My Life Sundress

I try to return to patterns that haven't been used in a while and rotate them back into the donation unless there is a really good reason I stopped making them. Most of the time, I just lose track of patterns so I've been trying to look through binders and pull out more neglected patterns.

This is a Sweet Silver Creations pattern that can be purchased here.

Notes:

I used Bernat Baby Sport yarn for this project with an H hook for all pieces. I did use a g hook to finish around the arms.

The arms for this pattern are formed by ending yarn and then chaining over the ends in the next row. I did something a little different forming the rows without ending the rows. I've never been able to get her method to work for me but my method seems to get the job done.

These are the same shoes as found in the Sailor pattern that I use for most of my 18 inch girl doll patterns that don't include shoes in the pattern.

My Life Dress with Ribbed Waist

This was a new addition to the donation this year. It's a free pattern that can be found here. The shoes are my go to pattern for the 18 inch dolls and is part of a sailor pattern that can be purchased here.

I don't buy much Red Heart Soft yarn so I'm not sure when this skein came into my stash but I've been targeting skeins that seem orphaned. I also have found this pattern works up better with lighter colored yarns. I tried a darker colored purple for the Our Generation Doll but the texture didn't show as well as the two colors I chose for the My Life dolls. I note this because I know I'll be back to make this next year and this is information that is helpful.

Notes:

I used an I hook for the dress and a G for the shoes. I go back and forth with the shoes. While a g was perfect for the last set of shoes they were a bit snug this time.

I made a note last time that the hair tie was a serious of less than 200 chains. I made 200 chains this time and it was a bit long. I try 150 and see if that is long enough.

When I first made this the count on row 1 confused me my note is the numbers are correct as written follow them.

I used an H hook to finish the back and neck. I closed the dress with a snap on the back.

I finished the arms with a sc around the arms to clean them up and then did a sc chain 3 skip one for an additional row.

Calico Critters Mom Sleeping Bag

I'm continuing with my travel sleeping bag projects. Mom's was finished last week and I realized when I went back to Dad's post I didn't make some crucial notes. So I wanted to help myself for future projects.

You can find the free pattern for the adult and children sleeping bags here.

Notes:

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

The directions include both sizes listed in () for each size. If you are like me you need to make sure you are following the correct stitch count.

The row count resets for the pillow section.

I choose to add the pillows to my sleeping bags you can finish it flat if you choose. I need to remember more stuffing isn't better. This pillow is bigger than Dad's and it should be smaller. It needs to be barely stuffed to give the illusion, not the reality of a huge stuffed pillow.

Again this is a reminder for me, you need to sew the pillow closed after stuffing as the directions are some what vague about this issue while very clear about the actual formation of the pillow and closing the top of the pillow.The row count resets for the pillow section.

The pillow attaches to the sleeping layer closet to the pillow opening. I seem to have understood this the first time I made it but clearly things register differently on different days. This note just reminds me not to panic when I can't find the specific directions.

After finishing this bag I set up the sister sleeping bag in my travel project bag for upcoming appointments.

Calico Critters Mom Empire Dress

To the best of my knowledge this is the only Critters pattern from Char patterns. You can purchase the pattern here.

I've been collecting crochet critter patterns for a bit now. At one point I had some young family members who enjoyed the toys. Now that they seem to have moved passed that interest I've decided to add a set of bunnies to the donation. I've also been on the look out for patterns I didn't previously have. I've found a couple of paid and free patterns this year that have made this a fun project.

I've also discovered that the some of the Critter patterns can be adapted for Chelsea. I'm experimenting with this one to see if it will work for Stacie as well

Notes:

I originally decreased to size 20 thread and a 1 mm hook as that has been my go to for this Calico patterns but much to my surprise it wasn't even close. I went back to size 10 as suggested and a b hook for the dress to get it to fit. I used a 1.25mm hook for the trim around the neck and arms.

I added color trim to the neck and back to finish the dress before adding the snap. I used the white to finish off the arms as they were slightly ragged before finishing.

Stacie Summer Dress

I've been adapting some of Petite Creative Designs American Girl Mini patterns for Chelsea. Some of them with a little additional work will also work for Stacie.

You can purchase the pattern here.

Notes:

I used size 10 crochet thread and a 1.25mm hook for this project.

The project starts with the skirt and I needed to add 7 rows of row 5 to get this to be long enough for Stacie. I then finished it as written before continuing to the bodice.

