The 2026 12 Days Of Christmas Start Now!

Janet

January 03, 2026

I usually sew more simple designs because I make them to be played with. Also, I can make them quickly.

Dorothy Le

January 03, 2026

I love detailed designs to show off a fabric or the pattern design
If it’s a simple design. I can show off embellishments

AnnP

January 03, 2026

“Do you enjoy embellishing your projects with fabric manipulation or added details like buttons, beads, or trims?” I like a small amount of detail or embellishment to be a focal point or to enhance a pattern’s focal point (such as a neckline).

Nancy S.

January 03, 2026

It depends on my mood if I go for simple or detailed designs. However, I’m inclined to add details to simple designs many times!

Nancy

January 03, 2026

I go for simple – the eye tires easily if too much to take in.

Leslie Jo Gatti

January 03, 2026

I prefer adding lace or trim, maybe even decorative stitching. I usually don’t have the time or patience to use buttons as embellishments.

Kim

January 03, 2026

Day 10: “Do you lean more toward simple designs or detailed ones—and why?”
Simple, because I don’t trust my skills at complicated things.

Emily

January 03, 2026

I don’t necessarily like minimalist designs, but I do like neat, orderly designs that are not overly embellished. Some empty space allows your eyes to rest.

Lynda Taylor

January 03, 2026

Day 10
For the majority of my sews, I go for simplicity and quicker sews. But every now and again I will go for a more complex design, especially when it is for a special gift or event.

Liza

January 03, 2026

I personally like the more complicated, Victorian or outfits from an earlier time period. I was especially like the patterns that replicate dresses in Renaissance art.

Cindy

January 03, 2026

I lean more towards simple designs because I am usually sewing for a young person. She is not great with buttons but likes snaps. Is not about frilly just plain ordinary.

Madeleine

January 03, 2026

Day 10 – I enjoy a simpler traditional pattern, but do use ribbon, lace, and other embellishments.
However, I am fascinated by some of the historical patterns as I learn how various sewing techniques are achieved.

T

January 03, 2026

Usually I don’t have a lot of time so I like to see a project finished. But on occasion, I like to make special projects with details.

Linda

January 03, 2026

I like both simple and detailed designs. Depends on my mood and what I’m intending to do with the garment.

Deb Gass

January 03, 2026

The more details the better! Beauty is in the details.

Marcy Mahle

January 03, 2026

Actually I like both and it depends on the pattern and fabric used as to if it is a simple design or more complex. Also the occasion will determine how detail or simple a design. I do love patterns and designs with embroidery work or bead work too.

Anne Cox-Espenlaub

January 03, 2026

Simplicity makes complicated garments easier and more complicated garments are spectacular the more simple they appear.

Daynett

January 03, 2026

I like simple for a break, and more complicated to learn.

Sue

January 03, 2026

Tiny dolls tend to need more simplistic designs or they get lost in all the fou-for-all. Too many ruffles and you can’t find the doll! But I love historical designs with all their details. Guess it depends on the doll and what pattern I’m making.

LouAnn

January 03, 2026

I do like simple because it goes fast but I do like a challenge sometimes to learn something new!!

Pam

January 03, 2026

I’m not sure what constitutes detailed vs simple designs. I tend to make clothes that are in the easy to intermediate skill level but I do like to add some detail that makes it stand out. I anticipate that I’ll learn more about this in October.

Laura M

January 03, 2026

Day 10 Simple or More Detailed Designs – I tend towards more simple designs especially as I get older.

Barbara

January 03, 2026

I think that I prefer detailed design. I really love historical clothes for my dolls, so I really love the challenge of the details.

Virginia Goodwin-Gray

January 03, 2026

It depends on the project, although I suppose I lean toward details. Sometimes all that is needed is some piping and pretty buttons. I’d call that simple. When using embroidery and/or lacework I work to keep the design cohesive and proportional to the garment. By limiting the number of design elements used this helps keep the design fairly simple.

Renee Finney

January 03, 2026

I tend to use simple designs and clean lines, but I will occasionally challenge myself with bolder prints and designs.

