Quilted Russian Dolls Appliqué: A Step-by-Step Guide
Russian dolls hold a unique charm that captivates the hearts of many, and this quilted appliqué project allows you to bring that charm to life. Whether you're a seasoned quilter or just starting out, this project offers a delightful way to practice your appliqué technique while creating a wonderful gift for friends young and old.
A quilted Russian dolls are a whimsical and enchanting work of art that seamlessly marries the intricate world of quilting with the timeless allure of Russian nesting dolls. Each quilted layer represents a meticulous fusion of fabric and creativity, meticulously crafted to evoke the essence of these iconic dolls.
These delightful creations capture the essence of Russian culture while adding a unique and personalized touch. Whether adorning a quilt or standing as a standalone masterpiece, quilted Russian dolls tell a story of craftsmanship, tradition, and the joy of creating something truly captivating and heartwarming.
Materials Need To Make Quilted Russian Dolls
- 10 x 10in. (25 x 25cm) piece of Bondaweb
- 10 x 6in. (25 x 15cm) piece of pale lilac felt
- 7 x 5in. (17.5 x 12.5cm) piece of dark lilac linen
- 4 x 5in. (10 x 12.5cm) piece of pale lemon plain linen
- 5 x 6in. (12.5 x 15cm) piece of white silk fabric
- 3 x 3in. (7.5 x 7.5cm) piece of cream cotton fabric
- Scrap of pink silk fabric
- 5 x 5in. (7.5 x 7.5cm) piece of lilac floral fabric
- Pearl embroidery floss
- Beads and sequins
- Short length of pink ribbon
- 6in. (15cm) of lilac ribbon
- Fiberfill stuffing
Step-by-step instructions to craft your own quilted Russian dolls masterpiece
Step One: Transfer the Templates
Trace the outlines of the Russian doll pieces onto separate sections of Bondaweb. Duplicate the hair and heart templates on a separate piece of Bondaweb. Cut out each Bondaweb tracing for the doll's individual pieces. Cut the pale lilac felt into two equal pieces.
Start Making Our Quilted Russian Dolls
Step Two: Prepare the Fabric Pieces
Choose your fabric for each part of the Russian doll. Iron the corresponding Bondaweb piece onto the back of each fabric segment. Carefully cut around each shape and remove the paper backing. Repeat this process for all the segments.
Let's Start Assembling Our First Russian Doll
Step Three: Assemble the Appliqué Doll
Begin creating your appliqué doll by arranging the individual fabric segments on one side of one piece of the pale lilac felt, with the Bondaweb side facing down. Adjust the placement until you're satisfied with the design, and then use an iron to secure the pieces in place.
Cut around the doll shape, leaving approximately 4 inches (5mm) of extra fabric around the edges for the seam allowance. Use the cut-out shape as a template to cut a matching piece of felt for the doll's back.
Add Details To Your Russian Doll
Step Four: Add Decorative Details
Craft a heart-shaped yo-yo (Suffolk puff) using lilac floral fabric. Stitch the yo-yo into the center of the yellow linen heart shape on the doll. Embellish the Russian doll appliqué with embroidery details using the provided images as a guide.
Add Your Dolls Facial Features
Step Five: Create Facial Features
Utilize the template as a reference for stitching the doll's facial features. Enhance the outer areas of the doll with beads and sequins, referring to the images for inspiration. Craft a small bow from pink ribbon and attach it to the doll's head as a charming hair decoration.
Add A Loop To Hang Our Quilted Russian Dolls
Step Six: Assemble and Secure
Place the front appliquéd doll piece on top of the plain backing felt piece and pin them together. Insert a loop of gingham ribbon at the top of the doll between the layers and secure it with pins. Use a short line of running stitches to hold the ribbon loop in place.
Finish Making Our Quilted Russian Dolls Project
Step Seven: Finish and Stuff
Carefully work a blanket stitch around the edge of the doll, ensuring to leave the bottom edge open for stuffing. Insert fiberfill stuffing into the doll's base to give it shape and volume. Close the gap using blanket stitch to complete your charming quilted Russian doll appliqué.
Enjoy the process of bringing this delightful project to life and creating a unique piece of art that captures the essence of quilted Russian dolls charm.