Calico Critter Mom Party Dress

This is one of On a Calico Day's Patterns that can be purchased here.

I've been working on the Calico Critter projects as they are quick projects to work on as I'm making the larger more complicated doll patterns. I finished the pants for the Our Generation Boy and the top section for his PJ's and stopped and made this as one completed project.

The longer more complicated projects are important for the donation but there is something mentally relaxing about having something completed and ready to go in a donation bag without multiple work sessions.

Notes:

I tried an experiment that was semi succesful. The 1mm hook was too tight for the top this year so I used the 1.5mm hook. I would transfer to the 1mm hook for the skirt for future projects. I used the 1mm for the trim.

This is made with size 20 thread.

The neckline needs to be reduced as a result of the skipped stiches to create the arms. I've thought about reducing the arms but haven't tried it yet.

Our Generation Boy Doctor

I made this for the Our Generation Boy donation two years ago and decided to bring it back into the rotation.

This is one of Adoring Doll Clothes 18 inch Girl patterns that can be purchased here. It also includes a lab coat but having tried and failed to make it work I've stuck with the scrubs.

This was actually the last picture I took as I finished the main outfit Saturday night and didn't realize until I took the first picture and posted it that I'd forgotten to make the mask. So I stopped working on my post, finished the mask and took another picture.

Notes:

This was madw with Red Heart Super Saver Turqua. For my own notes for future projects it took almost a skein to finish the project. I used a little Red Heart Super Saver white for the mask. The bottom picture is actually one of my notes for this project.

I've always had trouble with shirts that require sewing the shoulder seams together unless there is only one place for the seem to happen. Sure enough this is shirt two as I sewed the seems incorrectly the first time after convincing myself that my first instinct was wrong on where the shirt should be seemed. This picture of the second shirt was a hope that it would remind me next time why the shoulders form the way they do when the seem is made in the correct place.Notes:

Notes:

Pants:

My previous notes about the pants were correct. I needed an H hook and 36 total rows from top to bottom appears to be a good row count. Still playing with tie. 90 chains not enough 120 is a little long. Perhaps 110 next time.

Shirt:

I needed an H hook for the shirt too. The sleeves need a G and the pocket an f.

The short front edges should attach to the outside back edges not the inside ones. I tend to think this and then become certain this is wrong thus the multiple shirts. thus the reason for the picture.

Mask:

H hook for the mask and a D hook for the ear loops.

Hat:

I used an H hook for the hat and I was pleased with the fit with no additional rows.

Shoes:

The shoes were made with the suggested G hook.

Ken Ski Outfit

This is from another House of White Birches newsprint leaflet Crochet Wardrobe for 11 1/2 inch Fashion Dolls from Margaret Funk. I've made this set previously but it didn't make it into the 2025 donation.

Notes:

This was made with Knit Picks Palette Fingering Yarn Rainforest Heather and Custard.

I took advantage of their summer sale to stock up on Palette for my doll projects as my color selection was running low. Until my next order arrives I'm lacking in pant colors.

I've been experimenting with the different sized hooks available to me through my Tulip purchases to see if I can get better fits for some of the doll projects.

I'd previously used a C hook for the pants. This time I used a 3.0mm hook with a wider elastic band as the previous elastic was prone to not staying together. I'd stick with this hook size for future projects.

The sweater used the same 3.0mm hook as the pants. I make two major changes to the sweater. I do one large stripe rather than two small as I found the stripe was lost doing a single row. I also do not decrease the arms at the bottom as I found Ken's hands weren't going through the sleeve. I do ss the sleeves and the pant bottoms to decrease the catching that happens as the outfit is taken on and off.

I had made a note previously about using an e hook for the hat. This Ken has suprisingly wide molded hair and the bigger hook makes the hat fit over his hard head.

16 Inch Baby Doll Summer Dress 2

This is the second summer dress for the second 16 Inch Baby Doll

It is clear since I make it frequently that this is one of my favorite patterns for the 16 inch baby dolls. It works up fairly quickly and I like the way it looks, the ease of getting it on and off, and the ability to make it with different yarns.

This comes from an out of print House of White Birches newsprint leaflet Baby Doll Fashions to Crochet by Margaret Funk. I have noticed this newsprint leaflet and a couple of the fashion doll leaflets popping up for sale if you decide it is something you wish to seek out. I'm on my second copy of this one, although I preserved what I could of the first copy after my now 3 year old puppy decided newsprint made for a delightful chew when he was just a baby himself.

The dress is a 16 inch doll pattern from this book. The hat is adapted from the Bell hat pattern for a 13 inch doll also from this book. The shoes are my go to free shoe pattern from Darski's Peachy Keen pattern found here.

Notes:

This outfit was made with Lion Brand Ice Cream yarn Parafait.

To get this to fit the JC 16 Inch Baby Doll 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 was too large with the e hook.

I started the directions for the 13 inch Baby Doll Bell hat using an e hook and increased the rows prior to creating the brim to account for the larger 16 inch baby doll head.

Using lighter yarn for the shoes requires a J hook to get them to fit.

Lots to Love 10 Inch Baby Doll Swimsuit

The Lots to Love 10 inch Baby Doll was next on my swimsuit list.>

This is a Baby Steps pattern that includes directions for the Lots to Love 10 inch Doll. You can purchase the pattern here.

The version I have has a cover picture of the Baby Steps doll not the Lots to Love doll. I always add this because I find myself thinking there must be another pattern in my binder for this project and there is not.

Notes:

At one of Knit Picks sales I found their Curio size 3 thread and added to my color options. The main color of the suit is size 3 Curio pistachio. The contrast color is Lizbeth size 3 Pastel Petals.

I really like the green for this project.

I used an f hook for everything but the shoes which required an e hook.

Lizbeth was used for all the trims.

