Hello from this newbie from North Texas. Glad to be here.

This is my question for those with more experience in dealing with these lovely dolls. I've got 2 girls, 7 and 10, who are interesting in learning to sew. They saw the American Girl TV specials and fell in love with Samantha and Felicity. I've gotten 2 Samanthas (one in original meet dress and the other au natural, she's got a flesh body and is pre-Mattel). We're using a red-haired Battat doll as a clone for Felicity until we luck into one at a price we can afford. Suddenly I realized that I should teach them to sew on 18 inch dolls and not Barbie as my mom taught me (hated turning those teensy sleeves). I'd appreciate it if y'all know if there are any good sites to get us started. I've gotten a free pattern for Samantha era dresses but am looking for Felicity era dresses. They'd also like to make "modern" clothing for the dolls as well.

Also the Samantha I picked up today has a little marker on her lips (just a dot) and some marker? on one arm. Any suggestions of what to do and what NOT to do?