Doll help: Taking up a hobby as a doll maker helped Mary Caccamo reduce her stress levels.Picture: Carlos Furtado
DOLLS, bears and crafts are not only for the young but also for the young at heart.
For Mary Caccamo of Galston, taking up a hobby as a doll maker helped to relieve stress.
"I was suffering badly from stress and being over worked, and my doctor suggested that I start a hobby," Ms Caccamo said.
"I was visiting Betty Gribbles doll studio at Annangrove and Betty said 'you should start doll making'.
"I could also hear the voice of my doctor in the back of my head saying 'start a hobby' and so I started doll making."
Ms Caccamo has been reproducing antique dolls from the 1870s to the 1900s for more than 16 years.
"I'm a history teacher and I love the historical side of making antique dolls," Ms Caccamo said.
"It's amazing how these dolls were available at those times.
"They were an item of innocence and nostalgia."
Ms Caccamo will sell fabric which can be used to make fashionable doll's clothes at the annual Doll, Bear and Craft Fair at the Blacktown Leisure Centre Stanhope on Saturday, February 23, from 9.30am to 4pm.
There will be more than 100 stalls at the fair displaying doll makers from all over Australia who will present a wide range of dolls and bears including vintage, modern and porcelain varieties.
Stallholders will be selling a wide variety of laces, ribbons, wigs, clothing and accessories for all manner of dolls, bears and craft activities.
There will free valuations of dolls and bears and doll making demonstrations happening throughout the day.
Plus there is plenty of parking and the venue is fully accessible for disabled visitors.
Tickets: $7 for adults and $2 for children.
Details: 9421 2600; www.blcs.nsw.blacktown.gov.au or stanhopedbcfair.com.