A note for future projects I'd consider not doing the trim between the ties next year. I liked the solid green but had made it with the trim previously so decided to go forward. In the future I might drop that trim.

I did finish the legs this year.

Calico Critters Bay Creek Knits Mom Dress

I like working on these projects between other projects as they are quick to finish and add another item to a donation bag.

This is a free pattern found here.

Notes this is made with size 10 thread.

I used two different hooks this year as I found it slightly tight around the arms last year. The Tulip hooks give me a little more room to play with the Golilocks syndrome of being too big or too small. I started with my 2.5mm hook and then went back to my 2.2 after the armholes had been established. I had started with the 2.2 and it was too tight under the arms. However, I've found skirts can overwhelm the small toy so I went back to the 2.2 when working on the skirt.

These are my adapted previous notes on avoiding the surface crochet.

I have never been good with surface crochet so I did follow the directions after row 4 for moving the main color thread back into place to continue the project. However, before starting row 5 I did a row of ss into the front row othe stitch the starting row to avoid having to surface crochet later. I made row 5 by crocheting in the back loops behind ss.

I did not snap a picture of the back of the gown so this is last year's shot as a reminder.

Having used the same colors twice I'm thinking shades of green or blue next year might be nice.

Our Generation Boy Soccer

It seemed a great time to pull out some of Adoring Doll's sport patterns and adapt the girl outfits for the boy doll. With World Cup fever in the air I decided to start with soccer.

You can purchase the pattern here.

My husband is a huge sport fan so I asked him for some help with my color choices. He suggested going with solid blue for the shirt and solid white for the shorts. I wasn't complaining as I really don't enjoy adding the stripes for the shorts as I've done previously for the basketball shorts.

Notes:

I used Red Heart Royal Blue, Red, Black and White for the Uniform. The soccer decal was made using Cotton Fair black and white cotton yarn as I wanted it to be a little stiffer and more like a patch.

Shirt:

I used an I hook for the shirt and my size 2mm hook for the soccer ball decal.

Other than not making color changes and adding trim I followed the directions for the shirt as written without any changes.

I knew I wanted a red stripe and two white stripes for the sleeve so I marked the pattern counting back from the edge of the sleeve the last two rows as white and the third from the end as red. Then I started with the blue.

The pattern gives you directions for adding a number or a soccer ball to the front of the shirt. I'd done the number for the basket ball uniform and really liked the idea of the soccer ball. I chose the ball as I really liked the look of it.

Shorts:

I didn't mark a hook for the shorts so I am not sure if it was the suggested f or g.

Note to myself that row 7 should read 1sc in first 10 stitches.

Headband and Shoes:

I used the suggested hooks for both projects.

The headband worked as written no changes.

The only changes I made for the shoes were adjusting the colors. I had to play with the shoe laces to get them to work. I always find this to be challenging.

Barbie Poncho and Pants

I started picking up Michelle Ratman's patterns for Barbie and the 18 inch dolls a few years ago.

You can purchase the poncho pattern here.

The pants are made using Ken's pants from the Ski outfit pattern found in the out of print House of White Birches Crochet Wardrobe for 11.5 inch Fashion Dolls.

For my own notes this is page 33 and ends on 47. For some reason I was left trying to figure out which pants I had used two years ago. This narrows the hunt down.

Notes:

Poncho:

I've opted to use acrylic for over cotton for her patterns.

I had Unforgettable Gossamer left over from Mermaid projects and I decided to try it out on a poncho for Barbie. I am planning on using the left over Unforgettable Candied I have from making the Lil Cutesies mermaid for a poncho for Skipper.

I used and e hook for the poncho.

My one mistake was not counting each side of the chain 3 points and I ended up pulling out rows which can be a bit challenging with this yarn when I realized the poncho was not even. Once I counted from each side every row it worked out well.

My goal is to continue to use this yarn for the mermaid outfits so there should be enough to continue with ponchos as well. I do like the way the colors work together.

Pants:

The pants require crocheting around an elastic the distance of Barbie's waist for the first row. I recently bought wider elastic as the 1/8 was splitting apart with my hand sewing. While it takes slightly longer to make sure the yarn covers the elastic completely, the wider elastic works better.

This was made with Knit Picks Palette yarn and this year I used a 3.0mm Tulip Etimo rather than my Bates Bamboo C hook as I'm trying to give them a little bit of a break after having broke one of my B hooks and not being able to replace it.

I needed 20 rows to make the legs long enough for Barbie and I finished the legs with a row of ss to help keep the feet from catching in the yarn.

Calico Critters Mom Empire Dress

This has become a go to pattern not only for the Mom Calico Critter but also Chelsea and Stacie. For some reason the Calico Critter patterns seem to adapt well to Barbie's little sisters.

You can purchase the pattern here.

This is made with size 10 thread.

The White is Aunt Lydias and the multi-colored is from a box of Artiste Thread smaller sample sized cones that I buy for these smaller doll projects. I love the color blends that they don't seem to sell as individual larger sized cones and they provide great options for small projects and trims.

Notes:

I had to check this a couple of times because it always seems odd to me I need a larger hook for the Calico Critter than I do for Stacie.

This outfit requires a b hook with size 10 thread to fit the Calico Critter Mom.

Note to self mark the chain spaces. They can be hard to find later.

I finished the back and the top with the contrast color and closed with a snap in the back.

My Life Linda

I made Adoring Doll Clothes' Linda pattern for the Glitter Girl but this is my first attempt for the 18 inch dolls. My warning to self is to read the notes I make on these projects.

You can purchase the pattern here.

Notes:

The important note I forgot to review from the Glitter Girl project is personal to me but DON'T JOIN THE TOP.

