Doll clothes patterns this season should include an updated version of the ‘hoodie.’ The hoodie has a great new look. It’s longer… almost knee-length with a loose, more relaxed hood. Two of the most popular styles include the wrap-front and zip-front. Other styles may have either long or short sleeves, like the hoodies in my drawings.
The long-sleeved hoodie is usually worn over a long tunic-like top and matching leggings or skinny ‘cigarette’ pants. These very tight-legged pants look great tucked into knee-high boots or worn with ballet flats. Today’s hoodie has evolved far beyond the basic sweatshirt. So, when you’re selecting fabric for your doll clothes patterns, think about including some soft, textured knits for your hoodies.
The more casual short-sleeved hoodie is all about layering. The key to layered-looks is to wear ‘short garments over long garments.’ Wear a short jacket over a long top, a long tunic-dress over pants, a mini skirt over leggings or a camisole over a short-sleeved t-shirt. Our hoodie is worn as a top ‘layer,’ with a long-sleeved shirt sticking out from underneath its short sleeves in a contrasting color.
The long hoodie is a ‘must-have’ item. So, gather up your sewing supplies and start planning your doll’s new wardrobe. Both hoodie styles shown in my drawings will be available soon, here on the blog, as doll clothes patterns you can download.
April 8th, 2009 at 10:38 pm
I was wondering if you can tell me when the hoodie pattern will be available and would also like to know if you ever sew for other 18″ dolls. I am interested in adjusting AG patterns for full body vinyl doll such as Magic attic, but I am not very good at “fixing” patterns. LOL
Thank’s
Debby
April 9th, 2009 at 12:54 pm
Hi Debby,
Yes I sew for other 18 inch dolls. I have 8 dolls including American Girl, Gotz, Madame Alexander, Heidi Ott and Springfield Collection. Their sizes vary slightly, but they’re all similar enough to share clothes.
The Magic Attic dolls are much more slender than American Girls, so their patterns do require custom alterations. However, because they’re close to the same height, the alterations are not too complicated. That’s a good idea for a blog post. I’ll put it on my list of ‘things to do.’
I’m finishing up the Hoodie pattern now. It will include the hoodie sweater, a tunic, tight pants and probably fringed boots. It’s the next thing I’ll add to the site.
Thanks for staying in touch. Have you made the hobo bag yet?
Peggy
April 15th, 2009 at 10:06 am
I just found my old Sasha doll from the 70s. She’s in great shape, but her clothes are another story. I have two little girls – 2 and 4, and we’ve decided that we’re going to create a wardrobe for her. Looks like we’re starting with the tee-shirt scarf and the hobo bag. I’ll be checking back for new patterns – thanks!
June 20th, 2009 at 11:56 am
i was wondering from a post above when the hoodie, sweater, tunic, tight pants and possible fringed boots will be coming out? I think my doll would lokk really cute in them and I am dying to make them! Please answer!
Thanks, Alex!
July 6th, 2009 at 1:56 pm
Unfortunately, I am strictly by the pattern & instruction sheet sewer. Recently, I purchased a child’s pattern for a coat with a rounded yoke. I would love to make a matching coat to fit the American Girl doll, but have no idea how to do this. Is there a website that makes specialty patterns?
July 7th, 2009 at 2:27 am
Patricia,
If you email me a picture of the coat, I’ll see if I know of anything.
Peggy
DollClothesPatterns@gmail.com
July 14th, 2009 at 9:23 am
Dear Peggy,
I am delighted with your site and your patterns. I retired recently and am just starting to sew doll clothes for 15-inch baby dolls and the 18-inch AG-type dolls. Your pattern instructions and accompanying photos are very clear and unintimidating. Thank you!
August 28th, 2009 at 9:28 am
you can find sweater patterns–free on line from knitting on the net or abc knitting. also, the boot pattern may also be available on line. you can check on line for companies that sell doll clothes–they usually sell shoes and boots also. i have a pattern from simplicity that has boots.
August 28th, 2009 at 9:29 am
does anyone have a pattern for a knitted cape with a hood? where can i find such a thing?
October 30th, 2009 at 1:41 pm
I just bought an 18 inch Madame Alexander doll for my daughter, and I am trying to get some clothes patterns so I can have them done by her birthday, which is 3 weeks away!
November 13th, 2009 at 12:38 pm
How can I get my hands on this pattern and all the matching pieces? I LOVE this!
July 12th, 2010 at 10:02 pm
when will the pattern for the knee boots b ready????
July 12th, 2010 at 10:24 pm
I’m working on it now and hope to find time to finish it soon. I’m finished with the boots and am now making some changes to the hoodie for a better fit.