How to Sew Adorable Doll Costumes

Doll Costume Dress Up book, Learn to sew doll costumes. Sewing With Nancy Zieman

How to Sew Adorable Doll Costumes

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This week’s Sewing With Nancy online TV show is on sewing costumes for dolls. What little girl hasn’t envisioned being a princess, super hero, or even a mermaid! Make believe play with 18″ dolls dressed in costumes is a great way to foster a child’s imagination!  Joan Hinds, doll clothes designer and author of Doll Costume Dress Up, which includes 20 patterns, is my guest for this new 2-part Sewing With Nancy series.

Lilac Fairy or a Ballerina Costume

Fanciful costumes are easily made with small pieces of fabric and trim, yielding creative results. The Lilac Fairy is our first doll dress-up idea. A combination of netting, stretchy knit, and a little time will result in a costume made to spark imagination. Learn how to add elastic in small spaces and even stitch over wire!

Doll Costume Dress Up book, Learn to sew doll costumes. Sewing With Nancy Zieman Once you know a few sewing basics, a Ballerina could be your next doll costume!
Doll Costume Dress Up. HOw to sew doll clothes and costumes. As seen on Sewing With Nancy Zieman

Cinderella, Bride, or Southern Belle Doll Costumes

Be the fairy godmother for your little girls’ doll when you create one of these lavish gowns. Satin fabric with sequins and rhinestones add the glam, you add the magic! The sewing steps for these three dresses are very similar. with flat construction for ease of sewing and playing. Which one will you choose?

Doll Costume Dress Up. How to sew doll clothes and costumes. As seen on Sewing With Nancy ZiemanDoll Costume Dress Up. How to sew doll clothes and costumes. As seen on Sewing With Nancy ZiemanDoll Costume Dress Up. How to sew doll clothes and costumes. As seen on Sewing With Nancy Zieman

Mermaid Doll Costume

Your little girl’s doll will look swimmingly in Joan’s Mermaid Costume. Seguin fabric, glittery and pompom trims, plus clever patterns make short work of this imaginative costume. I can’t wait for you to see how to sew the fish tail!

Doll Costume Dress Up. How to sew doll clothes and costumes. As seen on Sewing With Nancy Zieman

Watch Doll Costume Dress Up(Part One and Part Two) on Sewing With Nancy online.

Doll Costume Dress Up. How to sew doll clothes and costumes. Sewing With Nancy Zieman

 

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206 Comments

  • Mary Jo Pigott groom
    October 23, 2014

    I would make the bride costume first. I remember wanting a bride doll when I was a little girl.

  • Lisa Klutman
    October 23, 2014

    i would make the fairy costume because it would be a favorite of 2 little girls.

  • Melanie Leigh
    October 23, 2014

    Love all your ideas and supplies. Love to make doll clothes.

  • Barbara
    October 23, 2014

    They are all so darling. Hum….I think the fairy outfit might be the first one to make.

  • Kathy Brandenburg
    October 23, 2014

    I love the mermaid costume. Such a clever idea!

  • Kristy Williams
    October 23, 2014

    I think the Fairy would be the first outfit followed by the Princess. Need to make these for my Granddaughters.

  • Joanne K
    October 23, 2014

    I sew doll clothes for the Salvation Army toy shop and, although I love all the patterns pictured, I know that the mermaid costume would be the most sought among parents choosing holiday gifts for their children. My favorite, however, is the bridal outfit. Thanks to Joan for designing so many lovely and easy patterns for the dolls and to Nancy for showcasing her creations.

  • Sally Siegner
    October 23, 2014

    I love to make clothes for dolls. I have used Joan’s book on smocked dresses for dolls. Unfortunately my grandchildren feel that they are too old for dolls but soon there will be great grandchildren! All,of the costumes are so precious but I think that my favourite is the bridal outfit.

  • Pam
    October 23, 2014

    I would make all of them.
    My Grand has two AMDolls and she loves dressing them up!

  • Teresa
    October 23, 2014

    All of them. I am starting a charity program named
    Stork Dolls for underprivileged girls at Christmas.

  • Kathy Tripp
    October 23, 2014

    These dresses are so beautiful! My granddaughter would love having them all! I can see her going for the fairy or ballerina one first! She is a gymnast so without the tulle it might become a gymnastic outfit!

  • charlotte rule
    October 23, 2014

    Ive been wanting to make a bridal dress. I have the other books on making doll cloths ,They were such a help. Would love this costume book.

  • Karen Romberg
    October 23, 2014

    LOVE all the dill dress patterns featured!
    The most favorite is probably the bridal dress
    as it so reminded me of the the bridal dress & veil my mother
    made for my doll 65 years ago. Great memories

    I, too sew for my granddaughter who absolutely
    loves all the frills. Ruffles, lace & glimmer!!

  • Kimberly S
    October 23, 2014

    I would make the southern belle outfit for my daughter’s two dolls. It’s lovely, and would look wonderful in blue. 🙂

  • Laurie Klinkhammer
    October 23, 2014

    I just made my granddaughter an Elsa dress for her Halloween costume and dress up. I think I’ve enough fabric left for a southern bell dress. Then both my granddaughter and her doll can play dress up.

  • Doris
    October 23, 2014

    Little ones are in my future and this would be a great resource.

  • Stephanie Jackson
    October 23, 2014

    I would make them all (eventually). My little girl is 3 and we are just getting into the joy of dolls! I’m off to watch the episode online so I can know what I am doing and be successful in my doll costume making!

  • Sheila Green
    October 23, 2014

    I have all of Joan’s other books. She is amazing. I would love to make the southern belle for my grand daughter.