I ended up sewing more ends for the Glitter Girl but it is so much easier than trying to guess how to make the top large enough to slip on but tight enough to stay up. I ended up starting with a larger hook, adding a row at the top to decrease when finished and even adding the tie from the Glitter Girl pattern.

All this could have been avoided if I didn't join the back until I reached the skirt allowing the dress to fit better. I love not having to sew butttons or snaps but I hate when a dress is tight or loose so next time don't join. I suggested row 9 for the Glitter Girl I think it will be row 10 for the 18 inch doll.

I used an I hook for the dress and would not need to start with a larger hook if I don't join. I started with 47 instead of 31 chains to deal with the need to slide the dress. I'd like to test this by not joining and see if I still need to change the starting chain count. I used an H hook for the shoes and the purse. The shoes fit well I'd consider an F hook for the purse next time. The purse is a little large.

My note from the Glitter Girl project regarding the shrug is important as well. The directions do work but my brain is always convinced it won't. That note I did read from the blog post I made and just went with it this time and had no issue making the shrug with the suggested hook size.

The headband isn't a favorite of mine so I've skipped it for the Glitter Girl and the My Life Doll.

Stacie Nightgown

I like to mix up my patterns from time to time. Last year I used the same pattern for Stacie's nightgown that I used for Chelsea. This year I decided to try the pattern from the out of print Annie's Fashion Doll Sister and Me 87D21.

I finished the first four rows of the sister pattern and could not figure out where the pattern was going in row five. I tried several times and finally after putting way too much time into a doll nightgown decided I needed another path.

There is a pattern for Barbie's nightgown and it was written by a different designer. I decided to take a look and see if I might be able to adapt Barbie's pattern reducing the number of stitches to Stacie's original pattern and see what happened.

Notes:

This was made with size 10 thread and a 1.25mm crochet thread hook.

After finishing first four rows it took me two tries to work the math for adjusting Barbie's row 3 to be Stacie's row 5. Sadly I didn't write the changes so I'm putting notes here for myself to remind me where to start.

I believe I started with 7 sc chained 5 skipped 7 and then crocheted across the front until I had 14 stitches left. These number aren't exact. I originally started with different numbers these are the numbers I think I changed to but I am guessing. I realized I needed to changed my first effort after trying it on and realizing the dress didn't fit well. I suggest trying that again.

The rest of the Barbie directions aren't stitch count specific so I was able to continue the pattern with the starting count I had for Stacie. I continued the pattern until I was with in the length of the last two Barbie finishing sc rows. I wanted to finish the pattern as written and I had an idea of the length required for the two sc rows.

The big draw back for both these patterns is there is no picture of either nightgown. They both have a picture of the nightgown under the robe set that didn't seem a style I wanted to add to my donation. If I had a picture of the little sister outfit I might have been able to understand where the directions were headed. I'd also have loved a picture of Barbie's nightgown.

I used a chain trim rather than ribbon. I've not had great luck with ribbon and small hands so I've tried to use other methods where possible.

Barbie's pattern has trim for the neck and arms that helped tighten the loose parts of the nightgown that I was hoping to adjust.

Lots to Love 14 Inch Baby Doll Sweetly Dress

Several years back I accidently made this too large for the Lots to Love 10 inch baby doll and it got added to the Lots to Love 14 Inch Baby doll's donation. It doesn't make every donation year but I do keep it in the rotation.

With the exception of the shoes this outfit is made using Darski's free Sweetly pattern found here. The shoes are from Amy Carrico's Spring Pattern which appears to be currently available on Ravelry here. Her patterns come and go so I link them when they are up. I love these shoes with socks for the 14" baby doll and frequently add them to other patterns.

Notes:

I didn't read my previous project notes and confused them with my written notes for the nightgown from this set.

I used Herrchners worsted and Ice Cream Yarn Meringue for the dress. The shoes were made with the Lemon and Bernat Baby Sport Big Ball White.

The dress required an H hook and I added rows for length. I also added the same chain trim to the bottom of the dress that is used on the sleeves.

I used the Lemon for the panties and played with the design as I usually do.

The shoes were made with the suggested e hook as written.

The bonnet belongs to another pattern in this set. It was made with an H hook and as it was a bit short I decided to play with some post stitches.

My Life Kalia Party Dress

This is a wonderful pattern for the 18 inch dolls that works up quickly. You can purchase the pattern here.

Notes:

I made this for the first time last year and I made it a little longer by adding more rows. I must say I like both options. The longer version smooths out the dress a bit but I like this look too.

This was made with Red Heart Super Saver Turqua. The trim was same brand white.

For future planning this took about 3/4 of a skein to complete without adding any additional rows. I had previously used the remains of a Caron Pounder that had been rolled into balls. This is just a heads up when I go to make this again to be sure I have enough of one color on hand.

The dress changes hook sizes as you work it. I started with an I and changed to an H.

This year I needed a 150 chains to get the tie to be long enough. Previously I wrote I did the suggested 100. I couldn't get it to tie this year.

I took the suggestion of starting with an H hook for the shoes and changing to a G where the hook change is suggested. I chose not to add a strap to button the shoe. I sewed the strap down and then sewed the button to the strap.

The shoes directions are listed as shoe one and two as the straps need to be on opposite sides to have the buttons on the outside of the shoes.

The flower button is from the buttons I bought over the years from JoAnn's before they went out of business. I keep pulling from my stash for these projects.

Kits for Kids Little Red Riding Hood Finger Puppet

Back in 2021 I was finishing up a fairy tale phase of ami's and puppets for a family member and I purchased a series of finger puppet patterns that I downloaded and never printed.

The designer is no longer selling in the US but I actually remembered to look for the patterns when I came across her Ravelry listing for the Red Riding Hood pattern here. This link is for my own purposes to keep checking to see if she does begin listing patterns for sale at some point in the future.

