Turtle Child Studio

New OOAK BJD in the works!

2012-01-17T16:21:00.001-07:00

I am pleased to finally be sculpting my first doll of 2012! Since moving this last fall I have not had a space set up which I could work. I have set up a "make do" studio in a corner of my bedroom. It will work for now until I get the carriage house on our property remodeled into my studio.
This latest BJD is a one of a kind sculpted of polymer clay. She is a first for me, in that she is the first closed eye doll I have ever made. She will be the sleeping Snow White. 14 inches high when standing, she is also the doll shown being made in my latest tutorial. "Advanced polymer BJD techniques" will be an advanced version of my previous Polymer BJD making tutorial. I will be showing more jointing techniques, including "double jointing", as well as some extras! I am hoping to have this new tutorial finished by early February!
As I work on this doll I will post more wip pics here! Stay tuned!

A New Year, and New Dolls!

2012-01-03T20:41:00.004-07:00

Happy 2012 everyone!
I am psyched about all the new things I have coming this year! I am already at work on a follow up tutorial to my popular "Sculpting a BJD in polymer clay" tutorial. This new tutorial on CD will have more elaborate jointing, with insructions to add these techniques to your next OOAK BJD, as well as some fun extras! I will soon be posting work in progress pictures here on my blog as well as on my Face Book page! If you are not yet following me on Face Book please look me up, Turtle Child Studio!
I will also be starting new work on my prototype for my new line of porcelain bjds...so stay tuned! Happy New Year friends!! I hope you all have a blessed and happy new year!

SPECIAL HOLIDAY SALE! (For my blog friends only!)

2011-12-13T22:59:00.004-07:00

Announcing a special sale for my friends that follow my blog! I want to reward my friends here on blogspot. I appreciate your support and continued patronage in my Etsy shops. Many of you have shopped at my Turtle Child Studio store, but you may not be aware that I have a second store Bohemian Bijoux. Bohemian Bijoux show cases my boho jewelry line. I am offering to my friends who visit here on blogspot a special 10% off my items in my Turtle Child Studio store and 15% off items in my Bohemian Bijoux store.
Please use codes BLOG10 in my Turtle Child Studio store and BLOG15 in my Bohemian Bijoux store. These sales will start tonight and end at midnight on December 25. Please be sure to add the appropriate code in the coupon code box upon checkout, as the site will not be discounted automatically. The links for my stores are:

Turtle Child Studio: http://www.etsy.com/shop/turtlechild?ref=si_shop
Use code BLOG10

AND

Bohemian Bijoux: http://www.etsy.com/shop/bohemianbijoux?ref=si_shop
Use code BLOG15

SALE! SALE! SALE!

2011-11-24T23:38:00.003-07:00

Starting tonight at midnight 11/24 (Thanksgiving Eve) and ending midnight Monday night 11/28, take 10% off your total order in my Etsy shop.

http://www.etsy.com/shop/turtlechild?ref=si_shop

Just listed now on Ebay!

2011-11-09T20:27:00.007-07:00

Just listed now on eBay. Sculpting an OOAK Bjd using Polymer Clay!

New on Cd disc, "Sculpting an OOAK BJD with Polymer Clay", this tutorial will show the experienced to advanced doll artist how to make an original one-of-a-kind BJD out of polymer clay! Some sculpting and prior knowledge of working with polymer clay is required. THIS IS NOT A "LEARN TO SCULPT" TUTORIAL. While this tutorial will not teach you to sculpt a figure in clay (you need to know how to do this already**), or paint and costume your finished figure, I will show the experienced doll maker how to add movement to their doll making skills, by creating a ball jointed doll! Ball joint doll design, sculpting each individual piece, adding joints to those pieces and stringing your creation will all be thoroughly covered! You will be amazed to see your doll come to life with movement, and if made and strung properly..your doll should be able to stand on it's own un-aided!! This tutorial is available on disc in pdf format to either be viewed on your computer or easily printed into book form. Translations of this tutorial are now available in both SPANISH and FRENCH, just ask for one of these versions in the message box when you check out...if not mentioned you will automatically get the ENGLISH version. You will not find a tutorial like this anywhere else, I am also writing a full length book on ball joint dolls, tentatively to be published in 2012. The book will cover several jointing options, making your own eyes, wigs, shoes, hats and costumes...plus much, much more!

What customers are saying...

Ellifolks says: Wonderful BJD tutorial - very detailed with lots of photos and very clear instructions. Thank you, Kori!!!!

cre8inart says: "THE BEST" Tutorial I've ever purchased - Wonderful SellerHoneysuckledolls says: Very well done tutorial - well-written and easy to understand with lots of helpful pictures. I am excited to start working my way through it.

Exciting news and a new location!

2011-10-03T21:41:00.005-06:00

Well, we are finally moved into our new house! We have been here about a week and I am still frantically unpacking! I won't have a separate studio like before at this place for awhile, my DH will be remodeling an old "carriage house" for my studio, but that construction will not begin until next spring...so in the meantime, I will need to make due in a corner in the house. Oh, well! I can't have everything!!

I have some exciting news...while I was in the middle of this move, my doll "Forgotten Columbina" was put on the cover of Doll Collector magazine!! There is a nice article in there as well written by laurel Sass, former editor of CDC. I was totally surprised by this, it was not expected at all! But it was most welcome and appreciated! Check out this month's issue (November 2011) on newsstands now!

Some more exciting news... another one of my original BJDs "Rag Doll" will be in the annual "Dollery" fall show and is available exclusively through the Dollery. Click on the current 2011 catalog on the website to view!!

