My Life Cat Short Set

I was hoping to get this posted Friday but decided to put it up on Saturday and keep pushing to complete my projects for the donation. It seems impossible but that deadline is now approaching rather than far off in the distant future.

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

I've been following her patterns long enough that my copy is from her origins of posting free patterns to her website to give her a following to start selling her patterns.

As with many of my doll projects this year this is another pattern that has been sitting in my doll binder for years until I came up with a more balanced approach for rotating through making clothes for all of the dolls rather than randomly picking which doll I felt like working on today. This has actually helped me to reach more deeply into all my doll folders and try some patterns I've not used in years or like this one, never tried.

Note:

This is made with Red Heart Super Saver Amethyst and White. The Pink and Grey are Herrschners. The black is sport yarn left over from the ami's.

I started with the hat and the shoes making them between other doll projects so they wouldn't need to be made after the outfit.

The hat was made using an H hook and I left a note on the pattern to try an I hook the next time.

The shoes were made with an H hook.

The top fits but it is snug with the suggested H hook. With anything that has to slide on and off the doll I like a little room so I'd use an I hook the next time for the shirt. A reminder to myself to pull the yarn up from the bottom for the ss.

I used the suggested F hook for the cat face and that was the right choice.

The shorts are snug with an H hook but my concern is getting them to stay up if I move to an I hook.

Our Generation Patriotic Swimsuit

I was looking through the flash drive of patterns I bought from Pamela Yarbororough Designs to find swimsuits I hadn't made previously for the donation and found this one.

I have decided I like this top and bottom best. I'd consider rotating the hat, sarong, and color options from the other patterns but this may be my go to starting pattern for the 18 inch dolls for a bit.

You can purchase the pattern here.

I used an H hook for the top and bottoms and an F hook for the accessories. I finally mastered the ss technique she uses while making the headband. I'd use it for future projects.

I'd consider experimenting with an I hook for the top. This top is joined and needs to slide on and off. It is a bit snug for the Our Generation Doll once you add the ss. An I hook might help make it easier to take on and off. I'd just have to check to make sure it doesn't gape open at the front.

The 18 inch doll swimsuits are done for 2026. I am going to experiment with something for the Calico Critters. No promises it will work. I still need two for the 16 inch Baby Dolls and then I will be done with this category for the year.

16 Inch Baby Doll Linmary Dress

This one took me much longer than I expected as I kept making unexpected changes.

The dress set is a free Linmary Knits crochet pattern found here. The shoes are from one of Darski's sets found here. Notes:

I've made a number of notes on hook size over the years. This year with the exception of the shoes, everything required an e hook. I used an J hook for the shoes.

This pattern uses UK crochet terms and I have notes all over my pattern to remind myself not to use US crochet stitches as it is a whole different outfit.

Dress:

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.

I do not crochet in the back stitches for the bodice. I tried it this year and frogged it as it was not a good look.

Hat:

I had to stick with the e hook for the entire hat. I tried the notes I had on the pattern but the hat was huge. I believe this is how the Our Generation Boy ended up with a sun hat last year for his swim trunks.

Little Red Riding Hood Wolf Finger Puppet

Having finished the wolf I am pleased to announce the Little Red Riding Hood finger puppets are complete for Kits for Kids. If I can hold off on the temptation to start more tiny projects I want to finish the rest of the swimsuits opening up a spot in my weekly projects for the projects without taking out a regular doll project.

This pattern is from Evgeniya Yunitskaya's no longer available Red Riding Hood Finger puppets.

Notes:

I used Cotton Faire cotton for this project and a my Tulip Etimo sized 2 crochet hook. The pattern worked up pretty well.

The one main change I'd make in the future is a more traditional oval snout. I understand the idea the designer was going for with this pattern but it is really hard to make it work and lots of work for a simple finger puppet. An oval snout attached to the head would work better and be more efficient with my time.

For my own notes I never crocheted smaller than 6sc into a magic circle as I found it looked terrible and made attaching pieces more challenging later.

I attached the arms, then the head and then the white front piece.

The scarf needed to be longer but perhaps not quite this long.

Rag Doll I Feel Pretty

I've been alternating between the Rag Doll and the Glitter Girl doll weekly until I finish off the swimsuits to try to keep their donations equal. In the past one or the other always feels like it has been neglected.

This has been adapted from one of Darski's free baby doll patterns I Feel Pretty found here.

Notes:

Last year I made a note that the H hook I'd used was too large. This year I tried the suggested size 7 hook and it was still a bit roomy. I'd try a g hook next time.

I used Herrschners size 4 Herrschners Baby Worsted 8 Baby Stripes Hydrangea and I believe Worsted 8 Eggplant as the contrast color.

The arms were reduced sc around and finished with a sc chain 3 row. I also sc along the bottom row and then also did a sc chain 3 row around. This helped the skirt keep from turning up. I used a button to close the dress.

I hope to make this dress for both the 16 inch baby dolls including the accessories that don't quite work for this doll.