Renee Finney

January 03, 2026

I like to do simple clean designs, but occaisonally I will try to challenge my self with bolder prints and nontraditional lines.

Julia

January 03, 2026

I like timeless design.

Sue

January 03, 2026

it all depends on the design itself.

Julia Christman

January 03, 2026

I base my sewing off of the fabric and the doll. If I have a fabric that I want to feature I will sew more minimalist so the fabric shines. If the fabric is telling to do go all out, then all out it is!

Diane G

January 03, 2026

I lean toward simple, clean lines, with minimal embellishments. I like simplicity. Too much detail tends to look fussy and get in the way of functionality.

Sharon (Sandy)

January 03, 2026

The size of a doll can influence the fabric selection and the number of tucks, buttons, lace and ribbon, lace, etc. A small doll (Paola Reona) does best with simple lines and trim. (Love U Bunches Polka Dot Party Dress is a perfect example of showing off a line design with little trim needed.) A larger doll (18" American Girl) can pull off multiple designs and trim (Thimbles & Acorns 1850s Evening Dress) and still be in proportion and not over done for the story the pattern has to tell..

Crystal

January 03, 2026

I tend to lean more toward simple designs, mostly because I have chronic pain and can’t sew for very long at a time. Once in awhile I find an intricate design that calls to me though!

Sharon

January 03, 2026

I do tend to like simpler designs that are easy to understand and make. They are also easier to mix and match outfit-wise. I will do more complex ones for a challenge.

Lorraine

January 03, 2026

Depends on if the outfit is for a very young girl to play with then simple and easy it is, Older girls like more elaborate things

Brenda

January 03, 2026

Simple, but not plain. I do like details, but they need to harmonize- tone on tone, or things like pintucks that don’t add an additional color. I used to do a lot of heirloom sewing for my daughters, and I found that I often left off one or more of the designer’s details because while I loved the patterns, they were often a step or two too far for me!

Karyn

January 03, 2026

Simple design vs. elaborate design: the world is big enough for both. I let my fabric decide. I love prints, and fabrics with designs woven in. Simple designs display these elements better; more elaborate designs can look “busy” to the point of chaos.

Jen L

January 03, 2026

I do love the tiny details of history gowns.

Kitty

January 03, 2026

Simple designs with a lot of added details is often what I end up sewing.

Marcia G

January 03, 2026

I generally look for a simple design because I am not confident in myself. Recently I have been trying my hand at a little more design with the encouragement of my husband, friends & parents

Dorothy

January 03, 2026

I lean more toward simple designs. I want to see the lines of the pattern, the color and details in the fabric. Too Much of everything may ruin the outcome.

Chantal

January 03, 2026

Day 10: i prefer a simpler design to a complicated/detailed one because my fingers are clumsy and i have limited time for hobbies.

kathy m

January 03, 2026

depend on what Iam making if I challenge I do detailed pattern to learn new technique or fun I do a simple pattern

Julie

January 03, 2026

Most of my doll clothes making is for donations. So, I guess I keep it more simple rather than real intricate.

Syndi

January 03, 2026

I lean more toward simple designs but I do love the detailed ones. I have mostly detailed ones in my own collection. My customers order both. Seasonally though they tend to order detailed or more elaborate outfits.

Alita Shaver

January 03, 2026

I often sew simple things because they’re easier for little girls to play with, but I think I prefer some gathers. I like lots of tiny details. The real problem there is that while the pattern pieces have gotten very small, the fabric is not any thinner. That means tiny details can end up looking bulky and indistinct. Often, especially for a doll like Barbie, I substitute embellishments for details.

