How To Make A Doll Belt

Are you looking for a quick and easy DIY accessory to complete your doll outfits! A belt is the perfect thing to add some pop and style to her favorite dress, romper, or top! 

This tutorial will show you how to create a belt using fabric and a bit of sewing, but you can also use a flat ribbon in a variety of widths and skip all the sewing in Part 1 and go straight to Part 2 for securing the buckle or slide to make this DIY tutorial even easier!

 

Ok, follow along with the full tutorial here:

Supplies

Doll scale buckles, slides, and d-rings can be hard to find! Here are a few resources to help you find what you're looking for.

Option 1

  • 1-1/2″-wide fabric such as microsuede, vegan leather, or vinyl
  • Slide style buckle, 1/2″ wide

OR

  • 1″-wide strip of fabric such as microsuede, vegan leather, or vinyl
  • Slide style buckle, 3/8″ wide
  • 1/4″-diameter eyelet and eyelet setting tool (optional)

OR

  • Small D-rings (set of two) 1/2" inch works well.

All belts

  • Matching thread
  • Scissors or Rotary Cutter
  • Non-stick presser foot
  • Zipper foot

Part 1: Fold and stitch the belt strap. (if you're using ribbon or trim that is the correct width, skip to Part 2)

1. Cut trim to the desired length

  • 15-1/2″ for 18″ dolls like American Girl®
  • 11-1/2″ for 14″-15" dolls like WellieWishers®
  • 9″ for Ellowyne Wilde™ or Barbie®

2. Fold the trim lengthwise into thirds, with the second fold overlapping the first fold.

3. Using a non-stick presser foot, straight stitch 1/8″ from one folded edge, stopping 1/2″ from the end.

Tip: A non-stick presser foot helps the fabric slide under the foot without having to pull to help it along. If you don't have a non-stick foot, you can apply a small piece of scotch tape to the underside or your regular presser foot to create a non-stick surface. Just be sure to only apply it to the metal, don't cover the hole that the needle will stitch through!

4. With the needle down in the fabric, lift the presser foot.

5. Turn the belt to sew diagonally to a point; sew 4 stitches.

6. With the needle down and presser foot up, turn the belt to sew diagonally back to the opposite side of the point; sew 3 stitches.

7. Straight stitch back down the other long side of the belt. When you get to the end, raise the presser foot, pivot, and sew straight up the short end. Backstitch to secure.

8. Trim the ends of the point along the stitching lines, being careful not to cut through the stitches.

Part 2: Attaching the Slide or Buckle

Option 1:

1. Slide the straight end of the belt through the buckle slide, right side up.

2. Fold back 1/2″ toward the belt, wrong sides together.

3. Using a zipper foot, sew the folded end close to the belt.

 

Option 2:

1. Instead of sewing the buckle/slide, you can also use an eyelet setter and punch a hole and secure it with a tiny eyelet.

 

 

Option 3:

Creating a functional buckle closure

Alternately, if you have a buckle with the prong that fits through adjustable size holes, here's how to finish off that belt. This excerpt is taken from the Liberty Jane Motorcycle Jacket pattern,

 

1. After sewing the belt strip, create a tiny "loop" and secure it 1-1/2" inch from the buckle end of the belt.  Then slide the end through the buckle and secure the fabric back to the belt using a zipper foot and straight stitch.

2. At the opposite pointed end of the belt, 1-1/8" in from the end, create markings about 3/8" apart. In this example, we are using 4 eyelets. Using an eyelet setter, pinch the holes through the belt and then secure the eyelet into each hole.

3. Once the eyelets are set, slide the pointed end through the buckle to secure the buckle.

 

Now it's your turn! Are you ready to make your own doll size belt?

How to make a doll belt Pixie Faire

 

 

Looking for other types of belts designed specifically for dolls? Check out these amazing doll accessory patterns from Pixie Faire designers!

    


We'd love to hear from you. Leave a comment and tell us - What's your favorite way to style a belt, an accessory, or for functionality?

Thanks, everyone!

The Pixie Faire Team


100 Comments

Julie
Julie

May 22, 2021

I have been buying cat collars from Dollar Tree and they make perfect belts for your dolls and they are the right size. Sometimes they come with great accessories on the collar to utilize too. Thanks for all your wonderful ideas and patterns I love making doll clothes and accessories to go with them.

Lucy Burger
Lucy Burger

July 28, 2020

I have also used the buckle from old watch bands

Peggy
Peggy

July 20, 2020

I would use a belt to give definition to a loose fitting top. Being a short person, most tops are to long, the belt would help shorten it.

Cristy
Cristy

July 20, 2020

I love making belts to accessorize doll dresses and jeans! Thanks for the tutorial!

