Gildebrief International Verlags GmbH

Hi Karin,
Here's a photo of your kit  I made . I loved making it.  Every kit  or pattern of ours I make I say it's my favorite. 
Can't wait to see what you come up for us next.  As much as I love to ff dolls , I'd love to see a pattern like this toddler in the Gildebrief.
 
Thank you,
Doris Thielepape, Marble Falls, TX, USA
Hi Karin
I hope you are well. I have a Teaching Doll Studio in Melbourne  ,Australia and have been a Gildebrief subscriber since your 1st issue. 
I have attached a picture of my Arielle which I dressed in your beautiful Cover Outfit in your 1st Issue.
I think you have my C/ Card details as I have ordered many Bodies from you in recent times.
Thank you and regards,
Anita Fuge, Templestowe, Australia
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27.09.2010
Dear Mr Werner Kesting, 
Many thanks for your mail, so quick as well, and I am very pleased to hear and I look forward to the magazine 1/2003 when it arrives, ....
the material , that was sent to me is of excellent quality and I am looking forward very much  to making the Marque doll and her clothes, 
best regards Maria Björklund, Köpingebro, Sweden
PS: I would appreciate if you can mail me when the magazine is being send of.
Hallo Rose,
Yes, there are ball-jointed French bodies but you have to know which dolls were on it. If you enter a show, I would not 
do it – you are always on the safe side if you use a  “normal” French body which should always be accepted in a show. 
Put your effort into the painting and dressing instead – my advice.
Re Rohmer: She always had a shoulderplate. Study the old one – you can even find the doll when you search Google 
or look through the online Theriault’s auction catalogues. Good luck for the show.
Best regards
Karin Buttigieg
 
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15.07.2010
Dear Mr Kesting,
I did just receive my order today. I have to say that I am already very impressed with the quality of the leather, not 
that the other items aren't wonderful too, because they are all quality items. I shall certainly order more. Thankyou for 
letting me know about the shoulderplate, am looking forward to receiving the same... 
Kindest regards, Josephine M. Laxton, Ajax, ON, Canada
 
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11.07.2010
Dear Werner and Karen, 
My two magazines arrived today.  I was so happy to receive them.  I would be most unhappy not to get them as 
I enjoy them so very much.  You are willing to share so much with your readers.  It continues to be my favorite 
doll magazine.
Again, thank you for sending them.

Lorraine Hasper, Belfast, NY, USA
 
22.05.2010
A question regarding some patterns 
Dear Karin: 
I recently purchased one of your magazines online through ebay and am looking forward 
to making the entire ensemble for the French Fashion Doll. My question is regarding the 
seam allowance. On one portion of the pattern it says to add seam allowance, and on another 
area it says seam allowance added. I am not sure which I need to do. The issue I have is 3/2009. 
Please let me know what I need to do in order to begin my wonderful projects! 
Your magazine is amazing, and the photographs are lovely. 

Thank you in advance. 
Sincerely, 
Mrs. Patricia Bochko, NJ, USA
 
Hallo Patricia, 
When it says: Add seam allowance – you add seam allowance. 
Wherever it says: Seam allowance included – you don’t add seam allowance. 
Also, please read the text and look at the photos before you start. 
Everything you need to know is in the text – I don’t have to add anything else. 
I am glad you like the Gildebrief! 
Best regards, 
Karin Buttigieg 
 
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20.03.2010
Hi, 
I bought 3 of your FF doll bodies when they first came out and no I was going to put one together without a shoulder 
plate like it says I can and there is a GIANT hole in the neck, how are you supposed to do that without the head 
falling in the hole? I'm using a smaller head. 
Thanks, Lynn Schall, Benton, AR, USA
 
Hallo Lynn,
Without a shoulderplate applies only to our Smiling Bru head – not to all other small heads on the market. 
If the head you are using is the same size, then it will fit. If not, you should use the shoulderplate.
If you are unhappy with the bodies, please send them back for a refund.
With kind regards
Karin Buttigieg
 
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17.03.2010
I received my order and an really excited adout making this outfit.I've been making each one and they are wonderful and 
fit beautifuly. So thank you Karin for the wonderful job you did.I will use these instructions on other projects as well. 
Thank you 
Charlotte Williams, Wasilla, AK, USA
 
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02.03.2010
Hello, I just want to say thank you so much for the wonderful bodies I have just received; 3 of the French Fashion 
and 1 French Papier Mache.  I have ordered goods from you a few times now, and always the service is of the 
highest standard.  New Zealand is so far away from the rest of the world, but the orders always arrive quickly 
and hassle-free.  There are three of us ladies in our doll class, and we are going to work our way through the 
Poupee projects.  It is so exciting!  We just have to get some unfinished dolls out of the way first!  Thank you 
again for an excellent magazine; I now have all of the issues and they are such a valuable reference tool.  
Keep up the good work, 
 
