Lusitania Plush
I decided to make a three-dimensional plush doll of Lusi as a sort of proof of concept for merchandise, if I was ever to bring her to market. I've had experience in sewing and plush-making before, so it was fun to finally make a custom pattern for something I had created.
Made with a suede-like fabric for her body, teal organza for her fins, olive silk dupioni for her skirt, and fabric paint for her face and body details.
Final version of the Lusi doll- she even stands up on her own!
First draft for the plush pattern had a thin form, slightly detailed hands and feet, and an oversized head.
The first form included a seam along the back for easy attachment of her back fin and tail- this worked out very well, actually.
I needed to edit the pattern a little to make it thicker and less detailed, so the second result was this.
Initial tests for tail attachment, fin attachment, and body shape were super promising.
The first version with the final fabric was.... not perfect by any means.
A second try with some small edits made a wonderful Lusi!
Side shot showing her painted fins, back fin, and tail attachment.
Back detail shot.
Progression of doll drafts- prototype, Mistake 1, and Final 1!
It was a little hard to get her to stand upright, since her tail was so long, but she was a beauty all the same. (I also added her bioluminescent dots this time.)
I ended up making a Final 2 draft of the doll after ordering teal organza- I made an attempt at including the fins all along her tail this time. It worked, but it was such a hassle that I wouldn't do it again.