Our Generation Sleeping Bag

After finishing off the Calico Critter family's sleeping bags I decided to jump to the larger dolls as those bags take a longer time. I finished off this one last week after several appointments brought me close to the edge. I finished it off at home as I need to make sure it fits the doll before closing the end. Measurements are wonderful but I like to see it fit before finishing it off. I started another large doll one and already have the pillow section completed.

This is a wonderful free pattern that can be found here. She has multiple sizes of sleeping bags and also has free patterns for the baby doll sleep sacks I use for the donation on her site as well.

Notes:

This was made with Red Heart Super Saver Deep Teal Ombre with a K hook.

With this one complete I have one more for the Our Generation Boy, 2 My Life Dolls, and the Rag Doll to complete with this pattern. The Glitter Girl uses a different pattern from Adoring Dolls.

Skipper Nightgown

Like Stacie's nightgown this too is made from an AG Mini pattern that can be purchased here. I bought the set so I'm slowly working on adapting the patterns that will work for the donation to the Barbie's sisters.

Notes:

I made some additional changes for Skipper after making this for Stacie.

As with the previous AG Mini adaptation I needed size 10 crochet thread and a 1.8mm hook to get this outfit to fit Skipper.

The bent arm issue still makes this hard to get on and off of Skipper with the style of the arms so I left them off.

After adding the trim to the bodice for Stacie I decided not to use if for Skipper and I wouldn't use it for the future outfits. I am still planning on using this for Chelsea this year and will likely be back to this for future donation years.

I added notes to fix the count that increases with each row where I just winged it with Stacie's outfit. I will have this for future attempts.

The bottom trims worked better with the additional notes I added for myself. I was able to get both trims in contrast rather than just one.

Lastly just as a note to myself this closes with tie no need for a snap. I did finish the back before adding the ties and collar.

Rag Doll Linmary Dress

I had started this in yellow but realized it was too big and I hadn't used back loops for the bodice. After having completed this outfit with the back loops I'm not pulling out the other project, I'm going to pick up where I left off and use it for the other 16 inch baby doll. I can see why the pattern works in back loops to add texture but for the amount of effort required the outcome hardly seems worth the effort and the contrast colors don't work as well.

Notes:

The bodice of the dress required an e hook for this doll and a g for the skirt. I likely could have tried an f with the slightly heavier Bernat Baby Softee Baby Yarn, mint that was the primary color for the dress. The contrast is Big Ball Baby Bernat Sport white.

I hope to get one more outfit from this pattern for the other 16 inch Baby doll, the yellow one I mentioned and then it can go back into the large baby doll pattern binder until next season.

Ken Swim Trunks

There are certain patterns, like the 16 inch Baby Doll shoes that I repeat constantly because they are the best pattern for the job. There are other patterns I repeat because despite the huge supply I have it takes time to go through my options and then figure out what it will take to complete the new option.

I've been making Ken's swimming trunks from an old Crochet world pattern for years. It wasn't so much a favorite as it was something I knew. This year as I started to use the Leisure Arts out of print Honeymoon Wardrobe leaflet 2132 for Barbie and Skipper's swimsuits it seemed a practical idea just to look at Ken's pattern for a change.

The Crochet World pattern is fancier. The waist is ribbed and it has stripes. It also is made with thread and depending on the Ken model of the year it has been a bit challenging to make gauge. It is a good bit of effort for a swim trunks. I'd rather save the detail work and time for something that looks worthy of the effort.

Crochet World 2009 pattern

Notes:

This was made with Baby Bernat Big Ball Sport yarn and a size B hook.

Having looked at the previous pattern I would decrease the waist line before splitting for the legs. The narrower legs look better. There is a short set pattern in this leaflet I may add as well and I'd likely do the same for that pattern as well. This is a 1991 pattern and the doll featured in the pictures has bigger legs than the modern Ken doll I'm using. Just something to keep in mind as I work through more of these patterns.

The only adjustments I made for this outfit were yarn and hook size. The fingering yarn I had was too small and I needed a B hook not the suggested 2.10mm hook. My 2.0 was too small.

Lots to Love 14 Inch Baby Doll Petite Dress Hat and Booties

This is a Petite Creative Designs pattern that can be purchased here.

I believe this is the first time I've made this in the suggested colors. I found some Bernat Baby Big Sport in blue and added it to my stash since the last donation round and it seemed like it would be fun to follow the suggested colors since I had the yarn on hand.

Notes:

Dress:

To get this to fit the Lots to Love 14 inch Baby Doll I needed two hook sizes for the dress. I used a G hook for the upper white bodice section of the dress and an H hook for the skirt. Both sections were made with Big Baby Bernat Sport yarn.

A note for myself I cleared the counter and started from 0 for the 6 repeat rows. I hadn't tried this before but it just made less math to track. I reset the counter when the six repeat row were complete. I did the same thing for the hat repeats.

I often change the number of chain ties as they seem short but 50 was correct for this dress.

Hat:

I realized I hadn't listed hook size for the hat the last time I made this so the hat needs a G hook.

The pattern was worked as written.

Booties:

I still struggle just a bit with the booties. I used a G hook for the booties and chose not to use the tie but instead to bend the tops down. I consider using a smaller hook for the contrast color in the future.

16 Inch Baby Doll Dress, Hat, and Shoes

I love it when a pattern free or paid fits multiple sizes of my doll donations. I previously made this for the Lots to Love 14 inch Doll and I need one more for the other 16 inch baby doll and I think I'm also going to dry to get the dress to fit the Rag Doll.

