WW2 Navy Sailor or United States Coast Guard Doll

Coxswain Charles Parker (Chuck)

I use the same technique as before using three pieces of fabric for the shirts. The sleeves are already attached, so this method is fast if time is a problem, else I would spend the time sewing the sleeves on as it produces a better quality shirt.

I use an iron to flatten out the seems to give a better look to the shirt. To make room for the neck, I leave about a 3cm gap. See above, the marks where the sewing stops along the top edge.

​Fold for the cuffs

 

​Sew the sleeves and sides together. Turn out and fit on the doll for size. I also fold the material now to create the 'plaquette' or front of the shirt. I  make the fabric where the  collars will be attached to, about 3cm long on each side. 4cm is really too large, but early action man clothing was done that way so it doesn't really matter.

I use a template for the collar but adjust the length to fit the neck of the shirt. So I guess this means the shirts are custom made to an extent.

Onto the pockets by folding some fabric 2cm wide and sew, iron the seam flat, fold for the pocket, attach button and cut about 3cm for length.

I purchased a couple of button needles which has made the fiddly job a little easier. Careful though because one of the needle's eyes broke. They are very thin. (Lower image). available from "I sew for Doll.com" for the price of a Cadbury Flake.