Yes, it’s time again to share all your wonderful sewing projects and inspire others to try something a little different.

Now I don’t normally feature full size clothing in my Share and Tell blog but I’m super impressed with Amy, who as a young girl did my How to Sew Doll Clothes video course a couple of years ago.  She now has the confidence to take clothes she doesn’t wear and transform them into lovely garments that she can proudly wear.

 ‘Mrs Rosie, I made this skirt out of an old dress that didn’t really fit me well!  I like keeping you notified about all the sewing I do because I could never have done it all without your course I took!  I learned all my sewing stuff and more from you!  I thank you!  Amy ‘ 

Cindy has been very creative making this terrific outfit for her Cabbage Patch doll.

‘I have been sewing for a lot of years and just wanted to let you know that I have learned a few new tricks to sewing from you so I just wanted to say Thank You.  I am truly enjoying your patterns and wanted to share an outfit I created with the help of your patterns.  For the top I took your crop top pattern and added the pleated section from your 3 way skirt.  I like the way it turned out.  Thanks again, Cindy.’

I absolutely love this idea!  Cindy has turned a plain crop top into a classy peplum top.  It turned out really well, looks super smart paired with the straight skirt and I love the texture in the fabric Cindy has used too!

Karen’s done a fantastic job with my handkerchief top and capri pants patterns.

‘I have been sewing American Girl doll clothes for several years.  I fell in love with your adorable handkerchief top pattern over a year ago, and am so glad I finally bought it!  The special fraying effect makes this top one of my favorite patterns of all time.  I’ve enclosed a pix or 2 of the tops I’ve made so far… I have 6 more cut out and ready to make!   Thanks for designing such a unique pattern! 

Karen’

I must admit that this is one of my favorite patterns too and red and navy always look great together!

Jenny has been very busy making lots of summer outfits for her daughter’s dolls.  It’s great to see that she is experimenting to create her own unique outfits.  The summer dress looks great with the trim and just as cute without.  Love that rainbow fabric of the one piece swim suit, it reminds me of a lolly pop and the beach bag is really sweet too.  Not sure what pattern Jenny has used for the cap but it’s great to see dolls protecting themselves in the sun.

And this is my favorite.  Jenny has used my halter top pattern and extended it down to the length of a dress.  She has added a little width at the bottom and has just hemmed it all around before turning the top casing down, rather than lining it.  What a fantastic idea for a cute summer halter dress!

Thanks everyone for sending in your photos, I absolutely love receiving them and I know my readers enjoy seeing them too.

Happy Sewing

Oh My Gosh!  I can’t believe just how gorgeous these Cabbage Patch dolls look in their new bikinis made from my Bikini and Tankini Doll Clothes Pattern.

This is the perfect bikini for Cabbage Patch dolls that want style and modesty when at the beach.  There are options to make a bikini or tankini top and the pants can be worn with the waistband pulled down into a mini skirt, or higher to reveal the cute little bikini bottoms.  Frills feature on both the top and the pants, pulling the whole look together and adding super cuteness to the ‘cossie’ – Aussie slang for swimming costume.

The best thing about the design of this bikini pattern is that as well as a great little swim suit, you also get awesome mix ‘n match pieces for your dolls wardrobe.  The tankini top can be worn as a top with jeans or shorts, the bikini top can be made without frills and worn as an adorable bra, or the pants can be worn as a mini skirt and matched with other tops for a casual summer outfit.

As an added bonus, Rosie shows you a great little tip for sewing with stretch fabric so you don’t have to fear sewing with knits anymore!

So get your bikini and tankini doll clothes pattern today and your 18 ½ inch Cabbage Patch Kids® doll could be having fun by the pool this afternoon wearing her gorgeous new cossie…..but don’t forget the sunscreen!