Regards,
Rose Tomlin, New Zealand
 
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Hi Karin,
Just wanted to say thank you for the kits, they are stunning!
Kind regards
Laetitia Coetser, Gauteng, South Africa
 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Hallo Karin, 
Thank you -  the Gildebrief arrived safely yesterday and again congratulations on another superb effort I am sure all the New Zealand ladies will be pleased.
Have a great break - you deserve it!
Regards,
Yvonne Sampson, New Plymouth, New Zealand
 
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Karin, 
With all the buzz going on with the small Huret head mold that you have just brought out is there any chance 
you will be doing the body for the 18 inch Huret anytime soon? I know it was in your original design to bring 
out the larger bodies first but due to demand from customers you changed your plans.  I eagerly await the day 
a body for the larger version is available.  As a long time subscriber I continue to enjoy the magazine and your 
quality merchandise. 
Regards, 
Sylvia Butler, Lumberton, NC, USA
 
Hallo Sylvia,
I am doing my best – it is not an easy project and it takes time to get a proficient result that I am happy with. 
I have done the pre-work for both bodies and hopefully, I will be able to come out with a small and larger body 
shortly.
Best regards
Karin Buttigieg
 
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Dear Karin,

I have managed to locate a person here in Australia that has the Madame Sidone mold so I am on my way to making 
this beautiful doll and all of her clothes and accessories....yes, a very big project.  The reason for my email was to ask
whether you sell the kit for her dress, under garments, shoes, handbag and hat and also whether you have the painting 
instructions for this lady.
I have done a search of your web and found many interesting goodies on your site but no painting or kit information for
 this lady.  I understand you have listed all of the requirements individually to make these beautiful doll accessories 
but a kit would be great. 
I have been buying your magazine for quite some time, I absolutely love it.  I have recently retired and now I have 
the time......and yes you guessed it, this is my first retirement project!!
Thank you in advance
Best regards

Barb Olde (Orange, Australia)
Hallo Barb,
 
Sounds like you are about to start on an interesting and fun project!
Garments for the doll were presented in Gildebrief 3/2009, 4/2009, 1/2010 (handbags and shoes).
Kits were available while the fabrics were in stock – they are now sold out. The kits always sell very fast 
and are very time-consuming to put together. Once I sell out of the fabric, I stop the kit. During our summer 
time (June-July), I don’t offer new kits – I try to get some “off time”.
I am sure you can find some suitable fabrics in the online shop – there are so many choices!
Good luck and best regards,
Karin Buttigieg
 
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 Dear Gildebrief Team,
Thank you very much! I love the magazine and I really like the hardcover yearbooks.
Petra Weiske, Winnipeg, Canada
 
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 Dear Karin, thank you so much!
The Gildebrief is practically the only shop to buy some special things for dollmakers.
GREAT THANKS to you!
And best wishes,
Natalia Kurochkina, Moscow, Russian Federation
 
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 Hi  Werner
My parcel arrived safely and is absolutely Yummy!!
Thank you so much
Kind regards, 
Jackie Harris, South Plympton, Australia
 
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 Dear Mr Kesting,
I did just receive my order today. I have to say that I am already very impressed with the quality 
of the leather, not that the other items aren't wonderful too, because they are all quality items. 
I shall certainly order more. Thank you for 
letting me know about the shoulderplate, am looking forward to receiving the same.
Kindest regards, 
Josephine M. Laxton, Ajax, Canada
 
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I really do enjoy your magazine.  Have made some outfits and a box and the music box (Dolls on May Pole). 
My friend Georgette and I get together on Saturdays and are always looking for things to do.  
Am looking through our stashes of things for the items we will need for the pincushion box in the last issue.  
I am glad you are please with the Outfit.  I started it when I first got the issue and just finished it this 
past weekend.
It if all done by hand sewing.  Made every piece including the wig (only second wig I have made that I liked). 
Thanks to you for putting out such a wonderful magazine.
 
Pat Brooks , Goose Creek, SC, USA
 
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 Hello Karin, 
I just finished making your lovely Outfit from the Autumn Issue of the Gildebrief Magazine.  It was suggested 
that you might like to see the finished result.  I did use different fabric then you suggested and a 
different skirt trim but everything else was
per instructions.  I hope you like it.   
 