My Life Swimsuit 2

I've been using Pamela Yarborough's patterns for years and finally decided to invest in her flash drive of patterns for her 18 and 14.5 inch dolls since there were some I'd just not had the chance to buy and the flash drive while an investment gave them to me at the old prices not the current prices. Having some birthday money I made the jump. You can find her flash drive sale options here.

If you are interested in this pattern it can be purchased here.

I'm coming close to finishing the swimsuit challenge for 2026. I only have the Our Generation Doll and the two 16 inch baby dolls to go. I found a free pattern for the Calico Critter female I'm going to experiment with to see if I can get it to fit the Mom or sister. I'm not counting that one as it is iffy on getting it to work.

For future reference I much prefer this swimsuit than the first one I made. The one piece top is a much better project than the two triangles. I found the panties fit better as well. I love the sarong and the hat. I would consider adding the sarong to other swimsuits.

Notes:

I used an H hook for the swim top, bottoms and hat. I used the suggested G for the sandals. One of my projects for the off season is to find a sandal pattern I can use like I use Sweet Silver Creations other shoe patterns. Sandals have less connection with doll feet to keep them on so I've always found them challenging to make and keep them on but it is clear I need to find a pattern that works better for me.

The white is Red Heart I suspect the pink yarn is either Red Heart or Caron Pounder. I've been working on using up left over balls of yarn and this pink was left from previous doll projects.

I don't have much experience with sarongs so I was thrilled that the designer took a picture from the back and front as this helped me to realize I was going in the right direction.

I added 2 additional rows to the hat as it was too small. These rows continued the DC 5 2dc pattern. I continued this DC 5 2DC on the brim.

Lots to Love 14 Inch Baby Doll Capri Set

I've got an extensive collection of Amy Carrico's baby doll patterns that I've collected over the years. I loved the feeted outfits she makes and she has some of the only shoe patterns that seem to stay on the baby dolls.

I stumbled upon this one which is available for purchase on Ravelry here while finding a purchase link for another pattern. Every so often I find a pattern that I don't have of hers and this was one.

I'm always looking for something different for the Lots to Love 14 Inch Baby doll as many of my patterns are variations on a theme. The sweater and the hat reminded me of infant sets my Mom used to make years ago. Different techniques as hers were knitted but similiar style.

Notes:

I used the suggested e hook for all of the items. The pink I believe is a Herrschner's Baby sport yarn and the white is Baby Bernat Sport.

For my own notes I tried adding some cute buttons but I'd need larger button holes thus the smaller than normal buttons from my stash.

The hat fit as written without any challenges.

Other than perhaps making larger button holes the sweater also worked as written.

The T-strap on the shoe was a litle fudgey. I might leave this off next time. There is a picture of the shoes without the additional T.

The pants for some reason were the challenge. I tried going up hook size, adding stitches and nothing was working until I decided to add elastic and go back to my fall back style of pants. I crocheted over the elastic and then split with a chain 3 at the crotch for the legs. I reduced stitches to make the upper section and then the legs a more reasonable width as covering the elastic can create more stitches when you use a thinner yarn.

Part of the challenge for this doll is the velcro diaper and this brand of yarn. When the pants were too tight the yarn attached to the velcro. The elastic waist allowed me to get the pants on and off without challenge. I try where possible to make these outfits little hands friendly.

I really like the sweater and could see using it with other patterns. It works up quickly and is a nice addition to the donation. This hat fits suprisingly well. I sometimes find the hats are my Goldilocks problem too big or too small. These shoes are a variation on her standard shoes and other than the t-strap they are my favorite for this doll.

Glitter Girl Kennedy Dress

When I made this dress last I suggested ordering some grey Herrschners Worsted for this outfit as I didn't have anything quite the right fit for the dress. Clearly I took my advice as I had grey in my stash when I pulled this pattern out last week.

I've enjoyed the patterns from this designer for the Wellie Wisher doll that I bought three more patterns, two that match Wellie Wisher patterns for the larger 18 inch dolls.

You can purchase this pattern here.

This pattern does not come with shoes so I used the shoes from Pamela Yarborough's Butterfly Dress that can be purchased here.

Notes:

I used an F hook and a snap for the dress instead of a button this go around.

The dress was slightly short this time so I believe I added an additional six rows to make it this length.

The shoes required an E hook to fit.

Little Red Riding Hood Hunter Finger Puppet

With the Hunter completed I only have to finish the wolf for this set to be finished.

This pattern is from Evgeniya Yunitskaya's no longer available Red Riding Hood Finger puppets.

Notes:



If my memory serves me the original hunter had an axe. This one had a weird looking gun and I chose not to make it for multiple reasons.

There are lots of controversies over weapons and donations and why risk it. Secondly, looking at the picture, even if I wasn't worried about it being rejected for a weapon, it kind of looks like a musical instrument more than a weapon. This hunter will have left set his weapon down before appearing in the puppet theater.

I used Cotton Faire cotton for this project and a my Tulip Etimo sized 2 crochet hook.

The hat and the vest proved to be the most troubling challenges of the puppet. I ended up doing the first row of each flaps in the front row of the stitch to get it to fold.

