How to Design Crocheting for Fashion Dolls Using Rectangles

Vintage doll clothes are beautiful but can be complicated to make.

Handmade doll clothes have been around for hundreds of years. Crafters have knitted, crocheted and beautiful doll clothes from intricate patterns. If you want to try something a bit simpler, however, try designing doll clothes for a child's fashion doll using crocheted rectangles.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Size "F" crochet hook
• Baby-weight yarn
• Tapestry needle
• Scissors

Instructions

1. Measure the length of the doll's torso, from shoulder to waist, knee, ankle or thigh, depending how long you want the shirt or dress to be. Also measure the doll's waist and bust. These measurements will give you the size of the rectangle you need to cover her. For example, if the length is 4 inches and bust or waist is 3 inches, you need a rectangle that is 4 inches by 3 inches to make the shirt or dress. Be sure to use whichever measurement is largest for the width, either bust or waist. Sew the rectangle closed lengthwise with a piece of yarn and the tapestry needle, being sure to leave an opening for the doll's arms.

2. Measure the length and width of the doll's arms. Use these measurements to make sleeves for the shirt or dress. Sew the rectangle into a tube and insert into the opening in the shirt or dress. Sew together with the yarn and tapestry needle.

3. Design pants for the doll by using rectangles. Measure her legs from waist to ankle. Also measure the leg width. Sew two rectangles with your length and width measurements. Sew each rectangle closed lengthwise from bottom up, leaving the top one-fourth of the tube open. Sew the two tubes together at the top to make the pants.

4. Accessorize the fashion doll with rectangles also. Design a long, thin rectangle for a hair band or belt. You can also make a purse with two rectangles for the purse and a long, thin rectangle for the strap.

Tips & Warnings

• Make your doll clothes more fashionable with metallic or sparkly yarn. Choose colors based on the season: hot pinks and yellows for summer or woolen grays and dark greens and rust for winter.

References

• Craft Yarn Council: How to Read a Crochet Pattern
• Classic Crochet for Baby Dolls; Marjory Fainges
• Doll Accessories World: Make Your Own Doll