Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of crochet with this charming Victorian doll dress. Picture the delicate stitches forming elegant patterns reminiscent of a bygone era, bringing life to an adorable piece of miniature fashion.
Crochet Victorian Doll Dress
Materials:
- Yarns in blue, white, and light gray (specific types mentioned are bamboo cotton and acrylic).
- Tunisian crochet hooks (sizes 3.75 mm for the start, then switched to 4.25 mm).
- A vintage doll for sizing and adjustments.
Skirt Portion:
Start with 72 Chains:
- Begin your project with a chain of 72.
Work Five Rows of Simple Tunisian Stitch:
- Perform 5 rows in simple Tunisian crochet stitch.
Switch Yarns if Needed:
- Due to splitting, you may switch yarns for better handling.
Row 6 - Decrease Sequence:
- Perform a series of decreases as follows: Decrease seven sts, decrease seven more, decrease sixteen, decrease seven again twice, and finally, decrease eight.
Work Four More Rows in Plain Stitch:
- Continue with the pattern until you reach row 11, ready for another set of decreases.
Decrease Pattern for Skirt Continuation:
- Start by decreasing six stitches, then decrease again following a repeating pattern and diminishing the number of stitches decreased by one each time until the skirt reaches the sufficient length.
- Work four more rows plain after each set of decreases.
Constructing the Bustle:
- Given the skirt is too large for the doll, make a lobster tail bustle for fitting, using additional fabric for volume and correct silhouette of the 1880s style.
Bodice Portion:
Begin with Chains Around the Waist:
- Start with 21 chains that just meet around the doll's waist.
Four Rows of Plain Stitch:
- Continue with four rows of plain Tunisian stitch.
Increase Under Each Arm:
- Increase by one stitch under each arm area to accommodate the doll’s shape.
Shaping and Constructing Sleeves:
Sleeves:
- Make 9 chains for the sleeve, and work two plain rows. Increase at the end of each row to achieve the desired sleeve size and fit.
Finishing Touches:
Blocking:
- Use heat on the acrylic parts to shape and relax the stitches.
Assembly and Adjustments:
- Final adjustments to fit the doll, including creating a bustle from excess material and adjusting for armholes and necklines.
Decoration:
- Adding lace and trims to enhance the dress according to preference and achieving a late Victorian look.
Notes:
- This pattern frequently requires adjustment and fitting to your specific doll.
- The process is experimental, embracing adjustments and alterations for fitting and aesthetics.
- The creator encourages going rogue and personalizing based on inspiration from the late Victorian era rather than following an exact pattern.
Final Touches:
- Finish off with decorative elements such as lace, trims, and a matching hat and shawl to complete the Victorian look.
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