You can find the free pattern here for the dress and hat. The shoes are my go to free pattern found here.

Notes:

This pattern is written in British crochet terms which I have translated to American terms on my copy just to keep from forgetting. I do need to add a note to myself about working in back loops as this is the second dress of the year and still no back loops. Two more to go so we shall see.

I used Bernat Baby Big Ball Sport in White and Lavender. I know with so many stores closing yarn is harder to find but I still find this quite a bit at Walmart in the odd colors like Lavendar and Yellow. Online I sometimes only find white and pink.

Dress:

I used a G hook for the bodice and skirt. I added 5 additional rows and an additional contrast row to the bodice for length prior to adding the skirt. To help myself keep track I have notes on the pattern regarding the repeats as they are not written out and with multiple repeats and row changes for each repeat I lose track. I finished the neck and the arm holes decreasing both as I found them a bit big this time.

Hat:

I used an e hook to the contrast rows and changed to a g hook at the contrast rows until the end. As with the dress I wrote out the repeats on the sheet to keep track of which row repeated each time.

Shoes:

I've started experimenting using this pattern with the matching lighter weight yarn as I don't often have worsted weight in the same shades. To get the shoes to fit I need a J hook with Bernat Baby Sport weight yarn.

Stacie Nightgown

This is another one of the AG mini patterns I'm adapting for the Barbie dolls. You can purchase the pattern here.

Notes:

In order to get this pattern to fit Stacie I needed a 1.25mm hook and size 10 crochet thread.

I chose yellow and a Thread Art variegated yellow for this outfit.

The pattern includes arms, I chose to leave them off for Stacie as getting the outfit on and off would be rather hard with her bent arm and the opening created for the neckline.

I also did not include the bunny slippers. I find shoe patterns for the fashion dolls to be challenging when written for the doll. Trying to tackle them for a pattern not written for the doll seems not worth the challenge at this point.

16 Inch Baby Doll Shell Stitch Dress

While I've revisted old favorites this year I've been pleased to venture into new territory for the JC 16 Inch Baby Doll this year. It keeps it interesting to try new things each year.

This outfit is mostly from the Shell Stitch pattern and cap

pattern found in the out of print House of White Birches black and white newsprint leaflet Baby Doll Fashions to Crochet. It was published in 1981 for anyone who might wish to find a copy.

One thing I've learned with making clothes for baby dolls is the size of the doll is only a starting point when looking at patterns as the pattern rarely tells you more than the length of the doll. This is actually a pattern for an 18 inch baby doll but I had to add to the pattern to get it to fit this doll likely because it is a padded baby doll. I tried it on the Lots to Love 14 inch doll and because it is so chubby it might actually work for the original pattern I changed but not for the changes I needed to make for this doll.

The shoes for this pattern are my go to free pattern you can find here..

Notes:.

Dress:

I used the suggested D hook for this project with Bernat Baby Sport Baby Baby yarn.

Rows 2-4 teach you a pattern for increases for this outfit. The original pattern keeps this going through row 8 I need to go to row 10 before doing the original row 9 to create the arms to have enough length in the bodice..

The shell pattern for this dress is 2dc ch1 2dc. I tried this and the dress was huge. Not at all as pictured. I pulled it out and tried a shell dc ch1 dc and had a better fit.

To cover the white onesie this doll is constructed with I needed to add rows to the skirt. The skirt ends at row 23. I went to row 29 which when you change the row counts becomes row 30 for the whole pattern.

I finished the back up to the neck before doing the trim this allowed for a cleaner back and made putting the snaps on easier. I also did the trim for the arms.

The original dress has a higher waist which I tried when making this outfit for this doll but I found it was harder to fit with the doll's construction so I lengthened the bodice. It is a different look than the original but I rather like it for this doll.

Cap:

The cap is another pattern in this book that I decided needed a rework if I wanted it to fit this doll. The original has dc increases around twice and I found the hat was unshapable afterwards. For my own records this is the cap pattern on page 46. There are directions for multiple dolls.

I used a G hook and used a magic circle and 12 DC. From there I increased by an additional stitch each row until row 9. Row 9 I did a DC 1 decrease 1 around to make a tight fit. Row 10 I turned and dc in the back loops so cap would turn upwards and did one more dc row in this direction and finished off.

Shoes:

I've been trying the shoes with lighter yarn this year and it seems to be working out OK. They still look better with the worsted 4 yarn but they look odd when the shoes tend not to match. I need a J hook with the lighter yarn to get them to fit.

Skipper Swimsuit

As I mentioned in my post about Barbie's swimsuit I was on a hunt for a different swimsuit pattern and settled on one from an out of print Leisure Arts Leaflet 2132 Hawaiian Honeymoon.

Skipper was fortunate to benefit from all my attempts at making this for Barbie as I believe my final attempt for her will be the template for future swimsuit projects for these two dolls.

Notes:

For this project I used size 5 Bernat Cotton thread which has sadly been discontinued. For my own notes Hobby Lobby Artiste has a limited number of colors which will also work for this project when my current supply runs out.

I used a size B crochet hook for this project. I tried it on Barbie when I was done to see if it would work for next year and it will work for her as well.

For myself I will add the note I put in Barbie's project about making sure the crotch is even on both sides to avoid having a lopsided project.

