Learn how to create a cozy doll mattress with this easy step-by-step guide. This essential piece of bedding will enhance all the other items you make for your dollhouse. Today’s tutorial is part five of my doll bedding series, and I’ll demonstrate how to craft an 18-inch doll mattress. I’ve also included a formula to help you adjust this pattern to fit any size bed.
[Image description: A doll mattress pattern laid out on a table]
Let’s begin with the supplies you’ll need:
To make your doll mattress, gather the following materials:
- Approximately ½ yard (0.90 meters) of fabric. For most 18-inch doll beds, cotton fabric works best. I chose quilting cotton, which is a lightweight, tightly woven fabric available in countless patterns and colors.
- Filling material such as polyester or foam stuffing. If you don’t have stuffing, you can substitute fabric scraps. While this option may make the mattress slightly heavier, it’s a budget-friendly alternative. Just cut the scraps into smaller pieces to avoid lumps.
For more insights into choosing fabrics, tools, and techniques for doll sewing, check out my tutorial on making doll clothing.
Now let’s dive into the steps:
**Step 1: Measure the Bed**
Start by measuring the base of your doll bed. My IKEA bed measures 12 by 19 inches (30.5x48.2 cm) at its wooden base.
Pro tip: Be sure to measure only the base and not the bed frame sides. You want the mattress to fit snugly inside the bed frame.
**Step 2: Create the Doll Mattress Pattern**
Cut two pieces of fabric slightly larger than the bed base, adding a 1-inch (2.5 cm) seam allowance all around. For example, if your base is 12x19", cut your fabric to 14x21 inches (35.5x53.3 cm).
[Image description: Two pieces of fabric laid out with measurements marked]
**Step 3: Stitch the Sides**
Place the two fabric pieces with their right sides together and stitch around the edges using a ¼ inch (6 mm) seam allowance. Leave a 3-inch (7.5 cm) gap at one of the shorter ends. It’s usually best to leave the gap at the foot of the bed for a clean finish.
[Image description: Fabric pieces stitched together with a gap left at the end]
**Step 4: Shape the Corners**
Next, press the corners flat with your fingers and align the top and bottom seams. Mark a line 1 ½ inches (4 cm) from the corner. This step creates height and gives the mattress a more realistic appearance.
[Image description: Corner of the mattress being measured]
Sew across the marked line and trim the excess fabric to create neat corners.
[Image description: Finished corner of the mattress]
**Step 5: Fill the Mattress**
Turn the mattress right side out and start stuffing it gently. Break down the polyester filling into smaller clumps to avoid overstuffing. Ensure there’s enough stuffing in the corners to maintain a smooth shape.
Before closing the gap, test the mattress on the bed to confirm it sits flat. Take your time while stuffing to ensure your doll gets a comfortable, non-lumpy bed.
[Image description: Doll mattress being stuffed]
**Step 6: Close the Gap**
Finally, hand-stitch the gap closed using a ladder stitch for an invisible finish.
[Image description: Finished doll mattress]
And that’s it! With these simple steps, you’ve created a beautiful doll mattress. Now, explore the rest of my free doll bedding sewing pattern series. You can make coordinating pillows, pillowcases, and blankets.
When you’re done, consider sewing pajamas for your doll to complete the ensemble. How adorable would that be?
[Image description: Completed doll bedding set including a mattress, pillow, and blanket]
If you enjoyed this tutorial, be sure to check out my other free doll clothing patterns, such as a doll cape or t-shirt pattern.
Happy crafting!
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