Happy Sewing

You know I love to please and lately I’ve been getting enquiries from customers who wanted to purchase my online course because they wanted to have their iPad or tablet beside them so they could watch the step-by-step videos as they’re sewing AND they wanted the DVD set to keep forever.  So I’m super excited to announce that you can now get the Best of Both Worlds!

Yes,you can now buy the complete DVD set PLUS the online course with 12 months online access at an amazing bundle price!   Buying both options together you save a whopping 25%, that’s almost AUD30.00!  So now you don’t have to wait for the DVD set to arrive.  As soon as you’ve completed the shopping cart process, you can log in and get started working at your own pace.  Beginners can take your time, while experienced sewers can skip the basics and go straight to all the terrific tips.  And you’ve got the comfort of knowing that you will always have your DVD set to refer to at any time in the future.

The other wonderful news I have to share today is that next time you log in, you will be welcomed by a new page.  This page will make it easier for those new to my website to find your patterns and video tutorials.  It will also allow me to share any other important information or special offers.  At the moment we are having a technical issue with a delay in patterns appearing in your menu if you purchase new patterns whilst being logged in.  So at the moment on this new login welcome page I have a reminder to log out before making any purchases.

I hope these small changes make things a little easier for you and if you’ve been waiting for this special bundle offer on my course, click here to buy the Best of Both Worlds now.

For all my Cabbage Patch doll clothes patterns customers, I haven’t forgotten you, I will have my new bikini pattern available in the 18 ½ inch Cabbage Patch size soon.

Happy Sewing

By Rosie Saw

Whilst it may seem a little odd for all my Aussie customers, the release of this cute Bikini and Tankini doll clothes pattern is just in time for summer in the northern hemisphere.

This is the perfect bikini for those dolls that want to look super cute at the beach whilst still dressing modestly.  There are options to make a bikini or tankini top and the pants can be worn with the waistband pulled down into a mini skirt, or higher to reveal the little bikini bottoms.  Frills feature on both the top and the pants and add a real ‘cuteness’ to the cossie – Aussie slang for swimming costume.

The best thing about the design of this bikini and tankini pattern is that as well as a great little swim suit, you also get awesome mix ‘n match pieces for your dolls wardrobe.  The tankini top can be worn as a top with jeans or shorts, the bikini can be made without frills and worn as adorable underwear, or the pants can be worn as a mini skirt and matched with other tops for a casual summer outfit.

As an added bonus, Rosie shows you a great little tip for sewing with stretch fabric so you don’t have to fear sewing with knits anymore!

‘Sew’ what are you waiting for?  Get your Bikini and Tankini doll clothes pattern today and your 18 inch and American Girl doll will be swimming this afternoon.

For all my Aussie mates, the beaches are beautiful in Queensland at this time of year so make this bikini or tankini pattern today and your Australian Girl® doll can be holidaying in the gorgeous Whitsunday islands tomorrow.

I will have the 18 ½ inch Cabbage Patch doll clothes pattern available soon.

Happy Sewing

I received an email from one of my lovely customers the other day asking why her thread keeps breaking while she is sewing?  After replying to Deborah I realised that this is something that others may have experienced too and thought I would outline some of the things to check if this happens to you.

There are a number of reasons why your thread may keep breaking while sewing.

• Is your machine threaded correctly?  The first thing I always do when either my sewing machine or serger are not behaving the way they should is to pull the thread (or threads in the case of my serger) out and start again.  If you just look at the thread and think that it is threaded correctly, you may not see that the thread hasn’t been pulled far enough into the tension dial or it is wrapped around a thread guide the wrong way.  You may even find that your thread is catching on the little slit on your spool that holds the end of the thread when not being used, in which case your problem will be solved by simply turning the spool over so that the slit is on the bottom.   I also remove the bobbin and place it back in again just in case something isn’t where it should be.  Remember, if your thread cannot move smoothly through your machine the way it is meant to, the result will be broken threads or a knotted mess under your fabric.