I'm not sure if it was where I attached my arms that was the challenge but I couldn't get the vest to fit as written so I just made it top down as I'd make something for one of my dolls. I started with the original count but decreased to keep it from gaping in the back. I also added to chain stitches for the arms as I found the vest tight around the arms. I crocheted around the outside of the vest and fpdc around the collar. This seemed to help the fit.

The bottom of the vest is sewn together to keep it from falling off and getting lost.

My Life Cinderella

Sweet Silver Creations was one of the very first doll designers I started collecting crochet patterns way back over 15 years ago even before this donation began.

Her shoes are still my go to for all my 18 inch doll creations. However, every so often I find myself longing to go back to the princess days and hers are always the first patterns I turn to as they are beautiful to make and something I can reasonably finish without neglecting all my other projects.

With the practice I've had from working on the ami projects I worked this larger outfit across a couple of weeks of other doll projects rather than trying to finish it all at once. I'd finish a set portion, put it aside and come back. When I finished the skirt and then the trims I finally decided it was time to finish and completed all the smaller accessories so I could add it to my finished items.

You can purchase the Cinderella pattern here. Her princess patterns do not have shoes so I use the shoes from her School Uniform pattern which can be purchased here. That pattern is also on my list of items to get back into the rotation this year. I want to attack some patterns I've not used in a bit, patterns I've never made, and new ones I've found.

Notes:

I used an H hook for the Cinderella dress and Royal and Light Blue Red Heart Super Saver. I needed a Jumbo of Royal as her princess patterns eat quite a bit of yarn. The light blue was primarily trim so far less was needed.

There was a note from previous projects that I stopped at row 20. This year I needed to add rows for length but did not write down the number.

I find myself scanning the pattern for where the item will join for my own records this will be end of row 2 skirt. Also a reminder to keep turning after joining.

I followed the School Uniform shoe pattern as written using an f hook.

My Life Swimsuit

I am quite hopeful that before the end of September all of the swimsuits will be finished for the dolls. I have one more My Life, an Our Generation, and two 16 inch baby dolls to go if my count is correct.

Since I make swimsuits every year when possible I try to work through my pattern collections to keep the challenge engaging.

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

This has been my year to pull out patterns that I haven't tried and my copy actually goes back to when she was first starting out posting free patterns on her blog. I use her patterns for the 18 inch and the 14 inch Glitter girl doll so I finally invested in the flash drive for both sized dolls that she sells on Etsy. I've already printed three patterns and there are more to go.

It is also such a relief to be able to easily find patterns when I misplace one. I've gotten so much better about putting patterns back in their binder when I'm finished but every so often one goes missing and I can sometimes find it from where I purchased it but sometimes it is gone. This gets me the patterns I never purchased and the security of quickly finding the ones I lose.

Notes:

If I choose to go back to this one I would use an H instead of an I hook for the top. The trim with a G hook worked.

I used an H hook for the panties but then needed to chain 3 to join on each side to get them to fit around the waist. I crocheted them closed rather than sewing. I added the trim after that row. I'd consider using a smaller hook for the crotch rows as it is a bit bulky.

I followed the shoe pattern as written.

There is a pattern for a cover up but I chose not to include it.

Stacie Critter Empire Dress

This is a Calico Critter pattern available for purchase here that I adapt for Chelsea and Stacie.

Notes:

This version was made with Hobby Lobby's size 10 hand died samples and a 1.8 mm hook. For my own notes it takes almost an entire one of these small cones for a Stacie sized dress in this pattern.

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.

Next up for the fashion dolls will be Chelsea.

Lots to Love 10 Inch Baby Doll Sweetly Pants, Top, Shoes

This was made using Darski's free Sweetly pattern set for the Lots to Love 10 inch baby doll found here.

Notes:

I'm continuing my quest to finish off my skein of Lion Brand Baby Soft Dusty Lilac and I added Baby Bernat Baby Baby for the contrast.

Bonnet:

I used an e hook for the bonnet and added rows to make it long enough. It was a little wider than I'd hoped this year so I'd decrease before the face rows next time if it is loose.

I'd place the ties further out. They are too close to tie make them effective.

Shirt:

The shirt was made with a G hook and I followed directions as written.

Pants:

I've been playing with my own top down pants for this outfit for a while now.

Chain 44 and join.

HDC in each chain and join for a total of 8 rows.

Chain 3 ss into 22nd stitch and start first leg.

I didn't record number of legs for rows but I did decrease last row with sc around.

Last row made with sc chain 3 around.

Shoes:

I've been playing with her bootie pattern to make Mary Jane shoes to give the doll a variety of shoes.

Rag Doll Summer Dress

At the beginning of this donation cycle I thought this would be the final year for the Rag Doll. The current model has different hair from this model but it is still nice to have a rag doll in the mix. The company I order them from had two more left so I will be keeping the Rag dolls on for a few more rounds.

Notes:

This dress is made adapting the baby doll summer dress from Margaret Funk's House of White Birches Baby Doll Fashions to Crochet that I use for the two 16 inch baby dolls.

For this outfit I chose Lion Brand's Ice Cream Yarn in Watermelon. It makes for a cheerful dress.

