Frequently Asked Questions
How do I create a doll?Where can I find my doll on the web site?
Where and when do the STITCHES dolls go on exhibit?
Who can participate?
What is the mission of the STITCHES Doll Project?
Q: How do I create a doll?
A: First Step: Contact us at the STITCHES Doll Project or by USPS at:
STITCHES HQ
18012 Rose Ct.
Macomb, MI 48044
Second Step: We will send you a plain rag doll to decorate in any way you wish. We ask that dolls be completed within one (1) month of receiving them. You will also receive some forms to fill out that should be returned along with your doll.
Third Step: You send the completed doll, along with the INFORMATION FORM and this RELEASE WAIVER back to the STITCHES Doll Project at the above stated address.
Fourth Step: Once we receive your doll, we take a picture of it and document its arrival. We will then send you a photo of your doll along with a certificate proclaiming your participation in the STITCHES Doll Project. Then a photo of your doll and written comments will be posted here on the official STITCHES web site.
Q: Where can I find my doll on the web site?
A: Since the STITCHES web site is currently being redesigned, your doll may not be posted on the site quite yet. Please be patient. We are constantly updating the site and adding new dolls and other information relating to women and HIV. Future plans include a tool that will allow visitors to access the dolls by searching each state where the dolls originated.
Q: Where and when do the STITCHES dolls go on exhibit?
A: The STITCHES dolls are always traveling the country educating the community at large. There are usually small exhibits at various universities, colleges, high schools, and agencies throughout the Midwest. Occasionally, "the girls", as we like to call them, are requested in Florida, California or someplace else far from Michigan. Since these displays are happening all the time, we suggest that you contact STITCHES Doll Project if you are trying to locate a specific doll. We would love to hear from you!
Q: Who can participate in the doll project?
A: Any girl or woman of any age who is living with HIV infection is welcome to become a part of the STITCHES Doll Project. Please refer to the section titled "How do I create a doll?" for contact information.
Q: What is the mission of the STITCHES Doll Project?
A: The STITCHES Doll Project was created so that the diverse stories of women living with HIV could be preserved for future generations to learn from. There are two sides to the overall mission:
1.) It gives women the opportunity for their "voice" to be heard in a safe, confidential and educational manner. Many women do not have the luxury of speaking about their HIV status in their everyday lives. They may live in fear of rejection, reprisal or other types of discrimination. With this project, the dolls speak for themselves.
2.) The completed dolls become part of a national traveling exhibit and, in that way, educate the general population about the risks of HIV infection. The STITCHES dolls teach knowledge about and compassion for all people living with HIV infection. The creativity of each individual doll "speaks" to the visitors who come to view them. Our hope is that in their own unique way, they can have some effect on all who come seeking information.