For the bodice I had to repeat row 2 6 times to get the length I needed.

I changed the chains to 6 and I would continue this for future Chelsea projects as the pattern as written makes it too big.

Doing this I didn't reduce as much. I did row 4 without reductions and added a trim row where I did a few decreases to tighten the fit just a little.

I chose not to include the hat for Stacie.

Barbie Prairie Dress

I have been hunting for the binder with the Annie's Fashion doll crochet pattern for a bit and was so excited to finally find one. It wasn't complete but I discovered I didn't have too many duplicates with the patterns I've collected from used pattern sites over the years. I promised myself I would start to use the patterns that were practical for the donation this year. This was the first pattern that I selected.

I had tried this pattern about 15 years ago for one of my nieces before I was comfortable using thread. I also didn't do as much altering of patterns then as I do know to get an item to fit when the directions just don't seem to work for the doll. I wanted to try thread for this donation project and I was much more willing to change directions to get a finished product that worked.

Normally I will make changes directly on the pattern but the text on this pattern is pretty thick and I made substantial changes so I used the notes option on my phone and printed them out to include in the pattern for future attempts.

The pattern calls for size 5 thread. I don't remember the last time I used size 5 thread but I'm thinking it was a Christmas project as the only colors I had on hand were red, green, and white. That being said lately I've found I've had to decrease thread and hook size for most of my Barbie patterns to get them to fit the modern Barbie's. This was not the case with this pattern.

Notes:

For many Barbie, Chelsea, and Calico Critter patterns I have found myself using size 20 thread instead of the suggested 10.

I was hoping this meant I could use size 10 instead of size 5 but the pattern was too small in size 10 with a few exceptions. I ended up using size 3 as I had it on hand but I've ordered some size 5 thread to try as the 3 was heavier than I wanted for this outfit. It worked but I'm hoping the 5 will make the other patterns big enough but lighter in weight.

I used size 3 and 10 slate blue color 28 thread from Thread Art and Aunt Lydia's size 10 White for this project.

Dress:

B Hook

I didn't reduce after fow 12 staying at 21 stitches.

Finish row 30 and skip to row 33.

Arm:

One thing I'd remembered from making this pattern previously is the picture shows dainty sleeves but the pattern creates balloons. I first tried the sleeves with the size 3 thread and then with the size 10. Both were a problem.

I stuck with the size 10 thread and reduced to a 1.8mm hook and changed the stitch count.

I did 13 rows staying at the original 15 stitches. I didn't reduce at the wrists as the hands got stuck in the dress making it hard to put on and take off. I did a ss around the edges to reduce the hands catching on the sleeve and the risk of fraying the end of the sleeve.

Bonnet:

The bonnet convinced me to try buy the size 5 thread as it was hard to get it to fit Barbie's head playing with my make do options.

I used the size 3 thread and alternated hook sizes.

Size D hook rows 1-4

Size C hook row 5

Size B hook 6-7

Apron:

Size 10 thread

1.25mm hook

There is a decorative border for this apron. Don't reduce after row 12

There is a decorative border for this apron. I had finished it before I realized I'd missed the directions for it but I'd consider making it again with the border.

Calico Critters Sister Party Dress

This has been a popular pattern this week. This is On a Calico Day's Party Dress pattern. The set comes with patterns for the Mother and Sister sized Critters. You can purchase the pattern here.

Notes:

For my own reference as I've just repurchased and at some point might forget where I bought it the size 20 thread used for these smaller doll projects comes from Creative Yarn resources.

I used size 20 thread with a 1mm hook.

I needed to decrease around the top to get the outfit to fit, especially the arms. I did not finish the arm holes.

The flower is part of the original bunny outfit.

Our Generation Boy Karate

This was made using Adoring Doll's Knox Karate pattern which can be purchased here. The pattern comes designed to fit the boy and girl doll with an additional shorts pattern.

Notes:

I almost always go up to an I hook for shirt patterns from this designer but this shirt is more of a wrap and when I make this for the female Our Generation doll I think I would start with an H hook and decrease rows if it is this long. It should be a little shorter.

I used an I hook for the body of the pants and an H hook for the waist and legs.

I used the suggested G hook for the headband but I'd try an H when I make it again. I tried making it flat but the look wasn't as I'd hoped so I worked in the back loops. I'd try it again flat.

I made the belt with an H hook, I'd consider an I to get it longer and wider.

