When shopping for 18″ doll fashion sewing projects, consider thrift stores, consignment, and discounted fashion as some unique sources to find some special fabric contenders. Below are just a few repurposed finds that were used to create special 18″ doll wardrobe pieces.
The pullover sweater made from a pair of leg warmers. The lacy skirt was made using a discarded cami top. The leggings were made using crew socks. (Click: Leggings from socks PDF pattern for a free pdf pattern).
Sweaters and socks are great to repurpose to 18″ clothing. For a most realistic 18″ doll sweater, seek lightweight (fine gauge) sweaters. On a recent visit to a thrift store I shopped through a sea of choices!
Strategic placement of the pattern can make use of the sweater textures and give a realistic look to doll clothing.
Tip: Iron on featherweight knit interfacing can make sewing with knits easier for a beginner stitcher.
Iron on feather weight knit interfacing applied to wrong side of sweater knit.
Below are twin sets made using Simplicity 8072. The green cardigan is made from a fine gauge sweater from a thrift store. The black and white dot t-top is made from a pair of socks!
Before you discard fashion pieces from your closet, consider making them into doll clothes!
For some additional tips on sewing a mini wardrobe, check out this earlier post: Success Tips for sewing 18″ doll clothes.