How to Use Real Patterns to Make Doll Patterns

Full-sized patterns can be shrunk for dolls using a computer scanner.

Dolls with proportions similar to human beings can wear clothes and accessories made from patterns adapted from full-sized patterns. Patterns can be downsized by meticulously measuring each part, calculating new lengths and widths, and drawing the re-sized diagram on paper. The easiest way to convert the patterns is by scanning them into a computer and letting a computer re-size them. Using a computer scanner rather than a photocopier will enable you to save the image for manipulation or reuse in the future.

Things You'll Need

• Pattern
• Measuring tape
• Scanner
• Computer with photo editing software
• Printer

Instructions

1. Read the pattern specifications to learn what the finished dimensions of the item will be. These are normally listed on the back of the envelope the pattern comes in.

2. Measure the doll with the tape measure in the places the pattern indicates sizing. For example, for a dress there may be measurements listed for bust, waist and hips.

3. Record the measurements and next determine what ratio you should use to re-size the pattern. This is a mathematical comparison where the all dimensions of the doll pattern will be the same percentage smaller as all measurements when compared to the full-sized pattern.

4. Find the percentage by setting up a fraction where the dolls measurement is in the numerator and the pattern's measurement is in the denominator. Divide the numerator by the denominator to find out what percentage the doll's size is compared to the full size. You only need to do this once as the percentage will not change unless you are creating items for a doll that has proportions that are not human-like.

5. Place each pattern part writing-side down (if any) on the bed of the scanner and scan the item at 100 percent. If the whole is too large for the scanner bed, scan it in parts and join them later in photo editing software. Re-size the image of the pattern part by opening your photo editing software and resizing it by percentage. The new percentage will be the one you calculated after measuring the doll. Do this for each pattern part.

6. Make any necessary alterations to the pattern segment while in the software. For example, if a doll has an unusually large bust or small waist you can shrink and stretch the pattern in certain areas if your software is sophisticated enough.

7. Print the re-sized part and cut it out with scissors.

Tips & Warnings

• If your scanner software allows you to enter a precise number for reducing the size during the scan, this will save you the step of editing it.

• Save a copy of any pattern part you scan on your computer so that you can manipulate them if necessary in the future.

• Make sure you are measuring in the same unit your pattern is written in. For example, if you are using a European pattern that only has centimeter measurements, make sure you measure your doll in centimeters instead of inches.

References

• Math: Proportions