Handcrafted dolls
KoalalaKids are handmade dolls with a story to tell. As the finishing touches are added to each doll, a story is crafted that details each doll's unique identity and creates a very special gift to be treasured for years to come.
I am a full-time, self-employed craft artist who has been making corn shuck dolls since 1975. I am devoted to the creative process of craft, and especially the alchemy of transforming raw, natural materials into new forms. I dye the natural dried corn shucks by hand, then roll and tie them into doll figures. I embellish the dolls with a variety of natural materials, and repurposed objects. My dolls represent imaginative notions of folklore, legend, myth, healing modalities, shamanism and other earthly and celestial entities, as well as traditional Appalachian themes. I am also devoted to keeping corn shuck doll craft alive, and teach workshops and classes at schools, craft centers and at my studio. I am the author of "Making Colorful Corn Shuck Dolls,” a full-color, step-by-step instructional book on making corn shuck dolls, published in 2011. You can find my work at various craft galleries and shops in the southern Appalachian region.
In addition to my corn shuck artistry, I also produce my own line of natural skin care products under the name Annie Egypt Herbals. I began by experimenting with making my own soaps over 20 years ago, after becoming conscious of harmful synthetic ingredients in commercially produced skin care. In addition to my herbal soaps, I formulate face and body creams, anointing and massage oils, and other products good for the body and soul. All of my products are made in small batches using all-natural vegetable oils and pure essential oils. My products “Won’t make you beautiful; they will keep you beautiful!”™
Gallery Hours: 10-6 Thursday - Saturday.
Other days by appointment or when the "Open" sign is on! Free parking!