The Internet is a great place to find patterns for fashion doll accessories, clothing, and more. Using these free patterns, you can give Barbie a custom couture gown or the perfect accent for her Dream House.
Barbie Clothing Patterns
Any little girl will tell you that Barbie is all about the clothes. You can save money and create unique looks by making these clothes yourself.
Free Barbie Maxi Dress Instructions
If you make this free design, your Barbie will be right in style. This pattern is perfect for a novice seamstress or even a little girl working on her first project.
To get started, you'll need a sewing machine and thread, ¼ yard colorful knit fabric, six inches of ¼ inch elastic, ½ yard of matching ribbon, and ½ yard of lace. You'll also need a tape measure and other tools.
- Cut the knit fabric into two rectangles, each seven inches wide by nine inches long.
- Place the right sides together and sew a seam on one of the long sides of the rectangles, leaving a ¼ inch seam allowance. This will be the side seam of Barbie's dress.
- Along the top edge of the dress fabric, sew a channel that is about half an inch wide. Be sure to roll the raw edges of the fabric under as you work.
- Hem the bottom edge of the dress. Attach lace for extra fashion flair.
- Thread the elastic through the channel, and pin the ends at the edges of the channel.
- Sew up the other side seam of the dress, catch the elastic inside the seam to secure it.
- Slip the strapless dress on your Barbie, and use the ribbon to gather it around her waist.
More Free Patterns for Barbie Clothes
The following websites offer free Barbie clothing patterns.
- Janel was Here has several unique designs for old and new Barbies. They are appropriate for an intermediate-level seamstress.
- Miss B Couture has a variety of Barbie patterns, most for intermediate seamstresses. This cute pleated skirt would be perfect for Barbie's school uniform.
- Petrastroika Designs has a simple pattern for a Barbie vest you can make in less than 20 minutes, along with embellishment ideas to make it unique.
- Molendrix has several great historical sewing patterns for Barbie, as well as patterns inspired by fantasy characters. These designs are quite complex.
Barbie Accessory and Home Decor Patterns
Barbie's personal style statements aren't limited to her wardrobe. You can also create all kinds of cute accessories and decorations for your fashion dolls.
Free Barbie Sleeping Bag Instructions
If you make this easy sleeping bag, Barbie and all her friends will be ready to sleep out under the stars. This project is easy, especially if you use no-fray polar fleece.
To make the sleeping bag, you'll need ¼ yard polar fleece, thread in contrasting color, and a small piece of narrow ribbon. You'll also need a sewing machine, scissors, and a tape measure.
- Cut the polar fleece into two rectangles, each five inches wide by 12 inches long.
- Place the two right sides together, and sew along one of the long sides of the rectangles. Sew one of the short sides as well. Then sew four inches up from the bottom on the remaining long side.
- Turn the sleeping bag right side out. Use a zigzag stitch to finish the remaining edges of the sleeping bag in a contrasting color of thread.
- Roll the sleeping bag up, and tie it closed with the ribbon.
More Barbie Accessories and Decorations
The following websites offer more free patterns for Barbie's homer décor and accessories:
- AllCrafts has links to several Barbie accessory patterns, including ones for swimsuits and parasols.
- Tiny Zippers has a tutorial for making a sofa for your Barbie. This project is a little complicated for young sewers, but it would be perfect for adults and kids to work on together.
- Miss B Couture provides all kinds of patterns for Barbie's accessories. Most are intermediate to advanced in sewing level.
- Petrastroika Designs has a tutorial for sewing underpants for your Barbie. This project is suited for experienced seamstresses.
Tips for Success
Sewing for fashion dolls is a little different than sewing full-sized clothing. Keep these tips in mind as you work:
- Choose fabrics that won't unravel. You won't be able to leave a large seam allowance on these tiny clothes.
- Select thin fabrics, unless the pattern specifies otherwise. This gives your project a more authentic feel.
- Be precise. Every seam counts with these tiny projects, so make sure you measure correctly.
- If you have extra fabric scraps on hand, Barbie clothes are a great way to use them up.
Great Way to Get Started
If you're teaching your child to sew, making doll clothes can be a great way to get started. Choose a simple pattern, and talk about each step as you go. You'll be making memories along with a new wardrobe for her favorite doll.
