Hello, dear Internet-Land! I know, I know ~ two posts in one weekend ~ shocking, right? Well, I was looking up at my Evangelines, and thought, “I haven’t sewn for these gals in a while.” Then I thought about making a new pattern for her, so decided to share it. Now, I can’t take full credit for the following idea of “how to,” but I have tweaked it to make it more user friendly for my dolls. I saw the idea on the internet a long time ago, but have had no luck finding it again. So ~ if you know who originally posted the idea of using tape to make patterns, please email me (missysimaginings@gmail.com) and I will be glad to add the proper credit to this post. While thinking of this, I wanted to try the idea, but didn’t want to put tape on my doll. Instead, I first covered the doll in plastic wrap. So, let’s get to the tutorial!

This method can be used to make patterns for any size & shape, so have fun with your favorite doll! First, I tightly wrapped the doll’s torso in plastic kitchen wrap. Then I snuggly covered the bodice with cellophane tape. I used the type called “invisible,” because it’s easier to mark this type with a pencil, and lines can be erased & changed if needed. The slicker type is harder to mark. You could also use narrow masking tape.

The next step is to mark the “pattern” right on the doll. I drew around the neck edge, the arm holes, the waist, center, sides, and then the curves between the centers & sides as shown.

Then I cut up the center front & back, cutting through the plastic wrap, but being careful not to damage the doll. I also labeled the pieces. Next, carefully remove from doll & cut pieces apart.

Now I have pieces that are exactly the size of the doll body. These pieces were traced onto plain paper. Then I slightly enlarged each one’s edges by about 1/16th inch, except for the neck and arm hole edges. Since these curve in, extending the edge would actually make the opening smaller, which I don’t want to do.

The next step is to add seam allowance to each piece. I did not add it to the edges that were the center fronts, since these pieces will have that edge placed on the fold of the fabric. I also added a quarter inch to the center back edges to allow for the overlap where snaps will be sewn. And there you have it! Now these basic pieces can be used to draft a multitude of different designs. I used the same steps above to draft a sleeve pattern, and have added a selection of sleeve variations as well as a fuller longer skirt. I hope this will assist you in your own creative endeavors! 🙂