Jackie

January 03, 2026

I like simple lines with the details worked into the garment, not necessarily tacked on later as an afterthought. For example, if I am making a simple high yoke dress for a Sasha girl doll. Am I going to make it ankle length, or tea length, or short? Long puffed sleeves or short? A tiny checked or plaid gingham with a row or two of smocking just below the yoke and maybe at the ends of the sleeves too and a row of feather stitching above the hem? Shall I choose a deep rich color of corduroy and gather the ends of the sleeves into cuffs the fasten with snap fasteners? Or maybe with buttons? Or should the sleeves end with little self ruffles? With or without narrow lace? Should the back of the dress fasten with snaps or buttonholes or button loops [which don’t take as long as you might think] Will there be a little Peter Pan collar?Or maybe a separate collar made of a round doily?Or maybe no collar at all?All these and other design choices with one simple dress pattern! I like to add to that an even simpler pinafore. The kind that is flat and crosses in back,;Fully lined. Therefore reversible! One seam. Two buttonholes. These are not nearly as popular as they deserve to be.I have made this type of pinafore in every size from 4" doll to real-little-girl. I’ve made this simple garment with functional pockets on both sides. I’ve used a holiday or seasonal print on one side [EG tiny hearts or shamrocks] and something more general to coordinate on the other. But look what can be done with those 2 simple garments: three looks! Dress with Side 1 of pinafore, dress with side 2 of pinafore, and dress alone. Simple wardrobe planning for dolls..

Bev

January 03, 2026

I lean toward details, such as stitching and small buttons and trims. I enjoy the minimalist designs as they are great for keeping their value to the wardrobe by not becoming outdated.

Carola

January 03, 2026

I love more complex designs and lean strongly towards historical dresses… but I’ll grab a simple one when I just need to get something made

marti

January 03, 2026

I like to have a lot of detail such as piping etc. but I like it subtle. I like to have one really good focal point, not a confusing mess

Susan

January 03, 2026

I tend to do more simple designs, as they are so much quicker to complete. BUT, I like more detailed ones as they are so much more lovely and give more of a sense of pride in completion.

Hannah

January 03, 2026

I tend to favor simple, clean lines. Not really a ruffles and frou-frou person

Penelope

January 03, 2026

When selecting designs I always look for a classic design that will stand the test os time. I feel this is accomplished by using styles that have a basic outline that is emphasized be the fabric selection.

candy

January 03, 2026

less is always best

Ellen`

January 03, 2026

I like the simple designs the best as they tend to go with the little girl outfits of which I do the most. I am planning on starting some historical designs, so we’ll see how the details go!

Marie

January 03, 2026

I prefer historical or fantasy designs, so maybe that means “ not simple”… but the design details stand out better if there is visual space between the ornamentation.

One tip is if you go monochromatic, you can do more froufrou and have it look balanced.

Tiffiny

January 03, 2026

I like complex designs but can’t make them so simple is best for me.

Linda

January 03, 2026

When I need to make a lot for some child, I will often go for the simpler design. When I have extra time, will go for more complex designs.

Lynn Gallager-Vallejo

January 03, 2026

When sewing for dolls, proportion is crucial, but sometimes you have to adjust for visual appeal.

candy

January 03, 2026

I like to see the design lines of the pattern so I’m going with simple.

Lisa G

January 03, 2026

I love the simple designs. If the pattern is too complicated I get frustrated & I put it aside for later and consequently, never finish the project. (I have lots of UFO’s). I gravitate towards print fabrics and with too many details the item becomes very busy, looks wonky, waste your time, and ruins the design. :-(

Tanya Walker

January 03, 2026

Generally speaking I lean toward a midrange minimalism. A bit more added to a minimalistic design or tone down a more involved or “fussy” design. Like a fussy minimal design or minimal fussy design. Make sense? Although it sounds like it could be the same but it’s worlds apart!!

Maria

January 03, 2026

I love detailed designs when I sew for dolls because they are so small, it is easy to get lost in the visual appeal.

Charlotte

January 03, 2026

Simple, generally at least. Dolls are a small canvas and can be easy to overdo.

Nadine

January 03, 2026

Minimalism is not in my vocabulary! Only in size, definitely not in style!

Cora

January 03, 2026

I prefer the detailed patterns, like Cleopatra. I used many beads on her headpiece. I used Egyptian trim for the dress, arm bands, and shoes, which also used real leather. My Medieval group had a princess, knight with all the trimmings, page, and horse. I received a blue ribbon for Cleopatra and a red ribbon for the Medieval group at this years KY. State Fair.

Sue D

January 03, 2026

I like simple designs—it is just my style in most things I do.

