The pattern for this 16" cloth fairy doll, designed by Nancy Porras, was published in the April 1985 issue of National Doll World magazine. She is a separated pancake style doll, with each body part being sewn from an identical front and back, or right and left, piece.
Instructions for the Handkerchief Fairy doll call for her to be made from peach broadcloth, though you could of course use any color. She has small mitten hands with a long thumb, and her legs are shaped slightly bent, with her toes pointed, like a ballerina. She has pointed ears which are part of her head, rather than separately applied. Her face is painted with acrylic paints, but could easily be embroidered or drawn with markers instead. Her hair is made from two skeins of embroidery floss.
Handkerchief Fairy's only clothing is a dress made from a floral hankie. The one used for the pictured doll was 14" square. Satin ribbon forms the belt. She has no shoes or underwear. One unusual feature is the beaded tiara and necklace.
This is a fairy simple pattern, but her long thin arms and legs might be a challenge for a beginner to stuff smoothly. The instructions say "the doll and dress can easily be made in an afternoon," but that estimate would be for an experienced sewer, as the steps are not illustrated, and not explained in great detail. Those who enjoy dollmaking more than costuming will appreciate the dress that requires no hemming or closures. The beadwork is an interesting addition to this simple but unusual doll.
