Free Spirit Amigurumi Doll Pattern
This is a free pattern, you may make as many as you like and even sell them. I would ask that if you do sell them, you include my name as the designer of the pattern. This pattern is for the doll only. Soon, I will have available clothing patterns for her as well. The pattern is for this doll:
I also have some picture tutorials to go with this doll, since the PDF file only has the photo of the completed doll. The tutorials are located here:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/29184580@N04/collections/72157621892764268/
I would be happy for feedback, since I am the only one proofreading the instructions, and I hope you enjoy making this doll. She is simple, cute, and a lot of fun :-)
The pattern is amazing! Thank you so much for sharing i can't wait to make my own also passed it on to my sister how loved it.
ReplyDeleteAdded you to my blog faves keep up the wonderful work.
Thank you so much for sharing your pattern. My daughter, Amber, and I started working on dolls last night. I've completed my head and she almost has. I am now working on the legs. They are going to be so cute! We thought it would be a great mother - daughter project.
ReplyDeleteHave a Blessed Day,
Diane
Hi Beth:
ReplyDeleteThanks for your beautiful "Blythe type" doll pattern, in addition to your well written and photo'd tutorials. I've been a Flickr fan of yours for many months and have admired your work. I'm excited to get start.
Joy
hey there! this is such a nice gesture of you to do! specially for beginners that don't want to buy a pattern that they might not be able to finish.. ;) like one that i am doing now hehehe, thanks so much for sharing! I am sending this link to a couple of friends so that they can give it a try to for their little girls.
ReplyDeleteHi!! your doll is amazing!! thank you so much for sharing the pattern, and also for the tutorial!!
ReplyDeleteYour doll is delightful, Beth! Thanks so much for sharing your patterns and tutorials. I can hardly wait to make my own doll...
ReplyDeleteSusan in ON
Very cute doll! Barb Spencer (dba The Enchanted Attic) http://barbspencerdolls.com
ReplyDeleteI finished her.
ReplyDeletehttp://mysite.verizon.net/vze2r22a/page5.html
paperpest,
ReplyDeleteWell done, what a red-head :-)
Beth
Now she's dressed :-)
ReplyDeletehttp://mysite.verizon.net/vze2r22a/page5.html
What a wonderful pattern to share, thank you so much!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful work! Thank you for sharing the pattern.
ReplyDeleteBeth,
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for sharing this doll! I have been looking for a doll that I can start putting together for my female nieces for Christmas, and I have (rather ambitious) plans to put together a doll, clothes, and painted box for both of them.
I was looking on Ravelry and noticed that your pattern isn't there. If you aren't familiar with the site, it's a (FREE) knitting/crochet website (members only, unfortunately - but it's free to be a member, and once you e-mail them with an invitation request you get one quickly) that has a lot of members. They have a database of free and pay patterns on the internet, and I think that at the very least it would increase traffic to your site.
Anyway, just thought I would throw that out there. I am very excited about the pattern, and I'll send you a picture of my finished work when I get to that point. Thank you again and again and again!
Megan
Follow up:
ReplyDeleteI took the liberty of posting your pattern to Ravelry. It is entirely credited to your name and links directly back to your blog, is free, and I believe in the spirit of the permission you have given on the site. Let me emphasize that this is a database of patterns and basically just links you to them - I didn't post the pattern as my own or take credit for your work. I included in the pattern notes my own color suggestions for skin colors, as well as information from your pattern and a link back here for the clothing. I hope that this increases traffic to your wonderful blog and shares this beautiful pattern with other crocheters who might not have otherwise come across it!
Hi Megan,
ReplyDeleteThank-you for the Ravelry information. Believe it or not, I am a member, but I just don't think about it or go there very often. I'm just not that familiar with it. Another internet friend suggested Ravelry to me when I was doing lots of Waldorf dolls with crocheted wig caps...my wig making tutorial is there on Ravelry somewhere.
I'll take a look. I'm fine with you posting the links to the Free Spirit pattern on this blog. I love making this doll; I have two in the works right now that are going to be Edwardian children :-)
Enjoy making them for your nieces!
Beth
Glad to hear that - I was a little worried that it might have bothered you; I guess I'm irrational. I added some comments, so if you want to change them I think you're able to.
ReplyDeleteAnyway, I really like Ravelry, but it's not for everyone. I like the yarn and pattern database; I like the comments, and I like the community. For those reasons, I want to make sure as many crocheters and knitters out there - who aren't "fad crafters" - know about it so they can consider joining.
Anyway I have a question about the doll eyes: between the thread whites and the crocheted head fabric, I can't get my washers to "lock down" on the safety eye posts. Since doll #1 is sort of an experiment (OK, OK, I want one for myself), I went ahead and glued the washers on with E6000 (if it's good enough to be industrial glue, it's good enough for me). Is this a problem for anyone else? Is it just that I bought cheap craft store eyes and should have known better? And do the clear eyes from CR's have longer posts? Or is my fabric just too thick for some reason? Thanks in advance!
Hi Megan,
ReplyDeleteI measured the post of the eyes I've been using, and it is just a hair under 1/2". I make the eye whites with size 8 perle cotton, so I've not encountered a problem of the eye whites and head fabric being too thick for the washer to lock onto the post. You do have to push really hard on some of the washers to get them to move over the little ribs on the post. I think the E6000 glue is a good backup plan.
The eyes I'm using are not expensive; I've bought them in bulk from both CR's crafts, and the Animal and Cat eye link posted in 'Links I Love'.
Good luck!