  • Patty ONeal
    October 23, 2014

    The Southern Belle dress is my first choice for my granddaughter’s doll. My granddaughter would enjoy having her doll wear it. However the next choice is the mermaid beach outfit because my granddaughter loves the beach and the outfit is unique.

  • marie hannagan
    October 23, 2014

    I have three great grand daughters and I have always sewed for them. Would love to have the Doll Costume book. I even have my own doll, they think its great that we sew for my doll too.

    Marie Hannagan

  • Gail Moore
    October 23, 2014

    I have all her books except this one and I would love to make the wedding dress!

  • Janet Ross
    October 23, 2014

    The wedding dress reminds me of the wedding dress my mother made for my Revlon doll. I would love to make them for my granddaughters’ 18 inch dolls to give them memories like I now remember.

  • Ginny Baron
    October 23, 2014

    I have 4 granddaughters that LOVE dolls and dressing them. I would love to continue in their great-grandmother’s footsteps by making my own beautiful clothes for them. This book certainly has many great options to choose from!

  • Janice
    October 23, 2014

    I would love to make all of them! My five-year-old granddaughter plays with all of her many dolls each day. These doll dresses would make her so happy.

  • Mary Cleaver
    October 23, 2014

    I would make them all but start with Elsa. Wonderful outfits! It would be fun to sew matching outfits for my grand daughters. 🙂

  • Gloria
    October 23, 2014

    I’d begin with the mermaid an go from there. My Grand has a gift for swim and lines her American Girl from Hawaii 🙂

  • ann santistevan
    October 23, 2014

    Twin baby girls in our family love their tootoo’s. To see their dolls with tootoo’s would send them into euphoria!

  • kim
    October 23, 2014

    I have not little girls but love to make clothes for dolls for others. The Southern Belle costume would be great to make.

  • Suzanne D
    October 23, 2014

    The Southern Belle, with a Gone With the Wind type fabric will be my first try

  • Jeanne Nava
    October 23, 2014

    I would make the lilac fairy because any shade of purple is my favorite color and I just love the whimsical look of this design.

  • Tina
    October 23, 2014

    I have another book of patterns by Joan Hinds and really enjoy making doll clothes from it for my daughter. Her construction techniques make it easy to do without frustration of sewing a small garment. I would make the fairy costume.

  • Frances Arnone
    October 23, 2014

    Miss Nancy, would love to make the Cinderella, Bride and Southern Belle dresses for my 10-yr-old granddaughter who has the American Girl doll, Marie Grace from New Orleans
    . Those outfits would fit perfectly into the historic timeline which my granddaughter studies and respects, thus being appropriate attire for Marie Grace. All I would have to do is make tad longer sleeves for the Southern Belle. If I had the book, my granddaughter would be thrilled with the dresses for Marie Grace.

  • Betty Reinwald
    October 23, 2014

    I was at a pumpkin festival this past weekend and so enjoyed watching the young ladies’ faces light up when they saw my booth with my dolls on display outside the tent and looking at the clothes on the display racks. These lovely gowns would be a great addition. I met a very mature 11 year old who doesn’t live far from me and who is interested in learning to sew that I will probably be mentoring and giving sewing lessons to. Heartwarming!

  • susan Bass
    October 23, 2014

    hi nancy, Great outfits,cute as can be.Wish they were alittle larger for my one yr. old grand baby, they would look so cute for play time or Halloween?Just a thought.Love your new ruler,thanks for sharing it with us!

  • Ann Bentley
    October 23, 2014

    All of these patterns are adorable, but the Cinderella dress would also work great as an Elsa (Frozen) outfit. My granddaughter would go crazy for this one.
    Thanks again for such cute patterns.

  • Martha
    October 23, 2014

    Being from Tennessee I just love the “Southern Belle” costume. However, all of them are adorable. I have made some outfits following Joan’s patterns and they are so much simpler to follow. My granddaughter has five 18″ dolls so grandma had to outfit all of them. My granddaughter dresses them for daytime and each night for bed.

  • Patricia DeLancey
    October 23, 2014

    I would make the fairy costume for my granddaughter because she was Tinkerbell for Halloween a few years ago,and reads fairy stories ALL the time. Then I would make all the others for her because they are so cute!

  • Polly
    October 23, 2014

    I would like to try the ballerina costume, in brightly colored swimsuit knits.

  • nancy in IN
    October 23, 2014

    I’d make the ballerina as my grand take ballet lessons.
    All are so cute.

  • Sandy Kahler
    October 23, 2014

    Cinderella as my granddaughter collects Cinderella items, It would be nice to be part of her collection.

  • Katherine Weaver
    October 23, 2014

    I would make the Southen Belle dresses. I am from Louisiana, and now living in Georgia. That era was an important part of our history. I have a granddaughter who will be ready for American Girl Doll in another year or so. My goal is to make a box of clothes to go with her doll. I also do craft festivals, etc. I love hearing the girls that come by my table oooo and ahhhh over the outfits I have on display. I don’t do but a couple a year. I am retired and sewing, crochet, and knitting fill my days now. It gives me a purpose.

  • Mary K
    October 23, 2014

    My granddaughter and grandson both play with the 18″ dolls and dress them up all the time. I would love to learn how to make doll clothes and this book looks like the way to start! Thank you for sharing your wonderful ideas and introducing us via the internet to all these wonderful resources! Happy sewing!

  • Paula
    October 23, 2014

    I love dolls, always have. I would make the mermaid costume. Just so out of the ordinary and blingy.

  • Nancy Aldrich
    October 23, 2014

    Hi Nancy,

    Joan has done it again with such cute costumes. I’ve made the ones from 30 Minute Doll Clothes and Doll Fashion Studio. Plus, I’m just getting ready to make some matching doll/little girl outfits from All Dolled Up. My niece was a very disappointed little girl when she didn’t get a mermaid for her birthday so I’d have to say the mermaid costume will be the first costume I make from Doll Costume Dress Up.

