Today I am incredibly excited to share an event with you. I have been getting to know Amy Jandrisevits, owner and creator of A Doll Like Me. To begin though, I need to tell you, this is a long post. I have so much to share! Go grab a cup of coffee and settle in. 🙂
Several weeks ago, I was browsing quilt blogs (a favorite past time for all of us, right?) I began reading and skipping around Elana Goldberg’s blog, That Fabric Feeling. I landed on a post from early last year titled Doll Quilts. I read about quilts she was making to be given with dolls made for children with special needs. I was immediately intrigued by this and started following links. The links led me straight to a Facebook page for A Doll Like Me. I read and read and read. Honestly, I was so touched by this and I couldn’t get enough. My first thought was, oh, I should make a quilt and send it to this organization. But the more I thought about it, the more I wanted to help in a bigger way. I kept thinking what if I could gather some quilters together and we could make a bundle of quilts for these dolls. Ok, I am getting ahead of myself here….
First let’s really get to know Amy Jandrisevits, the woman behind this incredible shop. Writing prior posts about people I interviewed, I would rework the conversation and put it into my words, often because I needed to shorten the post. Today, I don’t think I will do that. I want you to know Amy through her own words. When she wrote me, her words had a huge impact on me and I don’t want to lose any of that. So, meet Amy – mom to three children and currently a stay at home mom. Prior to staying home with her kids, she worked as a social worker in pediatric oncology. Her husband is a child psychologist at the Children’s Hospital in Wisconsin. Now she makes very special dolls that look like the child who receives them. Amy makes many dolls with limb differences (missing a hand, or arm, or leg). She makes dolls with a birthmark matching the child who own’s it. Maybe the doll wears a cannula (the little tube bringing oxygen to the child’s nose). The doll might have glasses, a hearing aid, or possibly albino skin or hair. Anything that the child has, Amy will make the doll have it – so the child can see his or her self in that doll, and have “A Doll Like Me”.
Amy with her youngest child.
My first point of contact with Amy was via Facebook Messenger.
Me: I am a quilter/blogger at Needleandfoot.com. I would like to host an event in February asking my followers to make a quilt to “spread the love”. It will be tied into Valentine’s Day and community service. Would you like to receive some doll quilts for your dolls? I love the idea of what you do. It is heartwarming and incredibly important. Is this something that would be helpful for you? I would love to hear back from you. If you like the idea, please provide an email address so I can correspond with you outside of Facebook Messenger. Thanks so much and either way this goes, keep up the good work!! Best regards,B.
Amy: Good afternoon!
YES, yes, yes!!! I love this idea.
I am going to attempt to give you a short answer 
I never anticipated that I’d be making these dolls…but one of the best parts is how people have volunteered to participate. I’ve had a Girl Scout do a bake-sale; I’ve had friends pool their money; I’ve had Bible Studies collect money; I’ve had a few people crochet hats…and then the quilts. My mom is an avid quilter (she just got back from a show in Ontario, California!) and quilts are so important. I think it’s a very tangible way to cover someone with love. For many of these parents, they are familiar with isolation and judgment. I think quilts show them (and ultimately their children) that someone cares….that someone also sees their child as something other than a medical specimen. They, when the day is done, are just little people who have parents or grandparents that want everyone to see the same beautiful person that they do.
I think that there is no time like now to show people that loving folks DO exist!!!
I could go on and on…but I am honored to participate. Tell me what you want to do and I’ll make it happen. The way the quilts have worked in the past is that I typically send them with dolls who have extra special circumstances. I don’t have enough quilts to give to every single person…in fact, at the moment I don’t have any! So I usually do kids who are about to be hospitalized or are currently hospitalized. I try to do kids with tough circumstances…foster care and adoption…and kids who are ashamed about how they look because people can be so cruel. I would LOVE to have quilts on reserve.
Maybe you know Elana Goldberg…she has been amazing. And a couple times I’ve been able to message her with something that I know is coming. Her quilts are works of art and families are SO grateful. My son’s best friend asked for a sewing machine for Christmas and he’s going to make a quilt for me to give!
It’s very exciting and very humbling.
Amy
Cutest Smiles EVER!!
Later the same day, after reading, and re-reading, Amy’s response, I sent her a list of questions. She took some time and sent me such thoughtful responses. I want to just share them directly with you.
2. Do people buy the dolls? If so, how much do you charge? If not, how are you funded?
My dolls are between $65-75. Once you subtract taxes and supplies…and my time, it’s a bargain. I NEVER turn anyone away due to cost. It’s why I try to keep the cost reasonable. Early on in this process, a guy asked if he could donate a doll – actually he donated three. He’d seen the video of Hope and wanted other kids to feel like that. I’d never considered it but what a WONDERFUL component to this. I’ve had people donate a few different ways. Church groups (and then they can pray for the recipient); a Girl Scout; doctors; a few friends. Whoever I can get. I think it’s so important for the families who receive a donated doll. There’s a story on my page…right before Christmas. Ping’s family donated a doll and unbeknownst to me, the little girl that received the doll just lost her dad. Read the story. It’s incredible.