Beth
Hi Beth, Unfortunately I am not able to find the pattern. Kindly mail me the pattern at dolly.adroitquest@gmail.com as I am dying to make one. Your doll are gorgeous..
ReplyDeleteI loooove your pattern! My little girl is finished, but naked. So before I can send you a photo, I have to make her underwear. :)
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for sharing!
Henny,
ReplyDeleteIf you have a flickr account, I've created a flickr group where pictures of Free Spirit can be shared. I'd love to have you post your pictures there too! The link to the flickr photo site is on the left hand side of the blog page, just above my picture, entitled 'Free Spirit Ami Doll Photostream'
Beth
Your doll is absolutely beautiful and many thanks for sharing the pattern :)
ReplyDeleteI don't know if anyone asked but how did you put the hair on the doll and what did you use to make it.
ReplyDeleteInstructions for making the hair are included with the doll pattern. Basically, I crochet a wig cap with the same yarn as the hair, sew the cap to the head, then hook strands of yarn to the cap. You don't have to use as much yarn this way, because the scalp won't show through.
ReplyDeleteCheck out the wig making tutorial (look on the left hand side of the blog page for 'Tutorials'). This is how I make all the hair on all my dolls, crochet or sewn.
Hope this helps!
Beth
Hello Beth,
ReplyDeletethank you so much for this wonderfull doll pattern!
I just finished my version of her and also linked back to your site.
http://forum.amigurumi.de/thread.php?postid=42585#post42585
(scroll down a little to find the pictures of her)
I named her 'Saphira' and am absulutely in love with her!
Thank you yet again!
*HUGS*
Andrea
Andrea, she is lovely! Her hair is wonderful :-) If you have a flickr account, please consider posting her to the flickr group I created to share photo's of Free Spirit. You can find the site on the left hand side of the blog page.
ReplyDeleteThank-you so much for sharing her!
Beth
oh well, I didn't have a flickr account so far but just created one and joined the group.
ReplyDeleteThank you for your kind words on my Spahira!
hi thanks for the doll pattern but i was wondering if i could make the doll clothes in worsted weight yarn
ReplyDeleteHi,
ReplyDeleteThe clothing patterns are designed for size 10 cotton, so the patterns I have would not work with worsted. But you could design your own outfits with worsted. Worsted is so much thicker than size 10 cotton that there really isn't a way to translate the patterns.
Beth
i wads wondering would fingerling or sport weight work?
ReplyDeleteFingering or lace weight yarn might work, although fingering is still a bit heavier than size 10 cotton. You could try crocheting the bodice, with a smaller hook perhaps, and see how it fits. Then, if the fit is a bit loose, try another and subtract some stitches from the front and/or back.
ReplyDeleteHope this helps, and have a Happy Thanksgiving!
Beth
I love both doll patterns! Thanks so much for sharing. Can you tell me the size (height) of the bigger doll? I love the way the body is made and the feet and hands. I can't wait to get started on one for me (after I'm done with all my Christmas sewing, crochet, and knitting projects!). Here I am, 62 years old, and can't wait to make myself a doll. Never grow up, that's my motto :-)
ReplyDeleteBecky
Becky, Amen to that! Whats the fun in growing up?
ReplyDeleteThe larger Free Spirit doll is just under 12 inches tall, and the Mini is a little over 7 inches tall.
Have fun and enjoy the crochet!
Beth
This is so amazing. It's all the accoutrements that really do it - not only is the doll wonderful, but you can dress her (or maybe him?) stylishly too! I can't wait to get to my stash and start! (I've only just learned to crochet after a few years knitting - I am flush with Beginner's Optimism that I can do this.)
ReplyDeleteHi Otter! I'm sure you can do this :-) I'd love to see your doll when you get finished. Please consider posting a picture on the flickr photosite set up for this doll:
ReplyDeletehttp://www.flickr.com/groups/freespiritamidolls/
Enjoy the crochet!
Beth
Hi Beth,
ReplyDeleteI just made your Siamese Kitty pattern, and I love it! So does my dog, lol; he keeps trying to steal it. I just wanted to say, you are one talented lady! I love your work. Thank you so much for sharing your talent.
Kathy
Kathy, I'm delighted you are happy with your Siamese kitty (it is my favorite). I would love to have you post a picture of him (her?) on the Free Spirit flickr photo site...you can find it on the left hand side of the blog page just below the links to the tutorials.
ReplyDeleteAnd thank-you so much for your kind words :-)
Beth
Hi Beth,
ReplyDeleteI added a few pics. I also blogged about the kitty: http://craftkat.blogspot.com/2010/01/memoryhello-old-friend.html ,and added your pattern to the Ravelry site: http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Kitkat12/basic-kitty..I saw in a prior post that you were OK with that, so I hope you don't mind. You get full credit for the pattern, and there's a link back to your blog.
The Siamese kitty is my favorite too. I ordered a bunch of cat/dog eyes, and I can't wait until they come in so I can make more. I'm going to have to make one for my dog...he really loves it, lol.
Take care!
Kathy
Hi, Beth!
ReplyDeleteI have to say that I absolutely *adore* Making your dolls! I've posted pictures of two of them on the flickr pool, and am in the process of making a third! What I was wondering is, do you think it would be possible to make a larger doll by doubling the pattern?
Keep up the great work, it's highly inspiring!
Rachel
Hi Rachel, I do not see your dolls on the Free Spirit photosite :-( Did you post them here:
ReplyDeletehttp://www.flickr.com/groups/freespiritamidolls/
I'd really love to see them!