  • Carole Buerman
    October 23, 2014

    I would make the fairy dress as I think any little girl would love this (and probably want a matching one for herself). By the way, I watched your video on how to make three simple dress and the timing was perfect. I need to make a few outfits for a charity.

  • Carol
    October 23, 2014

    Hard to choose but I think sewing the bridal would be something any young girl would love to have to play with her doll!

  • Janet Cook
    October 23, 2014

    I would make the fairy costume(so cute), while having a sewing session with my 12 yr. old grandaughter…helping her make the mermaid costume. We love to sew together. I purchased her a new machine so she can sew when she is home. We do lots of sewing by telephone, if she has a problem. The mermaid costume would be a great project for her!

  • patricia klika
    October 23, 2014

    I would make the Southern Belle for a little princess which is my great-great granddaughter. Thanks for all your sewing shows on tv – love them.

  • Kimber Crow
    October 23, 2014

    I would make the ballerina costume. I have three girls who are all in ballet class. I am excited for this book, I have Joan’s Doll Fashion Studio book and have made several easy and quick dresses for our dolls.

  • Kathy Combs
    October 23, 2014

    I watched the episodes on making Doll Clothes on TV – I am going to order the book and DVD and now I will need to add this one too. I have 5 granddaughters who all love American Girl dolls, sew perfect for them. I think they could even sew some of the clothes themselves. It’s so much fun when they want to help and get involved in the projects.

  • Chris Bowyer
    October 23, 2014

    I would make a Christmas Mrs. Claus gown of red velvet with white fur overskirt.

  • Rosie
    October 23, 2014

    My granddaughters love the American Girl dolls. I would make the ballerina first, and then the bride doll. But, all are gorgeous, and I would eventually make many of them.

  • Zanny
    October 23, 2014

    I would actually supply the fabrics! A little girl I know has become very interested in sewing for her dolls. We gave her a sewing basket and all the supplies to start sewing. Now all she needs are patterns! i suspect she would make the mermaid costume first as that is what she will be wearing for Halloween this year 🙂

  • Sam Hyer
    October 23, 2014

    Hi Nancy, If I had the book it would be my hope to make three of each outfit. You see I am on a mission. I have three granddaughters (Feb may bring another). It is my goal to present them with a doll and full wardrobe and my husband is hoping to make each a dolly hope chest to keep everything neat. I wish this project to be done by each girls 7th Christmas as that is when my mother and grandmother got together and bought me my first Barbie with a full wardrobe. It was my childhood Ah Ha moment. I look back on the wonder and amazement to this very day and realize what they gave up then to do that for me. (as funds were tight) I want so much to be that memory for my granddaughters. Thank you for all you do….You have inspired me for years. Hyest Regard, Sam Hyer

  • Jan vick
    October 23, 2014

    I would make all the darling outfits for my granddaughters for their dolls. My arthritis has limited my mobility so sewing for my daughters, daughters in law and grandkids has saved me because I have to be busy. Your ideas have greatly encouraged me!!! Thank you.

  • Robin in KS
    October 23, 2014

    Dressing my dolls was what started my life-long love of sewing! Now I’ve appointed myself the sewing godmother to my younger friend’s two children. I suspect we’ll start with the fairy costume, or maybe the Cinderella gown–we share a love of fantasy and fairy tales.

  • Sheila
    October 23, 2014

    I would start with Cinderella and then the Southern Belle. I have 1 6yr. old Granddaughter and 7 nieces that all love getting new outfits for their dolls.

  • Kris
    October 23, 2014

    These dresses are so cute. I would love to be able to make these for my daughter and her dolls. Thanks for showing us how to make them. 🙂

  • Debe
    October 23, 2014

    I really like the Bridal gown or the princess gown. I sewed many doll clothes for my DD. Now waiting for granddaughters! lol

  • Margaret Aikema
    October 23, 2014

    I would make the mermaid costume first, simply because it’s adorable and a little different. I have several of Joan’s books 🙂
    Thanks for the offer

  • Ann M
    October 23, 2014

    I have always wondered what that glittery fabric is like to work with so the mermaid costume would be a good first project for me

  • Janice
    October 23, 2014

    I would love to make 3 different outfits for my 3 nieces. One would have to be the Mermaid, the Fairy Dress, and the Princess Dress because each one has their own favorite Princess for they are princesses themselves.

  • Patti Lawler
    October 23, 2014

    My granddaughter just received an American Girl Doll & it would be so fun to make these outfits. Can’t choose just one

  • Julia Juedes
    October 23, 2014

    Hi Nancy! Thse costumes are adorable! I enjoy sewing for children, so I like to sew and donate to our towns Toys for Tots program. I try to make a variety of doll clothes to make Christmas just a little more fun for a special child in need! These beautiful make believe costumes would be perfect. Thank you for offering your program on my Apple iPad! Love your show!

  • Ivette cuevas
    October 23, 2014

    I would sew the lilac fairy ballerina dress. It looks so magical and reminds me of my dancing days

  • Wendy
    October 23, 2014

    It is difficult to choose, but I think the fairy costume would have to be the first costume I would make. Little girls all seem to love fairies!

  • Julie B
    October 23, 2014

    I love all of the doll costumes! I make doll outfits for my granddaughters and they love them. I just received a comment from my daughters friend that I had made doll clothes for when she was just 5 for her birthday gift from my daughter. She still has them 25 years later! Making doll clothes creates heirlooms and fond memories for all of the girls who have received them. I would make the Cinderella dress first since my granddaughters really love the Princesses right now. Thanks Nancy for the fun and informative programs!

