The Doll's Dressmaker: The Complete Pattern Book

by Venus Dodge

Venus A. Dodge presents a unique and exciting collection of actual-size patterns for doll's clothes. No enlarging is necessary. Just trace directly from the page to make a ready-to-use pattern. The collection of over 120 designs fits 10-25in (28-63.5cm) dolls and can be altered easily to fit other sizes. This book makes it simpler than ever before to create your own superb dolls' clothes, and enjoy the whole process! Each of the 45 basic patterns has several views (clearly shown in magnificent colour photographs), offering an infinite variety of ideas, from modern outfits for commercial dolls to accurate period costume for antique dolls. The author shows how the clever choice of fabric, a different cut to the sleeve or collar, and new trimmings or accessories can completely alter a pattern's effect or period. Full making-up instructions are given throughout for clothes and accessories. Many of the patterns are simple enough for the absolute beginner, but the experienced dolls' dressmaker should find a stimulating challenge in the authentic and more elaborate period costumes. There is plenty of advice on techniques and how to achieve a neat professional result in a small scale, plus an invaluable and comprehensive list of stockists.

Genres: Sewing, Nonfiction

Hardcover

First published January 1, 1988

Reviews

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book, a bible for the sewer interested in dressing dolls of any size. Very comprehensive. Includes patterns for dolls sized 11 to 25 inches. I use it all the time.

[Lindley Walter-smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

A pretty incredible find. It's not kidding about the 120 patterns, which are not finished projects so much as mix and match pieces, with combinations pictured on (mostly antique) dolls explaining the choices and fabric used.

[Marian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good all purpose doll clothes book with many sizes of clothes.

[Patsy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good book

[Sherry · Rating 4 out of 5]

excellent source of pattern ideas and information on how to adapt them to a specific doll.

[Lydia · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great treasure chest of patterns and ideas for making clothes for dolls.