My Etsy store is back up and online...it is not fully loaded as always, but I am working on it...as I am still unpacking, it has been tricky to find many items and supplies. Moving my studio was quite the undertaking, it took up about half of our moving truck!!! Check out my Etsy store. www.etsy.com/shop/turtlechild More new items will soon be on their way as well so be sure and put me in your favorites...and visit often!

My latest BJD doll is finished now!

2011-08-23T17:45:00.004-06:00

Here is my latest BJD. Rag Doll is 11 inches tall and has 14 points of articulation. She is a one-of-a-kind and made of polymer. She is available exclusively through the DOLLERY. Contact and ask for a catalog! Catalogs are available in September. If you would like to make your own original BJD, please visit my ETSY store and purchase a tutorial. My Ball joint doll making tutorial is available in English, French and Spanish.

New BJD finished...to be sold exclusively through THE DOLLERY

2011-08-15T13:50:00.006-06:00

I am just completing the finishing touches on my newest BJD "Rag Doll". I am so pleased to announce she will be available for purchase through THE DOLLERY and will be featured in their fall show and catalog!
This newest doll is another One of a kind polymer BJD (ball jointed doll) and is the second doll in my "Forgotten Toy" series. She comes with a custom stand and cloth covered gift box. For more information about the fall show and purchase of this doll you can email me turtlechildstudio@gmail.com or visit The Dollery website.
I will post more pictures of her here on my blog as I finish her up. Today I am working on her shoes and will be making her custom gift box as well in the following few days! ;-)

New Kiln means new dolls!!

2011-06-23T16:50:00.006-06:00

Hello everyone!

It has been awhile since I have posted, sorry about that! I have been really busy lately! I am working on 2 new polymer Ball joint dolls and I recently purchased a kiln! I am really excited about this! Adding porcelain to my doll making is a brand new medium for me and I am anxious to start producing my ball joint dolls as limited editions in porcelain! I already have people on a waiting list for them. If you are interested in receiving news about my work or getting your name on the waiting list for my porcelain edition bjd dolls please send me an email! You can reach me at turtlechildstudio@gmail.com.

I also purchased some porcelain clay as well as porcelain slip (as of today I am still waiting on the slip) and will be doing some one of a kind, direct sculpted pieces as well! Stay tuned for some pics of new work coming soon! Ciao for now!--Kori

A New Doll! Just finished!

2011-05-28T02:01:00.006-06:00

Finally, after two months of hard work I have completed my little "lady" Grace! She is an 18th c. pre-French revolution child. She was a commission by a customer of mine. Most of my work is sold before it is finished. If you are interested in my work and ordering a doll...please contact me, I would love to hear from you! My dolls vary in price, depending on the size and style of the finished piece desired. I also have layaway, but I do have a long wait list, it usually takes anywhere from 6 months to a year to get your doll. This little lady is off to her new owner in the morning!
She is 12 inches high, not including the base. She is made of polymer clay with a cloth body. Grace's costume is historically accurate, including panniers, a bum roll and her shoes and stockings! Happy Memorial Weekend everyone!

P.S. I am picking up my new kiln next week, which means soon I will have porcelain bjds available!! ;-)

Dolls Magazine Digital Edition - July 2011

2011-05-01T11:45:00.004-06:00

My doll "Forgotten Columbina...an Automata Pantomime" is featured in this month's DOLLS magazine. You may view the magazine here (see the link below). My doll is featured on page 43.

The editor (and friend) Carie Ferg is leaving DOLLS magazine. She will definitely be missed! I enjoyed meeting you Carie, and it was so nice getting to know you over the last year! Good luck in your new venture!--Kori
Dolls Magazine Digital Edition - July 2011

New listings in my Etsy Shop!

2011-03-28T20:17:00.003-06:00

I just wanted to let everyone know and especially those who have purchased my newest tutorial "Sculpting an OOAK BJD in polymer clay", that I have recently added some new supply items to my Etsy shop. Some of the items are those supplies needed for the new tutorial.

armature kit for the bjd artist:

http://www.etsy.com/listing/70817705/armature-kit-for-the-bjd-artist

elastic cording in 2mm and 1.5mm

http://www.etsy.com/listing/70818418/2mm-elastic-cord-for-the-bjd-artist?ref=v1_other_1

http://www.etsy.com/listing/70819167/15mm-elastic-cord-for-the-bjd-artist?ref=v1_other_1

I also have Quill tools on order and more "Ultimate" tools on order. They will all be in this week!

Thanks to all! ...More new dolls coming!

2011-03-20T20:22:00.005-06:00

I just want to put out a public "Thank You" to all those who have purchased my newest tutorial "Sculpting an OOAK BJD using Polymer Clay". I have included a special little gift to all those who have ordered as I appreciate your business so much! You have really made this tutorial a success beyond my original expectations. Since last friday there have been 33 ordered! WOW! I almost have enough now to purchase a kiln for my studio...almost! Which means that soon there will be some new PORCELAIN BJDS!!!

I am extremely excited by this prospect! I can not wait to see what comes of this new venture! Another batch of tutorials are being shipped out to customers (first batch went out friday)...bear with me folks...I am also filling supply orders from both my store sites and will offer some "kits" being listed this week for those of you working on BJDS from my tutorial. These will be available in my Etsy store. I think it will make getting going easier for you!

I would really like to hear from those artists who use the tutorial to make a bjd. I would like to hear your thoughts (perhaps on revisions or changes) and see your work as I will soon be sending out some advertising and would like to get feedback as well as photos of your work. Perhaps I will use one of YOUR dolls in a future ad!

Again, Thank you all, so so much! Hugs--Kori

http://www.etsy.com/listing/69802551/tutorial-cd-sculpting-an-ooak-bjd-using

Women In Art

2011-03-19T15:00:00.003-06:00

This is so interesting how the women's faces change yet stay almost the same! It is hypnotizing!

