Introducing:Monika from Orchid's Designs

 

• How did you find/discover Blythe?

I was already collecting artist-made porcelain BJD, and kept seeing Blythe pop up in Flickr feeds of other collectors. I saw a dear friend customising them and I began chatting with her about the process. The creative side of Blythe intrigued me.

• Do you collect stock or custom dolls?

Both. I've been trying to collect all the minty-scalped stock girls (just Simply Peppermint left to go!) but also have some beautiful custom girls from friends and competition prizes. I've always loved collecting artworks by friends so having a Blythe by someone I admire and know is truly special.

• How many dolls are in your collection?

I have 5 custom girls, a plethora of mint-haired stock/hybrid girls, and a pile of girls in pieces who are all to be customised. When I get a girl that I'm planning to customise I take her apart immediately, so that I'm not tempted to keep her!

• What items do you create?

I sew one-of-a-kind outfits, create custom dolls in a couple of signature styles, and use my illustration background to make Blythe-related products like my Dolly Fashion Sketchbook or my painted Silk Scarves.

• When did you start to create items for blythe/customising dolls?

I got into BJD in 2008, and finally got my first Blythe in 2013. I was vending at my first Blythecon in Glasgow, UK a mere 3 months after getting my first Blythe!

• What is your favourite item to make?

I really love working on my Floral Customs, where I paint the faceplate (and somtimes whole body) of Blythe like an exotic garden, covered in colourful blooms.

• How long does a creation take to complete?

I'm very slow! I've had some health issues that have slowed me down and fatigue is a constant companion, so I try not to pressure myself and just slowly but diligently plod along! For this reason I don't usually have much for sale between events, and focus instead on working all year towards the next Blythefest or Blythecon.

• Favourite fabric to work with or favourite stock girl to customise?

I usually use vintage remnants, and have been enjoying using treasured fabrics sent to me by friends. They often have a story to tell, or they have been keeping it themselves for years "for something special" until they gift it to me - that's a real honour! I've also begun printing my own fabric with my paintings and illustrations, it's lovely to be able to make something truly unique that way!

• Hardest thing about your creating with/for Blythe?

I'm very slow! I'm constantly comparing myself to designers and customisers who seem to be able to "churn out" quality work in record time, leaving me feeling inadequate. I just have to go along at my snail's pace and not compare so much, just enjoy the process no matter how long it takes me!

• Best design moment!

When Junko Wong personally bought one of my Dolly Fashion Sketchbooks. She told me she only bought one thing at Blythecon Japan, and it was my sketchbook. What an honour!

• Do you accept commissions?

Highly depends on the circumstances. I prefer trades!

• Best styling/photography tip

I'll take any tips you've got! I think I need to take more time in setting up dioramas and prepping photoshoots actually.

Done