Barbie Sweetheart Dress

I promise myself each donation year that I will try to use some of my older patterns that are appropriate for the donation. This is another offering from the out of print leaflet Leisure Arts Hawaiian Honeymoon Wardrobe 2132.

Notes:

This is made with size 10 crochet although I'm not sure of the brand. I needed my 2mm Tulip Etimo hook to make guage. However, I would consider using the suggested 1.8mm in the future.

I measured the suggested 3 inches for skirt length but this is much longer than the skirt in the picture. Not a huge issue for me as I try to avoid short skirts for my donation projects.

Skipper Bella Dress

I took the lessons I learned from making Barbie's version of this dress into making Skipper's dress.

Notes:

This was made using a Mel Garcia Tello pattern I purchased here.

This time I waited until I had the Knit Picks Pallete yarn in both colors to complete the outfit. While I was able to complete Barbie's outfit with yarn on hand having the same fiber made for a better fit.

I did read my notes on the Barbie outfit before starting so I used a C hook for the whole outfit. I need to try this on Barbie to see if it fits as well as I expect it will when I make this for next year.

I also followed my note about waiting to add snap until contrast yarn was added to the bodice. I also waited to finish the back until adding the contrast. When both were completed I added the closing snap.

Note to self I need to order more mini buttons. This was my last yellow one.

Barbie Prairie Rose

I've been collecting Annie's Fashion Doll Crochet Club Patterns from second hand sites for years as I missed out buying them new. However, finding an actual binder of the pattern renewed my interest in focusing on using the patterns for the donation. If I was going to invest in finding a collection of the patterns I needed to commit to using as many as would work for this type of donation.

One of the ones I pulled out and put in my to do pile for this Spring was Pretty in Pink FC30-02 which has 2 different patterns that I hope to complete. As you may guess from the title of the blog this is the Prairie Rose pattern. The second is called English Tea Rose.

Notes:

A reminder to myself to read the pattern completely before beginning.

I'm constantly adapting patterns because often the older Barbie patterns don't fit the modern Barbies. They can be too big or too small depending on the year Barbie I happen to purchase for the donation. I generally can tell if there are arm holes or if not when the bodice is complete and you can see even without arm holes if the fit will work.

I generally start with the suggested fiber and try for gauge. In this case it was size 10 thread with a B hook. I tried the dress on Barbie and Skipper and the back wouldn't close on either doll. Not having size 5 in pink I tried size 3 but it was incredibly bulky. That's when a note on the pattern caught my eye right and left plackets. I googled the word as I was not familiar with it and then I had my answer to closing the back. These were panels for the back of the dress to close it so I could use the size 10 thread and the B hook.

I chose to use thread instead of ribbon for the ties. When I make this again I would reduce the number of rows for the apron as it is slightly long as written.

The dress fits Skipper rather well and I'm thinking of making it without the accessories as I don't think they would fit her as well as the dress alone does.

Barbie Swimsuit

I don't have a favorite swimsuit pattern for Barbie and Skipper so I decided it was time to keep looking through my binders to find another option. I looked at my records and the last time I used this leaflet was before I started this donation so its good to see it getting used again.

Notes:

This pattern comes from Leisure Arts out of print Leaflet 2132 Hawaiian Honeymoon Fashion Doll Wardrobe published in 1991 for those who might be trying to find a copy. I'm not sure how I've overlooked this one but I'm thinking of coming back and trying some of the other patterns for Barbie, Ken, and Skipper.

I originally tried this with fingering yarn but it didn't fit well at all. I moved to size 3 cotton thread thinking it might hold the shape better and it did but it is still a bit bulky. A note for future projects since I'd make this again for both Barbie and Skipper that Size 5 thread with a B hook will work for both dolls.

This picture is a note for myself to remember the crotch needs to be balanced or the swimsuit top will be off center and the legs will fit awkwardly in the suit. It is one of the more unique ways I've seen an outfit started and it took me a bit to realize why it was off but I left myself this reminder for future projects.

I finished the sides, back of suit in addition to the directions for finishing the legs. It just gave the suit a more finished look.

16 Inch Baby Doll I Feel Pretty 2

This is the last of the I Feel Pretty Outfits I need for the 2025 donation. You can find the free dress pattern here and the shoe pattern here.

I chose Herrschners Worsted 8 Celebration Easter Yarn for the second JCA 16 inch baby doll outfit. The contrast yarns were also Herrschenrs Worsted 8 Posty and another unknown shade as I don't have the wrapper but it is in my Herrschners box.

Notes:

The hook sized varied on this project. I used an H for the dress. The hat required a G and F hook. I needed 25 chains for the hat. I followed the directions I wrote for the previous outfit and had no trouble finding the directions to split the legs for the panties this time around. It also requires an H hook.

Using the lighter Herrschners yarn I've found a J hook will allow the shoes to fit. I add an extra row to finish the shoes.

I finished the back and for this outfit chose to close the back with a snap rather than a button.

Lots to Love 14 Inch Baby Doll Dress, Hat, and Booties

I've been trying to keep track of which dolls have been falling behind on filling their donation bags and I noticed the Lots to Love 14 inch Doll needed some attention.

Notes:

This outfit is made using a free Linmary Knits pattern found here for the dress and hat and what is becoming my go to bootie pattern for this doll from an Amy Carrico pattern Spring Set which I believe can still be purchased on Ravelry here.