Just listed on Ebay!

2011-03-13T00:54:00.009-07:00

My Newest tutorial "Sculpting an OOAK BJD using POLYMER CLAY" was just listed tonight on Ebay. I am very happy with the results of this tutorial. Here is a brief description:

This tutorial will show the experienced to advanced doll artist how to make an original one-of-a-kind BJD out of polymer clay!

Some sculpting and prior knowledge of working with polymer clay is required. THIS IS NOT A "LEARN TO SCULPT" TUTORIAL. While this tutorial will not teach you to sculpt a figure in clay (you need to know how to do this already), or paint and costume your finished figure, I will show the experienced doll maker how to add movement to their doll making skills, by creating a ball jointed doll! Ball joint doll design, sculpting each individual piece, adding joints to those pieces and stringing your creation will all be thoroughly covered!
You will be amazed to see your doll come to life with movement, and if made and strung properly..your doll should be able to stand on it's own un-aided!!
This tutorial is available on disc in pdf format to either be viewed on your computer or easily printed into book form. Translations of this tutorial will also be available in Spanish and French soon, just ask about them and I will let you know when they should be available to mail out. This tutorial is in ENGLISH.
You will not find a tutorial like this anywhere else, I am also writing a full length book on ball joint dolls, tentatively to be published in 2012. The book will cover several jointing options, making your own eyes, wigs, shoes, hats and costumes...plus much, much more!

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=270719395373

Now Available in my ETSY shop CD tutorial "Sculpting an OOAK BJD in Polymer Clay"!

2011-03-10T23:27:00.004-07:00

Hi everyone,

I have been very hard at work lately, finishing up on 3 commissions and just finished my new tutorial on CD, "Sculpting an OOAK BJD in Polymer Clay". I have had so many requests to teach a class on it, but my schedule is so busy with orders and get ready for shows this year, so I decided to write a tutorial for artists to go at their own pace.

Here is the link to it in my Etsy shop. I will also soon have translations of the tutorial available in both French and Spanish. If you are interested in one of these versions, contact me. They will be available soon!

http://www.etsy.com/listing/69802551/tutorial-cd-sculpting-an-ooak-bjd-with

A new tutorial for sale in my Etsy shop!

2011-02-20T11:13:00.008-07:00

I have just listed a brand new tutorial in my Etsy store today. It is from my January 2011 class, "Sculpting the Realistic Baby". The tutorial is 138 pages and is available in pdf format on CD. You may view it on your computer or print it out as a book. It includes 60 pages of photos of real babies for reference, as well as anatomy charts, supply references, clay mix instructions and two patterns. One pattern is for the soft body for a pellet filled baby, and the other is a 1930's inspired costume for your baby including sundress, bonnet and booties. Follow along with me as I teach you to sculpt a fully sculpted polymer clay baby and a baby with a soft cloth body and poseable limbs.

I also have two other tutorials available in my Etsy shop..."Sculpting a Fairy Child" and my popular, "Making Glass-like Eyes for your OOAK Doll". I am currently working on another tutorial, "Sculpting a BJD in Polymer Clay"...this latest tutorial should be available by the end of February!

Stop by my Etsy store today to purchase these tutorials or any of my many tools, and doll artist supplies. I also carry museum reproduction fabrics!!

http://www.etsy.com/shop/turtlechild

A preview of new bjd dolls to come!

2011-02-17T13:03:00.004-07:00

I just thought I would show you a little video that is inspiring my latest bjd (and maybe more than just one). It was an idea I had brewing and now is a special request...Stay tuned as I post wip pics...

Also soon to be released "Making a polymer clay BJD" tutorial soon to be available for sale in my Etsy store!!

Enjoy the video...it is one of my favorite scenes from one of my favorite movies "Moulin Rouge".

'>http://

Bjd Tutorial...available soon!

2011-02-08T11:54:00.004-07:00

I have been working on a new Ball Joint Doll Tutorial that I will make available in my Etsy store. I am hoping to have it finished by the end of this month. It will be in pdf format on CD to view either on your computer or to print. So many people have emailed me about making their own polymer bjds, so I decided to make a shorter version of a book I am writing. I am writing a longer version of this process,it is a full size book actually...I have two publishers interested in it. I hope to have it finished by the end of this year and possibly published sometime in 2012. The book goes in depth about making your own bjds out of both polymer clay and air dry clays...with several types of joints and configurations of joints discussed. I will also have chapters on wigs, accessories and eyes. For about two years now I have been studying both the early french and now the modern japanese dolls. While working on my own bjds and seeing what works and what doesn't...I compiled quite a large notebook! I am sure it will take me some time to whittle all that compiled info down into a readable format!

If you are interested in either the tutorial or book and would like to be added to my mailing list to find out when either or both will be available you can email me at turtle.child@yahoo.com Thanks!--Kori

Pantomime BJD is done!

2011-01-24T18:51:00.016-07:00

My newest BJD is finished! I spent all day and way into the wee hours of the morning working on her. I hand dyed and aged all the fabrics yesterday for her costume. She is mostly fully costumed now...with the exception of little leather ballet flats I am working on for her. I had to pause for awhile, because I am exhausted!

I did manage to take some quick snapshots of her...the lighting was not ideal, but it gives you an idea of what she looks like and here is her story:

"Forgotten Columbina...an Automata Pantomime", she was made in France in 1798... but now she is a forgotten toy. Once she was dearly loved and treasured. Her face was bright and cheery! But then, one day her child stopped coming to see her...and as the years went by her once lovely, happy smile turned into a face of sorrow...and after more than a century, her paint started to run with the tears that she cries.