Clearly this is not a traditional Red Riding Hood but I do love her red hat. I also loved the idea that it gives the child more freedom to tell more stories beyond Red Riding Hood.

These patterns are incredibly detailed in their directions. The reason I hadn't printed them previously is the number of printed pages. DH took them to be double sided printed for me. I love level of detail. The pictures were specific and helpful for creating the puppet pieces and assembling them once created.

As with many patterns written outside the US the yarn used is not readily available in the US. I chose to use Premier Cotton Fair. I've been picking up more colors for my finger puppets and ami's as Herrschner's has shipping offers.

I had previously used Creative Yarns Sinfonia Cotton but I was looking to try something new. Like many cotton yarns it will split. I had the same challenge with Sinfonia. However, I really like the color selections and I have enough for the first two puppet series I want to make.

I have found working with the small tight stitches can be hard on my hands so this puppet was made in sections. I started with the finger section and kept moving forward. I took a picture of the hair as it took me a few tries to feel comfortable with how it worked out. I'm hoping the picure will help me when I make this again. I suspect Goldilocks may have a similar wig.

Since the head is attached to the finger section of the puppet and stuffed I felt comfortable using safety eyes although not suggested by the pattern.

I have several more finger puppets to make to finish the set. I will continue to make them in sections between Aztec Wishes doll outfits. I plan to start on Grandma next.

Glitter Girl Emry Dress

I made this dress last year for the Glitter Girl and it was a little shorter. I'd return to that length again next time. I think there was a mistake in row counting as I went to add the finishing trim and I believe there are extra cable rows.

This is one of Little Abbee's patterns that can be purchased here. I like it so much I want to get the 18" doll pattern.

The shoes are from an Adoring Doll pattern that can be purchasedhere.

Notes:

I used Knit Picks Palette yarn and I can get almost two dresses from this pattern from one skein. I had to open up a second skein as I finished this year's dress.

This is a note for myself as I don't order Knit Picks as regurally as some of my other yarns. I'm hoping to get some additional Palette yarn at their summer yarn sale. I use this for the Glitter Girl and some Barbie family outfits.

I used an E hook for the dress and shoes.

I marked all chains for this patterns as I found them harder to find when I went back to crochet into them the following row. I had previously marked the button holes but that was not an issue this time.

Adding the buttons before starting the skirt worked for me. The mistake I made regarding the cables was related to moving between this project and another. My counter lost the count.

Chelsea Mermaid

It didn't seem fair to leave Chelsea out of the Barbie family mermaid costume party for the donation but I knew after making Stacie's costume it was going to be more challenging for Chelsea.

I wasn't thrilled with the top I made for Stacie but after flipping through the AG 6" doll pattern set I purchased from Sweet Silver Creations here I realized the Jasmine top would work for my Chelsea mermaid. I would adapt this for Stacie the next time I make her a mermaid outfit.

I'd adapted the free Barbie mermaid pattern to fit Stacie so I was hoping with size 20 thread I could make it work for Chelsea as well. You can find that pattern here.

Notes:

Both patterns required size 20 crochet thread to fit Chelsea.

The green is mint Omega from Creative yarn source. Most of my solid color size 20 comes from them as they have a decent color selection and the cones are larger than Lizbeth.

The main color is Lizbeth 20 Springtime.

I started the tale with a 1.0mm tale changing to a 1.25mm when I realized it was a bit tight. I'd start with the 1.25mm next time. With the smaller stitches and hook I found it more challenging than the previous tales to find the stitches from the previous rows.

After leaving the tale on while I worked on the other pieces it bothered me that it was sliding a little so I added a sc row in the contrast mint and the sliding stopped while still being easy for a child to put on and take off.

The top pattern is not a Chelsea pattern but an American Girl mini pattern so it needs to be adjusted for Chelsea. Even with size 20 thread I needed a .75mm hook to keep the top from falling off her shoulders. The original pattern calls for metalic thread which matches the theme of that outfit. I went with mint to stick with the ocean effect I was trying to create.

Even with the smaller hook the top was still a little loose. I corrected this with the trim sc 2 and the sc tog across the top and bottom. This made the top fit nicely.

I decided on the mint headband with no trim. It likely should have been the main color covered by the mint but I started with mint. When I was thinking about adding the msin color I was concerned the base was not large enough. I'd try the 1.25mm hook for the headband next time.

Lil Cutesies Swimsuit

I've been alternating week by week to finish off the swimsuits and the sleep wear. Up next is the Little Cutesies' swimsuit.

This outfit was made using one of Char Caywood's patterns that can be purchased here. The pattern includes directions for the Lil Cutesie doll and the Lots to Love 8 inch baby doll.

I use the swimsuit, visor, and sandals from this pattern. I do not include the coverup.

Notes:

This was made with Aunt Lydia size 10 a version of yellow and an unnamed multicolored. I suspect they aren't making it any longer as I looked at a couple of colors online and either there were colors that weren't in this thread or they didn't have all the colors in this thread.

I made a note last time I wish I had read before starting this time there are two visor patterns and the one for the Lil Cutesies is larger due to head size. Choose the Lil Cutesie visor pattern to start future projects. I noted it on the pattern as well this time so that should help.

I used a 1.75 mm hook.

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

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

I do a sc around the legs.

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

I chained 50 for the ties.

I noticed there is fluff from a previous project that I cleaned off before putting the outfit in the bag to be put in the Lil Cutesies sorting bag.

Lots to Love 10 Inch Baby Doll Sweetly

I was concerned about the availability of the Lots to Love 10" Baby Dolls after discovering the 8" dolls are no longer available.

I've struggled with the 10 inch dolls even longer often resorting to school supply sites to find them. I was pleasantly suprised to find them online this year not only at Amazon, but Walmart and Michaels. I stocked up as nothing is promised but I thought I'd put that out there for anyone else looking for the smaller baby dolls. Michaels' website says they are only available online.