Trish Glavin

January 03, 2026

“ Do you tend to prefer high, natural, or dropped waistlines in your designs?” I don’t really have a preference. I’ve been making 1960s sheath style dresses – no waistline at all. Before those, I made eight prairie/pioneer style dresses with natural waistlines. Last year I made a bunch of 1920s dropped waistline dresses. The only waistline I haven’t made yet is a high waist one (Regency/Empire style). I think it’s because when I look at images on pattern fronts of these high waistline dresses on patterns, it looks like the dress just sits at the natural waistline which ruins the Regency appearance. Thank you!

BrendaK

January 03, 2026

I learned in a sewing class that you should chose simple patterns and very good fabric to make very well made garments. I f you choose a complicated pattern which is more difficult that your skills the result may not look like you wish.

Theresa

January 03, 2026

It depends on the project where I use simple or complex designs. Sometimes it depends on the fabric design. A simple fabric can withstand a more complex design while a busier fabric will cause the design elements of the pattern to be completely lost.

Cindy D.

January 03, 2026

For production and children’s charity projects, minimalist/simplest is fastest. Numbers count rather than the detailing. For my own dolls, the more details the better! Embroidery, tucks, tiny laces, crocheted edgings, lots of hand-stitching. Also depends on the period depicted. Fast sewing for snaps, hooks/eyes, buttons, etc. is to use 4 strands of thread in the needle. Two arm-lengths and double that, both cut ends through the needle eye at the same time using a needle threader, then pull so all four threads are even, and knot. One stitch is actually 4 threads, the same as four times through. Do not recommend it for sewing seams and hems as it’s too much thread.

Tamara

January 03, 2026

I like a blend of the two. Pixie Faire’s motorcycle jacket is so detailed that I am amazed that I made it. But I would pair it with something simple to make it shine, for example

Sarah

January 03, 2026

Detailed, unfortunately. I love precision and little details in the finished product.

Anne

January 03, 2026

I go for simple designs – I am a simple person!!!

J.J. Goody

January 03, 2026

Right now I’m working on a soft doll and trying to remind myself to be simple and not make things hard with many details as I often do.

Heidi

January 03, 2026

Detailed to a degree. I don’t like to overwhelm the project.

Jennifer

January 03, 2026

Simple is better. Higher chance of success! 🤣

Mary

January 03, 2026

Simpler designs let a particular fabric stand out. They’re also good for fabrics like fleece that pretty much demand simple designs.

OTOH, something detailed is always a fun challenge to get all the details right.

Ruth Ann

January 03, 2026

“Do you lean more toward simple designs or detailed ones—and why?”
I tend to work with fairly simple designs, especially when I want to make several to give away or donate to a craft sale. I do try to use some trim or buttons to jazz things up a bit.

Beverley

January 03, 2026

Simple is better.

Betty

January 03, 2026

Simple or detailed…it depends.
I love detail, tailoring, fitted, lots of pieces, pockets and such but they take longer to sew and precision matters….it things go wrong, I get discouraged and don’t always finish….but when I do overcome any obstacles….I love the look….I am thinking though that it can done well w/out overdoing the bling such that the finished look can appear simple or classic and clean.
I chose these when I’m at my best….feeling rested and happy….I avoid these when I am too tired or feeling stressed or anxious as I’m more apt to make stupid mistakes or be impatient.

Simple projects are nice because I can finish quickly and easily….Makes me feel good to finish a project….I choose these when I am tired or stressed and want relax, unwind or calm down.

Lori

January 03, 2026

Do you lean more toward simple designs or detailed ones—and why?” – Detailed designs because I love historical clothing and there are a lot of details involved with those designs.

Jacquie Corrigan

January 03, 2026

I like both simple and detailed designs – but lean towards details. Often with detailed designs there are techniques used that I can use some guidance with, and I like that!

Mollie Bradford

January 03, 2026

I love trims and embroidery! I also love lots of detailing in the pattern too. I guess I lean for more, not simple lol.

June

January 03, 2026

I love both but usually do simple designs with great fabric, but I do detailed if I find a pattern I really like. I try to watch what the girls are wearing because that is what they seem to want their dolls to wear too. Some are simple, some are detailed.

