This is my 18 inch (45cm) Raggedy Ann cloth doll in her short sleeve dress, which also fits my 18 inch Amanda cloth doll.
In the photo Raggedy Ann is petting Floppy who always loves some attention.
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.
If you are sewing this dress for the 15 inch Madeline cloth doll you'll need to make the bodice back overlaps 1 inch wider as she has a fuller body than Raggedy Ann. Be sure to cut a bit wider than you think you'll need, because you can always trim away access width.
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 9 inches long including the pre-gathered lace edging 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. And 32 inches of pre-gathered lace for the skirt hem.
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.
- Trims look nice when they contrast the basic dress color.
- Instructions for attaching lace to skirt hem are here.
Bring any questions while sewing to our discussion forum at the link at the foot of this article.
Have fun making Raggedy Ann or Madeline this short sleeve dress!
Raggedy Ann and Andy and Madeline Homepage
Dress Pattern Pieces
Dress Sewing Instructions
Ballet or Dance Costume
Doll Accessories
Tutorials of Special Doll Making Techniques
Article and photo by Susan Kramer