Thanks Karin
Patti-Ann Stanley, Ft. Myers, FL, USA
 
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Hallo Karin,
Thank you so much for helping me out with this one page.  I may not be a subscriber at this point, but I have most of your
publications.  I think at this point in time, "Gildebrief" is the best publication available.  I love reading the articles, love the
pictures and love making the outfits featured by you and Josef.  Absolutely the most fabulous...thank you for putting so much
of your time and passion into your work.
Now that I can see the back, I will be able to understand the instructions and finish the outfit.
Again,....thank you so much.
Jan Mills, Camano Island, WA, USA
 
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Dear Karin,
I love the new issue!  was just getting ready to do my own boot pattern when the mag. came(you saved me a lot of time).  
I have so far made up 2 of the boot patterns and they are, as usual, just perfect.  Thank you so much for you wonderful patterns and instructions.  If you say paint with a toothpick, I paint with a tooth pick!
Also, just received my new Huret mold and can't wait to get the porcelain out and pour the head.
I'm sure you are aware how therapeutic this hobby is and your expertise is so appreciated.
Sincerely,
Cathy Hickman, Green Valley, AZ, USA
 
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Hello Gildebrief Team,
I just want to say thank you so much for the wonderful bodies I have just received; 3 of the French Fashion and 1 French Papier Mache.  I have ordered goods from you a few times now, and always the service is of the highest standard.  New Zealand is so far away from the rest of the world, but the orders always arrive quickly and hassle-free.  There are three of us ladies in our doll class, and we are going to work our way through the Poupee projects.  It is so exciting!  We just have to get some unfinished dolls out of the way first!  Thank you again for an excellent magazine; I now have all of the issues and they
are such a valuable reference tool.  Keep up the good work
Regards,
Rose Tomlin, New Zealand
 
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Hi Karin and Werner,
It has been years since I have written you, but I have been a subscriber from day 1.  I have every single issue of your wonderful magazine.  I started out making dolls in Illinois in the 80's at a doll studio.  Now; however, after growing much older,
my husband and I have retired and we have moved to the state of Georgia.  I now have my own kiln etc. and I make dolls on my own. Living on social security makes it a bit harder than when we were both pulling in some fun money, but I will never give up doll making.
I still consider your publication one of the highlights of my life.  When it arrives I can hardly wait till evening when I can curl up on the couch and read every page.  I still think that you, Karin, and Werner are two of the most talented and gracious sharing
people on the planet!  I use many of the clothing patterns that you publish and I read all of your wonderful technique instructions and benefit from them immensely.  One of my most favorite is when you shared how to make parasols many years ago.  I love to sew and do many, many different kinds of needle work.  What better way to display your Smocking,
shadow embroidery, knitting, sewing etc, etc, etc than to dress a lovely porcelain doll that you have made yourself!  It never fails to get my heart all in a flutter, when I step back and admire a finished dressed doll and stand amazed to think "I did that"!
We have three children and nine grandchildren who not only get many of my dolls, but the grandchildren have also grown to appreciate dolls, as they have grown up watching me make them and know what a long process it is.  Our daughters and granddaughters have all tried their hand at making at least one doll.  Not only is that a precious experience for a
mother/grandmother, but it also is a unique experience for them.
One of my granddaughters is now a labor/delivery nurse and growing up, she was also the one that LOVED her dolls, as though they were real people.
When in 2008, I received the Autumn Volume 3-2008 featuring the Simon & Halbig doll dressed in a World War I nurse uniform, I knew that I had to make that outfit for one of my dolls and give it to my precious granddaughter, Heather.  She is pushing 30, still single, and she still loves dolls and babies.  One of these days she will be a wonderful mommy.
I am attaching photos.  One, is of the doll alone standing on my mantel and the other, is a picture of my granddaughter holding her doll after she opened the surprise box it came in.  I dabble in digital scrapbooking, so I made a special arrangement of that photo to add to my "refrigerator art".
Thanks again to both of you, and please, never give up sharing  your knowledge with those of us who will forever love the art 
of doll making!
You two are the best!
 
