In this class we are going to have a great time making freeform Monster Rag dolls out of recycled fabrics from cast off garments. This is a great way to give new life to something old that no one wants anymore. Our creatures will be whimsical and weird and maybe a little bit creepy, but they will be treasured friends in the end.
We will work through the process of planning your creature, choosing your materials, layering of fabrics, stitching techniques (both machine & hand), coffee staining, embellishment, stuffing techniques, closing your doll and adding hair or any final finishing.
This project is about recycling old garments that are damaged or no longer fit and pulling together supplies that you have had in your homes for far too long and finally using them to make something wonderful! (But if you do not have some of the items on the list – a quick trip to your local 2nd hand store can finish off your supply list.)
Supply List:
- Scrap fabric (small pieces are fine) or discarded garments to cut up (100% cotton is best).
- A coarser weave woven fabric such as linen or a scrap from and old oxford weave shirt (in white or a neutral color) for the face of your creature.
- Random collection of old buttons to use for eyes or other embellishment. Don’t worry if you don’t have two matching buttons for the eyes – it is better to have mismatched!
- Trim scraps (ribbon, lace, etc.)
- Fabric scissors
- Hand sewing needles (variety pack) – you will also need a large needle with a big eye for attaching the hair.
- A selection of embroidery floss in your favorite colors and/ or Pearl cotton thread. Make sure to have one skein of black pearl cotton among any colors you bring.
- Regular cotton sewing thread in any colors (I like to use a dark color for the main sewing so it shows up and then other colors for accents).
- Cotton batting for stuffing (or you can use polyfill if you prefer).
- A large mug or plastic cup for coffee staining
- A knitting needle or long, smooth rod to use for stuffing your creature.
- Sewing machine (this is optional, but helpful. If you can’t bring yours or don’t have one I will have a couple available to set up for sewing stations.)
- A power strip (if you bring a sewing machine this would be handy for sharing limited outlets.)
***Tips for choosing fabrics/old garments to bring: It is best to choose 100% cotton fabrics. Old children’s clothes are great to use because they are easily available as kids outgrow them and it is a great way to find whimsical prints. Heavier, textured fabrics are great to use as well, like velveteen or corduroy. I usually use mostly all woven fabrics, but knit fabrics can work as well, especially for arms or other trimming. Have fun gathering your materials and feel free to bring items to trade or share with your classmates.