This doll requires an E hook for the bodice and a G for the skirt. The main color for this outfit was Bernat Softee Baby Soft Red. I don't believe I've used this yarn often. It is a 3 weight yarn but has the feel of Caron Simply Soft. The contrast color is Bernat Big Baby Sport Yarn yellow.

I need to adapt this pattern just a little bit as the Lots to Love doll is a pretty chubby baby doll.

One note to myself that I always forget and already have forgotten as I've begun a second outfit for the larger baby doll the bodice should be done in back loops. I still have two more outfits to complete after these two so a chance to redeem myself.

After reading my notes from my last project I chose not to join until I reached the waist as this makes getting the dress on and off easier. I closed with a snap.

WHat was not in my previous notes was I needed 6 additional rows followed by two contrast rows for bodice length before starting wasit after completing original bodice pattern. In the past I've done this as one solid bodice color. I like the contrast split. I would consider splitting the rows more evenly between the contrast colors as I reached the waist before completing another set of directions. It would be more balanced if I split the two sections evenly.

The directions for the hat should also be followed in back rows until you reach the shell rows which I clearly did not do. For this doll I would stick to the e hook for the entire hat not switching to the g hook as suggested. The hat is a little large.

The booties fit as written with the same yarn I used for the main project and an e hook.

Skipper Red Riding Hood

I failed to include the link for Mel Garcia Tello's pattern to purchase in my previous post about making this for Barbie so I'm starting with it so I don't forget to include it. The pattern can be purchased here.

I've been so pleased to find so many of Barbie's outfits either fit or with minimal changes can be made to fit Skipper since there are limited patterns for Barbie's sisters available to crochet.

Notes:

I didn't need to make many changes from Barbie to Skipper for the outfit to fit but I did fix the mistake I made on the Barbie dress section.

I used the same Knit Picks Pallete colors for both Barbie and Skipper. Skipper's Bodice is smaller so I used a D hook for the bodice and a C hook for the skirt. While making Barbie's dress I had made the decision not to join the dress until I reached the skirt closing the top with a snap.

This did require me to go back to my notes about the straps I made for Barbie. The pattern for the straps comes after the bodice is written and there are two rows. You can do them without finishing off if the top is joined. However since I made rows I needed to stop after the first row finish off and start row 2 from where row 1 started. I actually read my notes this time and the straps look much better with this change.

After making Barbie's hood I tried it on Skipper and found it fit well so I used a G hook for Skipper's hood as well. I had experimented with the suggested smaller hook but it was too small for both dolls.

Skipper's bent arm is a bit challenging when anything covers her arm. I did find the hood didn't sit as well on it as I'd have liked but overall I'm pleased with her latest outfit.

Stacie Swimsuit

Continuing with my annual swimsuit challenge I move on to Stacie adapting Char Caywood's Chelsea pattern that you can purchase here.

Notes:

I use size 10 crochet thread and a 1.25mm thread hook to get this to fit Stacie.

I need to repeat rows 4 and 5 in the front panel before starting row six to get the length required for this outfit. I made a note after making this previously about needing a longer crotch but I didn't find that to be the case this time.

I haven't decided if I will try this pattern without the ruffle for Skipper or try to adapt a Barbie pattern for Skipper. I wasn't crazy about my previous attempt so I'm tempted to see if this will work before trying one of the Barbie options.

Barbie Cinderella

This is the last of the three Mel Garcia Tello patterns I purchased and you can buy this one here.

Since I already adapted another Cinderella pattern for Skipper I plan on using different colors and making this as a ball gown to add to Skipper's donation at a later date.

Notes:

I used a D hook for the bodice, sleeves and the waist trim. I changed to an E hook for the skirt.

As with her other patterns I chose not to join the dress until I reached the skirt using a snap to close the top. This version did not require any changes for the sleeves because of this choice.

I finished the back with sc to make a clean closing and to make it easier to add the snap.

I played with the sleeves and the trim at the waist and it required the smaller D hook as to not make them too buly.

This dress is made with Knit Picks Pallette yarn.

Lots to Love 14 Inch Baby Doll Cuddle Up Romper

I have most of Amy Carrico's doll patterns for the sizes that I make but in looking at my previous year's projects for notes I don't think I've actually made this pattern before. I made another one for this sized doll with the feet but not this one.

You can still find the pattern to purchase on Ravelry here.

I have been picking up Herrschners' baby yarn over the years because it tends to be on the cheaper side if I can get a shipping coupon and because it has more color options that many of the cheaper acrylic brands. I've made these style outfits in pinks and yellows and it was nice to be able to branch out to peach.

Notes:

This was made with Bernat Sport Baby White and Hersrschers' Baby yarn. I used the suggested E hook for all pieces.


The pant directions do work as written but it took me a couple of tries to get the legs attached correctly. For future reference pinning the toes together facing forward helps. Use markers for specific points and to show starting and end points as these can get lost.

I do need to focus on finishing more outfits for the Lots to Love 14 inch doll as the outfit count for this doll is dead last at the moment.

Lil Cutesies Swim Suit 2025

Next up on the 2025 swim suit challenge is the Lil Cutesie doll.

This was made using on of Char's patterns that can be purchased here. It has directions for both the Lil Cutesie and Lots to Love 8 inch dolls.

I used size 10 Thread Art for the main color and Artiste for the contrast. I opted to use the contrast color for the visor and shoes.

Just a note for myself the visor for the 8 inch baby doll is not the same as the Little Cutesie doll. The directions for the Lil Cutesie make a larger visor. I had to frog my first one as it was too small for the Lil Cutesie after following the wrong directions.

