An eBay auction caught my eye recently (shocking, I know!) that inspired me to do a little research. Somebody was auctioning historic patterns for Barbie-sized fashions--with a separate set for each era (Regency, colonial, etc.). The auction listing showed a sample page which was obviously out of an older book. (The listing did have a disclaimer that they had the permission of the author to be reselling the patterns, thank goodness.) Well, of course I wouldn't be content with just a few photocopies--I wanted all of the patterns! So I set about to find the entire book.
Turns out this little gem of a book is called The Doll Book and it's by Estelle Ansley Worrell (ISBN 0442295553). The patterns are actually designed to fit soft-bodied dolls (patterns for the dolls included too!) but they are similar in size to a standard 11 1/2" fashion doll, and scaling instructions are included for other doll heights. The book is still readily available through used booksellers--I found mine for less than $6 and that included postage. So doll costumers, get yourself a copy--it will keep you happily busy for years with everything from Cavalier-era gowns to Victorian bustle dresses! (There are even instructions for creating period-correct hairstyles on your dolls.) I've been collecting the Simplicity historic Barbie-sized series patterns but this book has it all!
So I'm going to try to scale a few for both Barbie-size dolls and my new Tyler Wentworth 16" fashion doll. (Okay, make that two eBay auctions that caught my eye this week. . .) Keep posted for pictures of my progress!
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3 comments:
thank you thank you thank you for telling us the books name.
I also saw the patterns and fell in love with 7/8's of them!
Now to find the book-- hoo hum.
Post pictures when you make some of the items!
Jenn
Thanks for the note! I'm glad somebody found the information useful.
I've cut out two dresses so far--Regency style, in the same fabric--and one sized for a Barbie and the other for my new Tonner doll. Once I get them sewn up I'll publish pictures along with scaling instructions.
Good luck!
I just ordered this book off of eBay. it was a bit pricey but... oh well;)
I dont know what costume era i am going to work on first. i cant wait for your pictures!!
Are you going to make Ken and Kelly dolls?
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