◻️ Doll Making Supplies

Fabric

Laib Yala is a well-known brand among professionals that offers fabric choices suitable for Waldorf Inspired dolls. They provide interlock fabric for the head and torso, which is stretchy and soft, and jersey fabric for the arms and legs, which has a heavier weight and minimal stretch.

Cheesecloth

We use cheesecloth as a part of the process for shaping the body sections. If you choose to use another cotton material, it is crucial to ensure that it is not stretchy.

Mohair yarn

To create the foundation for the wig, a circle is crocheted and placed on the head beneath the wefts. For the most desirable outcome, I recommend utilizing a ball of brushable mohair yarn in a shade that closely matches the wefts.

Wool

For crafting a single Waldorf Inspired doll, you will need approx. 300 grams (10 oz) of clean sheep wool, which is suitable for felting.

Doll hair

Angora goat wefts are recommended for making the wig, providing a manageable texture that is suitable for beginners. However, if you prefer an even softer hair texture, Alpaca wefts can be used, although it may require more advanced skills to work with due to its delicate nature. For optimal results, a minimum weight of 1.4 oz (40 grams) and a length of 9.8 inches (25 cm) are recommended.

Sewing thread

To sew the doll, you will need a strong and durable thread that matches the color of the doll’s fabric. Polyester thread is an excellent choice as it provides exceptional strength. Trusted brands like Gütermann, Mettler, and Nylbond are known for their quality and suitability for sewing dolls.

Crochet Yarn

Approximately 40 cm / 15 inches of this thread is needed. Its strength is more important than the yarn type since it will be used only for the inner part of the doll’s head.

Embroidery thread

I use DMC cotton embroidery thread for the eyes. I work with a single thread selected from the six strands of embroidery floss. Personally, I prefer to avoid very bright or extremely light shades

Iron-on hemming tape

This is a key component in the process of creating wefts. By applying the tape to the locks and using an iron, the adhesive on the tape securely bonds the locks together, forming strong and durable wefts.

Masking Tape

An essential adhesive tape to have as we shape the limbs and torso of the doll. Masking tape is designed with a paper backing. It features a pressure-sensitive adhesive on one side, which allows it to be easily applied to surfaces.

Buttons

We will need 4 flat buttons.
Diameter for arms:
≈ 0.6 inch / 1,5 cm
Diameter for legs:
≈ 0.8 inch / 2 cm

Makeup

For makeup, a common technique is to draw on a piece of fabric using wax crayons. Then, gently rub the fabric onto the doll to transfer the desired color. For lips, you can use an eyeshadow brush. Before applying the color to the doll, lightly brush it on a separate piece of fabric to soften the intensity.

◻️ Dollmaking tools

Scissors

Fabric scissors with long blades and ergonomic handles are ideal for cutting fabric. Embroidery scissors, with their sharp blades, are essential for trimming threads and working on small details in doll making

Felting needle

A regular felting needle is sufficient for dollmaking. However, for faster progress when working on larger forms like the head and torso, using a felting needle handle along with extra felting needles can help expedite your felting process. I prefer to work with one felting needle and enjoy the process without hurrying.

Doll Armature, Skeleton Joints

Internal framework that provides support and flexibility to a doll’s limbs.
Legs + Torso
Length: minimum – 18inch / 45cm.
Diameter: 0.4inch / 1.1cm
Arms
Length: minimum – 7inch / 18cm.
Diameter: 0.24inch / 0.6cm

Needles

We will need a sewing needle and a long doll needle (7inches / 18cm.) The long needle is essential for accessing hard-to-reach areas of the doll’s head and body. It has a wider design compared to regular sewing needles and should be inserted into the fabric only once or twice in the same spot.

Pins

It is recommended to use shorter pins to prevent them from touching the firm joints beneath the wool during the crafting process.

Air-soluble Marker

The perfect marker for tracing patterns on fabric. The ink will disappear under the influence of air and light. Make sure you use one that disappears naturally when exposed to light and air rather than after washing.

Fineliner pen

It is ideal for adding freckles. The pressure applied to the pen determines the size of the freckle, allowing for natural and irregular markings. For a more realistic look, consider using two colors that are closely matched. It’s recommended to practice on a piece of fabric before applying freckles to the doll.

Tape measure

We will need a tape measure to make sure our doll is the right size.

Crochet hook

Crafting a doll wig involves crocheting a circular shape, for which I use B-1 (2.5mm) crochet hook.

Waldorf Doll Making Supplies