Yes, doubling the pattern would make a larger doll. You could also try using a bulky weight yarn and a larger hook; or use a double strand of worsted weight yarn and a larger hook (try an F or a G and see how well that works). These two options could be tried without altering the pattern, except you might need more pipecleaners to fill the arms and legs.
You could also try altering the pattern a bit...longer legs with a couple more stitches per round; a longer torso, a head with an additional increase round. There are all kinds of ways this pattern can be used to make a different size doll.
I look forward to seeing your creations!
Beth
Beth,
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for your prompt reply! I'm afraid I spaced out a bit on the flikr pool (I tend to post things and use different names; my most recent doll is here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/40871077@N04/4201269200/)
I think I'll try both those suggestions out! I'd tinkered a bit with just doubling everything, but as you are the creator of this fabulous pattern, I wanted to see what your thoughts were. =)
I'll be sure to post pictures of my finished creation!
Rachel
Rachel Marie, you are Black Cat Sachiko? You made that absolutely wonderful Mairead?? She is a simply stunning doll. And I know you made one other as well, sitting on your computer :-) Your work is wonderful, and I have no doubt at all that you will be able to enlarge this pattern to your satisfaction and create a great doll.
ReplyDeleteBeth
Beth,
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for your kind words! I'll be sure and let you know how it goes. =)
I love this pattern!! i will be posting my dolls to your flicker soon, I made this for the little girl that I nanny, as a twin doll, and she loved it!! her mom even complained to me that with all the christmas gifts she got that she was just playing with that one!! I do have a question for you, well two actually. I am having some problems with getting the head to stand up, the first one i made i forgot to put in the spool, (kicking myself) and so when i made a second i got spools to put it. I dont know if i crocheted to loosely or what, but its not working :( I am going to take the head off and try a couple of spools glued together or something, but I thought I would ask you if you had any advice!! Also, the pipe cleaners keep coming out of the feet :( both through the toes (I think i have fixed that by starting with a magic circle) and where the top of the pipe cleaners end, coming through the "fabric" i put the bent end in the toe and left the ends at the top.. do you have any ideas for keeping the pipe cleaners from coming out? I have thought of a couple, but maybe its something simple, like im not twisting them enough or something... ugh.. i dont know... what do you think???
ReplyDeleteHi, Yes-That-Cristi!
ReplyDeleteFirst, how cool that your doll turned out to be the 'preferred' gift this Christmas :-) It is awesome when handmade trumps store-bought.
As far as the heads go, mine tend to tilt a little to one side, which I'm sure is because the head is so big compared to the neck. Try to make sure that the stuffing in both the neck and the head come right up to the opening. What I do when I think I have all the stuffing in the head and neck, I'll wad a small piece of fiberfill up into a pea or blueberry size ball and put that in at the last, both at the neck and the head. Also, your idea of glueing two spools together sounds good. Or, maybe a slightly larger diameter spool. If you cannot find a spool slightly bigger, purchase a piece of dowel rod the diameter you think would be good, and just saw a short (1/2 to 1 inch) length off and insert it. I only used spools because I had skads and they worked out.
For the pipe cleaner poking out...I have this same problem too. I am not very good at making magic circles, so if this works for you, great! Otherwise, what I do is leave a bit of a tail at the beginning of the foot, and after I insert the pipecleaner I take a couple stitches across the toe to keep the pipecleaner from poking out. For the upper leg, I bend the pipe cleaner over and cover the top lightly with stuffing.
Cant' wait to see you dolls :-)
Beth
Hi, I made one of these dolls for my niece it is great! now my nephew wants one with an iron man outfit... I have it drawn out what it should sort of look like but I need someone thats alot better at it than me... please, if you could please help me email me at angel3rd@yahoo.com please... if not no big deal...
ReplyDeleteBeth, I used the basic doll pattern for a doll for my grand niece.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the pattern. I did change it a bit, but it's almost the same.
http://kraftyzales.blogspot.com/
Merci pour CE Modèle charmant!
ReplyDeleteVos poupées Vêtements et superbes SONT! félicitations et merci pour le partage.
Marie
I have started crocheting the basic doll using size 10 thread. I will send a picture when I am done.
ReplyDeleteAw, size 10 thread will make such a charming little doll :-) I'd love to see her when you are done.
ReplyDeleteBeth
OMG!!!
ReplyDeleteThis stunning! Thank you you sweet
generous soul. I love you. This is
like the holy grail of ami patts.
You are so talented.
Thank you again. I am making them for
gifts for all the little girls in my life
and dressing them as fairies.
Sharon:)
Hi Sharon,
ReplyDeleteThese will make great fairies :-) I'd love to see them when you are finished. Please consider posting your dolls to the Free Spirit flickr group:
http://www.flickr.com/groups/freespiritamidolls/
And thank-you so much for your kind words :-)
Beth
How do you sew the wig caps on? I am finally giving her hair, and I can't figure out how you did it. Awesome dolls!!
ReplyDeleteHi Anon,
ReplyDeleteI use carpet or buttonhole thread in a color close the the wig cap color. I stitch the cap on with a simple running stitch around the last row of the wig cap. I use a lot more thread than necessary to go around the cap, and what is left over I use to tack the cap to the head randomly.
Hope this helps,
Beth
Hi Beth, I've written a pattern for a mini free spirit dress and wondered if you'd be interested in it?
ReplyDeleteIt started off very similar to your mini nightgown but ended up being a really cute girly dress!