Notes:

I used a 1.75 mm hook for this outfit.

In Row 16 of the bottoms part B I use hdc not sc.

Ruffle I hdc in row 17 not 16. For my own notes row 17 is worked around the complete doll in the back loops. This is the row the ruffle will be added to around the doll.

I do a sc around the legs.

The back is finished with sc as part of the chain process. I mention this because I had forgotten from making this last year. I usually will finish a back even when not in the pattern.

I chained 50 for the ties.

I had to play with the visor this year for some reason to get it to fit. I also failed to note previously that the second round of chains for the shoe opening is missing and has to be added to make the shoes fit.

Chelsea Cinderella

I originally purchased Sweet Silver Creations' AG Mini crochet pattern set with Chelsea in mind. I had adapted some AG mini patterns from a different designer and though these would be a good match.

I hadn't had much luck with her Kelly 6 inch patterns when I tried ages ago. I was tempted to try again as I have more experience now and access to multiple sizes of thread but while I was able to buy a single AG Mini pattern first and then buy the set, there wasn't a similiar option for the Kelly set. The Cinderella pattern is available here for purchase. She also has a complete set for the mini's here.

After making Skipper and Stacie's dresses in size 10 thread with a 1.8mm hook for Skipper and a 1.25mm for Stacie I had hoped when I reduced the thread to size 20 that I wouldn't have to go below a 1mm hook. Not the case.

Notes:

I used size 20 thread from Creative Yarn Source and after experimenting discovered the .75mm hook was the right size for the project.

I've bought a considerable amount of yarn and thread over the last couple of months to replace or stock for some of the smaller dolls but there are always holes in my inventory. I did not have light blue and I believe the contrast yarn may be their turquoise. It was that or white. I am not scheduled to order more thread from them for a few more months.

With the .75 mm hook I did not need to increase the number of rows to get the bodice to fit as I had to do for Stacie and Skipper. Like the other two dolls though I did have to decrease at the neck to get the neck to fit the doll.

For the skirt I did rows 1-14 as written. I then completed rows 21-22. This gave me the floor length the pattern required.

The headband was more challenging with the smaller thread and hook. I'd consider adding an additional row the next time I make this.

The collar is challenging as it really shouldn't be wider at the neck but adding a closer without it being wider is difficult. I think I may add a row next year and see how it looks because the snap at the neck is really difficult to use.

Barbie Red Riding Hood

I bought the three set fairy tale pattern set and only attempted the Red Riding Hood outfit last year. I had intended to make it for Barbie last year but it fit Skipper better and she went off with the outfit and I never got back to the dresses.

When I tried this previously I made it with size 3 thread. I wasn't comfortable with the fit but I went with what I had. It was one of the reasons it didn't fit Barbie well. This year when I placed my Knit Picks order for Pallete I made sure I had the yarns I needed to complete the rest of the fairy tale outfits for both Barbie and Skipper.

Notes:

As I mentioned above this outfit was made with Knit Picks Pallete yarn.

I did keep the color choices I made from my previous Skipper project. The original pattern uses red for the dress and the hood. I wanted a dress that might be more useful when not being used with the cape so when the bodice was completed with white I changed to blue for the skirt.

I needed an E hook for the bodice and used a D hook for the skirt. I changed the directions to not join until the bodice was finished as I found it was hard to get the dress on and off without leaving the bodice open and using a snap to close rather than having it be a complete slide on and off dress.

Note to self because I don't join the bodice when I go back to make the straps the first row should be done as written and finished off. Since it isn't joined I need to start from the same side. I didn't do that with this and had finished off the edges before I realized my mistake. In order to have the right side showing it needs to be started again rather than returned.

I needed a G hook to get the hood and chained 31 for the ties as I found them too short to tie as written. The rest worked as written.

16 Inch Baby Doll Sun Dress

I've been working on adapting some of Sweet Silver Creations' 18 inch doll patterns to fit some of the larger donation dolls. You may have seen this outfit for the Rag doll along with one of the 18 inch dolls being donated. I decided to try adapting it for the 16 inch Baby Doll to give me a wider range of clothing.

You can purchase the pattern here.

Notes:

I found this pattern to be a bit large for the Rag Doll with an H hook so I went down to a G hook for the baby doll and found it to be a better fit. I did need to add rows for length to get it to cover the white cloth legs.

This was made with Bernat Baby Sport yarn and I believe Herrschnerrs baby yarn for the contrast.

The shoes were made with the contrast yarn from my favorite free pattern set Peachy Keen found here. With the lighter yarn I needed an I hook to get the shoes to fit. I used a J hook the last time for this weight of yarn and I think I'd continue with that as these are a little tighter than I'd like for small hands getting on and off.

The hat was small with an H hook so I redid with an I hook until the last 3 rows changing back to the H hook for fit. I'd almost consider doing the brim rows with the g hook as they are a bit big with the H.

Lots to Love 8 Inch Baby Doll Swim Suit

Where possible I do try to give myself some variety in patterns. I have tended to use the same swim suit pattern for the Lots to Love 8 inch Baby Doll and the Lil Cutesies Doll but I remembered I had this free pattern from Amy Carrico Fun in the Sun, you can find here, and decided to try it out this year.

Notes:

I didn't have the suggested yarn but I decided to try Herrschners 2-ply Baby Yarn in what I believe is Dress Up. I didn't start with a full skein and I had plenty left over so it requires a limited amount of yarn for the project.

