The Dolls

Time to play dress up! First things first: choose a theme. I chose a synchronized swimmer to mimic the entertainment we had at our dinner party, allowing our guest to take a piece of the party home with them. I put the doll in a terry cloth robe and sequined swim suite with a hat to match. To begin this, measure out the length and width of the doll, then double the length and cut out a piece of material that size. I used jersey knit material in a metallic gold. Fold the material in half and cut a hole for the head. Slide the material over the dolls head and sew the sides and crotch together, creating a tight fitting swimsuit. I then added sequins in a decorative design onto the material with material glue. Once that is complete, let it dry.

Take a big towel and measure out the appropriate length for your doll's robe and cut it out. Make sure to allow a few extra inches of material between the armholes, because the extra bulk will naturally form sleeves. Cut out armholes and slide the robe onto your doll, folding the collar down and fluffing the sleeves out. If you want the robe shorter you can cut it to perfection once on the doll. Cut a half-inch thick strip of the terry cloth towel and tie it around her waist as the waistband.

I made an origami hat out of white paper to match the suit and decorated it with gold glitter and matching sequins, putting it aside to dry. My doll's hair was down, so I pulled it back in a bun and then hot glued the origami hat to her hair. Once this is complete you can slide your doll into the gift bag of your choice and give it as a gift at a party. In searching for the proper dolls to decorate as gifts, I recommend the smaller the better.