In the past I've added an additional sc row before starting the changed directions for the 16 inch baby doll that I've documented several times. I missed that this year and the dress is lighter at the top. I'd likely go back to the additional row next year.

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.

My Life Kinley Casual Pant Set

I've made an effort to print patterns that got purchased and for various reasons never got printed so I don't end up buying them again. I almost thought about buying this one before finding it in had been purchased and printing it out.

You can purchase the pattern here.

I honestly thought the challenge for this pattern was going to be the pants. I find stripes for smaller projects like doll clothing or ami's can be challenging as the stripes need to stay even. These worked up really well and I got a little over confident going into the cardigan, thus the reminder pictures for future projects down below.

Notes:

I used an I hook for everything but the shoes and the necklace. I'd consider an H for the cardigan next time if it would work as the holes are large with an I but not sure how the fit would be. The necklace was made with the suggested f hook and the shoes with an H hook.

Shirt:

I rather like this shirt and followed the directions other than hook size as written. My only thought for future projects is I might add a few rows before bottom trim. I found it rode up a bit. Since I wasn't sure how the whole outfit went together as I was making it I went as written. I consider a couple of rows to make it longer for the next project.

Pants:

The pants worked as written. My only reminder to self is to watch the row count and to start row counter for second leg at 12 as first row for leg 2 is 13.

Shoes:

These are cute summer shoes but I'm not sure for my purposes I'd make these again. They were more challenging to make and sadly they don't stay on as well as most of the other shoes I make. I see these getting lost quickly.

Necklace:

I ended up with a button from my collection after failing tassling making a few times. I like the button look and I had to make the necklace longer to be able to take it on and off the doll. This made the button even more practical.

This brings me to the cardigan.

I have no idea why this was so hard for my brain to understand but I don't trust that if I come back to this in a year or more I will remember so I took some pictures.

The basic back was pretty straight forward but for the life of me I could not understand how the arms and sides panels were formed. Without giving the pattern away but reminding myself follow the directions as written they are correct. There are side seems and gaps for arm holes involved.

I did adapt the pattern to make longer sleeves. I did three rows of dc chain one around the arm holes before adding the sc trim.

Skipper Ski Outfit

As with Barbie and Ken this ski pattern comes from the out of print House of White Birches leaflet Crochet Wardrobe for 11 1/2 inch Fashion Dolls.

With minimal adaptations, Barbie's outfit fits Skipper pretty well.

Notes:

I follow Barbie's pattern for Skipper which for my own notes starts on page 32 and skips to left column of 47.

This requires a 2.5mm hook for everthing but the hat which like the other two requires an E hook. Knit Picks's Palette is my go to yarn for all three ski outfits.

Barbie's pants pattern is too small for Barbie but fits well for Skipper as long as I keep the total rows to 18.

I finish the arm and leg holes with ss as this helps with the hands and feet catching on the yarn.

I would consider making the arms slightly larger around the elbow bend as Skipper's bend is sharper than Barbie's and it makes getting the sweater on and off a bit more challenging.

Lil Cutesies Overalls

This is another pattern I purchased here for the Lil Cutesies doll and never got around to making.

You may wonder why purchase and without a specific project in mind. Well the annual donation stays fresher when I rotate projects around keeping me from becoming bored.

I've also learned to buy before pattern designers disappear. If you find a designer that speaks your crochet language and designs for the dolls you need acquiring those patterns over time can be a great strategy for developing a rotation of outfits.

When you notice a designer start moving platforms you sometimes move them to the top of the aquisition pile even if you don't get to all the patterns at once. My hope is if the designer gets enough business perhaps they will keep designing.

My habit has been to buy a pattern from a designer and test the style to see if we speak the same crochet language. Some people find this odd but there are some designers I rarely have issues reading and understand what they are thinking when they write a pattern and others that I surrender and move on to something more productive. Now I do make changes that I document frequently. These are usually do to my own personal guage issues, available yarn, etc. However, I generally find myself looking at a shirt for instance at the end of a session making a shirt rather than a new piece of modern art.

I've chased a few designers across platforms to acquire their doll libraries as I don't have unlimited doll funds. While I'd love to acquire everything they've designed for the dolls I donate it can take time. However, when I do have the chance to stock up I do and then we have binders of doll patterns I dive into to find the neglected/lost patterns I've acquired. Some years I have more time than others for the hunt. This year has been a good year for the neglected pattern catalog.

Notes:

I always need to remind myself when starting these patterns that these are written in UK not US crochet terms. The first bootie could have fit on of the American Girl dolls. In my own defense I was highly distracted at the time and once the bottom of the foot was done realized my mistake.

I used a 2.5mm hook for the outfit.

The White Yarn is Bernat Big Ball Sport Baby. The purple is Lion Brand Baby Soft Dusty Lilac. The flower is a unknown baby yarn brand of purple. I've been trying to attack orphan skeins in my stash. Over the years I've picked up different brands of baby yarns for the donation when they've been on sale to try. It might just be a bad skein but this was was thready at times. It had a hard time holding it together. I'd been going to use my Bernat Baby lavender but wanted to see if I could use this one up.

