Doll clothes patterns should be inspired by the latest fashion trends. The same is true of doll accessories. Your choice of accessories can complete an outfit, or make it ordinary.
One of the strongest accessory trends we see today is the tote… or oversized handbag. (A hobo bag is shown below.)
The oversized handbag has replaced the backpack as the new ‘must have’ fashion item. It’s seen in many shapes; like the hobo bag, the oversized tote and the mailbag. Bags with drawstring tops and heavy hardware trim are also popular. You’ll want to look for these design details when you translate the new fashion trends into your doll clothes patterns.
Girls today are influenced by the styles they see other kids wearing in magazines and on TV. So, for a ‘total look,’ you should always select doll clothes patterns that include doll accessories… like handbags, shoes, hats and jewelry.
December 2nd, 2008 at 4:30 pm
Interesting post – and I love the hobo bag!
January 6th, 2009 at 10:52 pm
I love making this size doll clothes. I enjoy how quickly they work up, the seams are just big enough to fit easily under my sewing feet and I can cut out and sew an entire outfit in an evening and try it on the doll, no delayed gratification for me! I will check back on your blog,Thanks, Sewing in Dallas
February 12th, 2009 at 9:13 am
Where can I get instructions for making the tote bag shown above?
February 12th, 2009 at 3:04 pm
I designed this hobo bag, and I’ll be putting the pattern on the site soon. It will be FREE …a gift for my readers. You just sign up, then I’ll email the pattern to you in a file you can download and print out. Watch the blog. When you see the sign up form appear on the homepage, just sign up.
Thanks everyone, for reading the blog. I’ll keep looking for new trends and fun ideas to blog about. And, I hope you’ll continue to enjoy them.
Peggy
Soon, there will be patterns here for complete outfits, including the accessories; like boots, purses, hats, etc.
February 22nd, 2009 at 7:03 pm
I look forward to seeing the patterns
February 22nd, 2009 at 7:06 pm
I have an 18 inch doll and want to know how to make the exact fit
March 3rd, 2009 at 9:27 pm
I love the hobo bag. Please put me on the list for patterns. My grandaughter really needs some outfits for her look-alike-american girl doll.
May 10th, 2009 at 1:39 pm
Great pattern and I love your ideas! Thanks so much for the money printable. Guess we’ll start having to “charge” the dolls for their salon visits. They can afford it now!
September 18th, 2009 at 9:24 pm
Thanks so much for the patterns!! They are superb! Can’t wait for more to come out!!!
Please let me know when more come out!
Sewing these is a great hobby, and can help relieve stress from work…
October 5th, 2009 at 3:27 pm
Hello, I have not been able to do the bag yet because I am trying to figure out how to sew a sleeve to the torso portion of a shirt for an 8 inch doll. Are there special sewing machines for that, I mean, that sew that very small?
Ana
October 5th, 2009 at 5:11 pm
Hi Ana,
I only work on 18 inch dolls. But when I have trouble working on very small details, I baste the pieces together by hand before I sew them. You might also check at a store that sells your brand of sewing machine to see if they have a special ‘foot’ that might help you.
Peggy
October 27th, 2009 at 1:40 pm
Thank You for your patterns and tips. I purchased some Springfield dolls for my girls for Christmas and am starting on accessories and clothing. They will love your hobo bag and play money…
November 19th, 2009 at 10:35 am
Thanks, so much, for the hobo bag pattern and the ‘money’ to go along with it. I purchased an 18″ Our Generation doll from Target for my 5-year-old grandniece for Christmas. I’m not an experienced seamstress, but am having fun learning to sew for this doll and the hobo bag and money will be a nice addition. Thanks again.
Sally
December 4th, 2009 at 4:23 pm
I am just starting my 18″ doll collection. I love making my own doll clothes and accessories. Thanks for all of the great patterns. I can tell you are going to be a valued resource!