So I’d like to have more sponsors – and in my ideal world, no one will pay for their doll. I’ve talked about being a nonprofit, but that’ll have to wait a couple years. At least until my youngest is in school. Who knows? I have a friend who works for the IRS and she says it’s pretty simple. At this point I’m lucky if I can brush my hair and teeth AND sew!
3. How big are the dolls (so we can make appropriately sized quilts)?
The dolls are about 18″….American Girl sized. This is important. It means that the dolls can share clothes with American Girl dolls and essentially look like everyone else! There are so many cute clothes and now my dolls look like the cool ones 😉
4. How did you get started? When did this all begin?
This started when someone saw a doll that I’d made for a friend of a friend! It wasn’t even a limb difference doll but her daughter had just had a leg amputated. Macey was 8 at the time. Her mom asked if I’d consider making a doll without her leg. It was a no brainer…of course! Two limb different organizations shot the interest through the roof. I quickly bought the email and web domains and then secured a trademark. All of it pretty reactive. My middle son had just started Kindergarten and I was barely pregnant with my younges. I had NO IDEA that I’d be making dolls with limb differences.
5. What is your background (e.g.jobs, school, how did you learn to sew, what other things do you enjoy making?)
My name is Amy and I hoard craft supplies. There. I said it. My mom taught me to sew (she’s a quilter and now helps me with clothes and bodies)…but she’s on the other side of the country! I used to design scrapbook pages, so I own a million stickers and sheets of paper. I did clay, rubber stamping, wood crafts. When we moved from California to Wisconsin, my husband said ‘when people say they have a ton of craft supplies, you really do. This all weighs a ton!’ LOL
I have a master’s degree in social work and worked in a hospital before staying home with my two boys and baby girl. My husband is a child psychologist at the Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, so he helps me get some of the unusual medical equipment. CHW has also requested several dolls for some of their patients.
6. Any special requirements for us as quilters? For example, I would assume no embellishments such as decorative buttons or beads because they would be choking hazards.
I have absolutely no requirements. I have SO many orders that I can always find someone for each quilt. It’ a non-issue. I think that quilting is an art and I’d never ask someone to alter their canvas. Elana makes intricate quilts, but simple 5″ blocks are fine, too! In fact, there’s an older woman who sews front to back panels. The gesture is so kind that people feel so touched. The kindness of strangers is such a special thing. I think it’s wonderfully therapeutic for families to receive something so special – from someone they don’t know. You have to know that many of the people who FINALLY find someone to make a doll like their child have been through so much. People judge them and gasp at their kids; medical professionals photograph the limb/burn/cleft lip because it’s a teaching tool. It’s so…dehumanizing. That being said, I love this personal touch.
7. Number of boy quilts vs girl quilts? Since girls tend to play with dolls more, do you need more girl quilts?
Interestingly enough, I do a boy doll about every third one! Isn’t that amazing? There’s a couple little guys whose dolls go everywhere with them. Boys need the same things that the dolls offer!
8. Do you work with children only in the US or do you have international customers?
I mail at least two dolls a month out of the country. Canada, Australia, and England are the most common. But I’ve mailed to Denmark, Scotland, Chile, and even Egypt! The limb organizations that I work have a huge amount of followers…and for some of the adoption groups, the circles run small. Shipping out of the country is ridiculously expensive, though…nearly $30 sometimes.
Note: Amy and I are working on some ideas for international quilters who would like to participate. I will let you know details in a separate post.
9. How do you find out about a child who needs a doll?
I own the webpage www.adolllikeme.com but it loops you to Facebook. I don’t have time to maintain a web page right now and I probably can’t handle the additional traffic. But someone told me to buy it so that companies wouldn’t try to sell it to me at a premium I couldn’t afford…ugh. My orders ONLY come through Facebook and then direct referrals (from hospitals). I’ve not had to do advertising yet (fortunately) and now I think my page pops up when people do a “limb different doll” search. A few bloggers (especially special needs moms) have referenced the dolls, so I get orders that way also. But truly it’s through my Facebook page. I’m on Instagram…but honestly it’s because my tech savvy brother in law said I needed to be!
10. Where would we be mailing the quilts to?
You would mail the quilts directly to me. That way I can match outfits and send them with the dolls. Keep in mind, it won’t be to everyone – I simply don’t have enough quilts to do that. There was actually a little one last week who is about to be born with a limb difference and I would have LOVED to include a quilt. She’s nowhere near the top of my wait list but the family is having a rough time adjusting to the news. See? Every doll has a story. And one is as amazing as the next.
When people send quilts, I always take a picture of the doll with the quilt…and usually families will send a picture of the child with both! It’s so fun to see your work in the arms of the intended recipient.