Shirt:

I only needed 4 rows for the sleeves before it became too long.

For my own notes the pattern suggests closing the shirt with ties. I used a snap. I find the ties get caught.

Overalls:

I would work fewer rows prior to splitting for legs as the overalls are a little long.

The straps required 31 chains in order to make it easy for a child to slide the overalls on and off.

The suggestion is snaps covered by buttons but this seemed overally complicated to me.

There is no flower pattern. I just copied the one I used for the Red Dress I posted about earlier in the week.

Our Generation Boy Swim Trunks

These swim trunks are made using a pattern from from Pamela Yarborough's Swim Suit Set which can be purchased here. The set includes trunks for the boy and suits for the 18 and 14.5" dolls. This pattern can also be purchased alone here.

A note for myself is that all three patterns are stored together as they are printed double sided. I went looking for the boy's trunks and panicked when I couldn't find them. I'm going to make a note on top pattern that all three are located in one set as to not panic myself next year.

Notes:

I am determined to use up some of my project ends so some of you may recognize the green from previous projects. I do like the light blue I've used in previous years but I am need to eliminate some of my endless left over yarn balls and this was a good place to start.

An I hook is pretty standard for her patterns and it is no different for the swim trunks.

The Our Generation Boy requires a starting chain of 46 which makes the legs increase to 23.

The color change for the leg is marked for the 2nd leg not the first so the change is Row 11 stays main color, row 12 contrast, end with row 13 main. Thanks to last year's notes I didn't make the mistake of not counting for the changes.

However, having changed colors I did make the mistake of not starting with the contrast color and had to start the top of the trunks over having started with the main color not the contrast color.

The original pattern calls for a piece of yarn to be tied for the trunks as if it is a tie. I decided to crochet a tie and thread it through the fpdc as it seems each year the trunks are a little loose and it allows me to tighten them just a little with the pull ties.

With these swim trunks down I still need swimsuits for the female 18 inch dolls and the larger baby dolls.

I finally took the plunge and purchased Pamela Yarborough's flash drive of doll patterns. I have several I'm missing and decided I want to be able to easily retrieve patterns I misplace. I ordered it last Friday so we will see how it works when it arrives.

Our Generation Red Flower Dress

This has been the year to use neglected patterns. This is another one of Pamela Yarborough's patterns that can be purchased here. It's been in my binder of her patterns for a bit but I've never made it. I do think rotating the dolls weekly has opened more options than working on one doll for a period of time before moving on to another as something usually arises and shortens the time for one doll to be dressed. This way the rotation continues around time reductions.

Notes:

The yarn for this project is Red Heart. The red is Cherry and I'd like to see at some point if I could locate a brighter red. I thought that was Cherry but this is darker than I anticipated.

Dress:

I used an I hook for the dress.

After row 1, I sc in back stitch to allow myself to play with red trim that is added at end. What I forgot is it needs to be added now not at end to make this technique work. I've added a note to my pattern and here as a reminder for the next time I approach the project. I am not a fan of surface stitch and this is one way to avoid it if I do it correctly.

The flowers for the dress and headband were made with the suggested 3.0mm hook. I found they were smaller than I liked. I'd try them with either an E or F hook next time.

I found the length was fine as is with no additional length rows.

Shoes:

The Our Generation Doll was fine with a G hook and the directions as written.

Headband:

I used a G hook for the headband. I had to add rows to fit it around the Our Generation head. I wouldn't increase the hook size as the width would be too wide.

Camping Pocket Pal

I sometimes buy patterns for a specific project and they never get made. Then along comes a charity drive that needs small items to fill bags and I have the perfect set of projects.

I absolutely love this pattern which you can purchase here.

Many playsets require plastic canvas or cardboard and for perfectly good reasons.

However, it is time I don't always want to invest in a project. This little tent requires nothing but old fashioned crochet and sewing in ends. It stands up on its own and I couldn't be happier. The only additional item required was a tiny bit of stuffing for the sleeping bag pillow but this could be left out as one of my other sleeping bag patterns offers as an option.

I tested it to see if other toys might fit and the smaller Calico Critters fit tightly. If I was going to add this to their donation next year I'd use heavier yarn to make the tent bigger and test how well it stands. I know the sleeping bags I made this year for them will not fit in this tent and they couldn't possibly fit in the sleeping bag designed for this ami.

I do think as is that other small play figures would fit in nicely.

Notes:

As I mentioned on the Rabbit in a Carrot post I've been trying to use up a large stash of Sinfonia cotton that I'm slowly replacing with Cotton Fair. I needed Cotton Fair for the doll's face and the tent. Everything else helped me with my project to finish off the old stash.

This set was made with a 3mm hook.

I chose to sew eyes instead of using safety eyes as the head is rather small.

A note to self to turn sleeping bag inside out before crocheting sides together. This one is made slightly different from the others.

This is going in my binder for this charity as it has quickly become one of my favorite patterns I've made so far. I can also see stealing some of the accessory patterns for both the Calico Critters and Chelsea. Not sure I can get the tent to be big enough while still holding its shape but the fire would be a cute addition to her sleeping bag.

