At exactly this time, for the past two years, I've been elbow deep in Advent Box kits, frantically rushing to complete 25 different themed kits.
In 2022 the theme was Fairy Tales, in 2023 it was Circus & Animals. I thoroughly enjoyed the development stages, designing and creating all the little toy and doll kits then working out how to best make them as kits. Actually making up each of the 500 individual kits was somewhat less enjoyable, but seeing each boxful gradually coming together was incredibly satisfying.
Both times it all went right to the wire... because they were Advent kits, they all had to be delivered well in time for December 1st, so they had to be posted out mid-November. Earlier for international orders.
On December 1st last year, as I lay hyperventilating in a darkened room, I vowed, never, ever again. And I have been as good as my word. The past few months have been difficult to say the least. In September we both had Covid, the effects of which are still being felt. I've undergone a series of infusions to treat my Crohn's Disease, which have also had significant side effects. Now PP has another health hurdle to overcome, which may well knock all the rest into a cocked hat.
However, while recovering from Covid, back in late September, I picked up one of my many languishing miniature projects, with a view to actually completing it. The project in question is a Mignonette Doll Presentation Box, in the style of those wondrous creations from the late 19th century.....
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| An example of an original 19th century presentation box |
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| They were filled with elaborate costumes, hats and accessories |
These boxes are something of an obsession for me and over the decades I've made many, in all shapes, sizes and themes. Fifteen years ago I even produced a complete home workship kit, which was a major mission in itself.
However, the one I'm currently working on is particularly lovely. It is currently being filled with many miniature delights including a tiny dressed doll named Belle, with a selection of costumes and accessories.
While sorting through all the materials and components, newly discovered in boxes in my Tardis-like workroom, it occurred to me that I probably had enough of everything to make up just 10 kits.... and the idea was conceived.
Last month I posted this on my Sandra Morris Dolls FB page....
As is the way of these things, I have been somewhat overtaken by recent events, and have decided to postpone release of the kits till the New Year, to enliven the damp, dank, dark days of January and February.
I have still to finish my own box, and I want to actually enjoy the process, rather than having to rush to complete it in the next two weeks. There are many more things I want to add to it, over and above what I've already made. So, despite the delay, I'm confident that the project will exceed expectations.
I've also been dressing some lovely little toy dolls for La Mignonette, my French doll shop, which underwent some major renovations last year and is in desperate need of a re-stock. I may make some extra dolls, which will also be offered for sale alongside the presentation box kit.
When the presentation box kits are ready, I will post the all details here and also send out a newsletter. If you received details of my Advent Boxes in previous years, then you are already on my mailing list. If you're not sure if you are, and want to receive notification of these kits, just message me with your email address (via the Contact Form on the right) and I'll check, then add you if you're not already there.
Anyway, this afternoon I'm working on designing the little kits for all of Belle's hats, to accompany her different costumes. The sun is currently streaming into my workroom and over the weekend I tidied it up (yet again) so that it's an inviting space in which to create.
Best go and get on then..... 😊
