A Paper Doll
How a paper doll workshop became a reminder to let go of expectations and trust the process.
Although as a child I didn’t play with dolls very much, I have always been intrigued by them — especially old dolls, dolls from other countries, and art dolls, as well as by how they are made.
Over the years, I have attempted to make dolls with clay heads and feet, but I abandoned those projects. You can still find some half-finished heads in my studio. I also once started a self-initiated challenge to draw dolls from all over the world, but I put that on hold as well because I became too fastidious. One day, I might pick them up again.
Some abandoned doll making projects
The day before yesterday, an announcement for a free online workshop caught my eye: “Creative Paper Doll Making.”
“…there’s no right way, no expectations — just hands, curiosity, and permission to express what wants to be seen. This workshop is a tester, an intuitive experience where we trust the process and allow a doll to emerge gently…”
Reading this, I realised that my previous attempts at making dolls had never been gentle, but rather forced and driven by high expectations about the outcome. That pressure had taken away the joy of the process — of letting things happen and being authentic.
Driven by curiosity, I signed up. I had nothing to lose: two hours of time and some everyday materials like paper bags, scraps of fabric, thread, and paper.
The workshop turned out to be a lovely experience. Kudos to the host, Kaya (@heart_inception), who guided us through creating the core structure of the doll and created an online space where we could comfortably make together. I enjoyed both the process and the conversations about creativity and the role of doll making. Thank you Kaya and fellow participants.
At the end of the workshop, I was left with a joyful, dancing doll — and I know exactly what she represents for me: a reminder to enjoy life and celebrate all achievements, however small or big.
A Paper Doll as a reminder to celebrate your victories.
Is there something creative you’d like to explore again, but more gently this time?
-Marianne H.
