This surplice peplum top for an 18-inch doll has a cross-over front bodice and closures at the back of the top. The bodice is sleeveless and is fully lined.
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
Elastic Waist 8-Gore Skirt Pattern for 18-Inch Dolls
Reversible A-Line Dress for 18-Inch Dolls---Free PDF Sewing Pattern
Tiered Dress for 18-Inch Dolls ---Free Sewing Pattern
Tie-Front Top for 18-Inch Dolls---Free PDF Sewing Pattern and Sewing Tutorial
Peplum Top with Back Closure for 18-Inch Dolls---Free PDF Sewing Pattern
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make the surplice peplum top:
Materials Needed:
- Lightweight cotton or knit fabric
- Matching thread
- Scissors
- Fabric marking pen or chalk
- Sewing machine (or hand-sewing needle)
- ¼-inch Velcro or snaps (for back closure)
- Paper for making a pattern
- 18-inch doll for fitting
Step 1: Download the PDF Sewing Pattern
How to print and assemble the pattern pages?
Click here to learn how to print and assemble the PDF pattern pages.
Step 2: Cut the Fabric Pieces
- Cut four front bodice pieces (Cut 1, mirror and cut the other from main fabric; cut 1, mirror and cut the other from lining fabric.)
- Cut four back bodice pieces (Cut 1, mirror and cut the other from main fabric; cut 1, mirror and cut the other from lining fabric.)
- Cut the peplum pieces or the peplum strip.
- To make the peplum strip, measure the waist circumference of your bodice pattern. Cut a strip of fabric that is 1 1/2 or 2 times the waist measurement and about 2 3/4 to 3 wide.
Step 3: Assemble the Top
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Sew the Bodice
- Join the front and back lining and main fabrics at the shoulder seam.With the right sides of the lining and main pieces facing, sew around the neckline, including the surplice edges, armholes, and center back with a 1/4 inch seam allowance.Sew the side seams and finish the raw edges.
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Overlap the two fronts at the "V" to create the wrap style, pin, and baste in place.
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Attach the Peplum
- Join the front and back peplum side seams and finish the raw edges. Skip this, if using a strip for the peplum. Gather the peplum strip until it matches the waist circumference.
- Sandwich the top edge of the peplum to the bottom edge of the bodice and sew.
- Finish the bottom hem by folding ¼ inch and again by folding 1/4 inch and sewing.
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Add a Back Closure
- Attach Velcro or snaps to the back opening.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
- Press all the seams for a professional look.
- Decorate with lace, bows, or trim!
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.