11. What is the average age of the child receiving the doll?
The average age? I’d say probably early elementary school. The ages of recipients totally varies (I’m doing one for a mom right now! She wants her kids to see HER in a doll!!!)….newborn to adulthood. Someone actually ordered one for my grandma when she turned 100! (I didn’t even know she wanted one!!!) I think the most pressing ones, though, are about 5-10. Pretty young.
Here is my plan! I hope to gather a large number of quilts for Amy’s children. I love the idea of our giving community working to provide special little quilts for these amazing children and their awesome dolls. Giving comfort and showing kindness to the parents of these little ones fills my heart. I love the idea of providing comfort to a child going through a scary time in life. I love the idea that some of these children will form a special attachment to a quilt we provide, maybe the quilt will be their ‘lovey’. Might it provide an avenue for some of these cute kiddos to explore their feelings with their doll? Just look at the picture at the top of the page with the little guy sitting on the bed in the hospital with his doll, wrapped up in a quilt. It fills me with joy to see his sweet smile.
This is such an easy way to help others! We all have a tremendous assortment of scraps (and if you don’t happen to, let me know. I will happily share with you). The quilts can be simple or as complex as you feel like making. Use an orphan block as the beginning and build on. Take a cute juvenile fabric and make a whole cloth quilt and bind it up! Doll quilts are super fun to make and not too time-consuming or expensive because they are not very big. As for the size of these quilts, they should be made to wrap around or cover an 18″ doll. I would suggest 22″ x 24″ or so? A little smaller or larger is fine too.
Such a sweet girl with a baby just like her.
This is my call for quilters to Spread the Love and quilt for kids. It is a new month and February is all about love and kindness. Please take an afternoon and make something special for this very special project. I promise you the following; an incredibly satisfying, warm, fuzzy feeling inside that is both heartwarming and fulfilling. For the month of February I will host Spread the Love. Quilters who participate will make one, or five, or twenty (?!?) quilts and will send them directly to Amy. The number of quilts you decide to make is totally up to you, I am only teasing. But the goal is for our giving community to supply Amy with a reserve of doll quilts to be given as she sees fit.
Note: I did not put Amy’s mailing info here for obvious reasons. When you are ready to mail a finished quilt, please email me at needleandfoot at gmail dot com. I will privately send you the info you need.
A cute little guy with his doll, which is Just Like Him
What do you think? Is this something you want to participate in? Leave comments and let me know if you have questions. As I said above, Amy and I are tossing around some ideas for international participants. Please do make quilts and we will let you know as soon as we come up with a plan to help with the shipping expense to get your gorgeous quilts back to Wisconsin and in a child’s arms. I hope you will take a minute (or an hour!) to scroll through Amy’s Facebook page. The pictures and stories about the dolls and their owners are amazing. You will be in awe of all that Amy has done for these children by creating the dolls for them.
Finally, prizes! Yep, I have prizes. Art Gallery Fabrics has generously donated ten bundles of fat quarters for me to give out. You are all familiar with the amazing quality of Art Gallery Fabrics. They make quilting cottons of the highest quality. Walter Bravo, owner of AGF, is happy to sponsor this project as he sees a need and knows our community will step up and fill it. Pictures of the bundles will be posted soon. I am excited to share them with you. I plan to host a link up during the last part of February. You will enter a picture of your finished quilt at that time. If you make more than one, enter a picture (separately) of each one. Each quilt made is one entry to win a beautiful bundle of AGF! If you have trouble with the link up, or you don’t blog, etc, you may email me a picture of your quilt (s) and I will enter you in the drawing. I will provide more info on this as the month progresses.
Tomorrow I will put up a post sharing a few doll quilts I have been working on. Maybe these quilts will inspire you! For today though, I encourage you to take a look at your scrap bins, your juvenile prints, those novelty fabrics you weren’t quite sure what to do with, the orphan blocks that have been languishing in a bin somewhere — those are the perfect pieces to use! Use your own unique aesthetic, be it modern, traditional or somewhere in between and Spread the Love.
Finally – this is a call to share the event. If you have a blog, please take a quick minute and share ithe post. Use the HTML code below to put the graphic on your side bar. Post it on Instagram with the hashtag #quiltingforkids. Help me spread this far and wide! I will be linking up to many of the linky parties listed at the top of the page under Link Ups. Thanks everyone. I am looking forward to hearing your thoughts on this and sharing all sorts of cute quilts this month!
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Bernie you are amazing and I am so happy you are spreading the news of Amy’s incredible work!! I always wished for more quilters to step forward. The cat blanket you showed was actually seen by a child I work with in a Sunday sewing group in my town. She was 6 years old at the time, as was the recipient of that particular doll. With Amy’s help, the two girls have become penpals and have sent one another little gifts, letters and drawings. It has become a wonderful friendship.
