Modifying Doll Clothes Patterns

Doll clothes patterns at times need to be changed to get a correct fit. Even dolls that are the same height may have varied waist, hip and bust measurements. The measure of the arms and legs is another factor that differs from one company to another. By making little alterations, you can be sure to get the fit that you desire. If you want to make clothes that can be worn by a variety of dolls, make sure to measure the biggest of the group and change the pattern accordingly.

If the outfit will be for show purposes, you may want a more professional look, which is an perfect fit. For britches and shorts, one of the measurements you will need to take is the inseam. The inseam extends from the inside of the leg or crotch to the ankle for long britches; to the knee for shorts. You are most likely familiar with taking bust, waist and hip measurements, if you have a bit of sewing exposure. But don't forget to measure around the shoulders. For turtlenecks and other collars, you need to know the neck height and circumference. To make cuffs, you will need the wrist size. To make full-length sleeves, you will need the length of the arms. There are many incredible doll dress patterns for 18 inch dolls.

You can check the pattern to discover if the maker of the pattern used a specific manufacturer as a prototype. For example, American Girl dolls are well-liked and there are many pattern makers that have used that specific brand as their models. Almost all of the doll dress patterns are created to fit the bigger American Girls dolls, and thus fit all the other sizes also - they will just have a little more ease, which actually makes them simpler for a litte child to dress them. A larger seam can be stitched in some areas if you are looking for a slimmer fit on the littler of the 18 inch dolls.

Older dolls may vary in shape, which will make it challenging to get a correct fit, if you don't measure first. For example, the older American Girl dolls had leg that are bigger than the ones being manufactured today. Doll dress patterns for 36 inch dolls are also available. You can purchase a pattern to make new clothing for your Cabbage Patch kids, also, but the individual dimensions of the Cabbage Patch dolls are more varied than they are with other brands.

Most pattern manufacturers make it easy to see what the completed project could look like by including pictures of a doll dressed in a completed outfit. You can still make your piece distinctive by selecting varying fabrics, adding additional pockets or sewing on lace and additional accessories. You will find doll clothes patterns that will assit you in making dresses, jackets, blouses, vests and many other items you can think of. They are fun crafts that can often be completed in just a few hours.