I couldn't find any other way of contacting you, so i hope you read this :-)
my email is pygzmytfly@hotmail.com
Thank you for the lovely doll pattern, they are givin me so much pleasure and I am n my second
ReplyDeleteThats great!
ReplyDeleteHi Beth..this blog is quite interesting.. you do a fine job on the dolls.. I loved everything here.. I am wondering where in Indiana you are located?.. I am from Indiana too.. we live close by Indianapolis.. really between Indy and Greenfield.. so I am curious as to where you might be from me.. thank you so much.. Nancy from Indiana
ReplyDeletehttp://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=1892421&op=1&o=global&view=global&subj=1203699147&id=1203699147&ref=pf
ReplyDeleteHi Beth hope the above link works, this is my first doll ami. Thank you for sharing the lovely patterns, my second is nearly finished.
Lorraine
Hi Lorraine,
ReplyDeleteI'm delighted you've enjoyed making the Free Spirit doll :-) I could not see it through the link you provided, probably because I'm not a facebook member :-( I'm sure she is beautiful!
Beth
Hi Beth
ReplyDeleteI have opened a flicker account. I have done the basic dolls not the Free Spirit so wasn't sure where to put them. Hopefully this link will work lol
http://www.flickr.com/photos/50940097@N08/4674675715/
Lorraine
Hi Beth,
ReplyDeleteCongratulations!!! Your dolls are just lovely.
I´m a crocheter and doll maker myself and many times I just crochet them without pattern, I just let my imagination flow. It's a lot of work to write down a pattern that others can follow and I think it'a a great gift of you to all those that can't crochet without a written pattern. Congratulations once again and when you find some time visit my blog too. http://krio-linha.blogspot.com It's written in portuguese but there are a lot of photos and you can always use google translator.
Hugs
Tania
Beth, I'm delighted you decided to share this pattern with us. I just found your pattern today and I can't wait to try one of these! I'm trying to complete several other projects right now but something is going to have to take a backseat so I can get started on my doll. Hmmm, I have to come up with a cutsie name for her!
ReplyDeleteHi Bejai1962 and Tania!
ReplyDeleteI'm delighted that you are enjoying the Free Spirit pattern :-)
I enjoyed your blog Tania. Great pictures, and such a lovely crochet mermaid.
Bejai1962, I know what its like to have projects in the works and then get enthused about something completely different :-)
Have a lovely day!
Beth
Beth, Where do you get your 9mm animal eyes? I'm having an awful time trying to find them.
ReplyDeleteShanna
kandsgalloway@hughes.net
Hi Beth
ReplyDeleteI've just started making one of your dolls, but my mum had to help me translate your pattern to UK English, lol. all of your dolls are amazing and i hope mine turns out ok. :)
The doll I made from your pattern won a first place ribbon at the Oregon State Fair this year. Thank you for a wonderful pattern.
ReplyDeleteLuvbug, that is totally AWESOME! Congratulations :-)
ReplyDeleteAny pictures??
Beth
what a lovely and generous resource
ReplyDeleteiv'e just finished my beautiful doll!
ReplyDeleteshe came out much better than i expected!
now all she needs are some clothes!
Hi Beth,
ReplyDeleteI just wanted to drop in to say THANK YOU.
I am doing a book signing on Saturday, and as part of the promotion, I decided to make dolls based on the characters in my book, to give away in a draw. I tried several different doll patterns, including an adorable "Stumpkin" pattern...but kept getting "stumped" myself, lol, on the directions. I knew I might have to crochet the dolls instead of sewing them, because I'm more experienced with crochet, whereas I've only just started sewing. I considered designing my own dolls, but I've only ever designed one pattern myself (a baby monkey), and I was running out of time. I made several of your kitty patterns in the past, and I remembered that you had some adorable doll patterns. I came to your blog, and got reacquainted with your lovely work. I stayed up until 5 AM crocheting my first "Free Spirit Doll". She's adorable! I love the way you designed her body from the feet up; I've never seen that done before. I also love the clever way you designed the torso, using front and back loops. The pattern is delightful!
Now I just have to make one more doll, and the hair and some winter clothing, and I'll be all set for Saturday's book signing.
Thanks so much!
Kathy
Wow, Kathy, that sounds really neat! I'm delighted you've enjoyed making the dolls, and that you are using them as you are. How cool is that?!
ReplyDeleteBeth
Hi Beth,
ReplyDeleteI just had to compliment you on the absolutely beautiful creations you share with us. I started crocheting back in June in preparation for my first grandchild to be born after not doing it for 30 years and am loving it. I have searched the web, numerous books, etc. and you have by far the most creative designs to choose from. My first that I made was your beagle pup and "Oh, how adorable"!! Thank you again for sharing and please don't stop designing. You are very, very talented.
Patricia
Patricia, congratulations on your first grandchild! And thank-you so much for your kind words. I'm delighted you've enjoyed making the Beagle pup; it is my favorite :-)
ReplyDeleteBeth
Beth,
ReplyDeleteThank you SO much for the pattern and instructions!!! I'm excited to be on my first doll.
Would you be able to give a little more insight as to how you did the eyelashes? I'm really dissatisfied with my eyelids and I think the lashes are the trouble.
Thank you!
Hi Cat!
ReplyDeleteSure thing; the eyelids are just a chain five or six, to fit over the eye (and leave tails at both ends to stitch them down). Before stitching the eyelids to the face, stitch the eyelashes with size 8 perle cotton, or size 20 crochet cotton, using a size 8 steel hook. To do this, I made four small single crochet stitches over one loop of each chain of the eyelid. So you end up with 20 or so tiny single crochet in your eyelash color, across the length of the eyelid.