  • Marjory W.
    October 23, 2014

    I love Joan Hinds’ books and patterns! On this post, I think my favorite is the lilac fairy–especially the stunning flower circlet. But of course I really like all of them.

  • Barbara Dorry
    October 23, 2014

    I would love to make these costumes for my niece. I have already made her dresses, a tutu & karate outfit for her doll. Have also done two matching little girl & doll outfits. I have two sons & a grandson on the way, so I enjoy doing girly stuff for her!

  • Connie Robinson
    October 23, 2014

    Hello! I would start with the Ballerina because I made my new granddaughter a tutu diaper cover/hat set, and her 2 older sisters are very jealous .I think to smooth over hurt feelings, 2 Ballerina costumes for their dollies is in order!!

  • Diana Grindel
    October 23, 2014

    My youngest granddaughter is into fairies so it would have to be the fairy costume ! Thanks for the chance to win !

  • Sue Ballanger
    October 23, 2014

    My grand- daughters have new 18 inch dolls and are looking for new doll clothes for them. One of my grand has a large duffel bag she carries where ever she goes. I would start with the Southern Belle and make more. She would be in doll heaven for me to make any and all of these beautiful doll patterns!!

  • Beth
    October 23, 2014

    I have a couple of Joan’s doll sewing books. Most of my sewing is done using cotton fabrics. I need to learn to sew from the fancy fabrics. They are beautiful! I know my granddaughters and others I sew for would just fall in love with these!

  • Charlene
    October 23, 2014

    Just starting to sew doll clothes for my 4year old girly girl. She loves dolls and dress up.

  • Peggy Winifred
    October 23, 2014

    The fairy costume because the fairies are very popular with the young girls with the mermaid next.

  • Marge Herrell
    October 23, 2014

    The bride dress would be great

  • Rae Vogl
    October 23, 2014

    The wedding dress, because I like to challenge myself-and its gorgeous!!!

  • Patty Tate
    October 23, 2014

    i would love these patterns! I’ve been teaching my great niece how to so clothes for her 18inch doll. We’re having so much fun!

  • Sue Biles
    October 23, 2014

    I would make the lilac fairy. What little girl doesn’t like purple? And I love the headband!!!

  • Marlene Rhodes
    October 23, 2014

    Southern belle would be my favorite. I have always dreamed of being a southern belle with the beautiful gowns. I make the doll clothes for my granddaughter but finally broke down and bought me a doll. I am making clothes basic because I am not great but when I am done playing and making dresses I am going to donate the doll and clothes to a cancer charity so they can auction her off. Thanks Nancy for making me feel like I can sew great and for all your helpful hints and tools.

  • Kim M. Harrington
    October 23, 2014

    The cutest little dresses and costumes ever! I would make the mermaid first and then work my way through all the dress up clothes. I love them!

  • Roxanna
    October 23, 2014

    A bride . I had a doll who was dressed as one. I’d make it for Christmas for my granddaughter. Thanks for the chance for the giveaway.

  • Sharon Kirby
    October 23, 2014

    I have made my granddaughter several outfits from a couple of the doll costume books available from Nancy’s Notions and I have purchased several accessories some of which arrived just yesterday. I have another granddaughter just turning two so her collection will be starting soon. Love the costumes in this book.

  • Elizabeth_T
    October 23, 2014

    My granddaughters have just now really gotten into playing with their 18″ dolls and have been begging me to make outfits for them. In fact, I just recently ordered one of the doll clothing books from a previous show and am anxiously awaiting it’s arrival. Plan to stitch up some fancy things for holiday gifts. This one is on my wish list and will most likely be my next purchase. The mermaid is what really caught my eye so I’d start with that and then work my way through the rest of the designs.

  • Shirley Clark
    October 23, 2014

    My granddaughter is 7, and I’m so glad she loves her AG dolls. I’ve tried to make her various things for them including a little sewing armoire.
    I would make the wedding gown as I think that is something Shelby would enjoy. All little girls are in awe of weddings, and Shelby was in her cousin’s wedding in July so she really knows what it’s like.

  • Connie Bobcik
    October 23, 2014

    All so beautiful! I see doll clothes for a community service project around Christmas time. I am usually dressing a 14″baby doll but always looking for cute ideas!

  • Kathy Kaminski
    October 23, 2014

    I would love to make them all, but I would start with the ballerina one first. My darling Granddaughter Kristin just love to dance in her ballerina costumes. I would make matching ones. Won’t I be the best grandmother in her eyes.

  • Cherie
    October 23, 2014

    I’d make the fairy dress as a dance dress, I think. Because to spark imagination and a desire to dance and move without self-consciousness, is an important thing for the young (and old :-).

  • cathy robillard
    October 23, 2014

    I would make the bride costume. I already have fabric for it. then I would do princess costume.

  • Kathy
    October 23, 2014

    All the costumes are amazing. My three year old granddaughter and my three year old niece would love the princess costume. I would make them one of each for Christmas. Love your show Nancy!

  • Starla
    October 23, 2014

    I especially love the mermaid! My granddaughter would surely love them all.

  • Elizabeth Mancini
    October 23, 2014

    I just made the Elsa snow queen for my granddaughter and can’t wait to make the Cinderella dress into the Snow Queen with the left over fabric .

  • Connie Lancaster
    October 23, 2014

    The wedding dress or the southern belle dress on front of book! I’m making lots of doll clothes for Christmas gifts.

  • Cathey
    October 23, 2014

    I would begin with the fairy costume. I remember reading stories about fairies as a little girl and have always been fascinated at the idea.

  • Jan
    October 23, 2014

    What little girl wouldn’t love the Bride costume and the Cinderella costume. Because Frozen is so very popular, my niece would especially love the Cinderella costume. I would have to figure a way to add a cape to it though. Thank you for the chance to win.

