This is a series of shell images, starting with a fabric scallop pin, which I made in the late 70’s. See the story about my pins in earlier posts here.
The scale and natural delicacy of shells make them suitable props for my little dolls. Here’s a 2″ mermaid photographed on the beach.
This is an appliqued felt purse from the 90’s, which is like the ones featured in my how-to book, Felt Wee Folk: Enchanting Projects.
Shells make good sleeping places, too. This is a detail from an illustration in Wee Willie Winkie, from the page which reads, “Are the children in their beds?”.
Here is a detail from “Mary, Mary, quite contrary, how does your garden grow?”, which is included in my picture book, Pocketful of Posies; A Treasury of Nursery Rhymes.
This is from “the old woman stands at the tub, tub, tub” verse, which is also in Pocketful of Posies. Her washing tub is made from a “boat” shell that is commonly found on our local beaches.
Note: See other posts in the Close-ups series archive here.
SALLEY MAVOR 
I love when you use the shells for non-shell props- like the washtub and the bed. It is fun to look at them and get the little surprise.
totally adorable! I collect your books, but I am having a hard time finding the Hollyhock wall one, can you help me?!
Babi, I’m glad to hear that you collecting my books and I wish I had extras to sell, but I have very few copies. Cate Jones has some good advice about finding out of print books.
Mary, Mary . . . did you ever wonder what she was growing? Silver bells and cockle shells.. . . . . that’s why I love coming here. I get all the answers – and often better than I could imagine! =) LOVE the mermaid.
To Babi Sugarman………..To find Salley’s books, the best thing to do is to google the name of the book and search for it from the previously owned books. Don’t give up and it may take time….or you will order one and then they will cancel your order. They are elusive and hard to find (and in demand). One may come back into circulation when you least expect it. I’ve had one book cancelled several times by different sellers which is odd, but just keep searching.
I just sigh and say, “how darling!”
Love the use of the shells, especially the child tucked in his bed!
All are so precious, but the one from Wee Willie Winkle makes my heart melt!
I have fallen in love with your magical works…the mermaid is simply divine. Your heart must be full of wonderful bedtime memories. Have a wonderful weekend …Imagine and Live in Peace, Mary Helen Fernandez Stewart
Thank you Salley and Cate,
I did try the order but I gave up when they first canceled it! I will do as you told, keep trying it! Thanks!
ditto to all the above comments…and i’ll add… rick rack for the scalloped edge of the shell …you always open my mind to the possibilities
HOW sweet, that little one in the pocket inside the scallop shell is adorable!!!!!!!!!!!!!