Update: I Got her shoes finished, but not until after she was already on her way to Florida...so she is down there shoeless...oh well...it's warm right?...I will add some silk ribbon to lace them up her calves as well...

If you are in Orlando, Florida...stop by the Rosen Shingle Creek and visit the IADR booth #322 to see her and many other dolls at the IDEX show...January 27-30. *See earlier blog posts for IDEX link.

More progress on the bjd...she is strung!

2011-01-21T18:44:00.009-07:00

Here are some more pictures of the bjd I am currently working on. I got her strung today, I always love to play and pose a ball joint doll! They are such fun to make, but just as fun to play with!! I hope you like her so far. She is a forgotten toy, I call her "Forgotten Columbina...an Automata Pantomime". More pics coming...I costume and wig her tonight, when I finish I will post new pictures...stay tuned!!

Bjd is painted and ready to be strung!

2011-01-20T16:23:00.007-07:00

Here are some update pictures of my latest polymer clay ball jointed doll. She is 11 inches and is called, "Forgotten Columbina...an Automata Pantomime". She was inspired by this picture and a song, "When she loved me". She is a toy that has long since been forgotten by her owner...who was a child long ago. She is lonely and forgotten. Her once happy painted face is running with tears.
I am really looking forward to costuming her. She looks like an Automata doll with her key wind in her back (I have not photographed that yet)... I should have finished photos by the end of the weekend.
If you are in Orlando, Florida next week you can see her in person at the IDEX show January 27-30. I will not be attending. My work will be in the IADR (International Art Doll Registry) booth. For more info on this show visit www.idexshows.com/

Polymer BJD

2011-01-19T01:04:00.007-07:00

For the last week I have been working on another ball joint doll! I have been making this doll to accompany my other BJD, "Alice" for the IDEX show being held in Orlando, Florida next week. I had originally planned to attend this show and debut my new gofun bjd doll line. I have had to cancel my trip and not wanting to send 12 months plus worth of work on my new dolls "un-chaperoned"...I decided to make polymer bjds to send to the show. Two of my dolls will be there to represent me. My bjd "Alice" and a new doll, I am currently making called "Forgotten". Here is a sneeak preview of Forgotten's work in progress. As of tonight she is fully sculpted and ready to be painted and strung tomorrow. I will post more pictures here in the next couple of days.

You may see this work at the IDEX show January 27-30 in Orlando, Florida. My work will be in the IADR booth along with several other talented members of IADR (International Art Doll Registry). I am not yet sure of our booth number, but I will post it as soon as I know.

Fairies and Foes Art Contest

2011-01-16T01:09:00.004-07:00

Hello Everyone,

I entered one of my earlier creations "The Sunflower Fairy" in the Fairies and Foes Art Contest put on by Beyond Fantasy Magazine. Please stop by the link and view all the great fairy art and vote for your favorite...not necessarily me (but I sure would appreciate it! ;-) ) Here is the link:

http://beyondfantasymag.weebly.com/contests--polls.html

My doll is Entry # 31 (The doll shown in the picture above) ! Voting ends January 27th --Kori

IDEX update and new show date scheduled!

2011-01-11T11:02:00.003-07:00

I regret to say I will not be attending IDEX after all. I will however be sending some work, not my gofun bjds however. I will be debuting them soon in the doll magazines. They should be available for purchase by February. Work has slowed on them some now, because I have been working on polymer bjds for the IDEX show. I have also come down with what seems to be pnuemonia, or a very bad chest cold! I was cleaning my studio after a sanding session of the gofun bjds...I always wear a mask when I sand but didn't when I cleaned my studio...I think I got the fine dust in my lungs. It may just be a cold (confined to my chest)...but I came down with it right after cleaning my studio...which leads me to believe the dust may have contributed to it. I need to come up with some contraption in my studio to lessen the dust floating around the studio. I have an air filter unit...and that lessened it some, but dust still settles on all the surfaces of my studio. I would sand in our garage, but it is so cold here...that is not an option. Any ideas anyone? I was thinking of a box with a screen attached to a vacuum hose...I don't know if this will work, but I am going to give it a try. I would appreciate if anyone has any suggestions.

Update: I signed up today to attend the Doll and Teddy Bear convention in Philadelphia, PA., May 12-14. I will publicly debut the 'Le Belle Poupee' gofun bjds there. I am excited to be attending this show, and am looking forward to meeting old friends and making new friends while there! If you are interested in attending this show, here is the link http://www.quinlanmuseum.com/convention/ I will post my booth location when I recieve that information! Hope to see you there!

New Jewelry in my Etsy store!!

2011-01-05T09:56:00.003-07:00

http://www.etsy.com/shop/bohemianbijoux?ref=seller_info

Ball Joint Doll is nearing completion!

2011-01-04T00:09:00.004-07:00

Hello everyone,

Welcome to a new year, wow 2011...sounds so funny to say! I have been working on my ball joint doll now for around 10 months I think... of course alot of that time was spent studying how to make a ball joint doll...and also I only get to work in my studio in the evenings ( I have small children). At any rate, I want to show you all some of the progress that has been made on the doll. All of the parts are now sculpted to my satisfaction and I am ready to add the joints now! I will add more pictures in the coming days...it is getting so close now I am getting excited!

Just listed on Ebay, a rare first edition hardcover book!

2010-12-09T18:24:00.002-07:00

Now available in my Etsy store:
http://www.etsy.com/listing/65135288/articulated-doll-by-ryo-yoshida-rare-1st

Tis the Season!

2010-12-07T13:40:00.002-07:00

Happy December everyone!

