Cloth dolls have been a popular craft for adults to make for children and to teach children to make for themselves. Simple patterns exist for basic dolls and experienced crafters can find complicated patterns that provide challenges to complete beautiful dolls to collect or give as toys.
Raggedy Ann and Andy
Two popular American dolls are Raggedy Ann and Andy. The brother and sister dolls survive and continue to thrive as beloved children’s treasures. Parents and family members continue to make and buy these dolls for young children because they recall fond childhood memories. Even the books are starting to be popular again and are available at most libraries for children to share with their families.
The raggedy brother and sister are available to make in formats that will support beginners and provide challenges for more experienced crafters. Some cloth patterns come preprinted and merely require the body to be cut out, stuffed, and sewn. Those with more sewing skills can buy a pattern or find one online and create their own Raggedy Ann and Andy family. A crochet pattern is even available to create the dolls.
Waldorf Dolls
A newer tradition of dolls that has become popular is the Waldorf dolls. Waldorf dolls are made from natural materials and designed to promote creative, imaginative play in children. The faces are generally limited and the bodies flexible to encourage children to create the emotions and actions for the doll. The dolls are popular to make and buy as gifts for children.
The Internet provides many resources for buying dolls and doll making materials for the Waldorf dolls. Free instructions are available to teach prospective doll makers the art and design techniques required to make Waldorf dolls. Most explain why Waldorf dolls are unique from other soft doll creations. Beginners and those well versed in the craft can find resources and contact with others to learn new techniques and strategies.
Soft Doll Creations
A variety of doll options exists to choose from when deciding to create a soft doll. While the above mentioned dolls are some of the better known names, patterns exist for a many types of dolls. Some draw their inspiration from book characters like Madeline. Others patterns are original to the doll artist.
Free patterns are available for those who wish to experiment with learning doll making techniques. Some Internet sites even offer doll making tips and strategies to assist the beginning doll maker. Classes are available both online and at many craft locations that offer courses to customers. Learning from experienced doll makers can help beginners learn the basic strategies and help experienced doll makers learn new techniques for working with different materials or alternate methods.
Soft dolls are a great gift for children and doll collectors. Learning the techniques and strategies for making dolls can provide crafters with an ability to create gifts and even earn additional income from selling their crafts to others. Soft dolls also are popular items to donate to charities. The skill of making soft dolls is a valuable one to learn.
Christine Ledder - Chris Ledder is a former elementary teacher with experience in accounting. Freelance writing has allowed her to use both career paths in a ...
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