APPRENTICE PROGRAM

Classic Program: Reproduction of Antique Dolls

The Classic Program is a course of study designed for dollmakers who wish to progress through the DAGSD learning the fundamentals and techniques for making reproductions of antique dolls.

Apprentice I: 3 days
This is an introduction to porcelain dollmaking. You will learn the fundamentals of casting, Dust-free Cleaning™ of soft-fired porcelain, firing a kiln, eye cutting, the Water-base Technique™ of china painting, and assembly of a cloth-bodied doll and an all-bisque doll. You will complete two dolls. The hosting studio will furnish glass eyes and all other materials to complete both dolls.

Apprentice II: 3 days
This seminar will challenge you to apply the skills gained in the Apprentice I seminar and to learn more advanced techniques. You will receive instruction in eye cutting, Dust-free Cleaning™, painted eyes, painting and stringing a composition body, and doll assembly with a cloth body. You will complete two dolls, one on a composition body and one on a cloth body. The hosting studio will furnish a composition body, glass eyes, wigs, and all other materials to complete both dolls.

Apprentice III: 3 days
This is the most advanced of the Apprentice seminars. You will receive instruction in eye cutting and sizing for paperweight eyes and the more advanced china painting of a French doll. You will complete one doll on a composition body and two painted heads. The hosting studio will provide the composition body, glass or paperweight eyes, and wig for the completed doll.

After completing Apprentice I, II and III you will receive the title Certified Doll Artisan and will have acquired the skills to prepare for the D.A.G. Proficiency Exam (DAGPE)