  • Deb Heid
    October 23, 2014

    What wonderful memories this brings- I remember my Grandmother always making a matching doll’s dress and hat to match my holiday dresses she made. I wish I still had them. I would love to make a Cinderella dress for a community service project.

  • maureen mcgraw
    October 23, 2014

    These patterns are gorgeous. I especially like the mermaid outfit.

  • Deanna
    October 23, 2014

    I would make the mermaid pattern for my daughter’s 18″ doll. Two years ago she received the American Girl that looks like her. So from time to time she like to have outfits that are similar to hers. Last year for Halloween I made the similar mermaid pattern for my daughter (6 years old) She helped to pick out the colors of the fabric.She had fun watching the progress of the outfit. I know she would love a matching mermaid outfit for her doll.

  • Darla Kimmes
    October 23, 2014

    With 4 granddaughters, I would love to make a variety of dresses for their dolls.

  • Mary
    October 23, 2014

    I make an AG doll outfit monthly for each of my 2 granddaughters. I am sure they would love any of these outfits but I am partial to the mermaid one. Thanks to Joan and Nancy for the wonderful patterns you design. I already have 2 of Joan’s books and enjoy sewing the clothes.

  • Rosemary Griffis
    October 23, 2014

    My 5- and 7-year-old granddaughters received American Girl dolls for Christmas and always want new outfits for them. I remember making doll clothes when I was a child from my mother’s scraps. Having had only sons, I am now able to sew for little girls and their dolls. The 7-year-old is making her First Communion this year and I would like to adapt one of the designs to match her dress.

  • Karen A.
    October 23, 2014

    Making any of these, especially the fairy and mermaid would be what I call “joyful sewing” for my precious Granddaughter Mary! Thank you for the opportunity.

  • Peggy Bloomfield
    October 23, 2014

    I would have to make it all in pink, my grand daughters favorite color! She is four and loves ma’maws doll collection.

  • Shar
    October 23, 2014

    The southern belle looks just like Scarlett O’Hara’s BBQ dress from “Gone with the Wind”–my favorite movie! I love all Joan Hinds’ patterns.

  • Shar
    October 23, 2014

    Love the Southern Belle outfit. Looks just like Scarlett O’Hara.

  • Judy Iocco
    October 23, 2014

    I have 4 grand-daughters and they would love these clothes for their dolls, especially the Mermaid costume. they would probably also love a costume like that for themselves. The construction looks very well thought out to make the construction of the pieces do-able. Thank You.

  • Dawn
    October 23, 2014

    I would make the mermaid costume and then the bride costume. I will be gaining a grand daughter this month. Oh sew much fun!

  • Sonya Meyer
    October 23, 2014

    The fairy and ballerina costumes would be my first choices. And then I would make a costume for a fisherwoman. My grandson and his wife enjoy and they now have two daughters (my great-granddaughters). I am planning to make doll clothes and other things ready as gifts, just in case I am not able to do it when the girls are old enough for dolls. I really treasure the crocheted doll dresses my grandmother made for me when I was a little girl.

  • Cheryl Wilkinson
    October 23, 2014

    I would make the mermaid costume first, with a purple tail like my granddaughter has. Then I would make the Cinderella/princess dress, because my princess would like that, too. 🙂 Love your show!

  • Cheryl Wilkinson
    October 23, 2014

    I would make the mermaid costume first, with a purple tail like my granddaughter wears in summer. Then I would make the Cinderella/princess dress, because my princess would like that, too. 🙂 Love your show!

  • Phyllis Marshall
    October 23, 2014

    I will be facing retirement soon and would love to have these adorable patterns to make
    The bride dress is my pick.

  • Anita Phelps
    October 23, 2014

    I just love Joan Hinds’ books. This will be another great one to collect. I would make the fairy costume first. With the wide variety of color and trim the possibilities are endless. Each fairy can be as unique as the child who owns the doll. Look out, Tinkerbelle and friends, you’ve got competition coming!

  • Vicky
    October 23, 2014

    I love the lilac fairy costume. I think my granddaughter would like to have that one for her doll. Love your programs. Thank you.

  • Lydia
    October 23, 2014

    They are all so precious, but I was drawn to the Lilac Fairy, so cute. Thank you

  • Yvonnee Berry
    October 23, 2014

    I would make them all! I love the Bride best with matching Braidsmaids. (I have been a fan of yours since you started out and loved meeting you in Charlotte, NC.)

  • Marilyn K
    October 23, 2014

    My granddaughters would love me to sew any of these adorable dresses for their dolls>

  • Kimberly Tune
    October 23, 2014

    Many years ago, two of my daughter’s dolls (they are 38 and 39 now) were accidentally left in a box in my mom’s detached garage, it has no heat and a gravel floor. When we found them years later, they smelled so musty, I wanted to through them out. My mom was not having it. She washed them and their clothes, worked her magic and they came out like new. That was 20 years ago, since then they have been sitting in her living room in a child’s wicker rocker without a change of clothes. I would love to make them the Southern Bell costume for her. She’d love it.

  • Pam Kanode
    October 23, 2014

    I would make the Cinderella costume first. My little granddaughter could wear her princess outfit at the same time her doll did!

  • Carlee Christensen
    October 23, 2014

    My two daughters love their 18″ dolls, and we have made some simple skirts for them. I would love to win this book, to teach my girls to sew their dolls even more costumes… I especially love the mermaid costume so cute!

  • Kay Bateman
    October 23, 2014

    I wrote a short story about my granddaughter called “The Mermaid of Newport Beach” She loves the ocean and I am having a photo book made up of the story and pictures of her and our family at the beach. The Mermaid costume would go great with the rest of her gift.

  • Alma
    October 23, 2014

    I’d make the Princess dress first mainly to create something beautiful from scraps of satin and lace.