Martial arts are popular in this area with students so I was glad to find a pattern to add to the donation. I have purchased some of her other sports patterns that I hope to use for both the male and female dolls.

Chelsea Critter Party Dress

Mostly when I crochet late at night trying to finish something the outcomes are not always great. However, sometimes I make interesting discoveries.

As I was finishing the Calico Critter's Mom Party Dress I happened to grab the Chelsea doll by accident and tried the dress on her. Clearly the dress was too short but oddly the dress was not too tight. I took a closer look at the dress and realized it could be a top for Chelsea or with some work I could actually get it to work as a dress. I just needed to make the skirt section longer.

Notes:

This was made with size 20 crochet thread and a 1mm hook.

I didn't count the extra skirt rows I just kept trying it on the doll until I reached the point I wanted to add the trim to the bottom.

Like the Calico Critter I had to decrease the top section to keep the straps from sliding off. Again it would be worth exploring the arm chains.

I am curious to explore more Calico Critter patterns for Chelsea options.

Calico Critter Mom Party Dress

This is another one of On a Calico Day's patterns that can be purchased here. For those of you looking for Calico Critter patterns hers are easy to follow and frequently go on sale despite a pretty affordable entry price.

Notes:

I used size 20 cotton and a 1mm hook for this outfit.

The only real change other than size of cotton and hook is I needed to reduce around the neckline as it was large even with the smaller hook and thread. One possible solution is fewer chains for the arms but I'd have to play with this to see how it changed the overall fit to the dress.

I finished the back but even doing so I was unable to join in the back and left it open for the tail.

Chelsea Summer Dress and Hat

I've been working on adapting Petite Doll Designs American Girl Mini patterns to fit Chelsea. I've found with work the patterns will fit. I thought I'd found a standard hook size for her patterns but this one required some decreases at the bodice to get it to fit properly. I think I'd go with a smaller hook the next time.

You can purchase the pattern here.

Notes:

I used a 1.25mm hook with size 20 crochet thread. When I make this in the future I'd consider a 1mm hook.

The skirt is long and I'd consider removing rows 6-7 when I made this again. It isn't supposed to be floor length.

I did a sc followed by a decrease around the bodice and arms to tighten the top as it was too large for the smaller Chelsea. This might not be as big an issue with a smaller hook.

16 Inch Baby Doll Sunny Days

This is one of the patterns that seems to appear for this doll most years. Darski created a great outfit for the doll.

The dress pattern is called Sunny Days and can be found here. The shoes are my standard shoes from her free Peachy Keen pattern found here

Notes:

Dress:

I used a J hook for the bodice and an H for the skirt.

Row 5 should read dc in sc 3 dc in 5 not 2 or the count gets complicated.

I don't decrease for row 6 as I find the bodice gets tight.

I continue the skirt until it covers the white section of the legs.

Row 14 is listed but I've never had the directions and have always created them. I'm now recording them for future reference. sc in first ch 2 skip 1 repeat around.

I failed to make this note on the written copy of this pattern which I have since added but I find this pattern to be short. I need to add more rows prior to making rows 12 and 13 the finishing rows for the skirt.

I've always finished the arms but again finally recorded what I did as the look with the larger hook is unfinished. sc chain 2 sc around.

Hat:

J Hook for hat. I followed directions as written.

Shoes:

I hook. Followed pattern as written.

Stacie Block Dress and Hat

While I've had luck finding patterns for Chelsea, patterns for Stacie are much rarer. This is the same Petite Creative Designs Dress I made for Chelsea last week but this time I followed the original directions more closely for thread size and hook.

You can purchase the pattern here. As I mentioned in the Chelsea post regarding this pattern this is actually a pattern for the Mini American Girl Doll but it seems to work for both Chelsea and Stacie with some adaptations.

Project Notes:

I used size 10 crochet thread and a 1.8mm thread hook. This is actually really close to the original directions which call for size 10 crochet thread and a 1.75mm hook. I've never seen a Mini American Girl Doll so I have no idea how close this is to the actual sizing of the Mini vs the Chelsea and Stacie dolls.

I did seven rows of the dress pattern to get the length I wanted for Stacie. As with Chelsea I didn't change the final row to add an additional stitch to each section.

I also followed the same process for making the arms. I chained 1 and skipped 10 stitches for each arm hole following the rest of the directions for the arm hole row. It requires one to fudge the stitches to get the count right but it works. I did a sc around the arm holes to finish them and keep the hands from getting caught in the stitches.