This is the incredible result of Amy “spreading the love”. I can’t waiy to see all the doll quilts that can be possible with your fabulous idea!! If I had the time, i would sew all day for A Doll Like Me! I must have 10 separate quilts in progress right now.
Thank you for the incredible post interviewing Amy. She is a one of a kind angel for what she does. Everyone should know about her!!! Thank you for creating this generous event!!! May the quilts roll in and reach each and every child with a Doll Like Me!
I will gladly put your link on my little site as well!
Thank you Elana but were it not for your post, I may not have come across Amy and her wonderful shop. I was thrilled to read your posts and see the quilts you’ve made. Also, I just love that you have made these with young sewing students. What a wonderful way to teach kindness to our kids. Also, thanks for sharing this via your blog. 🙂
Elana…as always – thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Oh, I love this idea and I will participate. Judging from the photos it looks like the quilts are small. Is there an approximate size that is preferred?
Lisa, I have typically made mine 18-20″ x 24″ but that’s only because it’s the size that seems to fit my cutting matt best. Sometimes my quilts have been 25″ long or so, but it doesn’t matter to Amy. She’s open to anything that will work with an 18″ doll.
Hi Lisa Marie, I have been making mine approximately 22″ x 24″ since the dolls are 18″ in size. It can certainly be a little larger or smaller but something like that would be perfect. Thank you for joining in with us and making little quilts for these little kiddos. <3
I am going to start stalking my mail lady!!! She has no idea what’s about to happen 😉
What an inspiring interview. One question – I have no idea how big a doll quilt should be. Could you recommend a suitable size range please?
Hi Gale, Great question. I just updated the post for the other readers. How about approximately 22″ x 24″ since the dolls are 18″ in size. I can’t wait to see what you come up with. Email me a picture and share, ok? Have fun making these very special little quilts!
Thank you so much Bernie.
Thanks 🙂
I am so inspired by the generosity of quilters. Who knew they were such nice people?!?! 😉
Great story! There are wonderful people out there!
Thank you for sharing a need with us.
What size quilt is preferred?
The dolls are about the size of an American Girl doll….which is 18″. But really there aren’t any specific requirements.
I am so excited.
Just yesterday I was sitting with some bright colored left over pieces from a quilt I just finished, trying to figure out what to do with them. Now I have a plan. I think I can make them into a quilt for this cause. And I have some other fabric I’ve been wanting to use for a boy quilt. This is a fantastic plan, Bernie! I would like your recommendation on size, however. I am really excited to take part in this!
Yay Wendy! I am so happy you are joining in. As for size, I would say anything close to 22″ x 24″ since the dolls are 18″ in size. Thanks so much for participating. I hope you will post about this to share with your readers too. Have a great day. 🙂
Your scraps were waiting for this 🙂 Thanks for participating.
What an amazing, inspiring post!! Once again, Bernie, your gift of telling a story shines and resonates with so many. Thank you for sharing this with all of us. I’m going shopping this weekend. Since I don’t quilt, maybe I can do a flannel blankets?
For sure, a flannel blanket(s) would be great. So cozy. Have fun with it. It will be loved and appreciated. Thanks for joining in Tina!
I have been told that a friend is making a crocheted blanket…and perhaps even a fleece one. I think anything makes a great quilt (in fact, my little one is using dish towels for her dolls just because they were in the laundry basket!)
This is a wonderful thing! I will definitely participate & spread the word. Some thoughts on the size – I found an article about making a quilt for an American Doll & they used two fat quarters, which are about 18×22. I think that would be a good size recommendation! Can’t wait to make some of these! I also know some Australian quilters that I’m sure would love to participate when you figure out the logistics. 🙂
This is thrilling on so many levels. The fact that quilts are coming from all over is exciting (Bernie, I should have my eight year old pull out a map!!!)
I have a contact in Australia if we want to have them sent to her…
Please count me in. I’d be honored to participate in this beautiful project and share some love.
Bernie, is there a deadline? Seems like the need would be ongoing.
The need is absolutely ongoing and Amy would welcome quilts on a regular basis. For this event, I will be asking participants to share one (or more) doll quilts by the last week of February to be eligible for the prizes donated by Art Gallery tho. You are such a talented quilter and I know you will make a child very happy. If you’d share this on your blog, that would be very much appreciated Preeti!!
Actually it’s funny because one of my first concerns to Bernie was that I needed to ration them…for some of the emergency situations. So absolutely…the need IS ongoing.
I think that it is such a great way to tangibly show caring…
Bernie! This is such a wonderful idea! I will definitely be sending a quilt or two and I will post on my blog!
Thank you Stephanie!! I look forward to seeing the quilt(s) you create. They will be appreciated and loved. 🙂
Thank you 🙂
(Can I ask how I can see some of these blogs?)
I will start sending you links of others that post about the project.