  • Janine from Maine
    October 23, 2014

    I’d make the bride because I just love the beautiful gowns and fabrics they are made from.

  • Alison Nevin
    October 23, 2014

    They are all so cute! I would try the brides dress first as my niece’s mother is getting married next month and I’m sure she would love to dress her doll.

  • Alison Nevin
    October 23, 2014

    I’d try the bride dress first with a wedding in the family coming up, I know of a couple dolls that need to be dressed 🙂

  • Bonnie
    October 23, 2014

    What lovely doll costumes! I would make the Lilac Fairy and Cinderella costumes to use for storytelling in the library.

  • Sandra Nettles
    October 23, 2014

    I am teaching an 8 year old friend’s foster child to sew. We would make the Lilac Fairy. The little girl has lived in this home for 5 years and she always wishes for a fairy that would wave the wand and let her live there forever more. We would so enjoy making this outfit together for Morgan.

  • Jona Lourenco
    October 23, 2014

    My daughter would love it if I made the mermaid costume for her!

  • Margie Greco
    October 23, 2014

    I love them all, but as a 73 year old grandmother of 20, I would start with the lilac fairy. It is so similar to a costume I made my granddaughter when she was three. It has been passed down to each little girl.

  • Dorothy S.
    October 23, 2014

    I would make the Southern Belle outfit and keep it just in case I get a granddaugher. If not, I would donate it to someone. Thanks for a change to win this great book.

  • Carol
    October 23, 2014

    I would make the Cinderella costume because every little girl dreams of those fairy tale stories. Besides, it would work up quickly with scraps that I already have. I have two granddaughters and a nieces and grandniece that love these dolls!

  • Margaret Zupfer
    October 23, 2014

    I think the wedding dress would be a winner.

  • Marie Williams
    October 23, 2014

    I have several of Joan Hinds’ books and I’ve always enjoyed making the doll clothing patterns in them. I love the fairy pattern and think that I would make it first.

  • Ellen
    October 23, 2014

    I think I would do the ballerina outfit first. We have a little cousin who loves ballet and has a doll who would love a ballerina costume.

  • Darcy Lee
    October 23, 2014

    It is a toss up. My grand daughter’s love Ariel and Cinderella. I will probably make them both.

  • Barbara G
    October 23, 2014

    Wow, I just might have to get back to playing with dolls. I really love the Lilac Fairy/ Ballerina. But if I start with one doll then I’d have to make them all. Tee hee.

  • Connie
    October 23, 2014

    I’d certainly make the Faire costume. My grand-daughters are making their own similar costumes to go Tick and Treating as one of the Twelve Dancing Princesses. They are just so special and would love to have their dolls look like them.

  • Cheryl Rich
    October 23, 2014

    Oh it’s hard to decide on a favorite but the Southern Belle gown definately caught my eye. :o)

  • Barbara
    October 23, 2014

    I would love to add this book to the other Joan Hinds pattern books for 18 inch dolls. I am sewing for a Madame Alexander 18″ doll to give my granddaughter for her 5th birthday and I know she would LOVE all the adorable costumes in this book.I love your patterns!

  • Barbara
    October 23, 2014

    I would love to add this book to the other Joan Hinds pattern books for 18 inch dolls. I am sewing for a Madame Alexander 18″ doll to give my granddaughter for her 5th birthday and I know she would LOVE all the adorable costumes in this book.I love your patterns! I would start with the princess dress-she is very much into the whole Princess fantasy!

  • Martha
    October 23, 2014

    I love the mermaid. want to see how the tail is done Looks great I have sewed 1 set of doll clothes for my granddaughter and she loved them. the fat method is great

  • Rhonda
    October 23, 2014

    i love the Fairy godmother. I would love to make that for my grandaughter!

  • Cheryl Thompson
    October 23, 2014

    My granddaughter will be getting an American Girl doll for Christmas. I know she would love any of the outfits. I love the bridal dress. I’m hoping to sew up some outfits for the doll before Christmas!

  • Janet Sabol
    October 23, 2014

    I’d love to sew some of those costumes–lilac fairy first, Cinderella next and then the mermaid, for sure. I’ve got Joan’s book Contemporary Wardrobe for 18″ dolls and have made the head gear first for our granddaughter. She loved them!

  • Jean A Williams
    October 23, 2014

    I would love to add the Doll Costume book to my Joan Hinds collection. I am torn over the bride’s dress and the mermaid to make first. I sew with my granddaughters (6 yrs. and 8 yrs.) and we have “designed” a bridal gown but Joan’s is, naturally, several cuts above ours. (I try to get the girls to fashion their own first with safety pins and then with needle and thread. We are talking minimal draping!) Then, too, they do love all things mermaid so they might just opt for the mermaid first. I will let you know what they decide!

  • Nancy E Johnson
    October 23, 2014

    I would definitely make the ballerina, as my little granddaughter takes ballet lessons.

  • Jan House
    October 23, 2014

    Love the details of the Fairy costume. The flowers are so pretty and look like they would be fun to make. I would make the Fairy costume.

  • Mo L
    October 23, 2014

    Mermaid, my grandbaby will be getting her first BIG doll soon. She loves the beach and going to Cape Cod.

  • nancee tredway
    October 23, 2014

    I think the Bride first. My granddaughter was just in a wedding,..But then I would have to make the rest too!

  • jerri baker
    October 23, 2014

    The lalic fairy what little girl doesn’t like fairies. The r charming & there outfit is always dreamy.

  • Margaret Haffner
    October 23, 2014

    I like the lilac fairy, thatv would be my first choice! So pretty and whimsical.