Barbie Ski Outfit

When I went to look for my blog project notes on this ski outfit, I could find notes for Ken and Skipper but nothing for Barbie.

This was odd since I had written notes about what needed to be done to alter the pattern for the modern Barbie and how it differed from Skipper. I might have made the outfit last minute and it never got posted one year and never came back to make it for Barbie again.

I lost a number of project pictures when I failed to back up an old computer and it died. So, if I have made this for Barbie before, which my notes indicate, I have no written evidence other than my notes on the pattern.

This was a great project to finish off a wonderful weekend. The pattern is from a House of White Birches newsprint leaflet Crochet Wardrobe for 11 1/2 inch Fashion Dolls from Margaret Funk.

There is a pattern for Ken and Barbie. I use Barbie's pattern for the hat and sweater but Ken's pants work best for both dolls. Barbie's pants pattern fits Skipper quite well though.

The outfit is made with Knit Picks Palette. The sweater and pants required a 3.0mm hook and I used an E hook for her hat.

I only change colors once at the top using the same contrast color.

The pants require 20 rows to fit Barbie. I do not reduce the arms as it is impossible to get her hands through once reduced. Both pants and sleeves are finished with ss to avoid catching on Barbie's hands and feet.

I keep playing with the hat increases to get a good fit but this time I believe I was close to as written for increases. There is an extra sc row at the bottom of the hat and it is finished with ss.

Our Generation Boy Minion Inspired Outfit

This is one of Pamela Yarborough, formely Adoring Doll Clothes patterns that can be purchased here.

This has been in my pattern library for some time and this year was the time to make it for the Our Generation Boy's donation bag. While designed for the girl the pattern is generic enough to use for the boy.

Notes:

I used the suggested G hook for the boots and they fit really well. I'd use these for another project.

For the hat I went back to my notes for the doctor as the hats aren't completely different in size and used an H hook for this hat rather than the suggested G as I had with the Doctor hat.

I alternated between an H and an I hook for the outfit.

These are one of the only overall doll patterns I have that have a front and back bib. Most of my patterns have a front bib and attach to the rear waist band. I like the look of this style of double bibs.

The shirt and pants were made with an I hook. However the sleeves and legs changed to an H hook as they were to big with the I hook.

I made a note on the pattern that to make sure I am at the half way point of the waist when I start the legs or they are off center. Having made this mistake the first time through I'm noting it here and on the pattern to avoid future challenges.

I did the last row of shirt in back loops to make it easier to attach bibs only to discover this wasn't necessary so I wouldn't do it again.

I would definetly make these again for the Our Generation Boy donation as long as the Minions continue to be something kids receiving the donation would recognize. The overalls could continue to be used. I'd just go for a more nuetral shirt color.

Little Red Riding Hood Mother Finger Puppet

I'm continuing to work my way through Evgeniya Yunitskaya's no longer available Red Riding Hood Finger puppets. Having finished Mom the body of the Hunter is already complete. I'm working on him and another ami project in between some doll clothes for Aztec wishes.

These projects take longer because I make them in pieces. I originally kept them in baggies but during the back to school sales DH found me a plastic pencil box which is perfect for all those small pieces that seem to wander off and get lost. The box is much harder to lose than the small plastic sandwich bags that slip between the seat cushions.

Notes:

I used Premier Cotton Fair yarn for this project with a 2mm hook.

I liked the skin tones and dress colors but I would look for different hair color for this doll. It needs a lighter brown.

Regarding the hair row 8 establishes the bangs and long hair in the back by only crocheting on the 19 dc stitches according to the pattern. I would add rows to this to make the hair longer as mine was shorter than the picture.

There are two more patterns in this set the Hunter and of course the Wolf that I hope to complete soon.

Lots to Love 14 Inch Baby Doll Baylees Bikini

It was time for the Lots to Love 14 Inch doll to enter the 2026 swimsuit challenge and I chose Amy Carrico's pattern as I'd had really good luck with it last year.

This year it fought me every step of the way so next year I might try Char's pattern that I also have for this doll instead. I do not currently have a link where you can buy this pattern as it is not listed for sale on her Raverly store.

This was made with Herschnerrs baby variegated and I believe Bernat baby yarn. I needed a g hook to get the items to fit.

If I make this again I would decrease the top less.

My Life Playtime Garden Outfit

I've been using patterns from Adoring doll clothes since she begin as a blogger. However she has changed the name of her business to Pamela Yarborough Designs so you will find her patterns now listed under that business name. You can purchase this pattern here.

I've noticed I'm rotating through patterns I haven't made in a while. This last appeared for the 2021 donation and I'd like to see it more often. It's a quick, cute make.

I used three different brands of yarn for this project. The yellow is Red Heart Super Saver. The green was Bernat Super Value and the off white is a lighter weight of unknown orign that I wanted to use up.

I generally love Bernat's super value but don't buy it often because it is pricey for doll clothes. I picked up some on sale and it faded into my stash. This skein exploded when I did a center pull into a maze that I'm still untangling. I did get enough rolled that I cut it to finish off the dress.