I love this idea. I was a pediatric physical therapist for 34 years and worked with many kids with differences. I will happily make a quilt for this great cause. Maybe more.
Thank you 🙂
I have posted a link to your blog post to my quilt guild’s Yahoo Groups page. . . .hopefully that will generate extra interest through our members.
I will definitely make at least 1 quilt — it will be a great way to use up my bits & pieces of batting for a good cause.
Do you know if Amy would be interested in crocheted or knitted blankets as well? Just wondering since I am a little faster with a hook than the sewing machine (and crochet is a bit more portable during camping season).
Also, and I know your main purpose at this point is quilts, does she need clothes made as well? I could help with that too. . . .if it is needed.
Thank you for bringing this to my attention. . . . .I had no idea.
My first guess is yes to all you are offering. I will double check with Amy and confirm this for you. Back in touch soon Sherry and thanks so much!
I got a very happy yes to both the crocheted or knitted doll blankets as well as doll clothes!! Start sewing and crocheting!!☺️👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
Just like Bernie said….yes and yes 🙂
I love the idea of clothes, too.
Oh my goodness. What an inspiring and thoughtful post Bernie.This has touched me in so many ways. I am definitely making you some quilts. Thanks for sharing.xxo
Wonderful- so happy you are joining us Pam!☺️❤️
Thank you for your sweet comment <3
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Yes! Count me in! Love the idea!
Wonderful!!! Thank you Deb. Have a great day. 🙂
Thank you!
Well now that I’m done my ugly cry from this touching story, thank you for doing this. My mind is already dancing with ideas. I have shared your post with 2 of my quilting friends. I look forward to following along and sending my contribution towards this incredible program.
I know what you mean Fonda. It really touches me in a deep way. Thank you for participating and for sharing the info. ❤️❤️❤️
Sorry….that just made me laugh!
I think that quilts are such a neat way touch someone…because you are covering them with love. And, man, if we don’t need more of that right now.
Thank you for participating.
Oh my, you have inspired me already even before posting your quilts. It’s time to do some little quilts for a happy cause!! Thanks for sharing this wonderful interview!
Hurray! I am so glad you are joining in Janine. Thanks so much. 🙂
Thank you! I’ve never been so excited for the mail…even Amazon Prime can’t compete!
I made several doll quilts for my granddaughter for an American Girl Doll themed birthday party. Well really my granddaughter and I made them we had extra and they looked very much like placements when they were just by themselves.
It was a nice project to do together.
I also tried different binding techniques, such as sewing the binding 100% with machine, using a flange, and trying different ways to join the binding ends.
The children are appreciative of the uniqueness of their doll quilts and years later we have been told of them being well used.
This is such a nice way to celebrate these children
Thank you for sharing this. What a fun birthday party and a special time shared with your granddaughter making the quilts! Celebrating children is a great way to describe this project!
You know what? I like what you said about celebrating these children. Exactly. And I can’t wait to start sending them out!
Looking for a simple and easy doll quilt quilt pattern to make from only 20 charm squares? Check out this link. The quilt is a fine size but you can always add a small border to make it tad larger if you desire.
https://www.skiptomylou.org/doll-quilt-tutorial/
I’m in, Bernie!
Happy to have you Karen!!
My first doll quilt is pieced and ready to quilt, my second is on the mat! What fun!
Thank you 🙂
This is such a wonderful, wonderful thing. I would be happy to make as many quilts as I can finish in February. I’m also willing to continue to make them after February. I reorganized my sewing room today and I have more fabric than I can use in a lifetime. I will get started tomorrow. Can’t wait!
Oh and thank you so much for posting this!
Hi Char, thanks so much for the gift of your time making the doll quilts! The need is definitely ongoing- I also plan to continue making them after this event is done. So glad you are joining in!
First of all….more fabric than you can use in a lifetime. hahahaha!!! Who here can’t relate to that?
Second…I would love to have a few who can make them after February. I always say that every doll tells a story and each is more amazing than the next. In my mind, they should ALL have a quilt!!!
Wow Bernie, what a great organization. It touches the heart of this Granny. I have a special needs grandchild and have been privileged to take her to therapies and navigate preschool. Time to sew up some love.
Well your grandchild is lucky to have you! Thank you for joining in and making some doll quilts! They will definitely be appreciated -have a great day Darlene!
Thank you 🙂
Found you through Confessions of a Fabric Addict…
I have a doll size quilt I’d be happy to send. Please send me the address. ochterbeckj (at) gmail (dot) com
Thank you! Can’t wait to see….
OH! I am so delighted to read about this project! I’m in! When I have something finished, I”ll contact you for the mailing info – thanks to all for sharing this news!
That is wonderful Elizabeth!! Thanks for participating and I look forward to seeing a picture of your doll quilt (s) Have a great weekend.
