Any painter starts with a blank canvas. a doll kit is chosen, one with no paint, bare and ready to be "born".
They are vinyl or silicone/vinyl mix, and very pliable and soft to the touch-
like baby skin!
As I look at the face
I usually have an idea if it should be a boy or a girl,
or if a new mommy chooses a kit, she decides which one she wants!
Then hair color, eye color and skin tone is chosen.
Next, the tiniest of nails are painted with mulitiple very thin layers.
Mustn't leave them too long,
so baby doesn't get scratched!
Tiny little veins appear... a sweet blush on the palm of the hand, or the sole of the pudgy little feet.
Finally, lashes and hair
of the softest alpaca
or kid mohair are hand rooted,
one or two hairs at a time,
to create the whispy soft hair
of a real baby.
Before long, the little butterfly emerges and its time to dress baby.
Only the best will do, as mommy will want a special coming home outfit!
Tiny real diapers are put on, along with a sweet little outfit and a blanket.
She will arrive home with the sweet scent of baby powder or roses!!
If mom wants a binky or a bottle,
that can be done too!
Finally a body is chosen...
a soft cuddly baby
has to have a proper fit
to be rocked in your arms.
The baby is weighed and measured to be just the right size
before he can go home.
Once those details are decided
the baby is bathed and gently dried,
and the painting begins.
I use Genesis Heat Set Paints.
Many layers are applied very lightly using a variety of brushes, and sponges, to create the perfect skin.
.
Each layer has to be "set"
with the application of heat and let cool before application of the next layer.
No detail is overlooked.
Slowly over many days
the baby's personality
begins to shine through.
Tiny lips are blushed just so,
and little eyes become bright.
Finally,
your Angel is ready to come home!