I did finishing rows for the back and top but didn't need decreases as I did with the Chelsea doll.

The dress is closed with a snap not ties.

Stacie's hair is less accomadating than Chelsea's so I have to make a hole in hats for the pony tail to fit through the hat. I left the last seven stitches unworked in row 3 chained 7 and joined. I continued the rest of the hat as written crocheting into chain stitches as if the stitches had been completed on previous round.

I didn't attempt the shoes for Stacie.

Not sure which brand of size 10 thread this is as the wrapper is long gone but I'm pretty sure it is not Aunt Lydia.

Glitter Girl Easter Morning Dress

It was time to add the Glitter Girl to my Easter challenge.

I've mentioned this before but like the My Life or Our Generation dolls most patterns I use for any of these dolls tend to be marketed under another doll's name or under a generic sizing. The Glitter Girl is close in size to the Wellie Wisher and this pattern is a Wellie Wisher pattern.

Notes:

The pattern for the dress comes from Little Bitty Boutique and can be purchased here. I've collected quite a few of her patterns for this size doll as they work up quickly and are not overally complicated while not looking too basic.

The shoes are my go to pattern for this doll and come from an Adoring Doll pattern that can be purchased here.

I used Herrschners Thistle Baby yarn which is a 3 weight and slightly heavier than the white Bernat Baby sport I used for the white. I like the Herrschners' yarn for these projects because the availabilty of colors is wider and when I can get a shipping deal the cost for the yarn is rather affordable. I haven't found anything else that works as well for these projects in the range of colors.

The pattern calls for Caron Simply Soft and I had some left over from a shawl project that I was trying to use up but I found the dress was too tight even when I went up a hook size so I switched back to the combo of Herrschners and Bernat.

I used the suggested f hook for the dress and H hook for the bow. I used an E hook for the shoes with the baby weight yarn.

I change row 9 for this pattern and do not overlap as it is too tight for this doll.

When I made this previously I needed to add rows this time it fit as written.

Easter Ornaments

This first ornament was a bonus pattern from a Crochet Calendar.

I mentioned last month that friends have a business with a year round tree that we decorate. These are the Easter ornaments I added.

Cowboy Ducky:

I used size 3 crochet thread and a b hook to get this to ornament size. The original pattern calls for DK yarn and a 3.5mm hook.

Not sure what the availabity of this pattern is at the moment. No longer available on Etsy but it is listed on Ravelry for purchase here.

Eggheads Ornaments:

I bought this pattern years ago when Crochet Village had its own website. However the designer has moved to Etsy and the pattern is available for purchase here

I used the suggested G hook for these with worsted weight yarn.

I folded the beak to make it fit the head better.

Little Miss Maisy

I went through my Easter Ami binder and came across this pattern that is available for purchase here.

Easter Peeps

This was a Crochet Calendar pattern and it worked really well for my project.

Eggs:

These were made using a pattern from Amigurumi World Seriously Cute Crochet Ana Paula Rimoli. This book is no longer in print. I used the suggested hook but I'd make these smaller in the future.

Our Generation Boy Easter

When I see patterns for the 18 inch doll boy I try to pick them up to add to my options for the donation. I often find myself adapting more of the girl generic patterns.

This was part of one of Adoring Doll's holiday sets that can be purchased as individual patterns or as a set. Since I have Easter patterns for the other dolls in the set I decided to pick up only the male doll outfit and that can be purchased here.

Notes:

Shoes:

I was able to follow the pattern using the G hook as written as the feet are smaller than the My Life feet. I like the way these shoes fit and am making a note that they'd be good for future projects with pants. They have a boot look so a bit stranger for projects with shorts.

Pants:

I used an I hook for the upper portion of the pants and an H for the legs and waist.

Shirt

I used an I for the body of the shirt and an H for the arms.

I added 4 rows for the length to get it to be long enough for the doll before adding final row of brown.

This is a good pants pattern for future boy doll projects if I need a quick pair.

I finished back of sweater with white adding button hole and button.

Bow tie:

Made with suggested G hook. I would finish edges before wrapping next time.

Cap:

I used this pattern for the Valentine outfit and struggled with the directions but finally figure out the stitch count numbers are correct but at a certain point you switch from working the front of the cap to the back. I was trying to work in the round and was completely confused the first time I made the cap. Row 14 begins the directions for the back of the hat only. Figuring this out made completing the hat much easier.