I have been very busy lately...I am currently teaching an online class on 'That Creative Place' website "Sculpting a Realistic Baby"...and am still working on my gofun bjd (ball joint doll) in between sculpting babies for my online class! Work is going well on the ball joint, but I am really starting to feel the time constraint especially since IDEX is really only just a little over a month away...time flies!
...and then there is Christmas...and I have not even started to shop! I think I will attempt to get all my presents online this year. I really need to free up some more studio time! My whole family has been fighting some kind of stomach virus lately...further adding to the time constraints!
I did book my room today for IDEX though...and I am gearing up! I just hope I have finished what I need to have finished by then! Heres hoping!! I will post some new wip pics of the gofun bjd soon!--Kori

"Sculpt a Realistic Baby" online class starts tomorrow!!

2010-11-14T17:57:00.006-07:00

Go to the following link for more information and to register for class:

http://thatcreativeplace.com/html/kori_leppart-butts.html

I hope to see you in class!

Living in a world of dolls, the work of Koitsukihime

2010-11-11T23:34:00.001-07:00

Enjoy this look at the great work of Koitsukihime, she is a big inspiration to my own work! Some of her work is a bit creepy and surreal, she was inspired by the work of Hans Bellmer who was a surrealist artist. I like the more traditional dolls...that is where my work is headed... Enjoy!!

Japanese Doll Making

2010-11-11T21:56:00.003-07:00

This is a wonderful video showing traditional Japanese techniques using gofun. In this video they are molding dolls in a wood composite...my new dolls are completely hand sculpted and coated in gofun and are BJDs (ball joint dolls), the new line "La Belle Poupee", will be released in January at IDEX.

Subscribe to my blog for more updates on my "La Belle Poupee" doll line! ...I will be posting pictures of the work in progress of one of my new dolls as I go through the creation process!

More work in progress pictures...

2010-11-08T10:27:00.004-07:00

Legs and arms are almost done for my BJD...they of course will be cut later to accomodate the ball joints. I just got in some gorgeous silk that I ordered from India for the doll's costume. No hints yet as to who she will be...but, stay tuned...I will continue to add photos of the work in progress!

More work finished on new gofun doll...

2010-11-01T21:36:00.004-06:00

Hello everyone!

I just wanted to share the progress being made on my new gofun doll. You can see now that her head is sanded thoroughly, as well as work on her torso has started as well as on her arms...the torso and arms are just in their rough stages now. (Star is for modesty!) I will post more pictures as I have some progress!--Kori

New Gofun BJD Dolls!

2010-10-25T13:23:00.004-06:00

I am so excited! I finally have my new dolls getting close to completion! I have been working, researching and learning this new technique for over a year now! The supplies and the technique are all from early Japanese methods. I have purchased probably over a dozen books from Japan on this ancient doll art...and have been researching and learning this technique over the past year! I am so excited now to have a doll finally nearing completion! I still have many, many hours of work ahead of me...and my deadline of January 27, getting closer and closer! I will be unveiling my new line of dolls 'La Belle Poupee', January 27-30 at the IDEX show in Orlando, Florida!

I can't believe it has been a year already, since I first started this venture! A year of many challenges and hurdles! First was the daunting task of learning this method from Japanese books...when I do not speak or read Japanese! Next, after I got over the language barrier was the task of finding a supplier for all my supplies...but here I am, with a head nearing the final stages! I still need to sculpt some more on the head...then several more layers of gofun need to be added, and of course sanding, burnishing and painting! Her body is still in it's very rough stages...but looks like a body anyway!! She will be 20 inches when finished and will have set in eyes and of course a ball jointed body. I will post pictures here on my blog as I work for those of you who are curious!...so stay tuned!!--Kori

Dolls Magazine Digital Edition - December 2010

2010-10-16T21:45:00.001-06:00

Here is a copy of my recent article in the current issue of DOLLS magazine (December 2010 issue). Wil Peterson wrote the article from our interview in August. The article discusses some of my recent works as well as announces my soon to be released new line of dolls 'La Belle Poupee', which will be unveiled January 2011 at the IDEX show in Orlando, Florida! To view the complete article click on the link below:
Dolls Magazine Digital Edition - December 2010

New Products in my Etsy Store!

2010-10-11T11:08:00.005-06:00

http://www.etsy.com/shop/turtlechild

Fall is here and I am gearing up for a new class "Sculpting a Realistic Baby"...this will be a fun class...for who could not love sculpting tiny, sweet toes and little dimpled bottoms?

I have added several new products to my Etsy store in anticipation of this class. I have many pairs of my hand made glass-like eyes, as well as lens only eyes, and eyes on wire. Also, a brand new product, "Kori's Wax Dip"...the name sounds funny...but it is a fabulous product! My secret wax formula will transform that dull clay look into a warm, luminescent glow...just like real skin! To use this wax dip is really very simple...melt the wax in a double boiler or in a small crock pot...then simply dip your doll or it's parts. Allow the doll to cool...then put in your home oven at 200 degrees and allow the wax to melt 'off'...leaving a beautiful sheen behind!

I have also ordered from my supplier the "Ultimate" sculpting tool...so I will have many of those back in stock...this simple wooden tool is my favorite tool and highly recommended for any artist working in clay!

Well back to the studio now, I have lots of work to do and am really looking forward to class starting again. Class will begin November 1! See my class link to register...till later!

Baby Class is now posted!!

2010-10-10T15:43:00.002-06:00

Hello everyone,

I am pleased to announce my online "Sculpt a Realistic Baby" Class is now ready for Registration! Class officially begins November 1, (the forum will be available that day). The forum will be open from November 1-December 15. I am always available to students via email. This class as I have previously stated, will have a download-able workbook with many pictures to guide you and two versions of babies instructions.

Also included, about 75+ baby anatomy reference pictures, anatomy charts, and one of my exclusive costume patterns to dress your baby! Sign up here to register: http://thatcreativeplace.com/html/kori_leppart-butts.html

Babies Class and new doll supplies on Etsy!

