Making patterns and how to make things from patterns.

[How to Make Kimekomi Dolls]

1) Preparation

Figure 1

Fig.1 Preparing washi paper

Figure 2

Fig.2 Softening washi paper

Roll and soften the washi paper, then spread it out.

2) Making the paper pattern

Figure 3

Fig.3 Tracing grooves on the body

Press the washi lightly into the grooves to make marks. Do not apply glue at this stage, as the paper will be removed later.

Figure 4

Fig.4 Making marks

Figure 5

Fig.5 Cutting washi

Figure 6

Fig.6 Cutting slits

Figure 7

Fig.7 Cutting outside the traced line

Cut the washi about 1 cm outside the traced line. Make slits in curved or folded areas.

Figure 8

Fig.8 Removing the paper pattern

Remove the paper pattern from the body.

Figure 9

Fig.9 Tracing with pencil

Trace the groove marks with a pencil.

Figure 10

Fig.10 Marking fabric direction

Mark the fabric direction and the part location clearly.

3) Attaching the fabric

Figure 11

Fig.11 Pinning pattern to fabric

Pin the completed pattern to the fabric.

Figure 12

Fig.12 Cutting fabric along the pattern

Cut the fabric following the pattern.

Figure 13

Fig.13 Removing pins

Remove the pins from the cut fabric.

Figure 14

Fig.14 Checking placement

Figure 15

Fig.15 Confirming fabric coverage

Check that the fabric covers all intended areas.

Figure 16

Fig.16 Applying glue

Apply glue into the grooves.

Figure 17

Fig.17 Pressing grooves with spatula

Lightly press grooves with a spatula.

Figure 18

Fig.18 Trimming excess fabric

Trim about 2mm of fabric to avoid overfilling the grooves.

Figure 19

Fig.19 Inserting fabric into groove

Carefully push the fabric into the groove.

Finished

Finished Kimekomi doll fabric work

When the fabric edges are neatly inserted into all grooves, the doll is complete.