Tab-Jointed Cloth Doll 18" Cloth Doll Pattern

This unique cloth doll pattern features tab-joints which are simply extensions of fabric on the arms, legs, and body that attach inside the doll’s torso. The tab-joint is much stronger than a button and thread joint and requires no additional hardware, making it a safe and durable doll for active play.

Because it has the same size and proportions of a standard 18” doll, it can wear 18” doll clothes, shoes, and hats.  It makes a great option for modeling clothing as it can hold a variety of poses and stand unassisted if wearing sturdy shoes.

A simple two-piece jointed head pattern is included, but the body pattern can be adapted to suit a variety of other doll heads included Waldorf types.  Although this doll can be made with a single layer of woven fabric, it is suggested that it be made with two layers of fabric to give the seams a smoother finish and added durability.  The outer skin layer can be made with a knit fabric which allows for three-dimensional details to be incorporated.

Instructions are included for attaching hair wefts, but other preferred hair options can be used instead, including a purchased 11” – 12” doll wig.  Materials for this doll are easy to source and the design is not overly complicated so it can easily be sewn up in a day!  

PDF sewing pattern by Thimbles and Acorns.

TA Pattern #2020-28
PDF Pattern for
18" Tab-Jointed Cloth Doll

Recommended Fabrics: 

Base Fabric in light to medium weight fabrics such as quilting cotton, or muslin. Not suitable for knits. Skin in medium weight fabric such as jersey, interlock, quilting cotton, or muslin. 

Supplies Needed:
Fabric:
   •   Base Fabric ~ 2/3 yard 44” wide fabric
   •   Skin  ~ 2/3 yard 44” wide fabric
Notions:
   •   Thread
   •   Embroidery floss for facial features
   •   1 1/2 yards of hair weft, 11 - 12” doll wig, OR other preferred hair options
   •   Wool or polyester fiberfill stuffing, about 1 pound
Tools:
   •   Sewing machine 
   •   Scissors
   •   Pins 
   •   Fabric Marker
   •   Machine needle for stretch fabric
   •   Hand sewing needle
   •   Blunt needle or point turner
   •   Iron and pressing tools
   •   Forceps for turning, stuffing, and assembly
   •   Thimble

Skill Level:  Intermediate

What You Get: One 34 page sewing pattern that you digitally download as a PDF file so you can start your project immediately! The PDF sewing pattern provides full color step-by-step illustrated instructions and full size pattern pieces. A PDF reader is required to view and print the files (example: Adobe Reader or Preview for MAC). The download link is received immediately after the transaction is complete. Print copies are NOT available.

Download, Print, Sew!

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