The pattern calls for a B hook and I found this worked well even with the change of yarn.

I followed the pattern as written. The one change I'd make for future projects is I'd make the ties for the top longer. It will make tying the top easier for little hands.

Lil Cutesies Sailor Dress

I've been playing around a bit this year with altering patterns for one doll to fit a different sized doll. I've done this in the past using patterns made for the 5 inch Baby dolls to make clothes for the Lots to Love 8 inch and Lil Cutesies dolls, especially for holiday outfits. I have several 8 inch baby doll dressed for the holidays for my own personal decorations. As I revisted the AG mini patterns for the fashion dolls I wondered about trying some of the designers 5 inch doll patterns for the slightly larger baby dolls.

I've been making the sailor dress for the larger dolls quite a bit this year so being familiar with the general pattern it seemed like a good starting point. You can purchase the 5 inch Sailor Doll pattern here. As I was searching through my doll binders I realized I actually already had the pattern as it also appeared in one of the Crochet Calendars along with the Sailor Boy for anyone who might have the calendars and want to check to see if they already have the pattern.

Notes:

I had thought I might be able to use size 3 thread for the outfit but I ended up with Bernat Baby Sport for the White with an I hook. It was a little roomy for the Lots to Love 8 inch doll so I think I'd try an H hook for that doll. I'd also use a smaller hook for both dolls for the hat. I have navy on order in sport worsted so I used a heavier navy for the trim but I did skip the shoes this time around. Hopefully the navy will have arrived before I try this for the Lots to Love 8 inch doll.

There is a diaper pattern for this outfit but I couldn't get it to transfer well to the larger doll. At some point if I do decide on diapers for these dolls I think I will have to downsize one of the patterns I currently use for the larger dolls, perhaps in thread.

Unlike the larger dolls, this pattern does have sleeves. I did try them but increasing this pattern to a larger doll the sleeves, like the diaper didn't work well so I left the dress like the original 18 inch pattern, sleeveless. It also makes it slightly easier for small hands to get on and off as tight long sleeves can be hard to get on and off these dolls.

Barbie Bella Dress

I picked up three fashion doll fairy tale outfits from Mel Garcia Tello last year and only ended up making the Red Riding Hood outfit for Skipper. This year with a fairy tale theme forming across the doll donation I decided it would be good to tackle the set. You can purchase this outfit here on Ravelry.

I had hoped I had both colors in Knit Picks Palette but ended up using Bernat Baby Sport which is a heavier yarn for the contrast on the top and bottom. I'd like to make this outfit for Skipper and am looking into getting the two colors I need from Knit Picks prior to making.

Notes:

The bodice required a C hook and I used a D hook for the skirt. I'd consider using a C hook for both in the future.

Note to self do not add closing snap until finishing upper part of dress. I did use a snap rather than velcro. I've never liked velcro and yarn. I needed a mini button for the top.

Calico Critters Sister Sleeping Bag for 2026 Donation

I've mentioned on several occasions that I take the sleeping bags and baby doll snuggle sacks as my travel projects. I move on to doll blankets if there is time before the donation is due. If I finish a project I try to set up the next project so it is ready for the next time I know I'm going to be some place where I know there is a chance I'll be sitting and waiting. Most of the time I remember what the next project is but this time I got it stuck in my head that I needed one more Calico Critters sleeping bag for the sister despite the fact I'd finished the family requirements for 2025.

This was a last minute project out so I grabbed supplies and had the project almost complete when I got home and realized the project was a duplicate. It was almost done and I wasn't going to frog it at this point so I decided I'd set up a separate holding section for the 2026 Calico Critters and I even started a 2026 donation page on my blog so I don't forget and continue to make even more duplicates.

With this explained these are quite simple projects if you don't mind crochet thread for anyone's Calico Critter families. The free pattern provides pattern adjustments for the adult and children critters. You can find the free pattern here.

Notes:

I used a 1mm hook and size 10 crochet thread for this project. I've been working through my supply of variegated thread for these sleeping bag projects.

I've been making this notes as I go along that less stuffing is better on the pillow. Also reminding myself that while the directions are clear on crocheting one end of the pillow the other end must be sewn shut.

Rag Doll I Feel Pretty

Over the years I've adapted a number of different types of patterns to fit the Rag Doll. I'm not sure I've ever tried this dress for the Rag Doll although I've made it for the 16 inch Baby Dolls on several occasions.

This is Darski's Free I Feel Pretty Pattern found here.

Notes:

Unless I can find a replacement I'm likely done with the Rag Doll but just for my own notes I made this outfit with an H hook but I'd likely try a G hook as it is a bit roomy for this doll.

The outfit is made with Herrschners Worsted Baby Stripes and Worsted 4 solid colors.

Stacie Cinderella

For some time now I've struggled to get a wardrobe made for Stacie.

Thanks to being able to adapt other doll patterns this year, I think for the first year she will leave with an adequate donation wardrobe.

I can generatlly get Barbie's clothes sized for Skipper and there are a surpising number of patterns out there for Chelsea but until I really stepped in to adapting other patterns for Stacie she's been rather neglected.

Many of the older pattern sets I have for this size fashion doll don't fit well for the modern version and the ones that do are a bit dated and not in a historical sense. I don't mind sending older styles with the doll but for some reasons some of the older patterns I have for this size doll didn't fit well even on the pictures of the models. So, I'm thrilled to find new options.