Thank you 🙂
I have been way behind on reading my blogs which I get via e-mail. I was considering deleting all the blog posts I hadn’t read up until today so I could be caught up again. This post was amongst the 100 or so e-mails I was about to delete and something made me click on yours. I don’t know why, but I am glad I did! I LOVE THIS IDEA. I would love to do a quilt for this cause, Berrnie! And I think I am supposed to. 🙂
Hi Janice, This is so cool – I am so glad you picked mine as one to be read! I know how it feels when you have stacks of unread and just want to be caught up and start fresh. I am thrilled you will be joining in and hope you will post about it on your blog. Thank you and happy sewing!! Let me know when you need Amy’s mailing info.
I am SO…what’s the word….touched? I think it’s simply amazing that people are willing to use their talents to help tiny strangers they’ve never met <3
I have been following “A Doll Like Me” on Facebook for awhile now, and I love all the stories of the kids who receive dolls. What a great idea to give a handmade quilt with the dolls! I will be making some quilts to donate. I don’t have a blog, but I do have LOTS of fabric scraps! When I finish a few, I will ask for the mailing address to ship them off. I have 2 kids adopted through the foster care system – kids are near and dear to my heart!
Thank you for your kind words and I’m glad you’ve been following the dolls. It’s still a very surreal thing when I think about how this has unfolded.
I want to respond to each of you individually. But I will start here.
First of all I am SO touched by this response. When Bernie contacted me, I was thrilled. My mom is a quilter, so quilts are very special to me. I think I mentioned to Bernie that quilts are a tangible way to show love.
I have been lucky to have a few quilters who share their works of art with the kids who receive my dolls (you can see them in the pictures). It’s such a nice touch because I think that families need to know that someone cares. When they arrive, I stash them away for unusual circumstances – it feels a bit like hoarding! I am grateful (and honestly I breathed a sigh of relief) to know that more are in the works. You can imagine that these are an additional comfort item. I mean, isn’t that what quilts are for?
Elana Goldberg (https://thatfabricfeeling.wordpress.com/) has been an absolute angel in sewing for the dolls…sometimes on demand! LOL She connected Bernie and I; and I’m so glad she did.
In the last 24 hours I have learned a few things about quilters. #1 – they are incredibly kind. #2 – they are so generous with their talents. I mean, it’s one thing to have a gift or a skill, but it’s entirely different to share it…particularly with people you have never met. #3 – quilters have always know that a quilt is a visual representation of “caring.” That’s such an abstract concept. You are all creating a way for someone, a little person, to see and touch and feel “caring.” #4 – quilters are humble. You might have read #3 and said, “No…I’m just doing something I love.” True…but it will have more of an impact than you know. If you know play therapy, you know that dolls are more than just toys – they are so important because it is a representation of the child. That doll wrapped in your quilt is a gift!
So thank you. I am grateful. I am humbled. And I am incredibly excited.
Sending love back at ya…just finished 4 more doll quilts yesterday. Quilters beware….they are addictive to make and if you’re like me, you won’t be able to stop creating them!!!
I would love to contribute some doll quilts for “A Doll Like Me”. I made some in the past for Ms. Claus by Deb Clark in SC – she has since stopped her Ms. Claus projects, and would like to again make small quilts with a purpose.
I will not be able to sew this week, but will have some quilts by the end of next week. If you provide me with an address I will have some quilts mailed your way shortly.
Thanks for taking up this worthwhile endeavor and offering the opportunity to others.
Johanna- that would be wonderful! Keep me posted and I would love to see a picture of your quilts. Thank you for joining in!☺️
Please don’t feel rushed. I would love to have a supply that takes me past the spring 🙂 Thank you so much.
I have a few doll quilts I made a couple of years ago that have been looking for a good home. I’d love to send them to you for Amy’ project. Please provide your mailing address and I’ll get them to you quickly. I’ll also send an email for each one with a picture so I’ll be entered in the drawing for the fabric giveaway, as you suggested for those who don’t have a blog or use Instagram.
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Bernie
Two of the quilts that are on your poster I
made for Amy. I love to see the finished product and how Amy matches it to a doll for a special child! ❤️ Each quilt I try to send a special message attached to it. I’m so happy to see others want to help. It brings me great joy and tears to my eyes.
Hi Laureen, Thanks so much for letting me know you are the maker of some doll quilts for Amy. So nice to meet you! I like the idea of a special message contained in the quilt. That is really a cute idea. Keep an eye on the blog and I will share quilts as people make them and send me pictures. Take care and if you make more quilts, please share them with me!
As always…..thank you. You are also my emergency quilter!
Thank you for sharing your talents so generously…
I just pulled out some orphan blocks of a fun Jungle themed novelty print and am piecing up some little tops. My goal is to have at least three finished doll quilts by Monday. I’d love to have Amy’s address to ship them off next week. Thanks for writing this up, Bernie!
louise (dot) hornor (at) gmail
That is wonderful Louise! I will email you her address in a few minutes. Will you be sure to link up at the end of the month so you will be entered in the drawing? Also, if you have a minute, share this on your blog? Thanks a bunch and have fun sewing sweet little quilts this weekend. 🙂
Count me in! I have scraps left over from Project Linus blankets/quilts to make these small quilts for these kids in need.