This dress set was made using Darski's free Sweetly pattern found here. There are several patterns included and I use most of them for the donation.

Notes:

This outfit was made with Bernat Big Ball Sport yarn in Pink and Baby Baby.

From my previous notes I read the panties were long which resulted in needing a longer skirt for the dress to cover them so I started with the panties. I'd previously had trouble with the crotch but this time there was no problem. I just find these are long to fit over the tummy and then create the split for the legs. Followed as written they do create panties, but the skirt as written is still too short.

Having made the panties I decided to finish the other accessories before making the dress. Although, to be fair I redid one bootie and the bonnet on finishing the dress.

These adjustments to the booties work great, but you actually have to follow the complete directions or they fall off. I made the first one as written the second one I skipped rwo 7 and the bootie refused to stay on the doll's foot. I remade it after finishing the dress.

E hook

Complete row 1-3 of the booties.

Row 4: sc in back loops around

Row 5: sc evenly

Row 6: sc reducing 6 times at toe

Row 7: HDC evenly

Follow directions for 8-9

My notes say the bonnet fits as written and I have no idea how. So I'm revising my notes for this year. The bonnet as written is currently sitting on the Lots to Love 14 inch Doll for when I make this outfit for that doll's donation.

I used an E hook for the bonnet.

There was a good deal of adding and pulling out so I don't have a complete answer but I added rows after row 8 until the bonnet was big enough. Then I finished with row 9.

I used 40 chains for ties so this requires chaining 43.

I used the suggested G hook for the dress I'd consider an F for my next attempt as this felt roomy.

In the past I believe I reduced around the arms when adding trim and I did not do that this time. I would do that for future outfits.

I finish the back adding a button hole and later a buttton not following the written directions.

Stacie Penny Brite Dress

Over the years I've kept my eyes out for patterns that might fit Barbie's sisters with or without minor adjustments. There just aren't lots of patterns written specifically for Chelsea, Stacie, and Skipper. However, if you keep an eye out you do see outfits that may work.

One of the first things I learned as I started hunting for doll patterns years ago is height is only midly helpful when looking for doll patterns. Sure when I'm looking for Stacie I don't want a doll that is 18" tall. However, there are a range of 8-9 inch dolls that don't come close to fitting a smaller Barbie type doll. They are shorter but oh so much bigger.

I had seen a few Penny Brite crochet patterns and her body frame looked like it might adapt to a smaller Barbie type doll. She is shorter than Stacie but as I worked through the pattern I realized they have close physical types. Any issues I found were likely more my gauge issues than size issues.

A big thank you to my DH as this was part of a batch of patterns I found in my Easter basket.

Notes:

You can purchase the Penny Brite pattern here.

The pattern suggests a 1.9mm hook and I used a 1.8mm hook. I'd experiment with a slightly smaller hook perhaps going down to the 1.5 although it might be tight at that point.

The dress has a tie at the neck and a snap in the back so despite it being a little loose adding the snap did bring the back together. I did finish the back before adding the snap.

The doll is an inch shorter so I had to add rows to the dress before adding the scalloped final row.

I did make one shoe to see if they'd work but the feet of Stacie and Penny seem to be different. I didn't like the look of the shoe and decided not to add them to the outfit.

Lil Cutesies Mermaid

I have favorites over on Ravelry sorted by doll size or other categories. I generally keep them in those folders after I've purchased or downloaded the free patterns for a couple of reasons.

I go to the folders sometimes to get ideas about what to make next. Sometimes it reminds me of a pattern I already have either free or purchased.

In this case as I opened the small baby doll folder was I surprised to find I had stored a ravelry page of a Lil Cutesies Mermaid available to purchase that I had not yet bought. Since Mermaids have been on my radar I decided to add the pattern to my stash. You can purchase the pattern here.

Notes:

This project is made using Red Heart Unforgettable Candied Yarn and a J hook.

The pattern for the tail was easy to follow and I finished that without challenges.

I had a bit more of a challenge with the top. For my notes I would chain 15 not 20 based on how I decided to put the top together. 22 stitches required me to reduce the arms. Row 2 says turn. I missed this the first time and it forces you to start with a long chain but then begin working a short piece sideways with the chain hanging.

The directions were not clear but as the picture demonstrates below I chose to use the chains as armholes to keep the top on the doll. There were no clear directions for this but it worked for me.

The outfit slid down in the second picture a reason not to rush when trying to get blog pictures taken.

I tried making the headband as written and then decided to be kind to myself. I chained the distance I needed around for the headband and closed it finishing off ends. I then made the star and used the ends of the star to cover up where the headband had been joined.

I repeat what I said after making Skipper's mermaid costume. I love the colors of this yarn I hate how this yarn works. It is really hard to pull out and when you are trying to adapt and change items it is frustrating. It also has a tendency to shed and the fiber shedding is hard to remove before you crochet it into the piece.

Operation Christmas Child Chelsea Sleeping Bag

With this sleeping bag complete I am done with sleeping bags for 2026. I will likely start sometime in the fall prepping for Kits for Kids and Chelsea will need a sleeping bag but since I generally start with the baby sleep sacks it could be a while after that before I get to sleeping bags again.

I was pleased to discover the Calico Critter free sleeping bag pattern works for Chelsea if I make it longer and use a bigger thread crochet hook. This makes it less bulky. For two of the places I donate Chelsea Operation Shoebox and Kits for Kids space is premium. So, when I can make something that accomplishes the same task but takes up less room it is a win.

You can find the free pattern here.

Notes:

I need a 1.5mm thread hook for this project and follow the adult critter instructions with the exception of the length of the sleeping bag.

