We will be celebrating a special little girl's birthday around here next month. In preparation for her big day I have been keeping my sewing machine humming as I crank out goodies for her. I don't want to brag, but isn't this precious? I found this tiny doll carseat/carrier at a local thrift store and paid almost nothing for it. Since I know what she is getting for her birthday next month I'm certain this will go along perfectly. When I brought it home I also realized just how plain it was. Off to my fabric stash I flew to find the perfect pairings.
Car Seat Lining - I made a paper pattern for the inside lining and marked where the cutouts would need to be for the safety harness. Then I sewed the two right sides facing, turned it out, used the button-holer for the strap holes, and voila! Instant liner to keep baby sitting pretty.
Canopy/Cover - this is just a big rectangle. Again I sewed the two right sides together, turned it out, and top stitched around. Next I made two tabs from fabric remnants and sewed on ribbons to function as straps that tie.
Diapers - I eyeballed these with a paper towel pattern until I got the size just right. I then cut the three diapers from craft felt, sewed on some carefully placed hook and loop tape. Presto! Chango!
Burp Cloth - Have you seen those contoured burp cloths? Well me too. I loved them so much that I bought an in-the-hoop pattern from Digistitches for my embroidery machine so that I can make as many of them as I want and give them away as shower gifts.The stitches are accurate and clean with no loops or jumps. Jennilee is one of the better digitizers around and I have enjoyed using several of her designs. Stop by her site when you are ready to buy some amazing machine embroidery designs.
Doll Carrier/Sling - another giant rectangle turned out and sewn together to form a big loop. Gather again at the shoulder with another simple fabric tube.
Covered Wipes Case - this took a little time. The hot glue gun and plenty of patience is key to success in this project. I covered a travel-sized soap case with batting and fabric and attached the ribbon trim around the edges. Felt squares serve as "wipes." Needless to say, I can't wait to give this away. Now go play with your dollies!
-Whimsy