Yay Susan!! Thank you so much. Yesterday I dropped off two baby quilts for Project Linus, another very good cause. That was the first time I have given to Project Linus. So glad you are joining in!
See? I always say that projects like this are why crafters hoard! Because you never know when you’ll need those scraps!!!
Thank you for doing this.
Heart-warming post and such a wonderful idea Bernie! I can totally see why you were so excited about this! I’ll definitely be participating and spreading the word through my blog. So many needs for comfort in our world, so many, and we quilters rise to the needs always, as you mention.
Thank you! I will also be asking for a Canadian quilter willing to be a central mailing point for quilts made in Canada. Then that person could mail them to Amy in WI. She will assist with the postage to get them to WI. But I think more quilters in Canada will participate if they can mail locally for less expense. Thoughts?
I would be happy to be the Canadian!
Awesome Deb!! I will be in touch with you via email. Thank you for the offer. 🙂
I keep saying that same thing. Quilters are so generous and so willing to share their talents in this way. My feelings are a bit overwhelming. Remember how Mr Rogers always said in difficult situations, to look for the helpers? Boy, these are those folks. These are the people that I want my kids to see and realize that there are WAY more kind and giving people than we realize.
I plan on making a doll quilt and will send it to you in March. Is there a deadline or will this be ongoing?
This is an ongoing need for Amy. The only deadline is for being entered in the drawing for fat quarter bundles at the end of February- but absolutely we need the quilts on a long term basis. Thanks so much Sue!
For sure it’s ongoing…I am grateful to get them whenever!!!
What an awesome and amazing collaboration, Bernie. I am excited to hear how many quilts you are able to gather!
Me too! As usual, this quilting community is rising to the need and helping out. ☺️
I cannot tell you how exciting this is. I keep saying that I’m probably going to freak my mail lady out a bit by watching for her out my window!
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I read your blog post the other day and can’t get this off of my mind. I have to make some quilts for “Share the Love” and it is going to be so much fun! A bonus will be imagining a little girl or boy holding their doll with the quilt.
Thanks for heading this up. You can send the address now or I will let you know when I am finished.
Hi Cindy, I just love the enthusiasm I hear in your note! Thank you for joining in. If you like, it would be awesome if you shared this project on your blog to let your readers know about it too. Can’t wait to see your quilts.
I share your sentiments. When I sew these dolls, it feels a bit like the concept behind a prayer shawl. You think about the little person whose arms will hold it and hope that it offers some kind of comfort.
Thank you so much for participating. I am truly touched.
Just read about “Share the Love”. What a wonderful thing to do. I have been feeling sad that my granddaughters have out grown their American girl dolls and so my sewing outfits and quilts for them has ended. I loved doing that work. Then… I read about Amy’s work and I am so excited to get out the patterns and scraps for clothes and quilts. Just what this grandma needed!
Julie- this makes me so happy!! I have really been enjoying sewing these sweet doll quilts too. Later this week I will do a post about making hospital gowns for the dolls. Amy would like to have an assortment to give to children that are dealing with hospitals, surgeries and other times where they will be wearing hospital gowns. She would like the dolls to wear one too.😊. Look for that toward the end of the week. Can’t wait to see what you make!
Yippee!!
I think it’s actually very satisfying to be able to start and finish a small project…which is why doll quilts can be so fun. I am SO glad your doll talents will be used again!!!
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Just made my first two 24” square doll quilts. They go together ‘sew’ fast and easy! I found some super hero fabric scraps and made one with a Batman focus – is he still relevant? Hope So! The other one has cowboys/girls in mind as the back has cowboys roping steers and the front is all manner of country reds, blues, and neutrals. Will send photos later today.
Those sound awesome- looking forward to pictures 👍🏼☺️
I would love to help. I started making donation quilts to honor my grandson who passed away unexpectedly. he was 17 and an eagle scout. He had graduated from high school with an associate degree. I made 17 (his age at his death) quilts to donate then 17 children’s quilts. and now I promise to make 17 doll quilts. I will mail them as finances allow. Wonderful cause and wonderful opportunity. Thanks.
Hi Julie, I am so very sorry to hear about your grandson. The loss of a child must be the greatest pain of all. What a tribute to him that you see for others. If you need help with the postage expense, please email me at [email protected]. We have ways to help you defray that cost. Sewing for others can be really therapeutic and I hope this eases your pain.❤️
The 17 quilts are ready to mail. I just need an address. I can ship them right away.
I couldn’t get the code to work so I added an Edit to my latest post. I’m in the UK but would still like to help.