 
 
Best regards,
Darlene Wallace, Peachtree City, GA, USA
 
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Dear Karin,
Thank you so much for all your help getting my subscription. These Gildebrief magazines are outstanding, the pictures, 
the patterns, the quality – the best of any I have seen on the market
I was surprised how quickly I received my magazines coming from Germany. 
Keep up the good work!
Sincerely,
Pat Coffee – Kingston, WA, USA
 
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06.02.2010
I'm certainly glad you are still here. What would us dollmakers do without a good 
supplier behind us!!!!
Deanna Leittl, Dee's Dolls, Montana, USA
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06.02.2010
....and we are very happy that you are there
Liebe Grüsse und weiterhin viel Erfolg!
Anna Hofer, Utzenstorf  CH
 
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06.02.2010
So very glad to hear this. Your magazine is the finest and worth every penny. 
I have gotten a wealth of information from your magazine. Thank you.
God bless and gentle hugs,
mopsidot
Dorothy Farrell, Belchertown, MA, USA
 
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27.01.2010
I'm brand new to antique repro porcelain dolls, I sculpt in
polymer clay and I found your magazine from another artist. Can't wait to get my
issues!
Tamera J Herrell, Naples, FL, USA
 
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02.01.2010
I LOVE your new articles on the French fashion ladies!!
Looking forward to more of them!! Thank-you!!
Kelly Kiel, Denver CO, USA
 
 
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03.01.2010
Por cierto, enhorbuena por la maravillosa revista que editan
Saludos
Patricia Pacheco, Madrid, Spain
 
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23.12.2009
Love your Papier Machie bodies I ordered earlier this year. 
Diana Berry, Alameda CA, USA
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Having trouble with your web site.   Have tried three times to order Gildebrief 
and cannot get past step 1.   The drop down screen does not go to a place order site. 

Martha J Nelson, Green Valley AZ, USA
 
Dear Ms. Nelson, 

I think  your browser is the reason that you are unable to finalize your 
order. Since the payment part of the order is a secure part, special data have 
to be used that can only work with an up-to-date browser. It is essential to 
update the browser continually. 

The following versions would be needed: Internet Explorer Version 7 or 8, 
Modzilla Firefox version 3, Netscape version 9, Opera version 9 or 10 
and Apple Safari version 4. 

Once you upgraded your browser, our shop should work for you without any 
problems. If you have further problems, please let me know. 

Best regards, 
Werner Kesting 

 
Good Afternoon Werner, 

Thank you for the information,  I was able to use the Internet Explorer and the order 
went through. 



I used to get Gildebrief and stopped for a while,  missed the magazine thus the order. 


Martha Nelson 
 
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23.12.2009
Hi Karin,
Thank you for producing, what I think, and I am sure many others do, the best 
doll magazine out there.  I look forward to receiving your magazine to see 
what new has transpired.  I love the new body and am looking forward to the 
challenge of making the little french fashion lady.
I would like to you wish you and your Gildebrief team ein Frohes Weinachten.
May you unwrap many happy memories this christmas.
Best Wishes
Beate Henry, VIC, Australia
 
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13.12.2009
Dear Karin,
Please find enclosed payment for a subscription 2010.
Thank you so much for publishing such a wonderful magazine with so many
exciting projects - I can't tell you how exciting it is to open my mailbox
and see a new issue of the Gildebrief has arrived!
Have a wonderful year and thanks again
Heidi Keleher, NY, USA
 
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13.12.2009
Karen,
I love your magazine. I have been getting it from Candy Anderson because it is 
easier for me to get it here in the states since I don't do paypal. The FF 
clothes are fabulous. Best wishes for a happy holiday season and continued 
success with your publication.
Ann Harris, MO, USA
 
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13.12.2009
Hi Karin and team
All the best to you all at Gildebrief for a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy
and Prosperous New Year! Your magazine is the best and always has been. It
is also very good to see news from Global and Oklahoma in the latest issue.
Hope more of them decide that Gildebrief is the way to go. Better to have
one, on time quality magazine with all the news, than to be still waiting
for another company’s one that has been paid for, to get sorted, caught up
and finally sent out.
Love your little ladies – very sassy presentation of them – such poses!
Kindest regards
Carol Prockter, New Zealand
 
Hallo Carol,
Thank you for the compliments! We appreciate that you like the Gildebrief.
Here is a question: Do you ever have doll shows in New Zealand and if yes,
maybe you could send us a report about the show or maybe you know someone
who could and would like to do that.
With kind regards,
Karin Buttigieg
 
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12.12.2009
Dear Karin,
I want to tell you how much I admire what you are doing and your continued
determination to keep us dollmakers busy with new projects.  Your magazine
is a continuing source of inspiration and the high standards you set give us
the incentive to keep improving our skills.  Thanks you so much for your
continued support for us dollmakers.   
Mary Scopp, WI, USA
 
