Anyone Can Make an Impressive Doll

Doll-making is hard - at least that’s what most people think. But, there’s a simple way to make elaborate dolls without any previous experience. Little dolls, big dolls, rag dolls - you name it. The trick is to start with the doll clothing. Now, most people think that you make the doll and then look for clothing that will fit - wrong! If you have no doll-making experience, start with the clothing first, and the rest is a breeze!

Say you want to make a small doll for a small child. Look at clothing for a small doll in a department store and choose an outfit which includes long pants and a long-sleeve shirt. This will make your doll-making experience so simple you won’t believe it. The outfit you choose is ever so important, though, so make sure you don’t choose one that has slits on the bottom sides of the pants, ones that have plunging necklines, or ones that have low-scooped backs or fronts.

For a small doll, cut the end of two fingers from a glove. These will serve as the feet for the doll. Or, purchase doll shoes - but no heels or pumps! The shoes would have to be tennis shoes, boots or something that comes up to the ankle.

Glue or stitch the glove pieces or shoes to the ankle area of the pants. Stuff the pants with cotton batting, making sure to stuff the feet as well - if you’re using the glove pieces. You can also use the tips of two glove fingers to make the hands for the doll. It’s best to use a stretch knit-type of glove that has a smooth texture, rather than fuzzy or furry gloves. Other options for feet and hands include a small piece cut from white socks, pieces from a white hanky, or just a piece of muslin.

Stuff the shirt, making sure to get some of the stuffing all the way into the hands. Glue or stitch the shirt to the pants, at the waist area. Now the doll is complete except for the head.

You can purchase doll heads at a craft store, complete with hair, or purchase them with no hair and add the hair separately. You can also use a large wooden bead for a head, gluing it onto the neck area of the shirt. Paint a face on the wooden bead and add hair and even a hat, if you wish.