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  You can see more of Mark Middendorf’s Vinyl Doll work at the following web site: http://dollart.members.atlantic.net/

Mark’s most frequently asked questions:

When and how did you get started in the garment design/construction? 

Did you have any special training or inspiration?

I graduated from Parson’s School of Design in NYC with a BFA in Fashion Design.  I had never really sewn before that.  We were given an education in all aspects of design from sketch, through draping the pattern, to final construction and finishing of garments.  The emphasis was to do 7^th Avenue “Ready-to-Wear” sportswear.  The irony of my business today is that it consists of almost all dresses.  I never really understood dresses until working at Oscar deLaRenta in the late 80’s.  Nobody does a dress quite like Oscar. 

What can you tell us about your company?

My company consists of my partner, Philip Briggs and myself.  We produce all the outfits and accessories ourselves.  Since the Mark Middendorf name is on everything, it is extremely important to me to be hands on at every stage.  Philip deals with the day to day running of the office, the paperwork, the computer website design, ebay, etsy, shipping of products and most customers relations.  He also  does most of the jewelry, too.  This has given me more time to concentrate on the sewing, and my output has increased quite a bit  thanks to his help. 

What first attracted you to Dolls?

What do you think are your own strengths?

1)      Unabashed, bold sense of color combination. 

2)      Simplicity and restraint – not putting everything and the kitchen sink on one dress.

3)      Using coats and jackets to form the special look

What makes your designs different from other custom work?

    I can mix and match pattern pieces with aplomb.   

When someone sees your work, what do you enjoy hearing?

    If it is a cloth doll, then the best compliment I could receive is that the outfit looks like a  something a real person could wear.   

    If the outfit is for a fashion doll, then the best compliment I could receive is for them to see how well it fits.   

Do you have any guiding principle that you work from?

1)      First and foremost – I have to like it, otherwise how could someone else. 

2)      I keep my dolls, outfits and patterns in a price range that I would be able to afford.

3)                  Have fun with it! J

Do you have any favorite sources of inspiration?  A favorite old movie or song?