I believe this is Aunt Lydia's Size 10 Blacklight

Skipper Mermaid

I bought some Red Heart Unforgettable Gossamer for a different doll project but it turned out to be too dark. I eventually found the color suggested in the pattern and will be trying that soon. However, that left me with a supply of yarn to use. While this was not the right fit for my other project I really liked the color stripes for Skipper.

While I love the look of this yarn it is a bit unforgiving. I find it can be hard to frog and this was challenging as I had to experiment with hook size to figure out what would work with this yarn and Skipper.

The suggested hook size for this yarn is J and that did work with my other doll project despite not being a good color fit. I had previously used an E hook with the Caron Simply soft. Thankfully, I was able to save most of my experiments but I did lose some of the chains as they knotted and wouldn't release when I needed to start again with a smaller hook.

You can find the free Mermaid pattern here.

Notes:

I dug out my new Tulip Etimo 2.5mm hook for this project.

Some of my old Bates Bamboo hooks are starting to wear out. I broke a B hook not long ago and decided not only did I need to replace my smaller ergonomic hooks but I wanted to have some of the in between sizes so I could experiment not only with changing fiber but fine adjustments in hook size. Sometimes I do find myself needing something just a little bigger or smaller than what I have on hand.

I started with a 2.0 and jumped to the 2.5mm to get the fit I wanted. I didn't have that option with my Bates Bamboo hooks.

As with my Stacie Mermaid I chose not to make this a pull on top as this yarn was not going to accomadate that kind of stress. I added an additional row to the bottom which let me connect my finished sides without having to do each side stop and do the other. This allowed me more space to add the snaps.

I followed the directions for the tail and fin adjusting for length as this yarn is a bit thinner than the Caron so I had to play a bit more with rows to get it long enough.

Skipper Nightgown

I'm continuing on with my quest to send the dolls out with nightgowns this year.

This was an AG Mini pattern I found from Sweet Silver Creations last year and was able to adapt for Chelsea, Stacie, and Skipper. You can purchase the pattern here.

Notes:

This outfit was made using Hobby Lobby's Artiste size 10 Orchid thread and their size 10 multi-colored thread.

Skipper requires a 1.8mm crochet thread hook to adapt this pattern to fit.

I do not add arms to any of the dolls for this nightgown pattern as it makes it much harder to take on and off.

There are several places for contrast color trims, I only use the trim on the bottom of the outfit. The nightgown closes with ties and I used the contrast color for the ties.

Operation Christmas Child Lots to Love 8 Inch Baby Doll Moses Basket

As I've been researching what to put in my shoebox this year one of the suggestions was an 8 inch baby doll. I decided to dedicate the last of my stash after this year to the shoeboxes as I can't get this doll any longer. There is plenty of room in the basket to store other items being shipped in the box.

This is Annie Potter Presents Sweet Baby Doll Layette for the Moses Basket and Darski's BBL free pattern for the blanket. I have been chasing Annie's Potter's pattern sites for years and I stop now. This is a wonderful pattern set that I rely on for the baby doll beds but I have no idea who has control over her patterns and I won't risk spam sites to try to help people find her patterns any longer. Darski's free BBL pattern is found here.

I've been using up some Premier Puzzle yarn I bought a while back so most of these are going to be the same color until I finish off my supply. The blanket for this is different as it was made with Herrschners' size 3 baby yarn in Thistle.



Notes:

The basket requires a H hook and the blanket a g.

With this one done I need still need three. I will need one for the Aztec Lots to Love 8" Baby doll, the Lil Cutesies doll and the Lots to Love 10 inch baby doll.

My Life Madison Maxi Dress

I looked at my notes from the last time I made this in 2021 and I can't help but think I posted it in a batch of projects because my notes don't really reflect much that helped me when I went to make this project again. I'll try to do better this time.

I previously wrote this was a fairly quick project to make and I'm not sure if I had this project mixed up with another I had made. It is not a difficult project but I made it over a few days while working on other projects as it is more time consuming.

Notes:

Without revealing too much about the designer's secrets this dress is made in two pieces and it requires assembling the top to the bottom and then sewing the back together to get the fit. This in no way is a "quick" make as I noted previously.

The texture of the skirt is beautiful and while I was nervous about how the attachment of top to bottom to would work it was far easier than I expected. I really didn't have any memory of how I made this previously. That's why I make these notes.

Again revealing no secrets but reassuring myself not to panic when I make this again. I also remind myself to set aside time for this project and not to try to complete it all at once. I found it easier to complete in stages and then assemble.

I used an I for the bodice and a G for the skirt portions of the dress.

This is the end of what was either a Caron Pounder or a large Red Heart that I've made several projects from for this donation season. I was playing yarn chicken to finish the last shoe but I have a tiny bit left.

I used the suggested H hook for the headband but had to add rows to get it to fit the head. The flower covers the seam.

The small flowers were made with a C hook and the large flowers with an E hook. I made the suggestion for an E hook after making this in 2021 and if was a good choice.

I needed an I hook to get these shoes to fit.

Lil Cutesies Dress, Hat, and Shoes

I'm not quite as ahead preposting as I was but it is still nice to have a little edge of needing to get something finished and posted.

It is Wednesday as I prepost and I had a delightful experience helping to pack the Kits for Kids bags bags this morning. I was an honor to watch this sophmore kids demonstrate what they are capable of doing with supports in place. They organized supplies to pack 120 kits and having been to different but similiar events I was amazed at how well they had it all ready to go.

I had hoped by going to learn more about what I could offer that would be useful and I have two plans. One is to collect school supplies in the fall to drop off with my Aztec Wishes donation so they will have it for their Spring packing party. Anytime you need school supplies the back to school sales are the best time to get name brands at really cheap prices.