Karen Kulin

January 03, 2026

I think I generally let the fabric decide, but I prefer more simple, classic items usually. I’m going through my sewing room and trying to use fabric I’ve had in cabinets, crates and drawers for way too many years. I’ll never use all of it, but I’m having fun making clothes for my Granddaughters AG doll sometimes using left over fabric from something made her mother or aunt too many years ago.

KathyS

January 03, 2026

I love simple designs for easier dressing for you get kids but love the intricate designs also. Am trying to get me a room where I can just sew without the clutter.

Sue N

January 03, 2026

Day 10…..I pick simpler, clean lined designs that let the fabric shine. So much fabric to use, so little time. I love making multi-garment outfits. Trying my hand at capsule wardrobes. For this, simpler designs work well. They let me concentrate on creative touches….notions, colors, texture contrasts, embellishments, and accessories.

Jenny S

January 03, 2026

DAY 10: I prefer more simple designs but picking fabric that is beautiful! If you’ve made a great choice in fabric, too many extra details or embellishments can take away from that!

Jenny S

January 03, 2026

ĎAY 9: I’m inspired most by fancy, special-occasion designs. They are beautiful, elegant, and look amazing on-display!

Linda

January 03, 2026

I tend to lean toward simple designs. However, doing a more intricate or complex design keeps me from being bored with sewing doll clothes.

Sabrina K

January 03, 2026

I love detailed designs, but that’s because I have always tended toward more complicated things. Lately, though, I want to make things quickly, so I aim for the more simplistic designs.

Darlene Harper

January 03, 2026

I love the details in your designs! Thank you for taking the time it requires for these smaller designs.

Thresea

January 03, 2026

Depends on the occasion or the look that I have in mind.

Clarissa

January 03, 2026

I like lots of detail. Started sewing around 10, making my own clothes at 12. Taught myself to knit at 20 and am now 80. Love to hand sew details (sewing machine is for basic seams) and knit using circular and double point needles. Have knitted probably 100s of pairs of socks for 10"- 21" dolls in cobweb to fingering yarn and family, too. Actually love to sew on snaps- 3 buttonhole stitches in each of the four holes, the way my mom taught me. Made doll to queen size quilts, hand quilting, 20 stitches to the inch on doll quilts. Was very happy to find this site and save time for sewing and knitting instead of designing from scratch.

Bettie

January 03, 2026

A lot depends on the amount of time I have to complete a project. I like simple and easy designs when I don;t have much time. More detailed complex designs when I have lots of time and don;t need to hurry. The little girls I sew for like easy patterns to dress their dolls and lots of bling.

Michele A

January 03, 2026

I like variety. I appreciate patterns & eras that call for simple, streamlined design, as well as, very detailed patterns/eras that call for more details, layering or embellishment.

Sewbig

January 03, 2026

Day 10 —“Do you lean more toward simple designs or detailed ones—and why?”

I probably enjoy the more detailed designs. I’ve been sewing for 18" dolls for a quarter of a century (sounds like a lot more than 25 years, doesn’t it!). I’ve sewn most of the simple designs. But I love the themed collections. Wait til you see the new outfit I’ve been working on! Trims, embroidery, beading, all kinds of interesting new details! A challenge! Pattern coming soon…

Christine

January 03, 2026

There are designers that inspire me more than others, but I appreciate everyone’s efforts. I’ve always been most inspired by the pioneer era, historically, but also the historical outfits in the periods after that thru the 1900s as well.

Bonnie

January 03, 2026

I actually like both simple and detailed, because it depends on the time i have to create the pattern. I also like to add to simple designs. I will use a basic pattern and then add embellishments, like hand appliques, sequins, rick rack etc. I love construction, also, so that is when i will use a detailed design, but that is when i will need more time to create it. I also, like to try a technique i haven’t tried before. FYI, i would like to see more raglan sleeve style dresses/outfits as they are a great simple design for smaller dolls.

Susan Griner

January 03, 2026

I lean more towards detailed designs. I don’t care about classic, timeless designs; I care about details and extravagance