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Doll Sewing 101: Start with the Basics – Episode 3 – Simple doll Boyshorts

  • Writer: Bankky N.
    Bankky N.
  • 2 days ago
  • 2 min read

Welcome back to Doll Sewing 101!

In Episode 3, we’re sewing simple doll boyshorts—a perfect beginner project that teaches basting stitches, pressing, seam finishing, and clean waistbands.


These boyshorts are great as doll underwear, pajama bottoms, or a base layer under dresses. Once you master this, you’ll be surprised how many doll outfits you can build from it!


Whether you sew for 14-inch dolls (like WellieWishers) or 18-inch dolls (like American Girl), I’ve included free printable PDF patterns for both sizes so you can sew along at home.


Let’s get started! ✂️💕


🎁Free Printable patterns at the bottom of the page!



HB 63 doll boy short pattern
HB 63 doll boy short pattern

🧵 Materials


• Fabric (cotton, jersey, or knit)

• Matching thread

• Optional: lace, elastic, bow, or small button for decoration




📺 Watch the Full Video Tutorial




🪡 Step-by-Step Instructions


1. Baste the Edges


Using a basting stitch, sew ¼ inch along: Waist edge, Crotch curve, Both leg openings
Using a basting stitch, sew ¼ inch along: Waist edge, Crotch curve, Both leg openings

This step makes pressing and folding much easier—don’t skip it!



2. Press the Waist and Legs Openings


Press the waist edge down along the basting stitch, Press again;  Fold it under one more time to create a clean waistband edge. Do the same with the legs opening.
Press the waist edge down along the basting stitch, Press again; Fold it under one more time to create a clean waistband edge. Do the same with the legs opening.


3. Stitch the Leg Openings


Stitch the leg hems in place
Stitch the leg hems in place

4. Remove Basting Stitches (Legs)


Carefully remove the basting stitches from both leg openings.
Carefully remove the basting stitches from both leg openings.



5. Sew the Back Seam


Fold the boyshorts in half with right sides together;  Match the back seam
Fold the boyshorts in half with right sides together; Match the back seam


Stitch the back seam securely
Stitch the back seam securely


6. Reduce Bulk


Open the back seam, Trim the seam allowance to reduce bulk, Press flat
Open the back seam, Trim the seam allowance to reduce bulk, Press flat



7. Finish the Waistband


Fold the waistband down along the pressed edge
Fold the waistband down along the pressed edge

Pin in place
Pin in place
Stitch around the waistband
Stitch around the waistband

8. Clean Up the Waist


Remove the basting stitch from the waistband
Remove the basting stitch from the waistband

Trim any extra seam allowance if needed
Trim any extra seam allowance if needed


9. Sew the Crotch Seam


Match the crotch seam carefully; Pin in place
Match the crotch seam carefully; Pin in place

Stitch to secure
Stitch to secure

Front
Front
Back
Back


🎀 Optional Finishing Touch


Add a small ribbon or bow to the front for a cute
Add a small ribbon or bow to the front for a cute

Finished look!
Finished look!








💡 Sewing Tips for Beginners

• Go slow—small pieces need patience

• Always press before stitching for cleaner results

• Basting stitches are your best friend for doll clothes




This project is part of Doll Sewing 101 – Episode 3.

👉 Watch the full step-by-step tutorial on my YouTube channel, and grab more beginner sewing projects right here on the blog.


I hope you enjoyed this tutorial! See you in the next one—happy crafting!



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HAPPY BANKKY / CRAFTY MOM

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