The Emotional Support Poppet, or ESP for short, began as a diminutive figure, standing just 6 to 8 inches tall. Initially conceived to symbolize the Goddess on devotees' altars, many have since been sold or gifted, undoubtedly fulfilling their intended role.
Small Goddesses 6-8 inches tall--------------->
Recently, the dolls I create have evolved to serve various purposes; they've become larger, now measuring between 16 to 18 inches tall. They're being used as throw pillows and decorative items. However, my preferred use for them is as Emotional Support Pals (ESPs). As I crochet each one, I infuse them with an abundance of hugs before they depart for their new homes. Parting with them can be difficult at times. But that's the nature of life—like children, they must eventually leave the nest.
Here's what my little poppets have grown up to be...
The Green Goddess... this ESP should be your top choice for therapeutic embraces. If you were to custom-design one, you could include leaves, flowers, and perhaps even a dragonfly nestled in her hair.
The Unicorn... this embrace will transport you directly to a realm of fantasy. Are you aiming for something that usually seems just beyond your grasp? This little charm could very well give you the boost you need, in the most positive way.
Goth Goddess... We all seek acceptance for our true selves, and embracing this Diva of Darkness will bestow the confidence to demand just that.
Teen Green... The Horned God, in his youthful guise, embodies the vigor and stubborn determination needed to accomplish tasks. As the Goddess whispered to the Stag by the lake, "You are not merely a stag; you are a deity."
Mandrake... Ever felt the urge to just scream? This little fellow understands perfectly. Hold him close, embrace him firmly, and let out that scream. Afterward, ground yourself once again and tackle your tasks.
Mermaid... Finally, the mermaid, the gatherer of all things precious. Embrace her and make your wish; it shall be granted.
Try this basic pattern and see what you can design:
The Basic “Paper Doll” Poppet
This basic poppet can be the start of many a character. Built a lot like an old-fashioned paper doll perfect for adapting to a vast array of features and embellishments. This pattern is the beginning of Pin Cushion, Bun-Bun, Gingy, Stitches, Baby Baph, Baby Yoda, Cthulhu, Plague Dr., Strega Luna, and Elsbeth. WOW
You will use:
Ch – chain stitch
Hdc – Half double crochet stitch
Hdc dec – Half double crochet decrease
Sl St – Slip stitch
Sc – Single crochet stitch
BLO – Back loop only
FO – fasten off
You will need:
4 oz. of 4ply yarn
Crochet hook size H/8 5mm
Stuffing
Scissors
Yarn needle
Instructions:
At end of each round Sl St in first stitch made and Ch 1.
Stuff as you go.
Legs
Ch 2
Rd. 1 – 8 Hdc in 2nd Ch from hook (8)
Rd. 2 – 2 Hdc in each stitch around (16)
Rd. 3 – 1 Hdc in BLO around (16)
Rd. 4-7 – 1 Hdc around (16) FO
– make another, Do Not FO 2nd leg
Body and Head
Hold legs together and Sl St together for 2 stitches
Rd. 8 – 1 Hdc in each stitch around both legs making sure you include the stitches connecting the legs. (32)
Rd. 9 – 1 Hdc around (32)
Bottom shaping – Your poppet will have a back and front now.
Rd. 10 – 1 Hdc in first 2 sts, 2 Hdc in next 4 sts, 1 Hdc in next 20 sts, 2 Hdc in next 4 sts, 1 Hdc in last 2 sts. (40)
Rd. 11 – 1 Hdc in first 2 sts, Hdc dec 4 times, 1 Hdc in next 20 sts, Hdc dec 4 times, 1 Hdc in last 2 sts. (32)
Rd. 12 & 13 – 1 Hdc around (32)
Rd. 14 – Hdc dec around (16)
Rd. 15 – 1 Hdc around (16)
Rd. 16 {1 Hdc, 2 Hdc} around (24)
Rd. 17-20 – 1Hdc around (24)
Rd. 21 - {1 Hdc, Hdc dec} around (16)
Rd. 22 - Hdc dec around (8)
FO and Weave closed
Arms
Ch 2
Rd. 1 – 8 Hdc in 2nd Ch from hook (8)
Rd. 2 – {1 Hdc, 2 Hdc} around (12)
Rd. 3-7 – 1 Hdc around (12)
Stuff and flatten edge, Close with 5 Hdc across end, Sc, Sl St, leave long end to sew to side of body.
Now you can embellish to manifest your poppet into any of my characters or make up your own.
My husband and I share a special greeting ritual. Typically, this occurs at the front door when one of us returns home or if we arrive together. Even if we've spent the entire day side by side, entering our home triggers a hug. This isn't just any brief embrace; it's a 45-second hug where we take a deep breath, let go of all tension, and merge into one. It's the highlight of my day, often concluding with a third eye kiss from my husband, which he knows I adore.
Research suggests that our practice is quite beneficial, offering numerous physical, mental, and emotional advantages. It's something we might all inherently recognize, but let's explore a few specific benefits of hugging. You may discover more reasons to embrace this practice more frequently.
Reasons to Hug (as if we needed them):
1. The nurturing touch of a hug builds trust and a sense of safety, paving the way for honest communication.
2. Hugs can instantly boost oxytocin levels, healing feelings of loneliness, isolation, and anger.
3. Holding a hug for an extended time lifts one's serotonin levels, elevating mood and creating happiness.
4. Hugs strengthen the immune system by activating the Solar Plexus Chakra and stimulating the thymus gland.
5. Hugging boosts self-esteem and connects us to our ability to self-love.
6. Hugging relaxes muscles and releases tension in the body.
7. Hugs teach us how to give and receive, as love flows both ways.
8. Hugs teach us to let go and be present in the moment.
9. The energy exchange between the people hugging is an investment in the relationship.
“We need four hugs a day for survival.
We need eight hugs a day for maintenance.
We need twelve hugs a day for growth.”
-Virginia Satir-
We are fortunate to belong to a community that values frequent hugging. On most days, achieving our 8 to 12 hugs is effortless. However, if you ever need a backup, my "Emotional Support Poppets" might be the perfect solution. It's always better to be safe than sorry.
Go ahead, you know you want a hug. Blessed be.
Stay crafty, Opal Luna.