Mara Ellis
Soft sculpture lead
Mara teaches proportion, construction, and the quiet precision of a well-planned seam.
About the studio
Small steps make room for serious craft.
Our story
StepNest Studio began as a shared worktable where makers compared patterns, tested seams, and learned that difficult projects become friendlier when their decisions are visible. Today, the studio turns that practical insight into focused online courses for thoughtful doll-makers.
Our mission
We help learners make expressive handmade dolls through clear instruction, respectful critique, and repeatable studio habits. We value process as much as the finished figure.
The Short Step System
01 / Frame
Define character, scale, and materials.
02 / Form
Build a stable and readable body.
03 / Signal
Use face, fiber, and costume to communicate.
04 / Finish
Review, document, and preserve the result.
The teaching team
Jon Bell
Character design mentor
Jon helps makers connect expression, silhouette, and story without overworking the design.
Rina Cole
Textile and finish editor
Rina focuses on miniature wardrobes, fibers, surface details, and durable finishing choices.