If you don't have size 8 perle or size 20 crochet cotton, size 10 will work..your eyelashes will just be thicker.
I hope this helps; if not, just let me know :-)
Beth
Thank you! I couldn't find black perle cotton ANYWHERE so I used a half (three strands) of embroidery floss to go around the eye whites and for eyelashes I used a full thickness and did three sc in each chain loop.
ReplyDeleteI think I will consider my eyelids for a little while and decide if I want to re-do them.
Major kudos to you! Not only for making this awesome pattern and tutorials but also for being so helpful!
Hi Cat!
ReplyDeleteWhat an excellent idea, to use three strands of six strand embroidery floss. I never thought of that, but the next person who asks me about eyelashes, I will certainly suggest this as a great substitution for the perle cotton, and make sure they know the idea came from you :-)
Beth
: D I was able to make my fav anime character because of this awesome pattern! :D So thank you SO much for sharing it!!!
ReplyDeleteAnon,
ReplyDeleteThat is so cool! Any pictures? I'd love to see some :-)
Beth
This is a wonderful pattern, and I have been searching for a doll pattern to be able to use with living history for pre-rev war. This one works so well and is so simple. The only thing I changed is the eyes, I embroydered them since they didn't have plastic then and glass ones were very expensive. Thanks so Much!!!
ReplyDeleteI finally got a chance to try this pattern out and I LOVE IT! It is awesome! I've made 1 doll using it and have 3 others in progress. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteThank-you both for such great words :-) I am delighted you are enjoying this pattern. Michelle, I saw your wonderful Alice on Flickr; what a great doll!
ReplyDeleteBeth
Your pattern is amazing, but I'm having a bit of trouble understanding how to curly hair without using fuzzy yarn or loop stitch, do you have any suggestions?
ReplyDeleteThe easiest way to make curly hair would be to use a boucle yarn, that has little curls already in it. Loop stitches will also work, or if you don't like to make loop stitches, you could work something like (chain 10, sc or sl st) around the outside edge of your wig cap. This will give you an easy, curly fringe all around your dolls head.
ReplyDeleteBeth
Thanks for your help! I will have to try it now.
ReplyDeleteHi, just wanted to say your work is wonderful, I have been crocheting dolls and selling them for the last five years and have recently stumbled across your dog and kitties patterns, I just wondered wether you would mind if i used your basic patterns to make pets for my dolls that im selling, Im asking as not sure wether you give permission for this and i wouldnt want to cause any trouble if you didnt intend for them to be used in this way.
ReplyDeletehappy crocheting :0)
Hi Anonymous!
ReplyDeleteThank-you for the good words :-) I do not mind if you sell animals made from my patterns. I would ask that you give me designer credit on your hang tag for the animal design.
Have a joy filled 2011!
Beth
Hello again,
ReplyDeleteThank you ever so much, your work is adorable and as of yet have not crocheted animals but am sure they will be a joy to do.
I will definitely put your name on the pets
thanks again for the permission :0)
I am so impressed, thrilled and thankful for your beautiful work and the generous heart that also shares it freely. Thank you so very much.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you enjoy the patterns :-)
ReplyDeleteBeth
Thank you so very much, you are so generous!!!
ReplyDeleteFrom Spain
Hello Beth,
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for your Free Spirit Doll. I have been trying to make her for my granddaughter and I am very rusty. I have already hit a problem. As I was making the first leg, I came to the end of the pipcleaner by row 22. Is this right or have I done something wrong? I did a guage check before I started and I was just a little over 1 inch. (maybe as much as 1/8 of an inch) I am using Caron worsted weight 4 ply yarn and 6mm pipecleaners. I have noticed that the tighter I twist the pipecleaner the shorter it is. How long should the twisted pipecleaner be? I would love it if you could tell me if I am doing something wrong. Thank you so much. You are an incredable person not only for posting your wonderful pattern but being there to assist those of us who need a little help!
Hi Anonymous!
ReplyDeleteYou are doing fine. The pipecleaner does not come all the way to the top of the leg. I don't remember if I say this in the instructions, but I usually add just a very little bit of fiberfill at the top of the leg, before closing it. If the pipe cleaner came all the way to the top, there is a chance that it will poke through. Putting a bit of fiberfill also helps to keep this from happening.
Thank you for your good words; I hope you enjoy making Free Spirit :-)
Beth
Hello! I have been reading your blog for a long time, but I just finished using your pattern to make Tangled's Rapunzel. It is turning out beautiful, I LOVED YOUR PATTERN!!! It is a lot of fun!
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing!!!
La Shika, how cool! I'd love to see your Rapunzel :-)
ReplyDeleteBeth
I'm working on my doll now. I am going to use eyes I bought from suncatcher eyes. I was wondering if you have every considered putting all your patterns in a book for publishing?
ReplyDeleteHi Debbie,
ReplyDeleteI'd love to see your doll when you are done :-) As to publishing my patterns, I'm not sure anyone would want to pay for them when they can get them for free right here :-) But thank-you for the kind thought.
Beth
I have just started working on the Free Spirit Doll and clothes - Wow. I am amazed at the thought and work put into these patterns. I want to thank you for them and I know that my granddaughter will thank you also as she will be the recipient of this one I am making now. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteGrammygeek, I'm delighted that you are enjoying making a Free Spirit for your Granddaughter; I sure enjoyed designing this doll :-)
ReplyDeleteBeth
hi Beth,
ReplyDeletemy daughter and I have just happened across your blog, via craftster.
your work is so beautiful, thankyou so much for making your gorgeous patterns available to us all! :) We can't wait to get started on a new doll family!