The second is about what to make. I will drop the baby doll and keep the Chelsea doll for next year just do to space. It is a small bag. Then I will focus on the finger puppets, book tie ins, and play sets as the director for the project suggested those were the projects that would work best for the kids they service. I'll keep my dolls other than Chelsea for Aztec Wishes. I have my eye on another Three Little Pig set that would be perfect for this size donation.

Now back to this outfit.

This is one of Petite Designs patterns that can be purchased here.

I just purchased one more of her patterns for the Little Cutesies doll and several Amy Carrico baby doll patterns that I didn't have from Ravelry. I have some of their patterns on wish lists and then those patterns aren't offered for a bit. So, when I find them again I've been buying them. Just a side note as I seem to be wandering today.

Notes:

I have discovered Premier Yarns DK yarn and I plan on adding more to my stash for the baby doll projects. The contrast color is Caron Simply Soft Paint Rose Garden.

A note for future projects this project eats the contrast yarn. I used almost a 1/2 skein of Simply Soft Paints. Just something to consider when planning yarn needs for this next year.

This pattern is written in UK terms. While I can remember that a dc is a sc the htr always throws me and I find myself looking it up to discover it is the hdc. I was able to use the suggested e hook for everything except the first row of the panties which I needed to start with an I hook to get them to fit around the waist. I suggest swithching to an e hook for the remaining rows or the panties become too large. I switched at row 3 and had to make some reductions while sewing the crotch together.

I sewed a snap to close the back without thinking about it. In the future I'd finish the back and do the suggested neck ties.

Chelsea Sleeping Bag

I settled on the free Calico Critter pattern found here for Chelsea after experimenting with it for the Kits for Kids donation.

With this one complete I just need one more for my Shoebox donation and I can move on to the small baby doll bassinets. It feels good to get these finished, especially with two additional donations that require sleeping options.

Notes:

I need a 1.5mm thread hook for this project and follow the adult critter instructions with the exception of the length of the sleeping bag.

The identification for this thread sources seems to have fallen out of the cone so I don't know which brand or color this is but I suspect it is Hobby Lobby.

A note to myself is that unlike the previous pattern I was using where it was obvious the bag was long enough I got the feeling this one was too long and stopped. It does fit but I like a little extra foot room to make it easier to get on and off. Next time I'd ignore my fear and go longer. The thread is tighter than the yarn ones I make and a little extra room is worth it.

This was a great travel project over two appointments. This post is being preposted to the end of the month but as I write this I'm starting the last Chelsea sleeping bag I need as I have an appointment this week where I suspect I can get some rows completed.

Lots to Love 8 Inch Baby Doll Swimsuit

This was made using a free Amy Carrico Fun in the Sun pattern found on Ravelry here.

Notes:

I only found last year's yarn when I finished the project so I stuck with Herrschner's 2 Baby yarn but used the Castle color.

My guage has been all over the place lately so I needed a C hook to get this to fit where I've previously made it work with a B and this yarn.

For my own notes when checking gauge on this project make the bottoms first as this was the quickest way to determine if the yarn hook balance had been reached. When the shorts fit the halter top fit.

The sandals and the visor always have to be fiddled with to get them to work for me. I never write this and then think I must be having a bad year but it came to me as I was working this year that this has always been the case.

I wrote a note to increase the ties as they are tight. I increased to 40 and I'd go to 50 the next time as they are still short.

Stacie Mermaid

I mentioned working on adapting the free Barbie pattern in thread for Stacie and I decided I couldn't wait for my other planned projects. She jumped the line and I was pleased to find with some work the pattern worked for her as well as Skipper and Ken.

I adapted this free Barbie pattern found here.

With some experimentation I landed on a size B hook and size 10 thread.

This is from a set of really small multi-colored Hobby Lobby almost samples that I've picked up over the years for small doll projects and trims.

This required a little more than I'd anticipated as I lost some thread experimenting with the project. For my own notes this was color HD0007.

I'd consider Aunt Lydia's size 10 ocean when I make this again for Stacie. It comes in a much larger cone and I won't have to worry about running out of thread.

Crop Top:

I tried a number of experiments making the top and learned some valuable lessons.

First while I join the top for Barbie and Skipper without any issues moving to thread it become too hard to make this work for Stacie so I didn't join the top and added to snaps to close the top in the back. This was not a huge challenge once I accepted this change was needed.

The second change was needing to add some weight or thickness to the top as going down to size 20 thread didn't fit and not fixing the gaps with size 10 made the arm holes and the snap closing impossible.

To manage this I did row 1 as written.

Row 2:

I dc in the first three and between the first three stitches giving me a start of 6 stitches. Then I chained 3 for the armhole before skipping 6 stitches. The original directions had no chains but I found this made the arms tight and hard to work around. I worked a total of 18 with dc and working between dc stitches. Then I chained 3 skipped 6 stiches for second arm. Like the first side I finished by creating 6 stitches by dc in each dc and between dc.

I followed rows 3-4 as written adapting to new stitch count without joining.

I finished the back edges and added two snaps to close.

Tail:

I wasn't sure how wide the tail had to be to fit Stacie's hips with thread so like all the other stuff I experimented. I made a note to increase to 23 stitches but I suspect going to the directions to 24 would be fine

Width was more my focus than length so unlike Ken and Skipper I failed to note which row I stopped on but I know I was past row 28 before I stopped and moved to row 33.

Fin:

I followed the note I made on Ken's project and stuck to reducing to 10 stitches for the tail. I think for Stacie I might go to 8 as I think it might have joined together better.

Both row 7's are joined. I keep trying to look at the picture to figure it out and there are actually directions.

Ken Merman

I know Mermaid themed dolls can be popular but one reason I avoid buying them to donate is they are some what limiting.

If you tire of the water theme most of them don't have removable tails so the Mermaid doll isn't likely to be easily moved into another play environment.