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11.12.2009
Dear Karen,
I've just been enjoying the latest issues of GILDEBRIEF and wanted to send a 
note to let you know how much it means to me to receive each issue.
I have been an subscriber of your magazine since the very beginning of my doll 
making adventure and it has been a constant encouragement and inspiration for me.  
In the past years, because of my husband's job, we have been transferred to 
several different states.  Sadly, since leaving California, it has not been 
easy for me to find a doll making community. I have been left to my own 
resources for the most part. Thankfully, there has been the internet to help 
in finding resources for supplies, etc, but I have missed the fellowship & fun 
and encouragement of classes with other doll makers.  During this time, 
I have looked forward with great anticipation to the arrival of GILDEBRIEF 
and the wonderful projects in each issue.  It has kept me going especially 
when I am seeing the loss of other resources for doll making of the wonderful 
"old dolls".  I get discouraged at times and feel very lonely in my doll making, 
but then your magazine arrives and it gives me a must needed boost and 
I thank you for that.
God bless you and all that work with you all you magazine.  I know there 
is more work than we can ever imagine that goes into each issue and how 
very weary you must become at times.  Just know that every effort is 
greatly appreciated and I, for one, and ever indebted to you for keeping 
alive the beauty and creativity of making such beautiful and timeless dolls.
I am now teaching my 13 year granddaughter the art of making Antique Doll 
Reproductions and she is blossoming.  Her first doll was the Baby Gloria 
that she made for her mommy as a Christmas gift.  It is beautiful and her 
mommy loves it!  She is anxious now to move on to more difficult dolls.  
Thank you for providing me with the skills and resources to be able to 
learn the art myself and now to be able to pass it on to the next generation.
May you & yours have a very blessed Christmas and a prosperous 2010!
Blessings,
Sharon Dewhirst, WA, USA
 
Hallo Sharon,
Thank you very much for your kind and uplifting letter! I am very happy
whenever I hear that the Gildebrief does make a difference in people's life
- it encourages us to try even harder!
I think it is wonderful that you are passing your knowledge onto the younger
generation - keep up the good work!
We wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and a Happy, Peaceful year
2010!
With kind regards
Karin Buttigieg
 
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04.12.2009
Dear doll friends, 
thank you very much. You are very kind. It is a lovely issue from a quick look 
I just had there is a lot of  beautiful  projects for someone who loves dolls 
to do. I will be waiting for the issue to come in the mail and have a better 
look again and again at every little thing on my relax time and deside what 
to do first and what to do next. 

Best Regards, 
Olga Plaitis, Crete, Greece
 
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02.12.2009
Thank you soooooooooooooooo much. I trust your reputation. I won't get my 
supplies thru anyone else. I think you guys are the best. And you'll be glad 
to know everyone I recommend you to already uses you and thinks you're 
terrific also. 
Thanks-Millie, KY, USA
 
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01.12.2009
Dear Karin and Werner,
I am deeply saddened that I must ask you to reverse the charge for my 2010 
subscription 
to Gildebrief. As you are no doubt aware, the financial situation in the 
U.S. is terrible right now, and worsened by having anaive, inept new 
president. My husband and I have lost half of our  retirement funds, 
so Jack is going back to work at age 71. 
We are having  to cut every "extra" expense from our budget.  Your magazine 
is, without  question, the most beautiful available today.  The latest issue 
is another superb edition.
Thank you for your hard work to bring doll collectors such an outstanding 
publication.  I will look forward to renewing my  subscription when our 
personal financial situation improves.  Wishing you  both the best of 
health in the new year,  
B.H. USA
 
Hallo B.,
I am sorry to hear of your financial stress at your age - I know where 
you are coming from, believe me! I am sure the situation will improve. 
I do not know are more positive and creative people than Americans, 
who are willing to work hard and improve their own lot without waiting 
for government hand-outs. I am convinced your lot will improve steadily! 
My faith in the American people is unbroken.
We have cancelled your subscription for 2010 and maybe you will be able 
to subscribe again in the future. All the best to you and your family!
Best regards
Karin Buttigieg
 
Thank you for your kind understanding, Karin.  America has not been in 
its current state in my lifetime.  I appreciate your optimism and will 
hope to rejoin the Gildebrief Family soon.  Best wishes for a joyous 
and peaceful holiday season, 
B.
 
