stitch a rag doll

1. Download the templates and print. Trace around the patterns, adding a 5mm seam allowance to each. Cut two body and four arms pieces from plain pink cotton. Pin the body pieces together and sew around the entire shape leaving a 5cm gap at one side for turning. Clip the curves and turn out using a blunt ended knitting needle if necessary.

2. Firmly stuff the body, beginning with the legs. Once they are well filled, sew a line of running stitch across the top of both thighs to enable the doll to sit properly. Stuff the head and torso. Ensure the neck is well filled or it may droop once the hair is added. Turn in the raw edges of the gap and slip stitch closed.

3. Pair up the arm pieces and sew together leaving a 4cm gap on one side of each for turning. Clip the curves, turn out and firmly stuff before closing the gap as before. Create a thumb on each hand by back stitching through the stuffed fabric.

4. Oversew the top of each arm to the centre of each shoulder, ensuring the thumbs are facing forward. Reinforce the join by sewing from arm to arm through the top of the torso with strong thread several times.

5. Use a chalk pencil to sketch features onto the face before embroidering with back and satin stitch. Make the front of the doll’s hairstyle in satin stitch using knitting wool and a darning needle. Fill the back of the head with long loops of wool sewn in rows. Secure each one with another small stitch before making the next loop.

6. Cut the loops to make hair. Create a layered style by holding the doll upside down and allowing the hair to fall naturally before trimming the ends level. Add decoration to the fringe by securing three folded lengths of yarn to the parting with small