• Is your tension too tight?  Check that you haven’t bumped your tension dial and that it is not set too high as if there is too much pressure on the thread as it goes through the tension dial, the thread will break while you are trying to sew.   A good idea is to place a small mark on your machine at the point where the tension dial is normally set when sewing correctly so that if this dial is accidently bumped at some time, you are able to move it back to where it should be for normal sewing.

• Is your needle blunt or damaged?  If it’s been a while since you changed your needle, it may be time to do so.  Over time, the sharp point of your needle will become dull as each time it moves through your fabric as you sew there is friction (albeit a very small amount).  Your needle can become bent or damaged if you accidently sew over a pin or something else you are not meant to.  If your needle is blunt, damaged or bent it will not go through the fabric as smoothly as it is meant to and the thread will not go through the eye of the needle as smoothly as it is meant to putting extra pressure on the thread causing it to break.  To help keep your needles nice and straight, remember when you are finished sewing to pull your fabric out behind or to the side of the presser foot because the presser foot will take the pressure off the needle as the thread is pulled.  If you pull your sewing forward toward you, you will bend the needle toward you too.

• Are you using the correct needle for the type of fabric you are sewing?  If you are not using the correct needle for the type of fabric you are sewing you may be putting extra pressure or friction on the thread as it goes through the eye of the needle or through the fabric causing the thread to break.

• Are you using good quality thread?  To help you determine the quality of your thread, unroll some thread off the spool and hold it up toward the light.  Does it have lots of little fibres coming off the side?  The more loose fibres, the lower the quality of the thread and the more trouble you will have with it breaking and also clogging up your bobbin or tension areas.   Another way to test the strength of the thread is to unwind some of the thread and holding the spool in one hand and the end of the thread in the other, pull sharply.  Did it snap easily?  You may find that thread with polyester in it will not snap as easily as 100% cotton thread as it is a stronger thread and has a little stretch.

If you find that everything above is as it should be, perhaps it’s time to get your machine serviced.  It’s amazing how much dust and thread fibres build up in different areas of your machine so having it cleaned and oiled properly can make all the difference.  Your machine will reward you with smooth, hassle free stitches and you can get back to enjoying your sewing.

Hope this information has been helpful because as we all know, there is nothing worse than your sewing machine playing up just when you need it most.

Happy Sewing

By Rosie Saw

Oh, I couldn’t believe my eyes when on Mother’s Day this year I was presented with a brand new sewing machine.  Now there was nothing wrong with my old machine, in fact I loved it and was so proud of the fact that over the last 10 ½ years it has sewn thousands of doll clothes along with curtains, seat covers for our living room chairs, clothes for the family and hemmed heaps of pants and dresses for friends and family.  It was just that whenever I did a video for my patterns, I was awfully embarrassed by all the paint missing and although people reassured me that it just proved it was well used, I always felt it was a distraction for people when watching my videos.

So you can imagine my excitement when I saw this huge box with my gorgeous new machine.  Thankfully my family had actually been listening to me when I mentioned that I loved my machine and if I ever replaced it, it would be with the latest version of the one I have.  If you are like me, you will understand what I mean when I say ‘the level of enjoyment you get from sewing depends on the quality of the relationship you have with your sewing machine’.  Needless to say, my relationship has grown stronger and deeper with my new baby.

It hasn’t been all smooth sailing though as there have been some learning curves, or should I say ‘retraining’ on my part.  Although most of the things are the same as my old machine, there have been some slight changes including a new button being added that has moved the reverse button up one.  You can imagine after 10 ½ years of pressing in a particular place how difficult it has been to retrain my finger to go higher.  Luckily I can see the funny side and laugh each time I miss my target.  Hopefully I’ll have it down pat before I film my next video.

What sort of relationship do you have with your sewing machine?

Happy Sewing

Wow, I can’t believe how popular my Ballerina doll clothes pattern has been and I’m thrilled to say it is now available in the 18 ½ “ Cabbage Patch Kids size.