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30.11.2009
 
Thank you very much for the quick response. I really enjoy the Gildebrief 
and can't wait for the next issue to arrive. So many wonderful, inspiring 
projects in each issue. I have the entire collection of the Gildebrief 
since the beginning and refer back time and time again. Thank you Karin 
for your hard work and continued inspiration. Every issue is a joy! 
Karen Smith, MO, USA
 
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Dear Karin,
My main interest in the field of dollmaking is in reproduction of the antique doll and 
the clothing that is appropriate for the years the doll was actually in production. 
I like the traditional styles rather that the fancy  over-dressed styles that so many 
of our reproduction makers are making today.  I feel that if you are to make a 
reproduction of  a doll that she/he should look as much like the original as possible, 
including the clothing.   I always use silks, cottons and old lace if possible.  
If you would like, I would be proud to send you some pictures.  I studied through 
the Doll Artisan program at the Lindolley studio in Tulsa.  It has been a very rewarding
 retirement hobby, but I'm now nearing 79 years of age so vision is a problem, 
however the love of the hobby has not decreased.  
Thank you so much for the wonderful Gildebrief magazine and the great patterns in it.  
I have made several of them.  Most of my dolls are 15" or more in height.
Alberta Newby, KS, USA
 
Dear  Alberta,
Thank you for your kind and interesting letter. I would be pleased to receive some 
pictures of your dolls and it is wonderful that you still dress and love dolls at your 
mature age! I agree with you that it is better to underdress than overdress 
a doll, since it can lead to excessive froufrou and tackiness.
With kind regards
Karin Buttigieg
 
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Dear Karin,
I am so happy to get your magazines and newsletters.  Of course, every issue of 
the Gildebrief is so wonderful.  I especially love your knitting corner.  I am an 
expert at crochet, but recently learned hand knitting.  (I use my knitting machines for 
people and large doll items.)  I want to do the outfit in Gildebrief 2/2004.  I ordered 
the silk  yarn.  But could the authors of the corner add one item to the instructions?  
I would like to see the knitting gauge, ie. stitches per inch (cm) and rows per inch (cm) 
so I can use other yarns and sizes.  Is this possible? Thank you so much.  It is such a 
delight to get your magazine and now your online newsletter.  I am working my way 
through all of your projects.  I recently finished a LF Jumeau in the outfit you did for 
Seeleys years ago.  I have wanted to do that for years.  I won the Millie at the 
Edmonton, Alberta show in May using your pattern for an FG.  I did Byron's Emille Jumeau.  
They loved the outfit.  Thanks to you!! Well I have rambled on enough.  Thank you again,
 
Warmest regards, 
Cynthia Berrier, Kalispell, Montana USA
 
Dear Cynthia,
Congratulations on your winning doll, I bet you were excited! I am glad that you 
find the Gildebrief an inspiration for your dollmaking. As far as the knitting gauge is 
concerned: we engage our author do design patterns for our silk cordonnet 
knitting yarns. Someone wishing to use another yarn would have to work this out 
for themselves, which I believe, is not that hard to do. 
With kind regards
Karin Buttigieg
 
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Dear KB, 
When you make the "pancake" to use in firing can you reuse the fired pancake for 
other dolls or do you make a new one each time?  Seems like the latter would be a waste of slip.
Claudia Murray, WA, USA
 
Dear Claudia
The reason you make the pancake is so that the head or shoulderplate do not 
warp during the firing-shrinking process. If the pancake is already fired, it is already 
shrunk and will no longer prevent warping. The reason the pancake works is that it 
shrinks at exactly the same rate as the item you place on top. 
So, you cannot re-use the fired pancake except to make your sample color wheels on.
Best regards
Karin Buttigieg
 
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Dear Karin,
 
I am sorry that it has taken me this long to write to thank you for helping me with the 
colors for my “Mein Liebling”.  I have to tell you that the doll turned out stunning.  
Everybody was amazed at how beautiful she was.  They just could not believe the 
beautiful colors and how authentic they were.  She did turned out beautiful.  
She got 99 points in competition. They took one point off because they said the lips 
were too shiny.  Go figure!  I didn't think they were. Anyhow, my objective was to get 
at least 95 so that I could earn my Triple Crown.  I'll send you a picture when I finally 
get them done.
 
Now I am bothering you again.  I am in the process of painting an A Marque and 
I was hoping that there was a tech sheet for her on the articles that were in the 
Gildebrief on 2003.  I have looked and looked and it does not seem to be one on them.  
Could you please tell me what colors from your line of paints I should use?  
Once one paints with your paints it is hard to go back to others.  
Thanks so much in advance and I apologize for bothering again,
Best regards,
Nelly Valentino, FL, USA 
 
Dear Nelly,
Congratulations on your success with the K*R 117! I am glad I could be of help. 
Regarding the A. Marque: there is a worksheet with our china paints in Gildebrief 2/97, page 45.
Best regards
Karin Buttigieg
 
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Dear Karin, 
I just had to write to say how much I enjoyed your latest Gildebrief issue. And congratulations 
on the new lady body - I am sure that you will do very well with this as it will form the base 
for many wonderful future projects for the very keen dollmakers. And I loved all the photos 
of the wonderful antique lady dolls. What a treasure trove of inspiration! Keep up the great work,
Sincerely yours,
Nan Hawkes, Australia
 