Hi Mummaknits!
ReplyDeleteSo glad you found me :-) Hope you enjoy the dollmaking; there are a lot of dolls to choose from here.
Have a great day :-)
Beth
thanx so so much for sharing!!!
ReplyDeleteYou are very welcome, Sonny!
ReplyDeleteHi Beth,
ReplyDeletemy name is Ana and in my blog I publish Spanish translations of English crochet patterns. It is a non-profit site: www.hastaelmonyo.com
One of my followers asked me to translate this pattern. I would like to know if you are agree with this translation.
If you are agree, I'll publish the spanish translation and link this page. Of course I'll give you credit and public thanks.
Thanks for sharing your designs, they are great!.
Hi Ana!
ReplyDeleteI think it would be wonderful for you to translate this pattern into Spanish; you certainly have my permission to do so. And thank you for your good words :-)
Beth
Thank you very much Beth! I'll link the translation here for your free use. I hope you'll like it.
DeleteI think in 2 or 3 weeks it will be finished.
Hi Beth,
ReplyDeleteI really like your free spirit serie. Haven't made one yet, but I will, very soon.
There is a very cool fundraising comming up this summer. Some people will go the the childrens department in the hospitals and give self made dolls and toys to the children. I'd like to use your dolls, is that ok?
Absolutely! What a terrific way to use this pattern. The children will love you for your generosity :-)
ReplyDeleteBeth
Hi. I haven't made a free spirit in a few years. I seem to remember there was a tutorial (maybe on flickr?) that explained how to make a breasted version. Do you still have that information? This has been my favorite Ami pattern since it came out, and I accidentally stumbled upon it. On my old computer I had all the patterns saved. :)
ReplyDeleteHere is a photo with the explanation on making breasts for your Free Spirit:
ReplyDeletehttp://www.flickr.com/photos/29184580@N04/3977652727/in/set-72157622509269234
I'm delighted that you've enjoyed making this pattern :-)
Beth
Hey this might make me sound like a noob but when you say size 5 hook do you mean the 5.50 mm or the really small hooks? great pattern by the way can't wait to make her/him .
ReplyDeleteHi Ashlyn,
ReplyDeleteThis would be a size 5 steel hook, which is a small hook used for crocheting size 10 crochet cotton.
And nope, you don't sound like a noob :-)
Beth
Hi!
ReplyDeleteI was looking for patterns on making crochet dolls and your site just provided me more than what I need. I loved the dolls you made. I mean, they're so cute! >.<
I admire your imagination; there're prairie dolls, teacup dolls, and pocket doll and everyone's just so adorable. I hope I can manage to make my own doll collection too. I'm excited. :)
Really, thanks big time!
Hi callecat! Thanks for the great words, and I hope you enjoy crocheting some little dolls of your own; it is a very addictive pasttime :-)
ReplyDeleteBeth
Could you comment on the body, row 19: There were 24 sc stitches in row 18. Then sc, 2sc in next stitch group uses up 6 stitches and results in 9 stitches. You say to do that twice. That uses up 12 stitches and results in 18. Then you say sc the remaining 16 stitches. But this doesn't result in 30 stitches. There would only be 12 stitches left of the original 24, wouldn't there?
ReplyDeleteDiane
My post of a few minutes ago related to the wonderful Bleuette pattern.
ReplyDeleteDiane
Hi Diane,
ReplyDeleteFor row 19, you sc in the first st, then you work 2sc in each of the next three stitches, turning 3 sts into six. Then one sc in the next st, then 2sc in each of the next three sts, once again turning three sts into six sts. These two sets of increases create the little bumm on the doll. Does this make more sense? The repeat is only the instructions in the parenthesis.
Beth
Ahhh, I see! Thanks!
ReplyDeleteso seriously need guidance with making the toes, after the slip stictchs and single crocheting and turning after thats all done for the heel, i get lost..
ReplyDeleteAfter you have finished the heel, then all you will be doing is working in rounds on the remaining stitches to complete the rest of the leg. You've done the hard part once the heel is made.
ReplyDeleteIf you need more help, you can email me a more specific question and I can try to answer it!
Beth
Hey Beth, I love your doll! Im just stuck on the wig cap part. When you say "Work the last two or three rounds of the wig cap in a single loop of the sc" I dont understand what you mean.
ReplyDeleteHi Leyla,
DeleteIf you look at your single crochet stitches, you will see there are two 'loops' the make up the top of the stitch. One loop is closer to you (the front loop) and one loop is behind. Working in just one of these loops leaves a loop free that you can then either hook strands into, or stitch into with a different yarn.
Here is a link that probably describes it a whole lot better:
http://www.stitchdiva.com/tutorials/crochet/crochet-in-the-front-or-back-loops-of-a-stitch
I hope this helps.
Beth
Hi, Beth, Just found your site yesterday and wanted to congratulate your on your delightfully designed dolls! I know what size Bleuette is and it would really help to have the sizes of the other dolls somewhere on the patterns or in the descriptions. The clothing is so adorable, I'd like to make some for other dolls in my collection, but without the sizes of your dolls, I can't make comparisons. I know the clothing would have to be slightly tweaked, but a starting size would help. Also, you mentioned stitching tightly so the stuffing doesn't show. Some of my other patterns for children's crocheted toys suggest filling nylon stockings with the fiberfill, and using that to stuff so the fiberfill can't "leak." When I've needed to use chenille stems to provide stiffening (usually in necks), I've found it helpful to fold the ends to the middle, wrap it with batting, and stitch the batting to secure it so no wire ends poke out. Oops, this is longer than I expected. Please list the sizes of the dolls on your webpage. Thanks! Cindy 0:)
ReplyDeleteHi Cindy,
DeleteFree Spirit is 12 inches tall, and proportioned very close to Blythe. The Mini Free Spirit is about eight inches tall, and the Pocket Spirit is about seven inches tall. Teacup Spirits are four to five inches tall. Bleuette is eleven inches tall.