2010-10-03T11:08:00.005-06:00

Hello everyone,

It has been a while now since I have posted here. I apologise for the long absence. I will be starting my babies class soon on http://www.thatcreatplace.com/ website. If you are interested in this class you can get on my mailing list to be alerted when class sign-ups begin. They will start early this October, with class beginning later this month! The class will instruct you on two ways to sculpt a baby. One will be fully sculpted as a solid figure, the other you will sculpt head, arms, and legs and attach them to a bean-bag style body. This type of doll is very poseable. Dolls can be made any size you desire. The class also includes a down loadable workbook with pictures and full instructions to make both styles of babies and a clothing pattern to complete your baby.

I am going to post new supplies tonight on my Etsy store in anticipation for this class. The doll pictured here is sculpted in Prosculpt and dipped in wax. This wax dip helps to add the lovely sheen and translucency to the skin of the doll...giving it a more life-like appearance. This wax will be available in my Etsy store...with full instructions for it's use. The wax can be used on any polymer doll or air dry clay doll to add a unique finish! I also have many hand-made eyes which will be added to my store over the next couple of days. You may view my store here... http://www.etsy.com/shop/turtlechild Please check back often as I will be adding new supplies daily through -out the week!! Hope to see you in class!

Classes starting again soon!

2010-09-10T17:24:00.002-06:00

I just got off the phone with my friend Lisa Gatz of That Creative Place...and I will be starting my online classes again soon! First class up will be "Babies"...the class will show students how to sculpt a realistic, fully sculpted baby and also a baby with a soft cloth body. The class will start in late October/early November. If you have ever wanted to sculpt a baby this is a great way to learn. The classes are conducted online on www.thatcreativeplace.com website at your own pace, in your own home! What could be better?? The class has a downloadable workbook with pictures, and an online forum to ask questions, get instructions and get to know your fellow students! Past classes have been alot of fun...and a lot of new friendships are made! I hope you can join us! To sign up or get on a list to be notified of when sign up is available, you can email me turtle.child@yahoo.com . I am planning to have another class this winter as well, "Creative Costuming"...no time is set for this class however.
Meanwhile, I have been hard at work on my new line of BJD dolls (these new ones have not yet been debuted). I will unveil them officially this next January at IDEX in Orlando, Florida. Dolls magazine is doing a feature article on me, my work and my upcoming new line of dolls...it will be in the December issue of Dolls magazine! This will be my first "feature" article and I am thrilled about it!!

New Face for Alice!...and News from my Studio

2010-08-29T13:25:00.004-06:00

Alice's new face for my polymer BJD is finished! If you remember from past posts, I was not happy with the first head I made for Alice...I was sick at the time with gall bladder attacks before my trip to Chicago and needed a quick head to finish the BJD I was working on. The first head I made for Alice looked "pained" and not like my work at all...so I said "OFF WITH HER HEAD!"...and made a new one. So, Alice is done except for her shoes... I will be making her high top boots and then she will be finished!
Also on Friday, I finished an interview for DOLLS magazine, which will appear in the December issue of the magazine. This will be my first appearance in DOLLS magazine, so I am very excited to be published in it! Alice will also make her appearance in the magazine.
I can't wait to get back to my large Gofun BJD's... It will be great to get back to work on these, as it really is my new passion! I am anxious to debut them finally, work was put off for about a year now because of work done in anticiapation for ODACA membership....so I am excited to get back to it! I plan on debuting my new line of dolls at the IDEX show in January. I will post some wip pics here and there to show the progress...
That is about all I have to say this beautiful Sunday morning...It is starting to feel like fall and I am embracing the new season...and the cooler temperatures! Happy Weekend Everyone! Until next time!!--Kori

Sculpting in my Studio Again!

2010-08-08T16:09:00.003-06:00

Well, I am finally back to work after surgery and a month or so of physical set-backs! It seems it has been months since I have picked up the clay and got back to work. First on the agenda is a new head for my new BJD (Ball Joint doll) Alice...and then on to completing her accessories. I was not fond of her head at all...so I decided..."Off with her head", and on with a new one!
I sculpted my new BJD Alice when I was very sick, enduring what seemed to be daily gall-bladder attacks. It was getting near time to leave for the ODACA convention in Chicago, and my new BJD I had been sculpting for over a month needed a head...so, a very "pained expressioned Alice is what came out...Lesson learned...never sculpt when you are sick...your emotions definately show through in your work! I will post pictures of the new and improved Alice as I go along!
It is such a relief to finally be back in my studio and at work again! Another news brief from my studio...I have a brand new line of large BJDs waiting to debut. I have been working on these new BJDs for over a year now and had to put them aside as I went through the ODACA membership process and then of course gall bladder surgery. They are very large 20 to 30 inches! They will be quite different than any of my other dolls, but this is the new direction I am pursuing with my work. I hope you all enjoy the new direction my work is taking me. I still will be making my miniature sculpts and cabinet size polymer dolls for my collectors out there...no worries about that! But, as a former tailor, I have been dieing to get my costume design techniques out and making a line of dolls that can change costumes easily like BJDs do! Stay tuned...there will be alot of new dolls coming out of my studio soon! Until we talk again!--Kori

My surgery is over...and am healing fine!

2010-07-31T12:58:00.002-06:00

Hello everyone,
I had my gall bladder surgery this last Wednesday. It was over and done and within 3 hours of the surgery I was on my way home to sleep and recover!
It is three days now and I am able to eat foods with flavor (and fat) again! Yay!! I am also healing well and not as sore as I have been the past two days...I have been ordering supplies to finish my new line of large ball joint dolls and I am looking forward to returning to my studio soon to work on them...I think I may even venture up there today and clean some!!
Thank you to all my sweet friends for your well wishes and prayers...I am truely touched!!
I can't wait now to get back to work...I have all kinds of ideas rolling around in my head! Stay tuned...new WIP pics soon to come!!--Kori

Back from Chicago!!

