Sewing Clothes for 18" Dolls with Joan Hinds

Next, the doll dress designer extraordinaire guides you through the simple process of making a party dress for an 18-inch doll complete with matching shoes. Downloadable pattern PDFs for making both the dress and the shoes are included.

With their little cloth bodies, 18-inch dolls aren’t a standard size, so, first things first, Joan shows you how to measure the body in a unique way to achieve a perfect fit. From the tools needed to help you sew and press on a small scale to stitching a pair of coordinating shoes, you’ll have fun learning the tricks for creating these miniature masterpieces. 

The featured dress is a to-the-waist lined yoke design with a gathered skirt, puffed sleeves and double-ruffle hem. Joan’s featured method is her concept of open construction, which is essential for making most doll clothes. Her steps for finishing the bodice include lining instructions and a perfect neckline edge, since there are no facings in this small garment. Gathering and inserting tiny doll sleeves are a snap once you’ve watched her technique for applying them just right, and the elastic insertion method at the sleeve ruffle assures a perfect fit every time. 

Doll clothes beg for detailing, and Joan shows you how to dress up this design at the waistband with a miniature yo-yo and button. As a bonus project, her doll shoes let you complete this precious ensemble and present your little doll-lover with a gift she’ll cherish forever.