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Hi Karin,
Thank you so much for sending this preview out of the new issue I can get a jump on listing 
it for my web page.
I am sorry for the delay in thanking you for sending the 5/97 CDs I really appreciate it 
so much.  Your wonderful magazine is selling very well.
Happy Springtime,
Support our Troops,
Sheryl Wetenkamp
DollBooks & More, CA, USA
 
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Hello Gildebrief,
I received my order today with the molds and fabrics. I am so pleased with everything, 
especially the fabrics. I make many small dolls and cannot wait to sew up some of their 
costumes using these wonderful materials. I also am excited to use the flower decals for 
my boxes and my tiny dolls.
Thank you,
Dee
Dee's Dolls, MT, USA
 
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Just wanted you to know I received the French body I ordered  recently and absolutely 
love it!  Nice quality and you can be sure I will be ordering more from you in the future.  
Thank you for your prompt service.  
Dolores Breuer, WI, USA
 
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Hello Mr.Kesting
The parcel arrived this morning. The doll bodies, as always, are in excellent shape. 
Thank you very much!
Best regards 
Leila Martins, CA, USA
 
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Hello Karin and Werner,
The correct bodies arrived today.  I am extremely pleased with the amazing lady body.  
She is just great.  I look forward to receiving the next Gildebrief issue with more information 
about this beautiful body.  I'll be looking at my stash of fabric and laces for just the 
right blend of goodies.  
Thanks for making this body available so our ladies can look beautiful and graceful.
Cathy Farrand, WA, USA
 
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Dear Gildebrief,
I just wanted to say that I received my first two issues only a week after they were sent. 
I subscribed for the new section on French Fashion dolls, but I know there will be plenty 
of other articles of interest as well! 
Thank you,
Gillian Simpson, New Zealand
 
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Dear Karin,
I was wondering if you could give me a status on the delivery of the 3 french fashion bodies.   
I know that you must have received a deluge of orders as the doll world is buzzing about 
this wonderful body!
Thank you
Cristina de Graaf, CA, USA
 
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Hi Karen,
Received my darling bodies today, as usual they are wonderful.  Thank you so much for 
jumping on the 9.5 LB craze.
I love your quality.
Geri Santoro, IL, USA
 
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Chère Karin,
 
J' ai découvert votre magazine en faisant des stages de copie de poupées anciennes 
avec Madeleine Wuest dans son musée-galerie du Beausset  (France 83) et c' est une 
mine d' informations, d' idées et de conseils dont je ne saurai plus me passer à présent 
...à tel point que non seulement je me suis abonnée  en 2006 mais que je rachète petit 
à petit les anciens numéros ... 
Je rêvais depuis longtemps de réaliser une Bru jeune ...
Je n' ai malheureusement pas pu faire celle  de Gildebrief, avec le corps en cuir,  les 
fournitures nécessaires n' étant plus disponibles apparemment, mais j' ai quand même 
pu réaliser  ma petite Bru  de 38 cm avec un corps en papier mâché attentivement  guidée 
par Madeleine  Wuest  lors de l' un de mes derniers  stages  et , séduite par le ravissant 
modèle présenté pour Nathalie dans le n02/2002 (vol 21) , je me suis efforcée de l' 
adapter pour ma poupée, ce qui n' était pas évident à première vue , car les corps en 
papier mâché ont des petits ventres un peu  ronds  pour les formes ajustées de ce corsage!
Par chance je disposais d' un coupon de coton Suisse fleuri  déniché dans un vieux magasin 
de Lyon et pratiquement identique à celui du modèle, j' ai acheté pour la veste un  bout  
de taffetas de laine et soie  rouge sombre doublé de satin  de même couleur , je possédais 
déjà les boutons un peu trop gros mais exactement dans le ton et j' ai trouvé chez vous 
la merveilleuse paille fine pour le chapeau.
J' ai choisi de lui faire des bottines plutôt que les chaussures du modèle et j' ai pris aussi 
quelques libertés avec le chapeau pour lequel je me suis inspiré d' une gravure de mode 
des années 1870.
Je ne peux résister à l' envie de vous envoyer les photos de ma petite réalisation  avec 
mes remerciements à tous les rédacteurs  et artistes qui participent à la réalisation du 
magazine et en souhaitant un Joyeux  25°Anniversaire et une longue vie à Gildebrief.
Bien amicalement à vous.
Marie Suzanne Mésonnier, France
 
PS. Je vous prie de bien vouloir m' excuser pour cette lettre en français , je peux lire 
l' anglais mais ne le pratique pas assez bien pour l' écrire. Mon mari  qui pratique 
l' allemand  traduira ce petit mot pour vous! 
Patrice Mesonnier, France
 
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Hi KB
It is so good to hear from you.  First of all, Holy Moly the body is wonderful - how many can I order and when? 
It will be soooooo popular here - I can't tell you how having a satisfactory body - 9.5 inch - will be out of this world.
Don't forget to keep me posted on the bodies.
 
