Kokeshi Doll DIY Sewing Tutorial
This is a simple tutorial which outlines how to make these cute little Kokeshi dolls using my printed kokeshi doll fabric panel. When complete the doll measures 13.5cm tall x 5.5cm wide. It's a great little project for all levels of sewers and embroiderers, and you can also give it your own personal little touches by embroidering the floral print.
There is a link at the end of this tutorial which takes you to the Kokeshi doll fabric panel listed in the shop.
You will need the following items
Iron, Sewing Machine, Scissors, Pencil, Needle and Thread, Pins, Fiber Filling, Light Weight Iron On Webbing or also known as Iron On Interfacing 16cm x 17cm (most fabric stores stock this), 1 Kokeshi doll fabric panel
Optional Items: Dried lavender - to fill, Embroidery Thread if you would like to embroider details and to create a hanging loop on top.
Your iron on interfacing should be cut to the same size as the Kokeshi fabric panel (16cm x 17cm), bond them together using an iron on a medium heat setting. Be sure the shiny side of the interfacing (glue side) is facing the back of the panel.
At this point you need to decide if you will embroider any details, below are some ideas. I used a single strand of embroidery floss to embroider elements of the blossom.
Now you need to cut out your front and back panels, be sure to leave a 3-4mm border around the edge, I have shown this border in pink
Turn your front panel over and trace an outline around the shape of the doll edge - you should be able to see the outline of the doll print. You could also tape the panel to a window this will give you a clear view of the outline. Leave a gap at the base, this is left unstitched to turn the doll right side out. Once you have traced the line, stitch your front and back together using the line as your guide.
Once you have stitched the panels together place a few small snips around the doll this will help give it a nice smooth shape.
Turn your doll right side out - something like a crochet hook or a piece of dowel (a blunt tip) can be helpful to turn the doll. Press the seams out by running the blunt implement along the stitching line (from the inside of the doll) and give the doll a light press with the iron.
Fill the doll with fiber fill or lavender. You could attach a ribbon or thread to the head if you would like to hang the doll.
Now you are ready to stitch the base closed and a quick final press with the iron to finish.