Hi- I just read your post – the wedding looks like it was so much fun! Your outfit and fascinator looked gorgeous on you! That Apache Marriage Blessing is just beautiful too. Thank you for linking to my post. You should make whatever you like and I will send you my sister’s address. She is my London point of contact and once she has a few quilts collected, she will send them to Amy. Thanks for joining in Kate. Oh- the circle quilt is amazing. Look at that quilting!!!!
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I want to make a doll quilt! What a wonderful project to bring quilters together.
I invited 39 friends to Like Amy’s Facebook Page, A Doll Like Me (www.facebook.com/nannysbabiestoodollslikeme) and will share the info on my page.
Thank you for making it possible for others to participate!
Janie
That is wonderful Janie. Thank you for spreading the word. I look forward to seeing your project!! Have a nice weekend. 🙂
Oh Bernie! Thank you for bringing this to our attention! I am all over this(finally!) xoxo!
It’s early yet! You have all month still.😉
Found you from Persimmon Dreams challenge. I voted for your quilt after reading the story and have followed the link. This is a wonderful idea and I will participate….starting tomorrow morning. (Having a glass of wine now and I have learned not to sew while doing that…..I usually have to rip out the next day.) Followed one of your links and found the quilt top that uses 20 5 inch squares. That will start me off. Just finished a scrappy donation quilt so this will be a great transition to another charity. Thank you for posting about it. I am also off to look up clothes for American Dolls….haven’t sewn them before but I might be up for the challenge.
Thanks Nikki. I am happy to hear this sounded like a project you want to help out with. Be sure to email a picture of your finished quilt to me by 2/28/18 to be entered in the prize drawings!! Happy Sewing.
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Bless you for your work with children. For many years I made and sent doll quilts to a dear lady who collected them in South Carolina to accompany homemade doll beds and cradles given to needy children at Christmastime. So fulfilling! Sadly due to health issues, she has been unable to coordinate this effort for a few years. Now I welcome the opportunity to send doll quilts to you on an ongoing basis!
Hi Brooxie, How wonderful to hear you will be contributing doll quilts!! It is a wonderful way to help out and it sure uses up the fabric we have sitting in the sewing room. I can’t wait to see what you make. When you are ready to send something off, let me know so I can give you the mailing information. Take care and thank you.
I know what I will be making today! I’m so glad I saw your post on Instagram. 💖
Am wondering if still in need of blankets, would love to do this!
Hi Kay: Yes – this will be an ongoing need for Amy. She would love to stockpile some quilts to be sent out with the dolls. If you want to make on, please do!! Thank you. Email me when you are ready to send it and need the shipping information. [email protected] Take care.
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Hi, Don’t know exactly how I got here this morning. I started at Confessions of a Fabric Addict and hopped along from there. I guess it was just meant to be. I will pledge at least one quilt a month for the rest of the year. If you send me Amy’s address I will send the January and February quilts out next week. I will also post them on my blog with a link to this post.
Hi Selina,
That is awesome! I will let Amy know and when you post it, I will send her the link. You are amazing to put this into your sewing/quilting plan. I will email you separately with info for A Doll Like Me.
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This is such a touching story. I would be honored to make doll quilts for this wonderful heartfelt project I just read about on a quilting blog I follow. That led me to this blog with the information and how it came to be. I have lots of fabric to choose from, batting scraps that will be perfect sizes and off I go…..can’t wait to get started. I also knit and crochet so might have one of those going at the same time as I take projects with me wherever I go. I know the children’s lives are blessed by this endeavor. (I do not have a blog but will send photos as requested when I am ready for the mailing address.)
Hi Carol,
Thank you for the note. I am so pleased you are joining in on the quilt drive. I think a knit or crochet blanket would also be wonderful. It is nice to have a variety of blankets and quilts for Amy to send off with the dolls. Enjoy using up some of your scraps, batting pieces or yarn!! I look forward to hearing from you and seeing what you made for A Doll Like Me.
Take care, Bernie
I just learned of this, and am heading down to the sewing room now. I love making doll quilts, and this sounds like a wonderful organization.
Thank you Sunny! That is wonderful. Send me an email and I will provide you the shipping information. [email protected]
Have fun sewing. 🙂
I’m coming to the game a little late (well, a lot late!). Even though February is nearly over (I don’t need a prize anyway) I’m going to make some quilts AND put all the information on my blog. I heard about this through someone else’s blog. See? All that time spent reading blogs in front of the TV at night is worth it! Thank you so much for sharing this.
Hi Sandy, Thanks for the note. I am really enjoying meeting so many new people because of this event. Whose blog did you first see this on? Only because I am curious how this has been shared. 🙂 I will hop over to your blog and check it out – I don’t think I have been there before. Keep in touch and let me know what you make for A Doll Like Me. It is such a wonderful cause to sew for. Take care and happy sewing!!!
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