Notes:

I used an I hook for the shirt and dress. I finished the back and top stitches with a g hook to make button hole.

The hat was made with the suggested hook and the lighter off white yarn. I needed to add rows before decreasing and then adding the brim to make it wide enough as it was not worsted weight yarn. I'd use this yarn again for the hat as it was a better fit than the previous hat I made for this project with worsted.

The shoes were made with an H hook. I used sunflower buttons for this project previously and I had wanted to try something closer to the pattern. I may go back to the sunflowers for a future project.

Lil Cutesies Moses Basket 2026

I mentioned earlier in the week that I'd finished off two categoies for donations this week.

The first was the night wear and the second is bassinets. I will not need a bassinet for Kits for Kids as the doll is a bit large for the project so all my bassinets are done until I start the 2027 items. Then again never say never. Every time I say never someone says could you...

I also said I was using up my on hand Homespun yarn. Yet for the Little Cutesie doll I tried a new color I've never used before.

I needed to make a minimum for shipping and decided to add some homespun to the order. When I went to check the site as I was writing this, turns out they no longer have Homespun. It does concern me as rumors are floating about the long term life of Homespun and if Lion Brand will be continuing to produce it as they've cancelled some of its off shoot lines. I would hate to see the yarn go but not suprising in the fiber market these days.

The blanket yarn I believe is Herschnerrs Worsted 4 that I've been trying to finish off.

Notes:

This is made using a no longer available Moses Basket pattern from Annie Potter presents Sweet Baby Doll Layette. The blanket is part of Darski's BBL pattern set found here.

I went with a g hook with baby yarn for the Lots to Love 8 inch baby doll and it was smaller than I wanted. I used an I with the Herschnerrs Worsted and it was slightly big but I'd rather slightly big than slightly small. I'd suggest an H hook with the heavier yarn and an I with baby yarn next time.

Rabbit in a Carrot

I've been splitting my crochet time between doll clothes and parts of finger puppets and small amis. I've been completing a portion of a finger puppet or ami, storing it in a plasic baggie and then when I'm close to finishing I'll assemble the item. In this case I also had the sleeping bag to make as well.

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

Notes:

I'm going for small sized items for this donation. When I made this last in 2020 it wasn't as big an issue.

The pattern calls for DK yarn I went with Sinfonia cotton I am trying to use up and replace with Cotton Fair. They each have pros and cons but I have come to prefer the Cotton Fair for my small ami projects. This was a great project to hit my stash of old cotton I refuse to abandon.

I used a size 2mm hook for all items.

In my previous project notes I mentioned that the carrot needed to be wider to make it easier to get the bunny in and out of it for small hands. I increased the width following the pattern to 26 stitches.

I mistakenly read the front directions for the back and increased the length to make it long enough for the bunny but missed the shaping of the top for the carrot. After having finished the piece I was not redoing it but added the trim.

My note to myself on the pattern is to follow the lower directions and make the back piece first as this will determine I've made it wide enough and long enough for my rabbit. Then the front which is the first direction can be made and adjusted to fit the back.

This is going to be part of my Kits for Kids rotation.

Calico Critter Dad King

I've had this pattern on my list for a while now but I finally got to it last Friday. There wasn't really a reason not to do it, just the timing never seemed to be right.

This is made using one of Dawn Smith's free patterns found here.

I was drawn to this pattern for a couple of reasons beyond a free Calico pattern. First there aren't lots of patterns for the male Critters. Second I must say was the crown. It just was a unique item.

However, once I looked at the pattern I realized the crown wasn't part of the pattern. It's a free pattern so no real complaints but I wasn't giving up on the crown so you will find my own notes for a Calico crown. I'm sure someone can improve but it is a start.

Notes:

I used a 2mm hook and size 10 crochet thread. I believe the yellow is Thread Art and the brown Aunt Lydia's.

The pattern does have a sword belt pattern but many charities have been discouraging weapons and it seemed easier not to add this than to worry about making a sword to add to the project along with figuring out the crown.

I chose the short sleeved option for this outfit and I closed with a snap rather than a button.

Crown:

Chain 30 join

Row 1 sc in each chain and join.

Rows 2-3 sc in each sc stitch.

Row 4 (Chain 3 working down the chain ss in first stitch and sc in last of the chain 3 stitches.

SS in next two chains on crown.)

Repeat ( ) until the end of row and join.

Finish off

Now that I've mastered the crown I think next year I'll change the colors to more royal colors and work on a simple cloak to make the outfit a little more regal.

Rag Doll Nightgown

I'm always thrilled when I finish off a category for the donation and this week I have the pleasure of posting about two. With this nightgown all the dolls now have night wear going into the 2026 donation. I need to get caught up on swim wear but what better time for swimming than the heat of the summer.

This is the same free pattern I use for the 18 inch girl dolls that you can find here.

Notes:

I had bought a bunch of Big Twist yarn when Joann was going out of business for projects like this one. I find it a bit light for the larger dolls but does well with some of the smaller dolls. I realize the brand has been picked up but I'm still working through my stash and have not needed to refill yet. For my own notes this is Jade Green.