I needed an H hook for the hat.

Calico Critter Dad Sleeping Bag

With the baby doll snuggle sacks finished for 2025 it is time to move on to the sleeping bags. I was thrilled to find a free sleeping bag pattern for the Calico Critters that adjusts for adults and children. It seemed like a great way to start the next accessory challenge.

I finished this one helping out at a down town event last Saturday. I was amazed how much attention a thread project got. While knit and crochet are becoming more common in public, thread is still some what unique I've discovered in public situations.

Notes:

You can find the free crochet pattern here.

I used a 1.25mm hook for this project.

I am going to start the Mom bag up as I have several appointments where this would be a good travel project.

My Life Harriet

This is the second pattern from Darski's free Harriet pattern set found here.

Notes:

I tried to document hook size this time but I have more limited notes on the yarn.

I have no idea which brand I used for the darker grey. The lighter grey is from my last shipment of JoAnn's Big Twist Yarn. While I always found their worsted 4 to be a bit lighter it had one of the widest selection of colors available. I will miss their yarn.

Hat:

I used a J hook and followed the directions as written.

Skirt:

I used a hairband for the skirt elastic.

An H hook worked for the skirt when using elastic.

Sweater:

I used an I hook for the sweater.

Reminder there is an extra row added to the bottom when you finish the back and sides so consider that before adding more rows for length. I had to work around this as I had added additional rows for length and didn't have room for another row when I was finishing the edges.

I added a row around the collar as it seemed a bit tight.

The sleeves are finished with ss.

Scarf:

I changed the count to 100 as I find it to short otherwise. I finally noted this on the pattern after making the first attempt too short.

This is made with left over Mainstays Pink Blend that I used for the baby doll's Valentine outfits.

The shoes are made from Sweet Silver Creations Sailor Pattern that has been my got to shoe pattern for years. I'm not sure if it has been working with so much thread recently but I've gone from making these shoes with an I hook to a G hook for this pair as they've been a bit large. You can purchase the pattern here.

My Life Claret

This is clearly not Claret but Big Twist Purple. Where practical this year I'm continuing my quest to use stash yarn for projects where possible. I still need to buy certain weights and colors of yarns when I run out but where possible I'm trying to substitute with yarns on hand. A note to myself I think this pattern would also work up well in shades of green. I don't always include this dress in my donation projects but it is one that I should use more often.

Notes:

Claret is the second pattern in Darski's free Harriet pattern set found here.

I used an I hook for this dress I finished the back with a row of hdc before adding button row as I've found the Big Twist to be a slightly lighter yarn and in this case the dress even with the I hook was a little tight in the back for buttons. With the additional hdc it fit fine and allowed the buttons to be used.

I'm currently working on the Harriet outfit from this pattern for the other My Life doll.

Chelsea Block Dress

A while back I started picking up 6 inch doll patterns from Petite Doll Designs for the Chelsea Doll. It wasn't until someone posted about the patterns in an American Girl Doll forum I asked if these would fit Chelsea not making the connection since the designer's name hadn't been posted. Sure enough I never realized I'd been buying American Girl mini patterns not actual Chelsea patterns but they work.

With some adaptations I can also get them to work for Stacie which is awesome since I have so few patterns to fit her. I discovered that when I made the coat following the directions as written and Stacie had a coat and I never got back to making one for Chelsea. Learning from that mistake I started with the adaptations I learned from previous mistakes and not only finished this outfit but have started on Stacie's outfit for next week.

You can purchase the pattern for this project here.

Notes:

I used size 20 crochet thread and a 1.25 mm hook for this project.

Since I didn't understand the directions for the armholes I chained 1 skipped 10 stitches for each armhole and continued the directions as written. I had to fudge the skipped and continued stitches on the pattern to come out even but it worked since I was not clear on how the arms were supposed to be created as written.

I sc around the armholes to finish when the dress was done to make them cleaner using decreases to fix some areas that were in need of shaping after the pattern change.

I changed the last row to follow the pattern of 4 rather than increasing. I tried the increase but it made the dress too bulky for Chelsea. In the future I might just try the 4 rows it is a bit longer than I had hoped.

The directions call for a close tie but I used the directions to finish the back and neck and used a snap to close the top of the outfit.

I followed the hat pattern as written.

I tried the shoes but opted not to make as they were just too big and bulky even with the smaller thread. I've found crochet fashion doll shoes a tough task.

