Russian Folk Doll

This traditional Russian folk doll, reminiscent of the style seen on Matryoshka nesting dolls, is made from scraps of material found around the home, using a traditional folded doll technique plus a few simple stitches. This  activity is suitable for anyone who finds stitch craft difficult.

Click on image above to see 'how to' video

The doll is inspired by Russian folk art and were traditionally played with by children or used as amulets or ritual dolls. The faces are intentionally blank as it was believed that prevented evil spirits from settling within the doll because they were inanimate, thus making them safe for children to play with. The dolls were often adorned with meaningful symbols and passed down from generation to generation with the belief that it protected the owner from harm and misfortune.
You will need the following for this activity:
  • Cotton woven materials such and pillowcases, bedsheets, curtain lining, unwanted shirts or blouses etc in a variety of colours and patterns
  • Stuffing - unwanted bits of soft fabric or yarn will work too
  • Scissors
  • Needle and thread
  • Pins
  • Strong thread/yarn or embroidery thread/floss
  • Trimmings and embellishments such as ribbons/lace/small beads/buttons/bits of broken jewellery etc
Here are some of the links that inspired our making:

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