Guest Author - Susan Kramer

Doll blankets are such fun to make because, unlike those for babies, kids or adults they can be completed relatively quickly! The finished diameter is 20 inches (50cm). If you use centimeters, the conversion is 1 inch equals 2.5cm.

This round doll blanket is offset with just one circle applique. And, the way it is set up, the shapes and colors bounce off each other. I purposely used blue in both circles to tie the design together.

If you have some lengths of fabric stashed away, lay two at a time next to each other to see how the colors and patterns work together.

When you are all done sewing, choose the color embroidery floss for the decorative edging stitch that compliments the colors. Details of how to make the edging stitch are here.

Supplies

- Two thirds yard of 44 to 45 inch cotton fabric for background and lining.
- One half yard of contrasting fabric for the 14 inch (35cm) inner circle.
- Contrasting 6 strand embroidery floss for the decorative edging.
- Either matching or contrasting quilting thread.

Construction

1. Large circle: Fold material in half length wise, right sides together. Using a large bowl trace a big circle and cut out.

2. Sew pieces together all around the outside edge leaving enough space to turn right side out.

3. Turn in remaining opening and blind stitch closed.

4. Iron circle. You now have made the lining and front. This doll blanket does not need polyester fiberfill - it folds easier around your smaller dolls without it.

5. Repeat the procedure making a smaller circle.

6. Lay the smaller circle in the center of the right side of the larger circle. First pin in place, then baste in place.

7. Using small quilting stitches sew the small circle on the larger circle.

8. Sew the decorative edging stitch all around the outer edge of the larger circle. Directions of how to do the stitch are above.

Voila! You have a very interesting doll blanket sure to make any small doll cozy. This design can also be used as a doll bed coverlet. And didn't I tell you it wouldn't take very long to make!

Doll Blanket - Quilted
Doll Blanket - Basic Appliqued
Doll Blanket - Flying Feather Pattern
Stitching details
Decorative Edging for Doll Costumes
Contrasting Top Stitching for Doll Costumes

Article and photo credit Susan Kramer