The Doll's Dressmaker: The Complete Pattern Book [Paperback]

Venus Dodge (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: September 1991

In this collection of more than 120 dolls' dress designs, from modern outfits to period costumes, all the patterns are of actual size and ready to trace off the page and use. They fit dolls of 10 to 25 inches (28 to 63.5 centimetres), and can be altered to fit other sizes. Many of them are intended for the beginner, while experienced dolls' dressmakers should find the more elaborate period costumes an interesting challenge. The book contains making-up instructions, advice on technique and guidance on achieving a professional finish on a small scale. The author's other books include "The Dolls' House DIY Book" and "Making Miniatures", both written in collaboration with her husband.

Product Details

• Paperback: 191 pages
• Publisher: David & Charles (September 1991)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0715392891
• ISBN-13: 978-0715392898
• Product Dimensions: 11.6 x 8.5 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.9 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 4.3 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (25 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #333,816 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

93 of 93 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Ms. Dodge helps you make your doll the envy of the playroom., February 16, 1997

By A Customer

This review is from: The Doll's Dressmaker: The Complete Pattern Book (Paperback)

Venus Dodge's lavishly illustrated *The Doll's Dressmaker* is more than a collection of sewing, knitting, and crochet patterns: it's also a how-to book suitable for both experts and beginners, as well as a good read. The book is clearly organized in sections for every conceivable item of clothing, from diapers, underwear, shirts, dresses, and pants to sweaters, shawls, hats, shoes, and trimmings. Patterns are given for dolls from 11 to 25 inches. Want to make a puff-sleeved, round-collared, full-skirted dress for an 18" doll? You simply take the doll's measurements, compare them to those of the appropriate pattern pieces, and put the elements together, guided at every step by Dodge's crystal-clear instructions. She includes every possible bodice style, sleeve, collar, cuff, and skirt, tells you how to sew each, then sets you free to combine them however and in whatever fabrics you wish. For the uncertain sewer, she suggests suitable fabrics; often, she bases her suggestions on what would be historically accurate for a given style. That so many styles are possible makes this book an excellent bargain. With Dodge's patterns, one may duplicate ready-made doll's clothes, including that sold in upscale catalogs, at a fraction of the price, and, with fabric store remnants, in much better fabrics. One can even duplicate a child's clothing so she and "dollie" can dress alike! I've had this book for a couple of years, used it many times, and can honestly say that my daughters' dolls are better-dressed than I am.

59 of 60 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars This book is the most complete doll pattern book I've seen., December 30, 1998

By A Customer

This review is from: The Doll's Dressmaker: The Complete Pattern Book (Paperback)

There are over 120 designs and so many wonderful ideas. Patterns are included for 11"-25" dolls both modern & antique including undergarmets & accessories even shoes. The book makes great reading & has lots of color photographs. I am very impressed & can't wait to try some of the designs!

35 of 35 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The Dolls DressMaker by Venus A. Doge, February 4, 2004

By A Customer

This review is from: The Doll's Dressmaker: The Complete Pattern Book (Paperback)

The Dolls Dressmaker Book is the most complete pattern book I have ever found. It includes everything one could want to dress their doll. Clothes, underwear, accessories, hats, shoes. Excellent instruction information on assembly, mix-n-match pieces. Great rcommendations of trims, laces, etc. All full size patterns grouped by size, easy access in back of book.
I Very Highly recommend.