  • Jan
    October 23, 2014

    Each outfit is great but I feel the one that can easily be made ‘special’ is Southern Belle. This dress can be made simple as shown or as fancy as Miss Scarlet. Easy to show a new, young sewer how to use the imagination to create something special.

  • Debbie Brownfield
    October 23, 2014

    I would make Cinderella first but the ballerina second. I have two granddaughters begging for dress up clothes for their dolls. Gorgeous patterns!!

  • Cindy Dahlgren
    October 24, 2014

    I would love to make the brides dress for my granddaughter first. I always loved dressing my dolls up as brides and brides maids, or even prom dresses. I’m sure she would be happy with any of the doll clothes though! cdahlgren at live dot com

  • Dena
    October 24, 2014

    I would make the Cinderella dress. My daughter would love to have it for her doll.

  • Diane Walker
    October 24, 2014

    i have a granddaughter who would dearly love the mermaid!! Of course, she would like those others too, but mermaid is perfect. Looks like I know what I’ll be doing for her for Christmas!!

  • linda havlik
    October 24, 2014

    Oh my Gosh!!! Who can pick. My granddaughter and her friends are so excited. Mia just got a doll in July for her birthday and is so excited that i sew.
    They want them all.

  • Stephanie
    October 24, 2014

    These are all darling so it’s hard to choose. I think my granddaughter would love tge mermaid since she is going to be Ariel the Mermaid for Halloween.

  • Kathy Combs
    October 24, 2014

    I would love to win this book! My granddaughters are just beginning to sew and this would be a fantastic way to really get them interested. They all have American Dolls, and want new clothes for them as Christmas Gifts! I plan to purchase Joan Hinds other book that was aired on your TV show. I record all your shows so I can watch when I get home from work. I have learned a lot by watching. I have been sewing for over 30 years and always learn something new.

  • Deloris Blackman
    October 24, 2014

    I would make the the wedding dress, because my granddaughters have been asking for one but the patterns usually more difficult instructions. They would like many of the others too, such as the ball gown, princess dress and mermaid.

  • Ardi Savener
    October 24, 2014

    My two granddaughters now 9 and 11 have gone to dance class since they each were three, so the ballerina costume for their AG dolls would be perfect. Thanks so much.

  • Sharon Koepper
    October 24, 2014

    It’s not an easy choice, but I would probably choose the bride…every girl dreams of being a bride and the dress she will wear for her wedding. Our youngest granddaughter will receive her AG doll for Christmas. Grandma has to get busy fast!

  • Melanie Shamp
    October 24, 2014

    Oh my goodness! I have 5 grand daughters that have American Girl dolls, each one has a unique personality. When I shared this contest with them, they were estatic! Nkita would love to help sew(yes on the machine)

  • Linda B.
    October 24, 2014

    They are all so cute!! My granddaughter would love any of them. I think I would start with Cinderella but would have to make the bride also!! Thank you!

  • Judy Gordon
    October 24, 2014

    Most definitely the bride costume. But my granddaughter would love any of them.

  • Judy Gordon
    October 24, 2014

    My granddaughter would love any of them but I would start with the bride costume.

  • kathy
    October 24, 2014

    I think the mermaid costume is so cute. It sparkles so great!

  • Susan Catron
    October 24, 2014

    i love the Lilac Fairy costume. My 3 year old granddaughter loves all of the princesses right now and is getting a doll, not American Girl, for Christmas. I have carpal tunnel in my right wrist because I just finished hand sewing 2 quiet books for the 3 and 1 year old so I have moved on to machine sewing. She won’t have many outfits for her new doll. I really want to get started on some for her for Christmas!

  • Margaret Kohnke
    October 24, 2014

    All the costumes are delightful. But my granddaughter, Emmy, loves the mermaid and so that is one one I would sew. (A couple of the others for Chrismas gifts would be in order also.) I think she would like to be a mermaid herself for a while. Wouldn’t that me fun.

  • Pat Harvieux
    October 24, 2014

    In the last two weeks I have made 18 inch doll cloths along with an 18 inch doll for 2 benefits. I have done this in the past and they are well recieved.
    The first one I made was for my church fall sale. The second was for a benefit for a friend that was injured in a car accident. I would love to create the costumes for the next benefit, we all know there will be another person who will need someone to create a 18 inch dolll basket.
    Thank you
    Pat

  • Marty
    October 24, 2014

    THANKS for this feature: I am making doll clothes for the first time, and these ideas are perfect for something ‘fanciful’!

  • Shirley Jones
    October 24, 2014

    I would make the Mermaid costume for my granddaughters for their dolls.

  • Mary Swift
    October 24, 2014

    First I would make the lilac fairy, but would end up making all of them.

  • colleen loucks
    October 25, 2014

    I would make the Cinderella first as my great granddaughter loves her. I started making my own doll clothes 65 years ago and still enjoy it. I do a little better job of it now.

  • Cheryl G.
    October 25, 2014

    I would like to make the Mermaid Costume, & enlarge it to fit my granddaughter that is 3.

  • barb reiland
    October 25, 2014

    I gave my grand daughters each a doll when they were 4.
    I made 6 outfits for each. Every year on their birthday I make a new outfit for each doll. Need not ideas.

  • Virginia Pulse
    October 25, 2014

    I would start with the Lilac Fairy, but would probably make them all. I never had a little girl but have a granddaughter and nieces and love to sew. My gift to them from the heart.

  • Cindy
    October 25, 2014

    I’m always drawn to Cinderella as my name is Cindy, and I love the color blue. Not to mention the lovely story. But this dress is charming. I would so enjoy picking out the material for the different parts and see the magic happen as I sewed it. I have used Joan Hinds patterns before, and they are very well done.

  • Theresa
    October 25, 2014

    Wow! What great construction tips!!!! Patterns are very versatile, too! I was texting a friend during the show to get her to watch, too!