This isn't an issue for those who buy multiple dolls but for kids where this may not be an option, I try to go for dolls that can be adapted to different pretend options.

I found a pattern for Barbie a few years back and adapted it to Skipper last year. After seeing a Ken Merman doll I decided to try the tail on Ken to see if the pattern would work for him as well and it was a decent fit.

You can find the free pattern here.

Notes:

This is made with Caron Simply Soft Oceana Paints. I don't use lots of Caron Simply Soft with dolls as it tends to split and catch on doll fingers, etc. but this has worked out for the mermaid projects. The original pattern has a solid main color with a multi-color trim but I like this for the whole outfit.

I used an e hook for Ken as I did previously for Barbie and Skipper.

Ken being taller required a longer tail than the notes I wrote for Skipper so I crocheted to row 29 before skipping to the finishing row of 33.

I missed a note I made regarding Barbie's fin so I added it to the pattern now and I'm noting it here to make sure Skipper's fin's are not reduced below 10 stitches as I wrote on Barbie's post they came out better that way.

I'm currently experimenting with thread to see if this will work for Stacie. I will get back to making one for Skipper as I have the notes from last year on making the adjustments for this pattern using the Caron Simply soft that will fit her.

Lots to Love 8 Inch Baby Doll Playtime Romper

I love the look of this pattern but I've struggled both times I've made the top and can't help but think I'm reading the directions wrong.

I caught one mistake and that helped but I'm still finding myself in a Goldilock's dilema that the shirt is either too big or too small. Too small makes it impossible for a child to dress the doll so I opted for slightly large instead of abandoning the project.

I used an E hook until I reached the second row after the arm holes changing to a D. The directions at the top where the outfit is tight are pretty straight forward. I tried adjusting both hook and yarn. I did purchased some additional hooks recently that are between some of my smaller hook sizes and I'm hopeful this might give me some ability to make an item larger without making it too large.

I did realize there is an additional dc I had not realized when I first read through the directions in row 6. This is a reminder to myself to read the directions carefully.

The sleeves were made with a D hook. I tried a smaller hook but it made it difficult to get the arms through. The arms need to be shorter.

I struggled with the hat the last time I made this outfit but this time it worked as written.

The pants required an additional row before splitting for crotch as they were short but I used the suggest B hook.

The booties also were made with the b hook as written.

Stacie Sleeping Bag

While this is posting towards the end of May I'm writing it the first weekend of May on a wet rainy Sunday.

Wet rainy days are great days for bargain hunting which honestly is the only way this doll charity stays functioning.

I looked at my Amazon doll wishlist today to find the 16 inch Baby dolls on sale and stocked up.

I've been struggling to decide what to do about restocking the Glitter Girl dolls as my reserve is low and nothing was speaking to me. The prices have been high and price is important if you want to reach more kids. However, today they had one doll that fit the style of doll I wanted and was about 1/2 the price of the other dolls in the category. I was also able to replace my current model which sadly is out of date and will not accurately model for the current dolls. I hadn't realized that until I went looking for a new doll.

On to the current project. As I post this at the beginning of May I now only have two more sleeping bags to make before the doll donations. Both are Chelsea dolls and going to two different donations. This is a huge weight after last year discovering I had forgotten them in the fall.

Stacie is now the only fashion doll that uses the free Beanie Sleeping Bag pattern found here rather than a combo of the fashion doll and Beanie shells. Her bent arms make the wider sleeping bag a better choice. I experimented during Kits for Kids with using a Calico Critter pattern for Chelsea and I will use that for the next two Chelsea sleeping bags I need.

Notes:

This was made with Herrschners Baby Worsted Stripes a 4 weight yarn. Note to self do not use anything bulkier than Herrschners for Stacie's sleeping bag.

I use the suggested I hook.

Once the pillow and pattern are established I stop counting rows and close when the sleeping bag easily ends over the doll's feet.

Chelsea Nightgown

I decided to start with the smallest of dolls to get back to my nightgown challenge. This pattern is actually an AG mini pattern but I found a series of them that adapt well not only for Chelsea but for Stacey and Skipper with some alterations. Since my pattern supply for Barbie's sisters is low I like when I can find patterns that work across the doll range.

This is one of Sweet Silver Creation's patterns that can be purchased here.

I bought one pattern first to see if it would work for the Chelsea with minimal effort and when I realized it would work I went back and bought her pattern set available here because I already use many of these patterns for the 18 inch doll. I hope to get to more of them this year.

Notes:

To make this work for Chelsea I use size 20 thread and a .75mm thread crochet hook.

For my own reference the pink was Omega from Creative Yarn Resources. The contrast was Lizbeth Wildflowers.

Since I do try to check my notes before starting these projects each year I would suggest going with a lighter color for the primary. I made this in a pale pink last year and liked it better. I thought going with a bolder color would work but rather prefer the pale.

I've made alterations on my paper copy of the stich counts which after row 2 don't account for the row increases in the following stitch count. If I have to reprint at any point it will be important to remember that there are changes to rows 3 and 4.

Sweet Silver has a process of stopping for her arm holes. I always continue as this has never worked for me. Therefore when completing row 5 I need to look at the directions for row 6 and chain 4 for the arm holes or Chelsea can't move her arms. I thought I needed to increase hook size only to realize I hadn't read my own notes.

Skirt

Row 1 was changed to a dc in 2 followed by 2dc around. As written the skirt was too large for Chelsea.

Last year I finished the skirt at row 10 and left a note to continue to row 11.

So now the skirt directions are to follow rows 1-11 then skip to row 16.

Rows 17-18 are done in contrast color.

I do not add upper trim.

The nightgown closes with ties. I chain 40 for the ties and follow directions for ties.

I finished the back in sc before adding ties.

I've never had good luck with crocheting shoes for the fashion dolls so no slippers for Chelsea.