Ruth
Ruth

July 19, 2020

I have a plethora of grands and great grands. Lots of opportunities to make doll clothes. As the kids get older, the more important the accessories become. The belt bling is usually a hit.

Erni
Erni

July 19, 2020

Love belts, can be very creative.

SARAH K
SARAH K

July 19, 2020

This swimsuit brings back so many memories!!! LOVE IT……

Pat B
Pat B

July 19, 2020

I make a lot of belts. Most as accent pieces.

Suzanne Hodgdon
Suzanne Hodgdon

July 19, 2020

My granddaughters love dressing their dolls and have been so happy with the things I’ve made for them. Most have been special requests, but the accessories are a real hit!

Lynne Govers
Lynne Govers

July 18, 2020

Hey, I just found a little buckle on an old, worn-out watch band. Will use it on the next belt I make.

Doreen
Doreen

July 18, 2020

I’d make one out of cork

Sandy
Sandy

July 18, 2020

Many doll dresses have an unfinished look where the waistline of the bodice is attached to a gathered skirt (especially if the fabric is the same). A belt is a simple accessory to transform an unfinished look into something extra special. (It also may hide a uneven waistline seam and/or uneven bodice top-stitching). Thanks for the inspiration.

Laura
Laura

July 18, 2020

Love the tutorial. Belts are definitely a fun accessory piece

MARNIE
MARNIE

July 18, 2020

Another example of attention to details. Belts can make an outfit go from blah to wow.

Carol
Carol

July 18, 2020

I made several skirts with belts. It makes the outfit more complete.
Thanks for the tutorial.

Maria L Badani
Maria L Badani

July 18, 2020

Doll use belts as accessory but people as necessity. Thanks for this tutorial!

Marie-Josee
Marie-Josee

July 18, 2020

I don’t know yet, I like to try everything at least once. Wish to win this $50 Pixie Faire gift card!!! I never won anything in contest. Thank you.

Deb
Deb

July 17, 2020

I view a belt as more of a fun accessory.

Jeanne
Jeanne

July 17, 2020

The only way I use belts is when referbish or update something (purse straps,on pillows, embellishments. And of course for dolls. Thank you for the tutorial.

Ramona Adams
Ramona Adams

July 17, 2020

I normally look for thin belts mat goodwill and resize them , also use double fold bias tape for matching belts

designdreamer
designdreamer

July 17, 2020

A belt can add a pop of color to an otherwise plain outfit .

Donna Deters
Donna Deters

July 17, 2020

Belt are for dolls and people too.

Carolyn
Carolyn

July 17, 2020

I look for 3/8" wide grow grain ribbons in small prints to make doll belts.

trudy
trudy

July 17, 2020

I love the bling ones, to add a little color and spice to the dolls wardrobe

Kim V
Kim V

July 17, 2020

For dolls, I think belts are mostly an accessory.

Joy S
Joy S

July 17, 2020

I design belts to match the fabric or a contrast color.

Pat S
Pat S

July 17, 2020

I use belts as an accessory on my doll designs. I use it as a necessity on me!

Char
Char

July 17, 2020

I usually use a belt for an accent.

Julie Robinson
Julie Robinson

July 17, 2020

I purchased stuff to make belts for 18” dolls. So this tutorial came at the right time. I went to Dollar Tree and purchased packages of 6-8 headbands and some were really cute with decorations already on them. I will use some of these ideas to make them now.

Linda
Linda

July 17, 2020

I like belts with long tops. I usually use some ribbon either gross grain or satin.

Sharon
Sharon

July 17, 2020

I wear belts for use. I do have a few outfits where it is just for show.

Sylvia
Sylvia

July 17, 2020

The functionality of the belt really depends what it’s on. If I’m wearing a belt with a dress, then it can be fancy and frivolous, but if I’m wearing it with pants – regardless of whether or not the pants stay up on their own – I’m expecting it to be tough. Or at least for it to be strong enough to hold a sword and some adventuring gear hooked through it.

Judy
Judy

July 17, 2020

I don’t wear a belt but I do like it as an accent on some of my dolls’ clothing.

June
June

July 17, 2020

Thanks for this information. I sometimes find belts and separate buckles at thrift stores and rummage sales and they work great for doll clothes by shortening the belt. Usually pay 25 cents for a belt

Connie M
Connie M

July 17, 2020

I love the belts with the bling buckle! Never thought of using it as a buckle. Thanks for the info.

Bev
Bev

July 17, 2020

I see belts as accesories. They are the finishing touch.

Candra
Candra

July 17, 2020

I wish I could say I use a belt as a fun accessory but functionality is my primary focus. I appreciate the free belt tutorial. Thank you!