Calico Critters Mom Morning Glory Dress

Happy St. Patrick's Day! It is much easier to find free and paid patterns for the Mom Calico Critters. This is a free pattern found here. That being said most of the dress patterns are variations on a theme as it is hard to fit something to a toy this small.

Notes:

The pattern calls for fingering yarn I used size 3 Thread Art's Lilac Crochet Thread. I am moving more to thread with some of these smaller projects. Fingering yarn is a subjectiver term and I sometimes have yarn that will work and sometimes it isn't a fit. I decided to start with crochet thread and only move to yarn if I couldn't make it work with thread.

I needed a 1.5mm hook to get the dress to fit the Critter.

I chose not to use the elastic with the headband. I also found the count off for the critter I was using. I crocheted a chain long enough to fit the animal's head and then used hdc for the headband.

16 Inch Baby Doll Snuggle Sack

With this I celebrate the completion of another category of doll projects for the 2025 donation. All the baby doll snuggle sacks are now complete.

I was able to complete this one while sitting in a meeting of crochet friendly people in mid February. I find it much easier to concentrate with a crochet hook in my hands if it is a simple project that doesn't require serious focus. The snuggle sacks, sleeping bags, and doll blankets have filled this mission for me over the years.

Notes:

You can find the free pattern for this snuggle sack here. There are also free patterns for smaller sizes and sleeping bags on the site as well.

This was made with Red Heart Ombres Deep Teal. This didn't stripe as well as some of their other ombre colors I've used for this project. Not sure I'd go with this blend again although I would use it for one of the sleeping bags.

Calico Critter Brother Overalls

I believe I've mentioned it before but there aren't many patterns for the male Calico Critters. Many crochet patterns seem to be overalls likely because it is easier to keep the pants up with the straps from the overalls?

There seem to be more sewing options for males. I have picked up some holiday sets and recently bought some sewn outfits on Etsy for holiday decorations for my own Critters. However, for the donation it appears for the most part the boys will be heading out with a much more limited selection of outfits.

This pattern can be purchased here. Like the father overalls pattern there is a pattern for the male and female character at this size. At some point I hope to get back to making the sister version to add to her donation.

Notes:

Like the Dad pattern, I switched to size 20 thread and used a 1mm hook for this pattern.

I chose not to go with the cuffed pants.

One challenge I'm finding is the small buttons I bought for Barbie are a little big for the brother/sister animals. Not sure if I can find something smaller but I will be looking for something useful as a smaller alternative to what I have. Since they are sewn on and not functioning as a button I'm hopeful I can find something that works.

St. Patick's Day Ornaments Part 2

This is the last set of St. Patrick's day ornaments for my friend's business but I'm hoping to get some Easter ones made. Perhaps some bunnies and eggs. Sloth's are a particular favorite animal which is why I adapted a Halloween pattern I had into a St. Patrick's ornament. You can purchase the Halloween pattern here.

I generally prefer ami's with round heads, especially when you want to add things like hats but I had this pattern with a flat head, it was already fairly small so taking it to ornament size didn't disort the pattern so I decided to go with it rather than finding something new. Sloths were a must for this project.

This is made with Sinfonia Cotton yarn I picked up at Creative Yarn source when I was making lots of Ami's a while back. It was a great choice for this project. At some point I'd like to find a rounder Sloth for a different kind of project but this was well received and didn't actually make it to the tree.

Recently someone was kind enough to share a box of old crochet patterns that had been gifted to them. I chose this one because of the multiple holiday themed items included which I thought would make cute ornaments. For those of you interested the leaflet is from Annie's Attic Crochet Backpack Buddies 872853 by Michelle Wilcox. She has long been a favorite designer. There are some great ideas here for future tree decorations.

The original Halloween sloth pattern had a pumpkin between his legs. In order to make it work I really needed to replace the pumpkin with another item and the pot of gold seemed like a great idea. I wasn't as happy with the Orble pattern I used previously so after searching I settled on this free pattern you can find here.

Why the extra pot ornament you may ask? Well this is what happens when you mix and match patterns reducing to fit a tree ornament. I thought I reduced enough but I ended up needing to make the pot in thread to make it fit the sloth. Now I had another pot of gold for the tree. Hopefully it fosters luck on the business.

