This peplum top for an 18-inch doll has closures at the back. I have added sleeves to the pattern. But you can make it sleeveless too.
The measurements of the doll I used are
Chest 11.5 inches
Waist 11 inches
Hip 11.75 inches
This pattern will fit dolls like Our Generation dolls and American Girl dolls and dolls with similar measurements.
Check out my other free 18-inch doll cloth PDF sewing patterns and tutorials:
Gathered Skirt with Elastic Waist for 18-Inch Dolls---Free PDF Sewing Pattern
A Simple Top with Short Sleeves---Free PDF Printable Pattern for 18-Inch Dolls
Swirl Skirt with Elasticated Waist---Free PDF Printable Sewing Pattern for 18-Inch Dolls
Here is the step-by step tutorial to make this top for your doll.
Materials Needed:
- Fabric: Lightweight cotton or similar fabric.
- Thread: Matching the fabric color.
- Closure: Velcro, snaps, or small buttons.
- Scissors: Fabric scissors and paper scissors.
- Sewing machine or needle for hand sewing.
- Pattern: Download link is given below.
- Extras: Ruler, pins, or clips, and optional embellishments like trim or lace.
Instructions:
1. Download the Free PDF Sewing Pattern
Pattern download link:
Use the diagram below to assemble the pattern pages:
How to print and assemble the pattern pages?
Click here to learn how to print and assemble the PDF pattern pages.
Seam and hem allowances are included in the pattern.
Neckline, center back open edges, armholes, bodice lower edge: 1/4 inch
Side seam: 1/2 inch
Peplum skirt top edge: 1/4 inch
Peplum skirt side seam: 1/2 inch
Bottom hem: 1/2 inch
Sleeve cap curve: 1/4 inch
Sleeve side seam: 1/2 inch
Sleeve hemline: 3/4 inch
Use the below diagram as a guide to assemble the pattern pages.
2. Cut the Fabric
- Lay your pattern pieces on the fabric, and pin it down.
- Cut out the front bodice, two back bodice pieces, two sleeve pieces and peplum pieces (curved pieces for a flared effect)
- For the peplum part of the skirt, you can also use a rectangular strip of fabric, instead of using the peplum pattern provided here. Measure out the lower edge of the entire bodice (after you have attached the front and back bodices together). Note down this measurement. Take a piece of fabric with width 2 3/4 to 3 inches and length 1.5 to 2 times the measurement you have noted down.
3. Prepare the Bodice
- Sew the shoulder seams of the front and back bodice pieces (right sides together).
- Finish the raw edges with a serger, zigzag stitches or pinking shears.
4. Attach the Sleeves
5. Join the Peplum Pieces and Hem the Bottom Edge
- With right sides facing, join the sides of the peplum pieces together with an 1/2-inch seam allowance.
- Fold the bottom edge of the peplum up 1/4", press, and fold again for a clean finish.
- Sew the hem in place.
6. Attach the Peplum
- Gather the top edge of the peplum to match the bodice width.
- Pin the gathered edge to the bottom of the bodice, right sides together.
- Sew in place and finish the seam.
5. Finish the Back Closure
- Take two pieces of 1 1/2 inch wide fabric pieces with length equivalent to the length of the center back opening plus 1 or 2 inches.
- Press both the long edges of these fabric pieces down the wrong side by 1/4 inch. Sandwich the center back edges into these fabric pieces and sew close to the folded edge to finish the back closure.
- Attach your chosen closure method neatly along the edge.
7. Finish the Neckline
- Use bias tape to finish the raw edges around the neckline and armholes.
8. Embellish (Optional)
- Add lace, buttons, or ribbons to the bodice or peplum for decoration.
9. Final Assembly
- Make sure the raw edges of all seams are finished.
- Test fit the top on the doll and adjust as needed.
This stylish peplum top is perfect for 18-inch dolls!
If you need any specific pattern for your doll, please feel free to leave a comment in the comment section.
I have posted lots of free PDF printable sewing patterns on this page on my blog. Browse through this page to find the patterns you are looking for. You can download and use them to make your own clothes.
You can also click the Free Sewing Patterns Page at the top of this blog page (under the blog title) to find more free sewing patterns.
Click the links below to browse through all the pattern drafting and sewing tutorials on my blog.
Happy Sewing
---Flora
