Storybook Skirts and Superhero Capes

I've been busy for the past few weeks sewing a set of dress-up clothes for a friend. Normally I don't post about the things I make for other people, but my kids liked these skirts and capes so much, I've decided to share--mostly as a reminder that they could use some more dress-ups of their own.

I made three skirts, but Abby liked this purple skirt the best. (Note the chocolate stain on her shirt.) I didn't use a pattern because the skirt is so simple: just an elastic waistband and a ruffle. But what really makes these skirts cute is the woven ribbon I added at the bottom. Each strand of ribbon I used had a hint of gold thread, and so the ribbon really sparkles in the sunlight.

Here is the little pink skirt. I told Abby to tuck in her shirt to hide the chocolate stain.

I also made three lined capes in superhero colors--navy blue/red, red/yellow, and black/yellow. I didn't use a pattern on these either, but just cut out "cape shapes", sewed them together, and edged the neckline with bias tape for the ties. Pretty easy.

You could totally take flight in one of these:

I had so much fun making these simple costumes, that I think the family dress-up box needs some updating. And while Abby is pretty much over dressing up like a princess, I bet she would love a Laura Ingalls ensemble. And I didn't realize all the dress-up options for a boy. Besides superheroes, I'm thinking about cowboys, ninjas, and Davy Crockett.

The possibilities are endless . . .

Ivy's Beach Dress

A few weeks ago I ordered Julie's birthday dress from American Girl. I'm going to put it in Abby's Easter basket. But whenever I buy or make something for Julie, I feel bad for Ivy. So I made Ivy a new dress. Here is the picture of Julie and Ivy at the beach on Julie's birthday from Julie and the Eagles:

And here is my version of Ivy's beach dress:

It's a bit snug--everything I sew for dolls without a real pattern ends up being a tad too tight. I'll have to remember that for next time. But at least Ivy gets a new dress. And since Julie's birthday is officially May 1st, it will be just in time too.

Now if only we were going to the beach to celebrate . . .

Kirsten's New Wardrobe

I've spent most of my sewing time these past few weeks sewing dresses for Kirsten. And now they are all done. Kirsten just can't believe all of the new choices she has when she gets dressed.

I made three dresses from the school dress pattern--it was my favorite. I also made a plaid shawl to go over her shoulders, but the shawl covers up the detail in the bodice, so I didn't take a picture of it. But here is School Dress I:

And School Dress II (she looks good in pink):

Here is my favorite, School Dress III: (it's made from an old piece of fabric I've had for years. It's really light-weight and almost sheer. Maybe it should be called Summer Dress instead.)
I also made the flannel underwear (and I don't know why these pictures are darker. Oh well.) Here is the chemise. The neckline and teeny-tiny lace was a pain to sew. I almost redid it, but then remembered it was a chemise that's worn under a dress. So it doesn't matter, right?

There were also patterns for matching bloomers and a quilted petticoat. I used a stitch from my sewing machine to quilt the hem--there was no way I was going to mark out the grid-like design the pattern called for. I also stitched the hem in a contrasting color instead of using white thread like the pattern suggested. Why put all that work into something you can't see? On a petticoat that goes underneath a dress. Come to think of it, the idea of sewing doll underwear is kind of funny.

But kind of cute too. At least Kirsten will be warm next winter.

I also recently bought a cute wooden bed for Kirsten that needs paint and bedding. But that will have to wait a bit. It's time to put away the doll projects for awhile. I've got some things planned for real people--like me and Abby. We need skirts and a dress or two for the warmer weather ahead.

The thing I like best about sewing a doll wardrobe is that the new pieces of clothing become part of Abby's play. The other day she had all three dolls dressed in the new clothes while pretending they were in a covered wagon.

Another good thing is that Kirsten doesn't have to wear Julie's bell-bottoms anymore. Those never did look good on her.