That’s right, my new Ballerina Doll Clothes Pattern for 18 ½ inch Cabbage Patch dolls includes patterns for a versatile leotard, a stunning tutu AND a gorgeous skirt.  This is the ultimate pattern for dolls that love their sport, whether it’s ballet, gymnastics, ice skating, cheerleading or dancing.

The Leotard is the basis for many dance costumes and sporting uniforms and because you can make this leotard with short sleeves, long sleeves or sleeveless, it is the ultimate pattern for the sporting doll.  You can make it in your team or school colors, make it plain for practice time, or add embellishments to create a spectacular gymnastics or dance or cheerleading leotard.

The Tutu is a separate piece so it can be worn over the leotard when your doll is performing and replaced with the skirt when at practice or warming up.  This stunning tutu has a beautiful decorative feature on top of the tulle just like the professional ballerinas wear….your doll will feel like the ‘Lead Ballerina’ wearing this tutu at her next dance performance!

The skirt is ideal to wear over the leotard for ballet practice, as an ice skating or dance costume, as a cheerleader or sports uniform, the options are endless.  And it looks great with the overlap fastening at either the back or the front.

This will be the pattern you use time and time again so get your 18 ½ inch Cabbage Patch Ballerina Doll Clothes Pattern today!

Happy Sewing

Gosh, time certainly does fly by these days.  It has been a while since I’ve done a Share and Tell blog so I hope you enjoy a snippet of some of the emails that I receive from my wonderful customers (or who I prefer to call my Rosie’s Doll Clothes Patterns family).

Annmary has been busy sewing for her five-year-old granddaughter who received an American Girl doll from her parents for Christmas.

“Hello Rosie, I did sew up the “Winter Pyjamas` a while ago, with pretty fabric that a friend had given to me, but I am just now getting a photo off, as it has been busy!

Samantha is wearing them, and I loved the pattern.  The methods were very doable, and the pyjamas look so realistic- so cute in the smaller scale!  I was afraid the collar would be very tricky, and even that the pants would end up too small, as I worked, but everything ended up fine.  

Thanks for sharing your work with other sewers, and it was great to see the clothing that others have produced.  Best wishes Annmary”.

Donna has been doing my online course and has done a beautiful job with these crop top and sports shorts.  I especially love the lace detail around the neck and hem of the crop top, it looks so sweet.

Donna also recently lost her beloved Mom, Rose.  My thoughts go out to you Donna and I hope that sewing helps you to get through this sad time.

 “My first two projects. Dedicated to my Mom who I lost earlier this month.”

Looks like Diane was sewing up a storm for the Christmas markets as in the photos she sent me you can see racks of doll clothes all ready for sale!  I love the way Diane has used a sheer fabric and netting as an overlay on the skirt of the summer dress pattern to make gorgeous cocktail dresses.  And the black and white fur trimmed jackets are just to die for!

Diane wrote, “I just loved the patterns, here I did your fur trimmed jacket and your summer dress well I made longer ones just by adding length to it and blinged it up with some fancy ribbon and tulle.

Thank you so very much, I have made all of your patterns – Diane.”

Irene hasn’t sent any photos in but I thought it would be wonderful to share her story.

“Hi Rosie, I just had to let you know how pleased I am. I have never sewn before, ever. I really wanted a machine and I got one for Christmas.  To-day I made the shorts and crop top for my Grand Daughters doll. If I say so myself, it looks really good and the hardest bit was getting the elastic through, I think it took me about an hour as all the safety pins I had in the house were too big!!! However, I did get there and I am really, really chuffed. Thanks again, regards Irene.”

It’s absolutely awesome when I receive emails like this.  I don’t know Irene personally but I am so very proud of her and her achievements.  It just goes to show that if you really want something, you can make it happen.  I hope to receive more emails from Irene so that I can follow her progress.