  • Sandy Shimono
    October 25, 2014

    I would love to learn to use the “fancy” fabrics to sew the fairy dress for my 3 grandchildren, my niece, my sister, myself! Then I would sew Halloween costumes next. You make my sewing soul dream! I have designed other costumes but I am just learning so you inspire me. Thanks.

  • Peggy A.
    October 25, 2014

    I would give the book to my grand daughter so we could sew together! I have several of Joan’s patterns and know that my grand daughter would be successful sewing any of these special outfits for her doll.

  • Debbie O'Block
    October 25, 2014

    I would love to make the mermaid for my granddaughter and her doll.

  • Kathy Renz
    October 25, 2014

    These costumes are too cute! I love all of them but the first costume I would make is the mermaid, followed by Cinderella. I have 3 daughters, all with AG dolls. My middle daughter is dark haired with pale skin, just like Snow White. I made her doll a Snow White dress one Halloween. Their dolls would look cute dressed up together as princesses. The mermaid would be the first one I sew because I want to know how to make her tail. 🙂

  • Becky
    October 26, 2014

    I would love to add this collection of patterns to my library! Joan’s makes her patterns and instructions so easy to read and follow. My grand-girls love all the outfits I’ve made them from Ms Hinds’ patterns.

  • Diane
    October 26, 2014

    I would make a variation of the Cinderella costume using the fabric from the Elsa costume that I made for my granddaughter for Halloween.

  • JudiC
    October 27, 2014

    The ballerina in a pink tutu because my husband was picked out of a disney audience to be part of a comedy act in a pink tutu on stage at the Disney hoop-de-do show

  • JudiC
    October 27, 2014

    The ballerina in a pink tutu because my husband was picked out of a disney audience to be part of a comedy act wearing a pink tutu on stage at the Disney hoop-de-do show

  • Carol Tyrka
    October 27, 2014

    I love all of them but my great-grandaughter would like the princess dress. i have made doll clothes for my children and grandchildren and not it is time for the greats.

  • Doreen Linehan
    October 27, 2014

    I would have a hard time which costume to do first. I think the princess costume first and then the mermaid.

  • Martha
    October 28, 2014

    The mermaid because the tail is very interesting. My granddaughter would love it.

  • mary
    October 28, 2014

    I always wanted a bride doll. I did have my mother crochet one for my youngest daughter but i still do not have one.

  • Lynn
    October 29, 2014

    The ballerina costume as my granddaughter loves to dance.

  • Linda Olsen
    October 30, 2014

    My granddaughters would love all the costumes.

  • Janice
    October 30, 2014

    I would start at the front of the book and make as many of the costumes as I possibly could. This would surely make me “Grandma of the Year”! I am already collecting fabrics and trims for costumes.

  • Susan Beard
    November 1, 2014

    I would make the mermaid outfit for my grand daughter. Really cute!

  • Anna
    November 2, 2014

    I would make all the costumes twice. I have 2 grand daughters who would love the costumes.

  • mary ann
    November 3, 2014

    I would make the bride outfit and adapt it to be a flower girl. I made a 23″ doll bridal outfit and would love to have a beautiful, colorful flower girl to go with her. LOVE, LOVE the patterns!!

  • Carol Simenc
    November 3, 2014

    I would definitely sew the Southern Belle first as the doll would look like a miniature Miss Scarlett O’Hara going to the picnic/barbeque in Gone with the Wind, a fav movie of mine. I have a perfect 18″ doll in my collection who is crying out for a new dress!

  • Linda Tate
    November 8, 2014

    My granddaughter, Anna, age 4, watched the entire program with me and would love for me to make all of the beautiful outfits for her doll that goes everywhere with her. She thinks she would like the bridal dress first.

  • Corrine Nelson
    November 9, 2014

    I would make Cinderella, the Bride and the Southern Belle. I am so excited about the 2-part series! I have been waiting for instructions on doll clothes it seems like forever. I have trouble with something on every pattern I attempt. So I’m hoping to get past whatever issues I have. Thanks Nancy!!

  • Rhonda Starnes
    November 10, 2014

    I would lOVE to sew my granddaughter the Cinderella dress. She just met Cinderella at Disneyland!! I haven’t sewn doll clothes yet, but I feel it becoming something I would love to do. It looks addicting!!

  • Monica
    November 13, 2014

    I would make the mermaid costume. I have made others somewhat like the formal dresses before.

  • Shirley Hemphill
    December 4, 2014

    Wonderful doll clothes, great ideas, makes me wish I was young again. Thanks Nancy you always introduce us to talented people. Never miss you on PBS in California. 🙂

  • Lena Dale
    May 27, 2015

    I want to make the Southern Belle dress first. Being from the South, I love making traditional clothing for my dolls. The Southern Belle’s from the Confederate period are my favorite.

  • Villa Reid
    July 18, 2015

    Hello Nancy, I’ve been watching your show and it is an honor to just write to you today. It has been sometime, but I use to make bridesmaid, ladies formal wear and Barbie doll cloths and I just started sewing again, about 3 years ago. Now I’m fascinated with doll cloths. I got the Doll Costume Dress Up Book, a few months ago, but I’m stuck on some of the simplest Technics. Then I caught your show this morning, with Author Joan Hinds, and I had to send this out. I would love to receive help. If I could get some assistance with the Witch & Kitty Cat, since Halloween is coming up. I would be greatly appreciative. I have 6 grand-daughters, ages 6 to 21 and they all like doll clothes or want to learn to sew.

  • Judy
    July 23, 2016

    Would love to win a copy of this book for a dear friend that just lost her husband of 60 years. She makes these doll clothes for her grandchildren. It is her therapy. So she would probably make all of them.

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