All the best,
Carol Hanson, OR, USA
 
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Hi Karin,
I am l intriqued with your body, it will be so much fun to dress.  It will probably be lightweight too, being 
paper mache.  It will be interesting to see the varnish.  When you publish in Gildebrief, could you please 
specify which shoulderplate and heads fit, it can be a bit confusing.  Also, the ladies need tips for casting 
and firing the shoulderplate so that it will fit the body.  I've seen a great deal of variation with size depending 
on the slip used, is it worth getting some of your slip?
My fashion-doll-friends are also excited about the fact that they will have an articulated doll that is not going 
to cost $700 to $800.  If you have someone who makes finished heads and shoulderplates, it would be nice 
for her to advertise in your magazine.  A lot of the ladies are older and don't paint well any more, I know my 
eyes aren't as good, that's why I use the magnifiers. 
I am so looking forward to the projects and costuming for the fashion doll.  There are so many wonderful 
accessories that I have seen in books, that would be great to have.  For your new fashion, would you let 
people know which of the accessories in your catalogue, like hand mirrors or other fashion ornaments 
work with that size of doll? 
I am just so thrilled that I will be able to enjoy such a rare doll, and have the ability to work with the costumes 
that you present.  You have always brought the very best to dollmaking.
I can hardly wait to have the doll in my hands.
 
Anne Lasker, CA, USA
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Hi KB,
Oh, my gosh!!! This is fabulous!  I was only wondering about the lower body torso....myself having 
a rather large posterieur,  is she a bit well endowed too?  This is only a question as I do suppose it will 
hold a bustle quiet well....as I would too.
They are just wonderful, you did a great job.  
Now I can't wait to see the rest you are doing....how soon can I have these and do you know the price 
yet and how much for color.....This is going to be a wonderful addition to the industry.....OK, one question... 
what about attaching bisque lower arms.  I do my Bru that way and she is so lovely.....can it be done?  
This is just wonderful. Please send them soon!
All the best,
Pam Lembo, CT, USA
 
Hallo Pam,
Yes, you can put a porcelain arm onto the doll. You can unhook the arm from the spring and 
rehook it onto the porcelain arm. The porcelain arm must have a slit (for the movement) and 
a pin from side to side. The hook is put onto the pin and the arm is hooked onto the upper arm. 
The pin and hook for the porcelain arm will be supplied upon request.
Glad you like the body!
Best regards
KB
 
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Hello Karin,
Is there any chance that I might be able to get the pattern  in the #5 1998 magazine for the  208 
Laughing Jumeau. I have that doll head mold and would really like to make that doll. 
I have learned more from your magazines in one year than I learned in years of teaching seminars 
and advanced classes. Much appreciated.
Thank you,
Dee
Dee's Dolls, MT, USA
Hallo Dee,
That pattern was designed by Vicki Strode. You can contact her by email lindolleys@cox.net
Best regards
KB
 
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Hi Karin,
 
I just received my issue of Gildebrief (Spring 2009).  I was pleasantly surprised and delighted to see 
Grace Corry Rockwell on your cover and the wonderful comprehensive article with clothing inside.  
I have had that mold (socket head B-350a) for many years.  It was one included in second-hand molds 
I purchased years ago.  Like you I found the picture (black & white) and reference in "Collector's 
Encyclopaedia of Doll" but could not find any other information on her.  Painted her and she is so cute.  
My Christmas gift from my daughter this year was Florence Theriault book "Dolls, A Moveable Feast".  
On page 26 is a gorgeous colour photo so Grace Corry Rockwell.  My eyebrows were too definite.  
Then came your article with all the coloured pictures and reaffirmed about my eyebrows.  So I am in 
the process of making the head again.  I think she is one of the sweetest dolls.  I ordered and received 
the Cordonnet silk yarn from you of which I am planning to knit the outfit from Autumn 2008 issue for 
Grace Corry.  Thank you for your ideas on even a boy doll.  
 
I love you magazine and look forward to your expertise.  Enjoy all the costuming, both fabric and 
knitting ideas plus the information on the antique dolls.  So many thanks and keep up the wonderful work.  
 
Warm Regards
Shirley Husband, BC, Canada
 
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