FunThreads Designs: Doll Sleep Mask

This tutorial is a little more challenging than the others. You will be satin stitching around curves.

Doll Sleep Mask

Supply ListPDF pattern found HERE

5 x 6 inch scrap of fabric

5 x 3 inch scrap of thin, firm batting such as Warm and White

8 inches of narrow elastic

5 x 8 piece of paper for a sewing base

Rayon thread and satin stitching presser foot (optional but helpful)

Sewing supplies

Step 1 - Make the Pattern

Print the PDF pattern found HERE.

Cut out the pattern.

Step 2 - Cut the Fabrics

Fold your fabric in half and pin the pattern on. Cut out the fabric so you have 2 mask pieces.

Pin the pattern to the batting and cut 1 mask piece.

Step 3 – Stack Fabrics

Your 5 x 8 piece of paper will be used as a sewing base. Stack your pieces as follows on top of it.

Place one fabric piece with “pretty” side down on top of your 5 x 8 piece of paper.

Stack the batting on top of it.

Now stack the other fabric piece with “pretty” side up.

Fabrics fanned out for viewing purposes only

Make the edges even and pin to the paper.

Step 4 – Set the Machine for Satin Stitching

You will be satin stitching around the edges of the mask. A satin stitch is a wide zig-zag stitch set to a very short stitch length.

Since all machines are different I can’t give you an exact setting. You will have to practice on the edge of the paper until you like the way the stitching looks.

NOTE: If you have a presser foot with a groove on the under side that is made for zig-zag stitching it would be helpful.

NOTE: I used a rayon thread for my mask since it’s very soft and shiny. The thread in the bobbin matches the top thread.

Step 5 - Sew Around the Mask

When sewing around the mask the needle will strike off the fabric edge and into the paper.

To get a nice neat edge you will have to take small pivots around the curves. Don’t try to steer your way or everything will pucker and slide. As the fabric starts to turn away from the needle you will have to sink your needle and pivot (straighten the fabric). It does not matter if you only took 4 stitches. Straighten as needed to get nice smooth curves.

If you are on an outer curve (convex) your needle needs to sink on the outer side before pivoting (straightening your fabric).