I do need to shorten the rows before the final trim rows for this doll. I would trim it back a few more next time as this felt a bit long.

My notes indicated I should use the suggested hook size but that was with heavier worsted. If I used lighter worsted in the future I'd go with the next size hook up.

I finished the back and closed with a snap.

Now to finish off the swimsuits before the fall hits.

Lots to Love 8 Inch Baby Doll Alice in Wonderland

I started an experiment last year that I never got to continue for the donation of trying to translate some of Sweet Silver Creation's 5" doll patterns to fit the Lots to Love 8" baby doll. My first attempt actually was a better fit for the Lil Cutesies doll.

It is a bitter sweet attempt this year as the remaining 8 inch baby dolls I do have will be finished off for Operation Shoebox unless I can find a viable substitute for this discontinued doll. I don't have a huge amount of room for these more detailed outfits so I'm likely going to have to see if these outfits will fit the Lil Cutesies doll to use these projects in the future.

You can purchase the original 5" Baby doll pattern here.

Notes:

Having made the sailor dress last year and finding it was too big for the 8" doll I followed my notes to experiment with the Alice dress.

I calcualated making these dresses for the 8" doll during my last purchase of Premier Basix DK yarn. However, I forgot about black for the shoes so I used Hobby Lobby Sport from my stash. The original pattern for the smaller doll uses size 10 thread so this was all based on experiments from the sailor doll.

I had suggested I try an H hook but I found it was too small for the upper part of the dress so the first three rows are made with an I hook and after making the arm holes I switched to an H hook for the remainder of the dress.

Do to the different size of dolls and fiber I believe I only needed 11 rows for the skirt before working row 17.

I was able to follow the directions for the apron as written.

I used an e hook for the Apron sleeves and played a little with the location.

The back and collar were finished as written but I used a snap to close the back.

The headband required an e hook as well. With the heavier yarn the bow required a little bit of play to get it to form.

This is the first set of tights I've made with shoes for this size doll so I added a picture. I did have to play just a little with the joining to make the final stitch count but I found they worked well. Again these are designed for a smaller doll made with lighter fiber but I was pleased with the outcome.

Lots to Love 10 Inch Baby Doll Moses Basket

I set out to make this one for the Lil Cutesies doll but added too many extra rows to make it larger and the Lots to Love 10 inch baby doll now has its bassinet for the 2026 donation complete.

The pattern for the Moses basket comes from an Annie Potter Presents Sweet Baby Doll Layetter Pattern set that I can no longer get an active link to provide. The blanket is from Darski's BBL set found here.

Notes:

The bassinet is made with Premier Puzzle yarn. The blanket with left over baby yarn of unknown orign.

Note to self that the Lots to Love 8 inch doll needs a G hook for the blanket the 10 inch doll requires an I hook or the blanket is small.

I just need one more bassinet for the Lil Cutesies and these will be complete before my summer deadline.

Stacie Swimsuit

I'm making some real progress with my yearly challenges. I have one more nightgown to make for the Rag doll and those will be complete for the 2026 donation year. I have a considerable number of swimsuits to finish as I pushed through the nightgowns at one point neglecting to alternate with swimsuits.

This is one of Char Caywood's Chelsea patterns that can be purchased here that I've adapted to use for Stacie.

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 twice in the front panel before starting row six to get the length required for this outfit. I have previously only repeated it once but the top felt low to me and I decided to go an extra set and I liked it better.

I chain 40 for the ties. It is always a too short too long thing for me with ties but this seems to be the happy medium for me.

The main color is Herrschners Best Crochet Thread size 10 Dusty Pink. The last few years I've been exploring different brands to get more color options for my doll projects. This is a softer thread but I've had good luck with it for my doll clothes. The contrast is from the sample sized box of size 10 I bought from Hobby Lobby for these types of projects.

Chick in an Egg Sleeping Bag

This is one of Laura Suttcliffe's patterns that can be purchased here that I received for my birthday.

I've collected her patterns over the years as they make delightful small playsets for family. However recently, I've returned to them as she has many that will fit in the Kits for Kids bags and add a little extra to the small stuffed toy. Last year I made the dog with his bed and this year I'm hoping to work through her catalog of playsets to add extras to the bags going out in the Spring.

Notes:

This was made with Big Twist Yellow and Orange and Red Heart Super Saver White. The black is left over Cotton Faire from the finger puppets. The pattern suggests DK but I have a small supply of DK I'm holding on to for doll clothes so I wasn't quite ready to dig into that for my ami projects.

I did decrease the hook size to E as it was too large when I started with a G for the size I need for this donation.

Like the finger puppets I made this in pieces between doll outfits. I've recently started storing the in progress pieces in a plastic baggie until assembly as the small pieces can easily go missing.

I love the way her patterns are laid out in boxes, including the accompanying pictures. I sometimes lose my place in a pattern but these are easy to see just where you are in the pattern.

It was easier for me to assemble body, head and wings. I attached the wings to the body, finished the head and attached the head to the body. This is not the order of the pattern but it made working the pattern easier for me. I finished off by making the tail and adding it.

Other than the order of assembly I followed the directions as written.