Lots to Love 8 Inch Baby Doll Dress, Shorts, Hairband, and Booties

After succesfully converting this pattern to thread from the suggested 4 ply yarn I have had to reorder some baby doll friendly colors for my doll projects. When I first started using thread for doll clothes Aunt Lydia's was my major provider for thread. However, the selection of colors and sizes has sadly become more limited over the years and I've found myself having to expand my search to different vendors to get more colors and thread sizes.

For my own records since I sometimes lose the labels for the threads and have to do some detective work to hunt down the brand so I can reorder, this is size 10 Apricot from Thread Art. I am almost done with my last cone of this color. I have just about enough for some trim but not enough for even a small doll project.

I plan on experimenting with more of Petite Doll's smaller doll designs in thread as I find mine are a bit bulky in thread. I like the lighter look and feel in size 10 thread.

Notes:

As mentioned this is one of Petite Doll's designs available for purchase here.

I previously made and posted about making this for the Lil Cutesies doll. While slightly different in size I've found most patterns can accomadate both dolls.

I do not use the tie directions for this doll I join all rows. I added a row at the top before making arm holes as it seemed a bit short for this doll as written.

While the stitch count works on the dress moving to thread the pants did not and I had to move to a chain of 64 to get the pants to fit. I eventually reduced it to 62 as I progressed making each leg count 31.

I liked the ch 3 trim on the shorts legs last time so I didn't even attemp the picot.

The booties worked as written.

Still struggling with headband. I ended up using hdc and following directions with this stitch rather than dc as it was rather large with dc.

My Life Skirt, Sweater, Hat and Poncho

I almost always ask for patterns when I get requests for gifts and this was a recent Valentine's present. You can purchase the pattern here.

While I love dress patterns I always appreciate finding separates that can be mixed and matched. The sweater and skirt are likely to appear again. I have other poncho patterns that I would likely go back to instead. This one didn't quite fit as well as some of my other poncho patterns for this doll.

Each year I try to limit the amount of special yarn I purchase for doll patterns. I have a rather large stash of yarn and I've been trying to work from the stash when possible only replacing certain key weights and colors and allowing myself a few special yarn projects each year. This project called for Hobby Lobby cotton. I rarely work with cotton yarn for doll clothes so I don't have this in stock. At some point it would be interesting to see if it changes some of the bulky issues I had with the outfit.

Notes:

I used an I hook for this pattern.

As I mentioned earlier I used acrylic worsted I'd be inclined to see how it works up with the suggested cotton yarn.

16 Inch Baby Doll Snuggle Sack

These snuggle sacks worked up quickly this year. I finished this one at the beginning of February but just got around to posting it now. This free pattern was a great find as they are easy to make and add a nice accessory for the baby dolls.

You can find the free pattern for the larger baby dolls here. There is a pattern there I use for the smaller baby dolls along with patterns for sleeping bags I use for the other dolls.

Notes:

I use a J hook for the sleeping bag.

I follow the pattern but keep measuring the doll for length as this pattern was not designed with this doll in mind. As the length gets close I add the final finish row.

This was made with Red Heart Super Saver Color Block Iris Bouquet. I rather like this yarn for this project. Colors tend not to last forever but I would buy this again for these types of projects.

16 Inch Baby Doll A-Line Dress Part 2

With the 18 inch dolls I have enough patterns that I don't have to revist each pattern to make enough outfits to send each doll off with a decent wardrobe. I do send some out because I like the outfit or its a quick add but often they leave with very different wardrobes. However, for the 16 inch Baby dolls I have fewer patterns to outfit the two dolls and most patterns are repeated once proven to be succesful.

The A-Line dress was a new addition this year as I continue to explore the out of print Margaret Funk's Baby Doll Fashions to Crochet to adapt them to the dolls I donate. I liked the first outfit I made but I made a note that trying it with lighter baby yarn would be a better fit and I do believe I will keep with that option when I make this next year.

Notes:

I used Baby Bernat Sport yarn with an I hook for this outfit. As with the previous outfit to fit this doll it requires additional rows to cover the white leg coverings.

The back is closed with a snap.

Darski's free Peachy Keen pattern is my go to shoe pattern and you can find that here.

St. Patrick's Day Ornaments

Friends have a holiday tree in their place of business that they keep decorated for various holidays. I've been trying to make ornaments to add to the holiday cheer. I made hearts last month based on the pattern from one of the doll sweaters. This month I'm working on some St. Patrick's Day ornaments. This was my first set I delivered Saturday.