This is Sweet Silver Creations AG Mini Cinderella pattern that can be purchased here

Notes:

While this pattern wasn't designed for a fashion doll the changes are fairly simple.

I used size 10 royal blue Aunt Lydia's and light blue of unknown variety for this project with a 1.25mm thread crochet hook.

To get the bodice to the correct length I needed to repeat row 11 to row 17 and then move to what was row 12.

For the skirt to be floor length Row 21 was continued to row 24 before going back and completing row 22. This is actually more rows than required for Skipper who is taller. I can only suspect it has to do with smaller hook size.

I had slightly better luck with the overskirt counting the total number of stitches required and splitting them for the row placing half on either side of middle stich in front row. It still required a little fudging to get it to work but not the complete redo I did for Skipper's. Hopefully by the time I make this for Chelsea I'll have mastered the math.

Glitter Girl Swimsuit

Another doll checked off my list of swimsuits for 2025. This is a Wellie Wisher pattern that fits the Glitter Girl and can be purchased here.

Notes:

I used an e hook and size 3 thread for this project. The main color is thread art and the contrast is Lizbeth. For my own notes I can find Lizbeth at Handy Hands these days.

I do a row of sc around the legs to finish them as they have a rather raw edge when completed as written.

For no particular reason I left the visor out of this year's donation. I believe it comes from late night crocheting.

Ken A Nip in the Air

I found a binder of the Annie's Fashion Doll Collection patterns I'd been hunting for and promised myself I'd start working on the patterns that fit the donation this year. I've started and its been an interesting journey so far. This is the first Ken pattern I've worked on and there were some interesting challenges.

Hook sizes and fiber are always a starting place with older projects as what is listed isn't always available. In this case the older hook sizes have to be translated to modern mm thread hook sizes. A size 7 for instance isn't as helpful as it might have been when these projects were written.

One challenge I've found recently has been finding shades of thread for these projects. In this case I needed size 5 dark grey thread for Ken's pants. Grey is a challenging color at best but dark grey is even harder. My options for size 5 thread were limited to begin with but my amazing husband stumbled upon size 5 Pearl thread in the embrodiery section of Michael's. I had no idea if it would work but I had him bring home 7 skeins as I knew I'd need a significant amount to finish the pants with the smaller sized options.

Notes:

Trousers:

To my very happy surprise the thread made gauge and was easy to use with a crochet hook once I rolled it into a ball. I used a b hook for these pants. I'd consider going slightly smaller as the waist ended up larger than was helpful despite making guage. I would sew the belt shut and add the buckle after the fact next time. The pants should fit snugger than mine but I suspect they still can slide on and off. There is a snap on the pants to close them and I'd keep that but the two snaps are bulky and don't sit well together.

I needed 5 skeins of the size 5 Pearl thread to complete the pants for future reference.

I will need to reduce the wasit size the next time I make these pants either through using a smaller hook or reducing stitches.

I only needed 46 of the original 56 rows of the pants for this doll.

Sweater:

I believe this was made with size 10 Thread Art. I used a 1.8mm thread crochet hook. The original sweater, hat and mittens were made with red but it had a real Christmas feel to it. I wanted an outfit that would last through the fall and winter season as I don't tend to make many donation outfits for Ken.

I followed the body of the sweater as written. In the future I would make the sweater a little longer so it tucks better into the pants. I did have to change the arms as I found the arms as written to be huge.

Arms to row 21

Skip to row 27 completing 27-28

Skip to 34 completing 35-35

Skip to 38 completing 38-29

Repeat 39 to row 42

Mittens:

This was a different style of mittens than I've made before but they worked using a size 1.5mm hook.

Hat:

The hat was also made with 1.8mm thread hook with size 10 thread I used for the sweater and mittens. The white is Aunt Lydia's size 10.

Calico Critters Brother Sleeping Bag

I finished this travel project back in April and was sure it had been posted but after checking my blog it wasn't there. To keep my records straight here is the brother's sleeping bag for 2025. As it turned out this was the last one I needed for the 2025 donation. Another project type finished!!!

This is a free pattern available here.

Notes:

I used a 1mm hook and size 10 crochet thread for this project.

My consistant notes for this project is don't overstuff the pillow and remember that the top of the pillow is crocheted but the bottom must be sewn shut to the sleeping bag to keep the stuffing from falling out.

I've made the decision to start with the 18 inch dolls as the next travel project. Their sleeping bags take the longest to finish so getting them out of the way would be a good choice.

I was able to secure another Milk Bunny family set for the 2026 donation but only one set. Not sure if I'm going to need new models after that to match the donation Critters as they are all slightly different in how stuff fits.

16 Inch Baby Doll I Feel Pretty

I've been rotating through the different sized dolls to try to keep a balance in the donation bags. There are two My Life Dolls and two of the JC 16 inch Baby dolls personally each year so they require more outfits. There is an additional donation through Crochetville members of other dolls and clothing items but that doesn't change the need to provide an extra set of outfits for each of these two dolls.

The main portion of this outfit is from Darski's I Feel Pretty free pattern found here. The shoes are from her free Peachy Keen pattern found here.

Notes:

The dress was made with an H hook using Herrschners Worsted 8 Baby Stripes Yarn Sweetie Pie. The contrast colors for the dress were Herrschners Worsted 8 Jade and Ligonberry.