The knit Waldorf dolls and Manga Spirits are around nine inches tall. Think that covers most of them :-)
Beth
Hi Beth, I am a very rescent visitor, this is my 2nd time). I am just finishing up the Bleuette pantaloons,basic undergarments. They are so cute and I have really enjoyed learning a new stitch (love knot). However, I have come to a glitch. In joining the CC, what is the unused loop? Sure will appreciate you help and thank you for providing such great blog. The patterns are free !!! and a lot of fun to create. I made the mouse and he is so cute. I'm also happy that so far the patterns fit so well, which is so important to me.
ReplyDeleteCathy
Hi Cathy,
DeleteI'm glad you've enjoyed the patterns :-) The 'free loop' is the loop remaining when you work a round in either the back or front loops only. When you do this, it leaves the part of the stitch that you did not work into free, to attach another yarn or thread and work additional stitches. I usually work 'in back or front loops only' toward the top and bottom of the bodice, to leave a place to put a contrasting trim.
If you did not work any rows 'in the back or front loops only,' then you won't have any free loops, but don't worry about it. This doesn't effect the fit of the garment, just the way it is trimmed.
Beth
France : merci beaucoup de nous faire partager les instructions pour réaliser cette jolie poupée.
ReplyDeleteGrazie
ReplyDeleteBeth,
ReplyDeleteI recently discovered the Free Spirit doll and made her right away. Unfortunately, I can't seem to locate anyone who has posted clothes for her. I'm not a talented enough crafter to create my own clothes. I've seen plenty of Free Spirit dolls with various clothes, but I just can't make them myself without a pattern. Do you have any links to clothes I could make for her? Thanks for sharing the pattern; now if I could only get her dressed, I'd be able to put her up in my office with all my other amigurumi dolls/creatures!
Debbie
Hi Debbie
DeleteThere are patterns for the Free Spirit doll here on this blog. Look on the left sidebar; you will have to scroll down pretty far, to find the Free Spirit doll and patterns. There are several.
Glad you enjoyed making the doll!
Beth
Many thanks for your reply! I actually found it after making that post (after many fruitless attempts to locate something online). I'm not too tech saavy, and this was actually the first time I've ever posted anything. I feel like technology is passing me by, but since you actually answered my questions, it's good to know I posted it correctly! I've started making the pants, and the doll is coming out great. I'm actually a quilter who has turned to crochet recently, mostly amigurumi, and I have many of my dolls and animals in my office at a high school. The kids love them! Thanks for the patterns and for making them free! I admire your talent!!
ReplyDeleteDebbie
Debbie, I'm delighted you found the patterns. There are a LOT of doll and clothing patterns here, and I'm always happy to help. I know how you feel about technology; I've yet to tweet my first tweet :-) But, with blogs and email its pretty easy to keep in touch with virtual friends.
DeleteTake care and enjoy the crochet.
Beth
Hello Beth. I am so excited about your patterns. I can't wait to donate some dolls with clothes for Christmas. Thank you so much for sharing them.
ReplyDeleteNeenie
Neenie, thanks so much for your good words! Many of my dolls go to good homes through donation to my parents church; bravo for you for making and donating dolls :-)
DeleteBeth
Hi, I love your dolls. I'm curious, is there a way you can convert your free spirit doll to knit? I've made your knit manga spirit and would love a knit version of this one.
ReplyDeleteHi Jess,
DeleteInstead of trying to convert my Free Spirit doll to knit, you might try Fiona McDonalds travel doll, which is freely available on Ravely. She has a large head and slender body and would be a lot like. Here is a link:
http://www.ravelry.com/groups/fiona-mcdonald-fans
You have to be a member of ravelry, but membership is free. You can see her doll on her blog, and here is the link to that:
http://fionamcdonald.blogspot.com/2012/08/travel-doll-new-free-pattern.html
I have not made this doll, but I've made other of her dolls and they are wonderful. Good luck!
Beth
I have made her, three of that pattern, but I like the Blythe closeness of yours. Maybe I should just learn to crochet amigurumi.
DeleteJess, all you need to know to make Free Spirit is the single crochet. Its funny, but it was Fiona's Babes in the Wool book that made me finally teach myself to knit! So, maybe you could teach yourself to crochet :-)
DeleteThank you for your good words, and have a great day!
Beth
Love the pattern!! What color did you use for body?
ReplyDeleteMattie
Hi Mattie,
DeleteThere are a LOT of colors you can use for the body. If you are using Red Heart Super Saver, Aran, tan, warm brown all work well. The doll above was crocheted using aran, or off white.
Beth, I just love your patterns. Have made a Free Spirit, and am working on a Bleuette with joints. Thank you so much for your art.
ReplyDeleteThank you :-)
DeleteBeth
Beth, I wonder if you could create a pattern for a 14" doll ie Hearts for Hearts. There are so many possibilities for making them different nationalities. Thank you
ReplyDeleteHi Sarah Jean. I had not seen these dolls before, but they are lovely. They may be a doll I would like to replicate in crochet or knit. Thank you for the suggestion!
