Sewing opinion needed please!

**steelergal** · 01-21-2008, 07:09 PM

I needed some opinions on something and hope you all can give me an honest opinion!

My youngest really would like to get an American girl doll. I decided instead of ordering one, I am going to try to find one that is really cheap or the off brand kind. She really likes the Kirsten one (the prairie type/year one). I noticed that there is a ton of patterns for this doll and I plan on making the outfits that they have on the internet for it (I have issues spending $20 for a doll outfit!).

So my question is- it has been many years since I have used a sewing machine, but think that doll clothes maybe a bit easier than let's say normal clothes and I may scew up a little bit but it should be fairly easy to accomplish. What is your opinion on that?

BTW- her birthday is not until the end of August so I have a lot of time and I have a grandma with enough fabric that I could cloth the whole state with that she is giving to me to use

!

**sunshine** · 01-21-2008, 07:17 PM

Sometimes doll clothes are more difficult due to the small size. It's hard to set in sleeves, finish necklines, etc.

That being said -- the doll won't care if the grain is "off", etc.

**inneedofhope** · 01-21-2008, 07:30 PM

You can do alot with ric rac and trim to hide mistakes. Velcro is easier than buttons, to sew and for your little girl.
have you checked ebay for a used doll?? Happy sewing.
After you get the doll, check and see if baby clothes will work, you know those frilly newborn dresses from thrift stores?

**Jeanna** · 01-22-2008, 08:03 AM

Doll clothes are like any clothes in the fact that the more complex the more difficult. Simple dresses and pants are pretty easy. I have made dresses, pants, shirts, blue jean jackets and the such without much trouble, but a fairy outfit was just to much. Also try to stay away from slick fabric.

**PrairieRose** · 01-22-2008, 08:08 AM

I learned to sew making my maternity clothes and doll clothes.

**mommy4ever** · 01-22-2008, 09:03 AM

I much prefer full size clothes, baby and doll clothes I find to be a PITA. Such tiny spaces to hem, set in sleeves, etc. But you can hide things with embellishments and if you really mess up, it's just a little bit of fabric.

**Momto2Boyz** · 01-22-2008, 09:10 AM

My mom has been making a fortune at craft shows selling *Prairie Girl* doll clothing. Basically, it's doll clothes that fit American Girls!

Anyhoo, she doesn't use patterns at all. She just eyeballs it and goes to town. I would think that they wouldn't be too difficult, unless you made them difficult! Dresses, pants and shirts would be pretty simple to sew!

**Lady_V** · 01-22-2008, 09:16 AM

I am making the clothes for the doll we're giving DD for Christmas. I found a pattern, (yes, they have a sleeveless dress... darn sleeves) Simplicity has some great patterns for the AG dolls. The more 'modern' clothes were sold out, but they had a ton of 'old fashion' clothes.

I just cleaned out the links on this pc (giving it to DD) but I know there is at least 3 sites that have free AG patterns that will walk you through everything...

Good luck!