The first shamrock was made converting a no longer available free shamrock potholder pattern. Since I didn't want it potholder size and I wanted it to be a bit more dainty for the tree I went to size 10 thread and a B hook. The original pattern was from Pricilla's Crochet.

The second was made from a no longer Orble pattern. I used an e hook and chose to crochet a gold "mound" rather than the suggested gold coins since it was hanging from a tree and I was concerned the coins would fall out and be lost.

Rag Doll Summer Dress

I bought these blond haird Rag Dolls from Factory Direct for several years for the donation after someone sent me one they had dressed for the donation and I took on the challenge of trying to dress one. The last time I ordered my replacement dolls they came in a version that I had replaced when I found these. The hair is thinner and a bright orange/yellow color. I tried finding a replacement for this doll but I it is not meant to be. If my inventory is correct the Rag Dolls I ordered will see me through 2026 as I don't wish to waste what I ordered. However, I've already started working on adding the Calico Critters this year which will eventually replace the Rag Dolls in the donation rotation.

Notes:

This is an adaptation of the baby doll summer dress from Margaret Funk's House of White Birches Baby Doll Fashions to Crochet.

I need to add an additional sc row before starting the changed directions for the 16 inch baby doll that I've documented several times.

I started with an E hook and repeated row 5 once. Thus rows 3-6 follow the original directions for 3-5 moving each row directions down one. For the original row 6 now row 7 that starts the skirt I moved to a D hook to decrease the skirt size as it is too large with the E hook.

The top is slightly large for this doll so I finish the top and the arm holes with a sc 4 decrease around. It isn't even but it does help make the outfit fit better.

This was made with Lion Brand Ice Cream Cookies and Cream Yarn.

Calico Critter Dad Overalls

I've been trying to rotate through the Calico family to make sure everyone leaves with something to wear beyond what clothing was in the box. As is ususal with most crochet doll patterns it is easier to find patterns for the girls than the boys.

This is one of On a Calico Day's Patterns that can be purchased here. It includes an outfit for Mom and Dad. For those interested her patterns do frequently have sales.

Notes:

I looked up my notes from making patterns from this designer previously and I realized despite making gauge my clothes were rather large when I made them previously. I had not made this outfit but after starting with the suggested hook size and thread I checked my notes and realized I needed to adjust for a better fit.

These are made with size 20 thread and a 1mm hook. These notes are just for my purposes. You may find the pattern as written works for your toys.

There are two options for the legs, one has cuffs the other does not, I chose the straight legs pattern.

Even with the smaller hook and thread I found for the full length leg I followed the capri directions for the Dad. The pants were at the bottom of the leg at that row count.

I had bought a bunch of micro buttons for Barbie patterns a few years back. I still thankfully have a significant supply. I'm sorry to see Joann's go as it was a major supplier for my doll project.

Lots to Love 14 Inch Baby Doll Snuggle Sack

With the Lots to Love 14 Inch Baby Doll Snuggle Sack I have to move to Suzie's Blog larger free doll pattern found here.

This leaves me with just the 16 inch baby doll snuggle sacks and the sleeping bags to make for the 2025 donation.

Notes:

I used a J hook and Red Heart Stripes Retro Stripe for this project.

As with all these sacks I try them on as I reach the end to check for length.

Skipper Valentine Doll Dress

I actually started this outfit much closer to Valentine's Day but ran out of thread and had to wait for my order to arrive to finish the dress. I originally intended the outfit for Barbie but with the adjustments I made it was a better fit for Skipper.

Notes:

This pattern comes from an out of print Annie's Crochet Newsletter, the January/February 1995 edition.

The pattern calls for size 10 crochet thread but even reducing down to my smallest thread hooks it was too large for Barbie with size 10. This then became a Golilocks challenge.

I reduced my thread to size 20 with a 1.25 mm hook and the top was tight for Barbie but a decent fit for Skipper. I might experiment with the fit for Skipper if I make this again with hook size as it was an interesting fit large in the top but tighter at the waist. I suspect Barbie would need closer to a 1.5 mm to make it fit with the size 20 thread.

I reduced to a 1mm hook for the skirt.

While I'd consider the flower trim at the neck for Barbie it was too much for Skipper.

I've been challenging myself to try more patterns that are sitting in my binders that I've never made so I'm glad I tried this one. Not sure it will be a yearly addition as it consumes a great deal of size 20 thread and it takes more time than my average Barbie family project. I plan to continue to try some of these more challenging projects and perhaps I will be back again to revisit some of them again.