Every Saturday we feature a fun web shop. Today: Tante Hilde
Hilde Cuppens used to make dolls for her own kids and those of family and friends. Until she started blogging about it and the rest of the world wanted one as well! So far she has made 200 unique specimens and this year she’s also putting together a book.
When did you start making dolls?
“I started at the age of nine. My mom used sow and knit a lot as well and at some point I got this book on making dolls and a pair of fabric scissors as a birthday present. I couldn’t have been happier with a present like that.”
Where lies the biggest challenge in making dolls?
“I love it most when people request a unique doll. They explain a little about their kid and I get to fantasize about what the doll should look like. Usually they will give me carte blanche and they’ll say ‘I trust you’. When they end up being thrilled with the result that makes me so happy. And when I hear that the little doll is THE favorite toy I am completely over the moon. And I heard earlier this week that I get to put together a book on making dolls and associated outfits. It’s scheduled for Fall 2012 and it will be filled with explanations, instructions, step-by-step pictures and tips.”
When do you make dolls?
“I studied archeology, I work part-time in a museum and my husband has also got a very busy life. As we have five kids any kind of hobby that would involve leaving the house at night simply isn’t in the cards for us. Which is why this is such a super hobby! I can do it at home, and I have my own sowing room, so I can simply leave all my junk lying around. The kids really enjoy being creative as well and they will often pull up a chair and sit and draw and craft along with me. I am not the type of mom whose house is always spotless before she can sit down and take some time for herself. My kids have sat on my lap while I am working my sowing machine ever since they were tiny… it’s simply the way they know me best.”
