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SEADRIFT– An 84-year-old Seadrift woman keeps bags of sewn arms and legs in her home.

Having these parts ready helps Florence Johns more readily produce the Raggedy Ann or Andy dolls that have earned her a reputation as a good dollmaker.

Her neighbors have already started ordering them for the holidays, and one pair can be seen in city hall.

Johns moved from Houston four years ago to be close to her daughter, Alice Elizabeth Stalcup. She’s always been a homemaker and loves to “bake and share,” especially fresh apple cake. When she’s not giving away dessert, most folks see her powerwalking to and from the post office. Her friends laugh because she carries a cane, but holds it up and never uses it.

Johns shares her dollmaking story.

Q: How did you get into doll making?

A: Years ago, I don’t even know how many years ago, I was making dolls. It just seems like they bring a lot of joy to people. I think that’s fantastic. It’s an interesting thing to do. I like to see ‘em dressed.

Q:How long does it take?

A: My daughter saw me make a pair of of dolls plus clothes in 12 days.

Q: How many have you made this year?

A: Between 22 and 24 dolls. That’s quite an accomplishment, I would think. It’s a slow process.

One lady, she said. ‘They’re beautiful! Oh, I love them!’ Then she gave me the biggest bear hug. My dolls are bringing joy to people and it makes me feel good that I can do that.

Q: Did you have a favorite doll growing up?

A: I was lucky I had one doll way back yonder. It was kind of rough. Parents were lucky enough just to buy food. Times were hard then. I had one doll. It had a plastic face. It wasn’t a rag doll.