Q&A for How to Make Clothes for Your Doll

Really, you could make it any size, depending on the doll. If you're using stretchy fabric, you don't need to worry too much about the size. You can always measure the doll's height, waist, and arms (if its full-sleeved) to make sure it will fit.

Try to stick the ripped part with clear or magic tape. You can always make it again if you don't like the one you ripped; just print a copy (scan if needed first) and start afresh.

Of course. Another thing that works great is to make a T-shirt -- take a sock and put a hole for the doll's head and two holes on the sides of the sock for the doll's arms.

It works just fine to use glue on doll clothes. They may not hold up as well in the long run, but they should last you for a good amount of time.

Cotton cloth is fine for making doll's clothes from, so yes, you can use it.

You can draft a sleeve pattern by measuring the doll's arm length and adding ½"–1" for seam allowance and wrist ease. For a simple set-in sleeve, trace a narrow curved cap to match the armhole length; for gathered or peasant sleeves, create a rectangle based on circumference plus ease by length. Cut the fabric on grain, add a hem allowance at the wrist, then sew the sleeve seam with right sides together and finish raw edges. Hem the wrist by folding twice (about 1/4") and stitching, or by adding elastic or a ruffle if desired. Finally, attach the sleeve to the dress by easing the cap into the armhole or gathering the top edge before pinning and sewing with small, even stitches, then press gently.

To make a swimsuit, first trace a simple pattern for the front and back body pieces, or create a one-piece design with a rounded torso and leg openings. Use stretch fabric like spandex or nylon, cutting with a small seam allowance. Finish edges with a narrow zigzag or stretch stitch, then sew shoulder and side seams, stretching slightly to maintain elasticity. Hem leg openings and the neckline, or sew narrow elastic into the hems for a snug fit. Attach the straps by sewing them into the shoulder seams or topstitching them, then turn the swimsuit right side out, fit it on the doll, and trim any excess.