The hat was made with the Ligonberry and a g and f hook. I took last year's suggestion and used 25 chains for the ties and that worked well.

Not shown in the picture are the panties which also used an H hook. Note to self that leg directions do mean divide for leg while not specifically stated. Also tie requires two strands of yarn so best to plan for that.

I finished the back of the dress and used a button for this outfit.

I did discover I can make shoes with this yarn if I go up to a J hook.

Chelsea Swim Suit

The weather this spring has been rather wet and cold. When it does warm up its been humid. What better way to change the attitude than to think of swim suit weather and so I begin my annual swim suit doll donation project.

Notes:

This is one of Char's patterns that can be purchased here.

With some adjustments this pattern will also fit Stacie so I hope to get her swim suit completed for this year as well.

I used size 20 Creative Yarn Resources I believe bright yellow and Lizbeth Tropical Punch for this project. I decided it was time to change up the colors I used for this project.

For my own records the Lizbeth came from Handy Hands as my variegated supply is getting low and I'm going to need to restock in the not too distant future.

This outfit was made using a 1.25mm thread crochet hook.

A note for future projects, I need to reduce the initial stiches for the crotch as it does not sit well between Chelsea's legs at the current width.

Skipper Cinderella

A while back I accidently bought an AG mini crochet pattern thinking it was for Chelsea.

Since then I've been exploring what other AG Mini patterns that might work for Barbie's sisters for the donation as I don't have lots of ready to make patterns for them.

In my search I discovered that Sweet Silver Creations has adapted her 18 inch doll pattern collection to the AG mini size. I have loved her patterns for my 18 inch doll donations so it seemed like a good idea to try out one of her smaller doll patterns to see if they'd work for the Barbie line.

This is her AG Mini Cinderella pattern that can be purchased here.

I decided to experiment to see how it would fit as written with the top to determine which doll I'd start with and how I would need to think about adapting it to fit some of the other dolls in the line. When it said size 10 and a size 7 thread hook I was thinking Chelsea was likely not going to fit but my goal was to try the pattern as written as see where I ended up.

Notes:

I used a 1.8mm hook with size 10 crochet thread. I believe this is Aunt Lydia's size 10 Dark Royal thread. I thought I'd be playing fiber chicken as I was originally thinking a smaller doll and only pulled out a partial cone but I had some left over. For my own sanity I would suggest having a mostly full cone before starting with one on the sidelines in case of mistakes.

When an outfit has armholes I try the outfit on for size after completing the armholes. It was clear from the beginning that this would not fit Chelsea but I had wondered if Stacie would be an option but Skipper was the winner. I'm still hoping to try this outfit with a smaller hook for Stacie before moving down to size 20 thread, which I plan to try for Chlesea.

I had to repeat row 11 of the bodice to row 21 to get the length I needed as she clearly is longer than the 6 inch American Girl Mini doll. This makes row 12 row 22. I didn't record the skirt additions but I believe it was an additional 6 rows to get it to floor length. I kept trying it on as I went and I'd do this when I make it again.

I changed the overskirt as I believe I likely do with her larger 18 inch doll Cinderella. I also needed to play with the sleeves. One sleeve trim seemed to go as written the other seemed to have more stitches so I played with it a bit.

The collar and headband worked as written.

I've since ordered her complete AG Mini doll crochet pattern set. Some of them will work better for this project than others but not all of the ones I wanted were sold as individual patterns and I've learned I will eventually go back and try stuff I never thought I'd do at some point.

Calico Critter Sister Sleeping Bag

I'm continuing my sleeping bag projects for the dolls. I have one more to finish for the brother and the Calico Critters sleeping bags will be finished for 2025. I'm thinking of moving on to the larger dolls so I don't leave them to the last minute once I get the brother done.

Notes:

This is a free pattern that gives patterns for the parents and children Critters. The adjustments are minor and its easy to work between the directions to make both. You can find the free pattern here.

I used a 1mm hook and size 10 crochet thread for this project.

I headed my previous notes and used less stuffing for the pillow and it worked better. The top of the pillow is closed by crochet, the bottom will need to be sewn closed.

Stacie Critter Empire Dress

I've been having so much fun adapting patterns to fit Chelsea and Stacie. This one Calico Critters pattern has outfited 3 different donation dolls and I couldn't be happier. You can purchase the Calico Critters pattern here.

Notes:

I used a size 1.8mm hook and size 10 thread for this project.

In order to get this to fit the larger doll I continued with row 6 until the outfit reached Stacie's knees. I then finished rows 7-8.

I finished the back and neck before adding a snap to close. I also chose to finish the arm holes. I find this makes the hands less likely to snag.

Rag Doll Sundress

Not all my 18 inch doll patterns work well with the Rag Doll but this year a happy accident demonstrated that Sweet Silver Creations patterns with minor adaptions and leaving out the accessories work well for this doll. You can purchase the pattern here.

Notes:

I used an H hook with Baby Bernat Sport white and an unknown baby yarn for the trim. I'd go with a different brand next time. I loved the color but it was a little lighter than it felt and I'd like a heavier yarn for the trim for future projects. When I made this for the My Life doll I had a contrast color in Baby Bernat sport that worked better.

I trimmed the neckline to tighten it and I finished the sleeves with a sc row and then a sc chain 3 row around just to make this outfit a little different from the My Life outfit. This doll does not need shoes and most hats don't fit so I didn't make the accessories.

I finished the back with white making a single button hole to close the back.