I always love getting to know the designers behind doll fashion and I'm super excited to introduce you to my new sponsor, FizzyZigZag. The Etsy shop features high quality clothing for 18 inch dolls like American Girl, from movie costumes to cute outfits and even matching costumes for girls. I had the great opportunity to interview Stacey, the creator of FizzyZigZag and I can't wait to share our talk with you...
When did you learn to sew?
I taught myself to sew in middle school, by taking apart doll clothes & trying to copy them. I only sewed by hand because I didn't have a machine. After I was married I borrowed my mom's machine a few times but it was temperamental & I was afraid I'd break it. About 4 years ago someone blessed me with a machine, and I was instantly hooked!! I'm mostly self-taught, with the help of YouTube & lots of online tutorials.
How did you get the idea to start your shop, FizzyZigZag?
About the time a friend gave me a sewing machine my daughter bought her first American Girl doll. Of course I started making clothes for her & decided I could probably sell some of them for a little extra income. My hubby & I tried to think of a memorable name so we were thinking of words to describe me or things I like. I loved chevron at the time, and one of the first words he used to describe my personality was 'bubbly'. Bubbly chevron turned into FizzyZigZag.
Is there an item you enjoy making for dolls the most?
I enjoy making costumes the most, especially custom orders, because I have to get creative & think about how to make something in a different way. I especially enjoy Making Star Wars costumes, because I'm a nerd that way. ;)
Where does your inspiration come from?
My inspiration comes from everything around me, just looking at things & how they're made.
Do you have any advice for girls who want to learn how to sew and make their own doll clothing?
My advice to girls who want to sew & make their own doll clothing would be to go for it, and not to be discouraged if it doesn't turn out they way they want the first time-some of my most favorite designs took many, many trials before they turned out nice!! Every time something didn't turn out the way I wanted, I learned something about how I did want it & how to make it better the next time.