2010-07-24T12:49:00.009-06:00

Well, I am back from Chicago and what a wonderful trip I had! I have been so looking forward to it...and it was better than I had imagined it would be! I am now officially an ODACA artist and my show went so well...I SOLD OUT! ...all but 3 miniature pieces sold...Marie Therese sold within the first 10 minutes of the show being open and I also took custom orders for other dolls "like" her (same coloring and similar historical time period)...I also sold "Alice"...but I will be replacing her head for the collector, as I had planned to do when I returned. (it was a quick head done when I was in alot of pain--so she had a "pained" expression) My first two large ball joint gofun dolls are also already spoken for! I have a waiting list for the dolls after the first two!! So, it was far and above what I had expected! I enjoyed my time I spent with my new friend Flo Hanover (my roomate at ODACA)...we became close friends in our two days!
I have to say the ODACA members are the most generous and giving group of talented artists...I had so much fun with them and I am honored to be a member! I din't get alot of pictures like I had intended, I really was so busy I barely had time to visit the other artist's tables. Our show ended at 5 and I was able to make it to the NIADA show...it was a thrill for me to finally meet Ankie Daanen, Marlene Verhelst, Annie Wahl and Donna May Robinson (picture 4 here). Beautiful work at this show as well, although I was disappointed there were not more artists present.
An added entertainment bonus was that they were filming Transformers 3 right beneath our hotel and we had a bird's eye view of the filming! I was sitting in my hotel room window everyday watching the process as they continued to use the street set, they had set up over and over in different configurations at what looks like will be several scenes in the film! I managed to take more pictures of this than the actula shows!! (first snapshots)
My gall bladder which has been giving me trouble for three years and steady trouble for the last few weeks managed to hang through with me for the duration of the show (although I had to remain on my no-fat diet the whole time in Chicago!) Upon arriving home I have either been in the clinic, ER or in tests at the clinic...my surgery is now scheduled for this next Wednesday morning...I am looking forward to being pain free and back in my studio working!! A special tahnk you to Loretta Polaski of IADR for the picture of me at the show...I wouldn't of had one myself!!--Thanks Loretta!!

I will be out of commission for about a week here as I recover from my surgery...I am looking forward to getting back to work!!--Kori

On my way to ODACA convention!!

2010-07-16T10:52:00.002-06:00

Good day everyone!! Well, I am finished making my dolls and packing to go to the ODACA convention! This is the third and final leg of the membership process. I will find out at the convention if I make it into ODACA as a member. This final phase is the interview and critique. The ODACA convention is being held in Chicago at the Hyatt Regency Hotel across the street from the Swisse Hotel where the NIADA convention is being held. If you have a chance please come to visit the ODACA show on Sunday!
About Alice, I have decided to take her to the show, but I won't be using her in my critique...I didn't like at all the way her face turned out...I think all the stress and working that day when I was ill...came out in the pained expression on her face. I have decided when I return from the ODACA show, I am going to pop off her head and make a whole brand new one...this time I will not be rushed and will have the time to sculpt a beautiful head. Then I will be pleased with her...So....OFF WITH HER HEAD! lol!! I still have several accessories to make for her as well. She was my first BJD and I want to be proud of her and right now I am NOT.
Well, I am taking my camera and plan on having lots of pictures of the show when I return. --Kori

Alice...has got her "muchness"...

2010-07-11T23:22:00.004-06:00

Good morning everyone!! Well, Alice is almost finished now...all she needs are her shoes! I managed to take one quick snapshot before my camera battery died. It was late and the lighting in my bedroom was terrible...but anyway I thought you all might like to see how she is coming along. She is still missing a small friend that she will have with her at the ODACA show...which is not finished yet. But, I really need to move along... better pictures of "Alice" will come along later in the week!
I am feeling a little better lately although I still am very uncomfortable in the evenings from my gall bladder...I have a follow-up appointment with my doctor this Wednesday and he will let me know if I am still able to attend the ODACA show or not...cross your fingers (a prayer would help too! ;-) ) Thank you to all my friends and well-wishers...your sweet comments and encouragement have helped me stay focused and driven to finish this last week.
Well...I still have two pairs of shoes to finish (one are Alice's)...and a whole new sculpt to finish, as well as some costume touch ups....before I leave on friday. So I best be getting back to it!! ...till later--Kori

Ball Joint Doll is almost done now...

2010-06-11T15:58:00.002-06:00

I have been working tirelessly on my new ball-joint doll. It has turned out to be alot more work than I bargained for. I re-made the torso twice...I now plan on re-sculpting one of the hands...I don't like the finger positions on it. But, other than that...all I have left is to sculpt the feet. After that the "proof" of all my efforts...stringing the doll. I will only show her when she is finally 100% complete.
I am gearing up for the ODACA show...and with the amount of time this doll has taken me, it has put me behind of where I need to be. I will next make the civil war era child and hopefully I will still have some time to sculpt some minatures to take to the show. Well, I am off now up to my studio...until later!

New project...just a hint at what it might be!

2010-06-01T22:03:00.003-06:00

Spring is finally here and I am "spring" cleaning the studio!!

2010-05-17T13:08:00.004-06:00

Hello and Happy spring everyone!!

