These dress-up toys are typically made out of wood and are not a common item you see at the toy store.  So I’ve been thinking of a way to make one for my kids without having to haul out any power tools.  Here’s what I came up with.

Supplies you’ll need:

• Foam display board (Example)
• Craft knife
• Glue
• Velcro
• Felt
• Pencil and pen
• Ruler
• Scissors
• Fabric scraps

Steps:

1. Cut the foam board into a 17” x 7” rectangle.  With a craft knife, cut the board in half but leave the bottom cardboard layer intact. 
2. Sketch a doll shape onto your top panel.  Cut out the arms, torso, and legs portion.  Use this piece as a stencil and trace on another piece of foam.  A slightly smaller piece is needed so cut on the inside of your traced lines.  This will ensure the fabric is able to fit when the toy is closed.
3. Glue the smaller body form onto the bottom panel. Allow to dry.  If you’re careful, you can add the details to your doll on the front panel while the dress dries.
4. Cut a square of Velcro and glue to the bottom of the back panel.  Cut a piece of felt long enough to wrap around both panels.  Glue the other half of Velcro to one end of the felt.  Glue the end without Velcro onto the bottom of the top panel.  Make sure the Velcro is facing downward. Allow to dry.
5. Cut fabric into small 5” squares.  Cut a few rectangles too.  If you don’t have any scrap fabric, feel free to repurpose clothes you no longer fit.

Once your doll is completely dry, it’s ready to be dressed.  Use two squares for a blouse and skirt combo. 

Or use a rectangle for a one-piece dress.  You sure look spiffy!

Have fun!