BrendaK
BrendaK

July 17, 2020

I have not worn a belt since my waistline “expanded” with age!!! I only make belts for my granddaughter’s dolls if they can be permanently attached to the garment so they are not lost, which frequently happens!!!!

Linda Hinson
Linda Hinson

July 17, 2020

I’m retired, I can’t remember the last time I wore a belt.

Tara
Tara

July 17, 2020

I made a doll belt once! I just used some leather ribbon from Dollar Tree and a small belt buckle.

Karen
Karen

July 17, 2020

I usually use a strip of fabric sewn right sides together along the long ends. Turn and stuck in short ends. Press. Then can tie in a bow in front or back of dress. I also use Velcro to a smaller strip that more closely fits the waist size for the younger ones.

Kerry
Kerry

July 17, 2020

I have lots of belts and love wearing them for both functionality and as an accessory, but I wear them most often with my jeans, so functionality wins… Thanks for the great tutorial!

Patricia Economos
Patricia Economos

July 17, 2020

Great tutorial. Belt making so much easier than I thought. Can’t wait to try making them!

Karen
Karen

July 17, 2020

For belts, I usually sew a strip of fabric together longs sides together and turn right side out. Tuck in short ends and press. Then I just tie into a bow in the front or back of dress. I have also used Velcro to attach the two ends together with a length of fabric that more closely fits the waist. This is easier for the younger ones to use.

CAROL
CAROL

July 17, 2020

I like to crochet or braid yarn or thread for belts. It is so customizable and I like the fringe at the end.

Cynthia C
Cynthia C

July 17, 2020

I would like to make a glamorous belt with one of the bejeweled buckles.

Elizabeth
Elizabeth

July 17, 2020

Can’t wait to try this!

Margaret
Margaret

July 17, 2020

Loved your little tutorial.Thanks so much.Before I got older and things went south….I loved to wear belts.Thick,thin,long with a little twist over the belt, and through the loop.Loved using long scarves as a belt,through my jeans and over my little dresses in my hippy days,now I am showing my age..I never felt like they were an accessory,but I part of who I was.

jackie purchase
jackie purchase

July 17, 2020

thankyou for the pattern I will try it soon .

Karen
Karen

July 17, 2020

I like a belt around the waist of a plain dress…to add some bling, and to accentuate the waist.

DellaSue
DellaSue

July 17, 2020

I would style a belt that would contrast with the outfit.

Vicky Wells
Vicky Wells

July 17, 2020

Belts often make an outfit, haven’t tried them for dolls yet other than simple ribbon with Velcro closure. Look forward to trying more, thanks for the tutorial. Love your emails, patterns, and tips.

Vicky Wells
Vicky Wells

July 17, 2020

Belts often make an outfit, haven’t tried them for dolls yet other than simple ribbon with Velcro closure. Look forward to trying more, thanks for the tutorial. Love your emails, patterns, and tips.

Melinda R
Melinda R

July 17, 2020

I would style my doll belts with little grommets throughout. That was the popular style of belt about 10-15 years ago and I love that look!

Wanda Simpkins
Wanda Simpkins

July 17, 2020

I am just learning how to do belts, so the tutorial came at the right time. I am interested in learning to do the little grommets in the belt.

cindy
cindy

July 17, 2020

glitz for denim

Shaun
Shaun

July 17, 2020

I look at belts like jewelry, to put a finish on the overall look (but I wish I still needed one for functionality).

Ellen
Ellen

July 17, 2020

I have not tried to make a belt, either doll size or people size, but that will change with the tutorial. I am not big on belts, but when I do wear one, it is functional.

Marietta
Marietta

July 17, 2020

My cowgirl leather tooled belt had my name on the large buckle. Great singles bar mixer!

Melinda
Melinda

July 16, 2020

I’ve attempted a couple of belts and was quite pleased with the small cute buckles I found. I like using the belts as an accent to an outfit, or to draw the eyes to the doll’s waist before you focus on the skirt of the dress. Great tutorial you gave. Thank you.

Cindy
Cindy

July 16, 2020

The belts I make are functional.

Karen W
Karen W

July 16, 2020

Mine are functional.

Jo Ann G
Jo Ann G

July 16, 2020

A belt adds panache.

Rachel
Rachel

July 16, 2020

Functional, through the belt loops

Teri Silsby
Teri Silsby

July 16, 2020

Belts as design for dolls and functional for me.

Betty
Betty

July 16, 2020

Have tried several times to make a belt. Threw them away

Christie
Christie

July 16, 2020

I have only attempted decorative belts (that didn’t turn out well) but would love to try a functional one. It would be so cute to make a red leather one especially. Ooh, a braided one with a buckle would be adorable too.

