beautifully!

Here’s the little Gnome print dress I made, perfect for the coming holiday season.

Friends, I’m knee-deep in custom orders at present, but I wanted to help Erin get the word out that her new book has arrived! This little dress went together quickly. Photos are clear, instructions are direct and simple. You will love it – I promise.

What else can I tell you about this book? It’s wonderful for beginners of all ages. It’s neatly organized into well-labeled sections starting with the basics of sewing tools and supplies, and proceeding through fabric notes, pattern layouts and clear instructions for various sewing techniques, etc. There’s even a glossary that defines terms you may be un-familiar with. All to help you execute these projects perfectly.

According to the book there are 7 basic garment styles included but the variations shown are so numerous it feels like several times as many! When you throw in the accessories, including hats, headbands and tote bags? We’re talking a full wardrobe, and it’s all ridiculously cute. How about more photos of included styles?

Here are some of Erin’s girls, taking care of their chickens. The swirly skirts are so cute, peasant tops with variout sleeve lengths and sundresses. The sweet bucket hats will protect them from the hot sun!

Let’s visit the local farmer’s market. Love these headbands and totebags. I also love that bodices and skirts can be inter-changed for a wider variety of dress looks. The white/floral dress in the center is a combination of the simple top and a circular skirt. Love that idea!

What a busy day! Is it time for a slumber party? Cute nighties and pajamas are a necessity!

Don’t miss the sweet matching slippers! And these examples are just a few of the garments you can make. There are shorts, pants and simple skirts, too.

Is there anything to criticize about this book? Not much!

Because the book offers so many styles, it’s necessary to separate instructions for repeated, basic sewing processes such as how to finish edges or gather skirts to one section of the book. After deciding which garment or accessory you wish to make, be prepared to refer back to different pages for some of the info you’ll need. The good news here is that Erin has included the page number you’ll need! And, seriously, if every detail was included with each style? The book would balloon to an un-manageable number of pages with lots of repetition and a higher price tag. We can flip a few pages, can’t we?

If you’re working from the actual book, I might suggest reading through the instructions for the style you’ve selected. Consider the variation or trim details you want to include. Add a sticky-note or two, with quick jots on the fabric you selected, and anything you want to remember during construction. Notes might include things like ‘center back fold is 3/8″ or, ‘add lace hemline trim, page 17’, etc.

I also like to include notes on anything I want to change, such as ‘add 1/2″ length to skirt’. (Not that anything needs changed here, you’ll love Erin’s attention to style as well as fit). Be sure and date your notes. It’s fun to find these in the future, and they may be helpful when you’re ready to stitch your next project.

All in all, another wonderful book of style from Erin Hentzel.

The Doll Studio Boutique is available in soft cover, which includes a link to download pattern pages and print these yourself. E-book copies are also available, if you prefer to follow instruction on a tablet, etc.

Look for the book, or order the e-book at major book retailers including Amazon. You may find the soft cover at sewing and quilt shops, with limited availability at some JoAnn Fabrics stores. It can be ordered directly from the publisher at https://www.ctpub.com/doll-studio-boutique/ In the near future, it will also be available from Erin, through her Avery Lane website at www.averylanesewing.com

Ready just in time for holiday sewing! Enjoy!