Pattern Links

Catalog Companies

Simplicity
Simplicity often adds new doll dresses with every new catalog. Of the major pattern companies, this one is my favorite. The directions are clear and easy-to-follow- perfect for a beginner sewer. They have a variety of historical and modern styles to choose from. Simplicity patterns also go on sale at craft stores such as JoAnne and Hancock for $.99.

Vogue
Vogue patterns are my second favorite, especially the designs by Teresa Layman. These patterns tend to be for the experienced sewer and contain more intricate details than some of the others. They specialize in historical patterns. Unfortunately, Vogue has not updated their 18" doll pattern collection in some time.

McCalls
MCCalls has a great collection of modern clothes for 18" dolls. While not updated as frequently as Simplicity, they do feature unique, appealing designs not seen in other places.

Butterick
Ugh! Butterick patterns have the unfortunate distinction of frustrating me the most! Not all of their patterns are bad, but on more than one occasion I have found myself struggling to decipher their directions. I also don't like how some of their patterns are pieced together, creating an awkward fitting. Be sure to try your project on your doll often when using one.
 
Kwik Sew
I have never used a Kwik Sew pattern, but the designs are cute and modern with a boutiquey feel to them.

Burda
I have never used a Burda pattern. Their doll collection is small and not very original. I've usually been able to find the same style by a different company at a cheaper price.

Pattern Downloads for Purchase

BunnyBear
I love BunnyBear's patterns! Not only are they historically accurate, but they are available for immediate download.  Each pattern contains pages of color-illustrated step-by-step directions.  And these directions are thorough! I've made several of BunnyBear's designs, and they are very fun to sew.  At $8.95 per pattern, they are priced a little high for only one outfit, but the professional packaging and wonderful directions make it worth every penny!

Liberty Jane Doll Clothing
Another great site! At Liberty Jane, if you can't find something you like, then you aren't trying hard enough.  They have clothes for both modern and historical dolls as well as several neat accessories.  At $3.95, their prices are very affordable! I've bought several patterns from Liberty Jane- all of them have been great sewing experiences.

Dollhouse Designs
Renee from Dollhouse Designs has a growing collection of patterns for sale on her Etsy and Craftsy stores. You can also check out her blog for sneak peaks at her current and future projects.  Prices vary by pattern but are available for download.

Online Mail-Order Doll Patterns

Old Doll Patterns.com
This website sells photocopies of vintage patterns.  The most important thing to remember when ordering an old doll pattern is... it's an old doll pattern.  Sewing techniques have changed over the years, so some of the older patterns can be quite challenging.  Some have great directions, and others might not have any.  I've sewn a few of the 1930s Shirley Temple outfits from this website with varying degrees of success.

Morrissey Dolls
I haven't purchased anything from this website yet, but I probably will this summer.  They have a variety of doll patterns with very unique designs.  At $4.95, they are reasonably priced, too.

Pattern Books


Joan Hinds
Joan Hinds has authored seven pattern books and many single patterns for 18” dolls. Most of her patterns are available for purchase on her web site, Fancywork and Fashion, and through secondary sellers, such as Amazon and eBay.

Maria Freeman
Maria Freeman has authored two pattern books for American Girl sized dolls. More information about these books will be available soon.

Free 18" Doll Sewing Patterns


Joan Hinds
Joan Hinds has authored seven pattern books and many single patterns for 18” dolls. Most of her patterns are available for purchase on her web site, Fancywork and Fashion, and through secondary sellers, such as Amazon and eBay.