DeleteBeth
Beth, I recently found your blog and want to thank you for providing your patterns to those of us who do not have the ability to create our own patterns; you are very creative. You state that it is ok to sell the Free Spirit dolls that we make using your pattern; does this also apply to the Bleuette patterns as well and do you have a problem with them being sold online on Etsy.
ReplyDeleteHi Barb; thank you for your good words :-) You may sell dolls made from any of my patterns; what I would ask is that you give me designer credit on your hangtag, and possibly a link back to this blog.
DeleteI wish you great success in selling them on Etsy...let me know what your store name is; I'd love to see the dolls :-)
Warmly,
Beth
Beth, thank you. I would be more than happy to put your blog information in the description on my shop and also on a hangtag. My etsy shop is https://www.etsy.com/shop/StitchesByGran It might take me a little bit to get a doll on there.
DeleteBarb
Thank you for the pattern!
ReplyDeleteYou are welcome :-)
Deletethanks for giving this as a free pattern.
ReplyDeleteI have just recently ventured into the land of Amigurumi and now I'm totally 'hooked' on them. I have lots of grandaughters to crochet these for. cheers
Thank you so much for your good words, Nanny :-) This was the first doll pattern published on my blog and she is still one of my favorites!
DeleteHappy Hookin'!
Beth
Thank you! I love this pattern.
ReplyDeleteBeth look at the dolls: http://agyongyekszeres.blogspot.hu/2014/10/monster-high-lanyokat-horgoltam.html
Your dolls are awesome! Glad you like the pattern :-)
DeleteWarmly,
Beth
Hi,
ReplyDeleteI'm planning on doing this doll for my nieces dollhouse. Can you tell me how big is the finished doll? Also I was wondering that if I find a ready made wig somewhere I would use that so I need to no the approximate head circumference?
Thank you so much. I'm so excited about this pattern..
Hi! Free Spirit is rather tall...about the same height as Blythe, which is 12 inches. Unless your dollhouse is designed for Barbie dolls, this doll is a bit tall. However, if you need a smaller doll, the Pocket Spirits and Forget-Me-Knot crochet dolls are much smaller, and still easy to make.
DeleteThe head circumference of Free Spirit is about 11 inches. Again, like Blythe she has a large head in proportion to her body.
I hope one of these dolls will work for you! I love dolls and dollhouses :-)
Warmly,
Beth
Hi Beth , I love all your beautiful dolls here .. I was looking at the wig tutorial, and wondering how you made some of them with kitty ears. I thought maybe it was a special wig cap but I don't see it . Am I waaaay off track here ? LOL thanks again for your very generous shares.
ReplyDeleteblessings
Suzi.
Hi Suzi,
DeleteFor dolls with cat ears, I make a couple of openings in the wig cap by chaining four or so stitches and skipping four at the two points on the cap where the ears will be, then work a couple more rounds around the cap. This leaves a couple of openings that the ears slide through when I put the cap on the head.
You have to sort of fit it as you go to get the correct position.
Hope this helps :-)
Beth
Nâo entendi muito bem. Gostaria de adquirir a receita da boneca em pdf. Você manda por email ou vende? Meu email é vanialousada@hotmail.com ficarei muito grata com sua resposta. Obrigada! Sucesso!
ReplyDeleteEl patrón está disponible en este blog. Buscar en la barra lateral izquierda; es bastante lejos abajo en la página y haga clic en el enlace y lo podrás descargar gratis el patrón.
DeleteO simplemente puede hacer clic en el enlace en el post. Sin embargo, el patrón está en inglés, que puede encontrar alguien que se traducirá para usted.
DeleteI started crocheting a few weeks ago, and got totally hooked. After doing a panda and a cat, I started looking for a perfect doll pattern. I am going to a boarding school, and I need something to keep me conpany xD I searched for days, but then finally I stumbled across someone who had made just the perfect doll! I got Linked to your site for the pattern, and I am so pleased with my result! I love designing clothes for her, and I made a Mini for my younger cousin. She lives far from here, so I hope she will enjoy little Thea and her two outfits as much as I do! My big doll , Adelheid, told me she will Get lonely when little sister Thea leaves, which obviously must not happen xD So here I Go again, second doll is in production! Thank you so much for posting the lovely Free Spirit-patterns! I might someday adapt the pattern into something more masculine, so Adelheid can get a lovely husband... Imagine the wedding dress and smoking! And perhaps a little teacup-spirit would make a nice baby for the two?
ReplyDeleteThank you, thank you, THANK you for these lovely patterns! Stay hooked!
Greetings from 15-years old girl, Norway
Dear Heidi,
DeleteThank you for such a wonderful post! I am always rocked when young people take up the hook and become hooked :-) And dolls are my favorite hooking pasttime!
There are wonderful adventures ahead of you...a crochet hook can take you anywhere!
warmly,
Beth
Hi Beth.
ReplyDeleteWhere do you live? I would love to meet you in person, sometime for lunch. I am outside of Indianapolis. I love your patterns! I am finally getting some free time to start making them. Glad to see you are still here!
Diana Stevens Scotindy @ aol.com
Hello, i have a question.
ReplyDeleteMay i translate your free patterns, for my own website for (free) dutch patterns.
Ofcourse i link to your originel patterns.
Greetings Patricia
Good morning, Patricia,
DeleteYes, you may translate my patterns for your blog, and thank you for linking back to my blog when you do :-)
warmly,
Beth
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ReplyDelete