This listing is for a Basswood Turned Hitty Blank only, the dolls shown and my carving classes are not for sale in this listing.
Imagine holding a beautiful, handcrafted wooden Hitty doll, carved by your own hands. There’s something deeply satisfying and creative about making your own doll from a simple piece of wood, especially one inspired by the beloved Hitty: Her First Hundred Years.
For anyone interested in crafting, woodworking, or doll making, my turned Hitty blanks offer the perfect starting point to create your very own Hitty doll.
What is a Turned Hitty Blank?
A turned Hitty blank is a specially prepared wooden blank, made from select, high-quality wood, that has been expertly shaped on a wood lathe. This process of turning the wood gives the blank a basic doll form, with smooth curves and proportions that make it ideal for carving.
The dolls pictured are not for sale, they were carved from one of my basswood turned Hitty blanks. They are simply to show the beauty that can emerge from a turned Hitty blank.
The turned blank is the foundation for your Hitty doll. It has been crafted with precision to allow you to carve out the fine details that make each Hitty unique.
Whether you’re new to woodworking or have been crafting for years, this blank gives you the perfect starting point. You can use traditional carving tools such as knives and chisels, or opt for a modern approach with a Dremel. Either way, the experience is deeply engaging and enjoyable.
With your purchase you’ll receive the body, arms, legs and 2 dowels for pegging your Hitty together.
The Joys of Carving Your Own Hitty Doll
The experience of carving a Hitty doll from a turned blank is more than just a craft project—it’s an art form. When you pick up your tools and begin working on the blank, you’re taking part in a centuries-old tradition of handcrafting wooden dolls. Here’s what makes this process so special:
A Personal Connection with Your Craft: When you carve your own Hitty doll, you form a personal connection with every stroke of the blade. From the moment you begin shaping her face to the delicate details of her hands and feet, you’re creating something truly your own. It’s a deeply rewarding experience to watch the transformation of a simple wooden blank into a fully realized character.
Creative Freedom: While the turned Hitty blanks provide a starting point, how you complete your doll is entirely up to you. You have the freedom to add as much detail as you like—whether it’s in her facial expression, the texture of her hair, or the intricacies of her outfit. This creative flexibility allows you to make your Hitty truly one-of-a-kind.
Stress Relief and Focus: There’s something meditative about carving wood. As you work on the blank, focusing on each detail, you enter a flow state where the world around you fades away. It’s an excellent way to unwind after a busy day or to simply enjoy some quiet time. Many find that carving their own Hitty provides a sense of calm and focus, which enhances not only their craftsmanship but their overall well-being.
A Connection to History: Hitty: Her First Hundred Years is a story rich with history, and by carving your own Hitty, you’re participating in that legacy. You’re not just making a doll; you’re crafting a piece of history. Every Hitty doll carries with her the charm and nostalgia of an era gone by, and carving your own adds to that story in a meaningful way.
The Benefits of Completing Your Own Hitty Doll
Affordability: One of the most practical benefits of carving your own Hitty doll is the affordability. Purchasing a fully carved, finished Hitty doll can be quite expensive, often costing hundreds (or thousands) of dollars. However, starting with a turned Hitty blank is a much more affordable option. You get the opportunity to own a beautiful wooden Hitty doll at a fraction of the cost, while also enjoying the process of creating her yourself.
Creative Expression: Completing your own Hitty doll is an excellent way to express your creativity. You can personalize every detail of your doll, from the shape of her face to the style of her dress. This allows you to create a Hitty that reflects your own style and artistic vision. Whether you want to create a classic version of Hitty or something completely original, the possibilities are endless.
Satisfaction of Handcrafting: There is a deep sense of pride and accomplishment that comes with creating something with your own hands. When you carve your own Hitty, you’re not just following a kit or assembly instructions—you’re handcrafting a unique, custom doll. This level of involvement makes the finished doll much more special, as you know that every detail was carefully shaped by you.
Learning a New Skill: If you’re new to carving, working with a turned Hitty blank offers a fantastic opportunity to learn a new craft. My blanks are designed to make the carving process as smooth and enjoyable as possible, even for beginners. With the guidance of my carving classes, you’ll quickly pick up the skills you need to carve a beautiful Hitty doll.
A Heirloom for Future Generations: When you carve a Hitty doll, you’re creating something that can be passed down through generations. The durability of wooden dolls, combined with the handcrafted nature of each one, makes them cherished keepsakes. Your carved Hitty could become a family heirloom, treasured by children and grandchildren alike.
Carving Classes
If the idea of carving your own Hitty excites you, but you’re not sure where to start, don’t worry! I offer two comprehensive carving classes to guide you through the entire process. These classes are designed for both beginners and those with some carving experience.
Each class comes with a full-color printed manual and online access to the digital class. The digital class is provided so that you can receive one-on-one support from me, as you embark on your carving journey! If you are interested in signing up for one of these classes, please check out my other listings for more information about becoming a participant!
Hitty Power Carving Class: In this class, you’ll learn the fundamentals of carving a Hitty doll from a turned blank. You’ll be using a dremel to carve and complete your Hitty. We’ll cover everything from selecting the right tools to mastering basic carving techniques. You’ll be guided step by step through the process of shaping the blank into a fully realized Hitty doll. By the end of the class, you’ll have your own hand-carved Hitty, ready to be dressed and displayed.
Advanced Hitty Carving Techniques: For those who want to take their skills to the next level, our advanced class focuses on adding intricate details to your Hitty doll, and focuses on using the knife along with the dremel. You’ll learn how to carve more realistic features, such as facial expressions, hands, and feet using a knife for more intricate detail, while using a Dremel for the bulk of your carving. You’ll also learn various methods you can use to seal your Hitty, and paint her delicate features.
Both classes are designed to be fun, educational, and rewarding. You’ll have the opportunity to work alongside fellow Hitty enthusiasts, sharing tips and techniques as you carve together. I provide personalized guidance for all participants of each class, ensuring that you feel confident and supported throughout the process.
The Turned Hitty Blank: Your Canvas for Creativity
In the end, a turned Hitty blank is much more than a piece of wood. It’s a canvas for your creativity, a way to express your artistic talents, and an opportunity to create something truly special. Whether you’re carving for fun, for a gift, or to add to your own Hitty collection, the process is filled with joy and satisfaction.
So why wait? Start your Hitty carving journey today with one of my beautiful turned blanks and experience the thrill of bringing your own wooden doll to life. With the additional support of the carving classes (if you choose to become a participant), you’ll soon be holding a unique, handcrafted Hitty doll that you can cherish for years to come.
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