Clever Notions

How many times have you wandered down the aisles of your local craft store and stared longingly at the rows of shiny sequins, glittery baubles, delicate pearls, beads, rhinestones, lace appliques, buttons, etc. and had your imagination soar? "Think of all the wonderful things I could create!" you may say. But if you're anything like me, you look at the price tag on one small package of beads, gasp, and keep on walking.

Though sewing doll clothes (or anything for that matter) is fun, embellishing those clothes can be even more fun, but also more costly. Today I'm going to teach you my way of filling my notions baskets on the cheap.

The trick is simple -- find things you like at second-hand places, take them home, and take them apart! For example, these gloves were on sale at Burlington Coat Factory. I purchased them for a little over a dollar. Once you get them home, make some tea, or pop in a movie and grab your handy stitch-ripper. All of these glittering rhinestones can easily be removed by snipping the threads (with your stitch-ripper, or a small pair of scissors). When you're done you'll have a collection* of fancy jewels to decorate your garments that would have cost $3.99 (or more) at the craft store.

Scour the tables at yard sales, rummage through Goodwill (especially on dollar day), clearance racks, and old clothes your friends and family no longer want. Pay attention to the details! Decorative buttons, beads, small chains, buckles, sometimes even lace and trim can be removed.

If you are just starting out and don't have a collection of notions try starting with evening or bridal gowns. These can be found for a more moderate price ($15-$50) at secondhand stores, but are a smorgasbord. One wedding dress has the potential for hundreds of sequins, straight beads, small glass beads, pearls, lace appliques, rhinestones, netting, and yards of reusable fabric!

Of course these same techniques of carefully deconstructing clothing can be used not just for notions but for building your fabric collection as well. Can't knit? Old sweaters (try something that won't unravel easily) and scarves can be used to make socks, scarves, hats, and sweaters for dolls. Cutting up a pair of old stretch jeans is cheaper than buying denim. The possibilities are endless.

*Bonus Tip: Try using small plastic containers to house and organize all of your findings. I do mine by type, and color.