Annlee
Annlee

July 16, 2020

I use a belt for both accessories and function. I like to use leather when making a belt and some time other material.

Barb
Barb

July 16, 2020

The tutorial was very helpful. I think belts are great accessories but can be used to hold up pants and skirts. Thanks for everything you do.

Angela
Angela

July 16, 2020

I like to use belts for accessories. It’s a fun way to add a little extra something to an outfit. And also carry swords around… Thanks for the tutorial!

Tamara
Tamara

July 16, 2020

Thank you so much for the tutorial. I think belts make fun accessories but it’s been years since I used one that way.

Judy
Judy

July 16, 2020

I like the looks of belts on others but I don’t like wearing them!

Roxanne
Roxanne

July 16, 2020

This is really cute. Use belts for both.

Sharon B.
Sharon B.

July 16, 2020

Love all the various options to make a belt – looking forward to trying them all!

Darlene Pruitt
Darlene Pruitt

July 16, 2020

Thank you so much for the free belt tutorial.

Sophie T
Sophie T

July 16, 2020

I usually wear a belt as a function, with my pants. However, I like to wear belts as an accessory with my dresses.

Stephanie
Stephanie

July 16, 2020

I rarely wear belts, but my favorites are the western-style belts.

Jeanne Brosch
Jeanne Brosch

July 16, 2020

Belts are not my favorite piece in my wardrobe….I am only 5 feet tall and it does not make me taller to wear a belt….🤗

Diana M
Diana M

July 16, 2020

I love making hats for dolls, but with this easy tutorial, I will be trying belts.

Lisa
Lisa

July 16, 2020

For dolls, I think belts are a perfect accessory – this tutorial makes it look easy!

Christine
Christine

July 16, 2020

I love to use accessories such as a belt in doll clothing. You can dress up an outfit ad well as dress down an outfit depending on the style of belt used. They are so simple to make.

Carol
Carol

July 16, 2020

Belts are awesome , fun to make and an easy upscale for any outfit. Love the ways to attach the buckles. Thank you for the ideas, keep them coming.

Allison C
Allison C

July 16, 2020

Belts are more for functionality in my world. I love these doll belts and see them being a fun accessory! Just wish I had more time to make them.

Rose Sadzewicz
Rose Sadzewicz

July 16, 2020

I love making belts as accessories for the dolls. My Dad made leather belts with designs on them. Still have several belts he made for me. He died in 1992 so the belts will always be with me even though they no longer fit.

Gail Beam
Gail Beam

July 15, 2020

It depends on what I am wearing. I love belts and have belts for functionality as well as purely decorative belts.

Phyllis
Phyllis

July 15, 2020

I like to make stretchy belts that can also be used as headbands.

Veronika
Veronika

July 15, 2020

It depends on the clothes I wear. :D If it needs help to stay its place, the belt is for functionality. Otherwise I like to accessorize with them. For dolls it’s absolutely an accessory.

Diane R
Diane R

July 15, 2020

For doll size I accessorize with a belt, but for people, it usually is for functionality.

gladys
gladys

July 15, 2020

Belts as an accessory are a great way to perk up any clothes

Beth
Beth

July 15, 2020

Belts for dolls would be great accessories, they could be plain, dressy, or for extra fun, add bling.

Sue
Sue

July 15, 2020

I would accessorize the doll belt with bling. I don’t wear belts.

Shirley
Shirley

July 15, 2020

For doll, most of the time for accessory. They add a great accent.

Sandy
Sandy

July 15, 2020

I love all accessories for dolls! Hats are my favorite but belts come in next.

Sandy
Sandy

July 15, 2020

I love all accessories for dolls! Hats are my favorite but belts come in next.

Daniele
Daniele

July 15, 2020

I am a large sized woman, so I don’t really like belts for myself, but I do like adding belt accessories for my doll clothes. Funny thing is I have a daughter on each side if the question. My Tom-boy wears belts only to hold her pants up, and my crafty girl likes to accentuate her outfits with a belt as an accessory.

Daniele
Daniele

July 15, 2020

I am a large sized woman, so I don’t really like belts for myself, but I do like adding belt accessories for my doll clothes. Funny thing is I have a daughter on each side if the question. My Tom-boy wears belts only to hold her pants up, and my crafty girl likes to accentuate her outfits with a belt as an accessory.

Barbara
Barbara

July 15, 2020

I like belts as an accessory, or decoration. I hate having to use a belt functionally.

Arlene
Arlene

July 15, 2020

I use belts for functionality, hold up pants, skirts, shorts.

Margaret Goodman
Margaret Goodman

July 15, 2020

I think my favorite accessory for dolls are hats.

Beth C
Beth C

July 15, 2020

I love belts as accessories. They really add the finishing touch to an outfit!

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