About

 

Hi, I’m Dainy – welcome!

My love for doll-making began in childhood, where sewing brought calm to my anxious, creative mind. Taught by my mum at age five, I soon started making clothes for my cloth doll, Polly – and by ten, I was designing dolls, bears and toys to sell at local markets.

That passion led me to study Fashion Design at RMIT in Melbourne, and later become Head Designer at bridal house Mariana Hardwick. I eventually launched my own women’s fashion label, which grew into five stores and a global wholesale business.

But as fast fashion took hold, I lost the creative spark that had always driven me. Becoming a mum and feeling the return of anxiety, I knew it was time for a change. We moved to the coast where I found immense peace being immersed in nature and a slower way of living. This felt right. The happiness returned and I found myself going back to my roots – sewing a handmade doll named Lola for my daughter. That simple act brought back the joy I’d missed.

Soon, friends wanted their own dolls, and These Little Treasures was born. Over the next decade, I created dolls, toys and books – even teaching local mums to sew. But when pressured to move to offshore manufacturing, I chose to stay true to what matters: thoughtful, handmade creation.

Now, I’m here to help and inspire you experience that same joy. 

I hope you enjoy creating all that you find here at the Stitchlings Studio.

Dainy xx