This is one of my Amanda 18 inch (45cm) cloth dolls in her new short sleeve dress. The dress also fits my 18 inch Raggedy Ann doll.
In the photo to the left is small 11 inch baby doll Muffin, and to the right are mini dolls Betsy McCall and Addie. Floppy is enjoying being petted by Amanda.
The link to her dress pattern is here. And sewing instructions are here.
After you cut out the dress pattern pieces cut an additional inch off the sleeve length to change from long to short sleeves.
The dress is made with a bodice, sleeves, and a lace and ribbon neckline, with lace at the end of sleeves. I use pre-gathered lace.
The finished skirt is 8 inches long and 32 inches wide.
You'll need 9 inches of pre-gathered lace and the same amount of ribbon for the neck, and 12 inches of pre-gathered lace for the sleeves.
Tips and Hints
- If the clothing is for a child's doll, use velcro closures rather than buttons or hooks and eyes for safety's sake.
- Choose a small print cotton or other washable fabric keeping in mind the small proportions of a doll.
- Trims should also be washable and preshrunk.
Bring any questions while sewing to our discussion forum at the link at the foot of this article.
Have fun making Amanda's short sleeve dress!
Amanda 18 inch Cloth Doll Homepage
Dress Pattern
Dress Sewing Instructions
Doll Body Sewing Instructions
How to Soft Sculpture Cloth and Fabric Dolls
Doll Body Pattern
Special Doll Making Techniques
Article and photo credit - Susan Kramer