I have been very busy since I returned from my vacation down south... I got some fun new supplies while vacationing...nice old pieces of facric and laces! I have been going through my studio and cleaning and organizing. I must confess I am somewhat of a pack-rat! As I am sure most artists will admit to! ;-) I have quite a few things that I have decided to purge and pass on to others who might need or want...I will put the supplies on Etsy or Ebay (not sure which items will be sold where)...but I have some great instructional videos and DVD's... books, and of course many destash items to pass on to some one else who might find them inspirational! I will post the links here as well as on my FB pages.

I am happy to report that my new ball-joint doll is coming along nicely...and I will soon have new wip pics to show!! I am still working out the bugs in the joints...but hope to have my doll done soon. The countdown to Chicago is ticking loudly in my ear and I have to finish two new dolls before July as well as more ne ones to fill up my booth!! ...Nothing like a deadline to kick my butt into gear!!! lol! Happy Spring and Happy Sculpting everyone!!--Kori

Vacation...and Ball Joint doll is coming along nicely!

2010-04-26T11:01:00.003-06:00

Good day everyone! Well it is monday again and about a day and a half away from our annual trip down south to Louisiana to see my husband's family. This will be the first time we drive instead of fly and I am looking forward to it...we are going to take our time and sight-see and do some antiquing! I am finishing up on laundry and packing today...
But, tonight... I will be back sculpting on my new ball joint doll! If I have time today or tonight I will post some WIP pics...I am pleased...it is coming together easily! I have to do some parts sanding and cleaning. So far all I have done is the torso. I usually sculpt all my dolls with the head first...but for this type of doll I am creating the body first to ensure all parts fit well together and move well. I will be sure and post pictures of my progress...after tonight though no sculpting until I return around mid-May!

New doll being sculpted today!!

2010-04-22T11:26:00.002-06:00

I am starting new work today...finally! I have a lot to do before July... Starting today I am working on a fully sculpted original ball-jointed doll. This will be a first ball joint doll for me. Although I have been in the process for months sculpting a rather large 22" stone clay ball-joint doll...which needs a lot more time to complete. This new one is bound to get finished sooner...as it will be considerably smaller ( I am still working out the dimensions of the final piece)...somewhere around 10 1/2". I can not wait to get started on the actual sculpting...preliminary sketches of working out the design details is done, so now the fun part starts! I will post pics as I go...stay tuned!!

A new direction!

2010-04-15T11:55:00.002-06:00

I decided yesterday, not to start my civil war era child doll just yet...I decided I will go another direction. I am very excited to make this new doll and will post pictures as I go...
I discovered long ago that I really need to get excited about the project in order to get a nice finishd piece. I kind of lost my momentum in making another doll the same size, scale and style as the last one...so I decided to go a totally new direction. I still need to finish two new dolls for ODACA days and the UFDC convention...I also need to make more for the sale table. I don't want to confuse the ODACA judges in the final round of judging by making something totally new..so I am not sure if this new piece will be one of the ones shown in the final judging round. Stay tuned...this new doll I am making is totally out of my "norm"... I am so exited...however, before I start today I need a quick trip to the hardware store! ;-)--Kori

Great News!!!

2010-04-01T16:47:00.002-06:00

Hello everyone!
I got some wonderful news this morning! As many of you know I have been in the process of applying for membership to ODACA (Original doll artist council of America) http://www.odaca.org/index.php . I found out this morning that I have made it through the second round of judging and will be going to Chicago in July for the final round of judging, the interview process. I will need to bring "Marie Therese" and two other new dolls to the convention...as well as a few more for the sales room (if I make it through final round)...I am very exited! It is an honor to get this far in the process and it will be fun to attend the show and convention...I have never been to a large doll show or to Chicago for that matter! Well, I now have a lot of work to do...so I better get to it! Stay tuned for Work in Progress photos!--Kori

Need to clean the studio today...contemplating a new sculpt!

2010-03-27T14:37:00.007-06:00

I finally got my blog all set up...now I need to clean my studio mess from my last doll and put away all my new supplies! Tonight I will start my next new doll! I have decided she will be the same size and scale as my last doll...Marie Therese (about 13"). This time I have decided she will be from the 1860's...I ordered some reproduction civil war fabric (and just got it in)...and have been studying period photographs and clothing designs from the period (the photos at left are a couple of my reference photos). I have also ordered a mourning brooch from the period in her size and have decided to make a "holding doll" in the Izannah Walker style. I recently signed up for an Izannah Walker online class, that I was too busy to really take part in because I had to finish several commission pieces as well as working on dolls for an ODACA (Original Doll Artist Council of America) review. Marie Therese, was sculpted for the second round of judging. I will know sometime in April how I did. I am being optomistic, and have decided to get an early start on the final two dolls for the third and final round of judging which will take place in July at the ODACA convention. Crossing my fingers I will make it that far!! ;-) --Kori

New to blogging...but here goes!

2010-03-26T21:41:00.000-06:00

Hi Everyone!
Welcome to my blog page! My name is Kori Leppart-Butts and I am a professional Doll Artist as well as a sculptor and teacher. After a lot of encouragement from friends and customers I am finally starting to blog! This page is dedicated to my sculpture and my original art dolls. Turtle Child Studio is named in honor of my first born, my son, who changed my life completely...he was slow to come into my life...I didn't have him until I was 37 years old, hence the "Turtle Child". Both of my children ( I now also have a daughter) are a continual inspiration for my work. I love children and children's stories, such as fairy tales and folklore. You will see most of my Art Dolls are children, although I do make adult sculptures from time to time.

I plan on using this blog to communicate closer with my customers, fans and students. I will post work in progress photos as well as some tutorials for the beginning OOAK (One of a kind) artist. I hope you enjoy my work as much as I enjoy sharing it with you!! To view more of my work visit www.turtlechild.com , or to register for a class visit www.thatcreativeplace.com .