Cindy has made some really cute summer dresses for her favorite doll, Molly.  The blue dress is made as per the pattern and then Cindy has left the trim off the bottom of the pink dress and added a ribbon around the waist instead of the trim.  It’s amazing how different two dresses can look when small changes are made.

Cindy wrote, “I made 2 dresses today with the summer pattern, love them, and I thought I’d share with you. I just love Molly!  She was my xmas present from my hubby”.

Debbi Sue completed my course in January this year and is having fun making lots of doll clothes for her beautiful granddaughter.  The following is the email and just a few of the lovely photos Debbi Sue sent me – I’m sure you’ll agree she has a very lucky granddaughter.

“Hi, just a note from South Dakota………
One of my most precious memories is Christmas time and opening up a box with homemade Barbie doll clothes made by my grandmother. Well, I’m now a grandmother, so here I am, hoping that someday that little girl will think back of these, not the best sewn, but made with love and think of me.
So thank you Rosie, for the start!!”

Nancy sent this photo in showing all the pyjamas that she has been sewing for her granddaughters dolls.  My gosh you’ve been busy Nancy!

Thanks to everyone who has emailed me as I love to hear about your doll clothes sewing adventures and of course seeing your terrific photos.  I really do appreciate the time you take to do this and I promise that I’ll try and share your stories and photos more often.

Happy Sewing

I’m really excited to be releasing my new ‘Glitz and Glamour’ pattern as I’ve had many requests for a leotard and a ballerina pattern.  At last I can offer both!

That’s right, my new Ballerina Doll Clothes Pattern for 18 inch dolls, such as the American Girl doll, includes patterns for the versatile leotard, a stunning tutu AND a gorgeous skirt.  This is the ultimate pattern for dolls that love their sport, whether it’s ballet, gymnastics, ice skating, cheerleading or dancing.

Let me begin with the Leotard which is the basis for many dance costumes and sporting uniforms.  There are options to make this leotard with short sleeves, long sleeves or sleeveless.  You can make it in your team or school colors, make it plain for practice time, or add embellishments to create a spectacular gymnastics or dance leotard.

The Tutu is a separate piece so it can be worn over the leotard when your doll is performing and replaced with the skirt when at practice or warming up.  This stunning tutu has a beautiful decorative feature on top of the tulle just like the professional ballerinas wear….your doll will feel like a real ‘Ballerina Princess’ wearing this tutu!

The skirt is ideal to wear over the leotard for ballet practice, as an ice skating or dance costume, as a cheerleader or sports uniform, the options are infinite.  And it looks great with the overlap fastening at either the back or the front.

This pattern also includes variations for the 20 inch (50cm) Australian Girl doll.Get your 18 inch American Girl Ballerina Doll Clothes Pattern today! The 18 ½ inch Cabbage Patch Ballerina doll clothes pattern will be available soon.

Happy Sewing

A couple of weeks ago I introduced a new ‘Glitz and Glamour’ category to my doll clothes patterns with the release of my 18” Doll Clothes Wedding Dress Pattern.  At the time I promised that I would also have this pattern available for the 18 ½” Cabbage Patch Dolls ‘sew’ I’m thrilled to be releasing that Wedding Dress doll clothes pattern today!

Cabbage Patch dolls make beautiful brides too and so now they have a choice between two gorgeous different wedding dresses.  The first option has lace overlay on the bodice and delicate lace sleeves while the second option is sleeveless and has stunning lace overlay on a very full skirt.

If you can’t decide which one you like best, why not make one in white for the bride and one in your favorite color for the bridesmaid!

Also included with my Wedding Dress Pattern are patterns for a petticoat, which helps to give fullness to the skirt, and a beautiful full length wedding veil.

‘Sew’ what are you waiting for?  Purchase this gorgeous wedding dress doll clothes pattern today and your 18 ½” Cabbage Patch doll will be walking down the aisle in no time at all!

Happy Sewing