Craft Tips
Everything you need to know to print, color, cut, and play — and how to get the best results every time.
Paper & printing
Regular printer paper
80gsm copy paper works perfectly for quick play sessions. Lightweight and easy to cut, but the doll may bend with heavy handling.
Cardstock (recommended)
160–200gsm cardstock gives you a sturdier doll that holds up to more play. Worth it if the doll is going to be used a lot.
Printer settings
Print at 100% scale — do not select "fit to page." Black and white is fine; the whole point is to color it yourself.
Laminating
For a really durable doll, laminate the whole sheet before cutting. The result is almost indestructible and the colors pop beautifully.
Coloring
The golden rule: always color before you cut. It's much easier to fill in the details while the page is flat and you have space to rest your hand.
- Colored pencils — great for layering and blending, easy to control in small areas, won't bleed through to the other side of the page.
- Fine-tip markers — vibrant and quick to dry. Use a light touch near the edges of tabs so the color doesn't bleed outside the lines.
- Watercolor — beautiful soft results. Use with cardstock and let the page dry completely before cutting. Thin washes work better than heavy paint.
- Crayons — smooth coverage and easy to use. A good choice for younger children or quick coloring sessions.
- Gel pens — great for adding small details, highlights, and patterns after the main coloring is done.
Cutting
- Cut the doll body first — it's the largest piece and easiest to start with. Cut around the outline, leaving the base stand attached.
- Cut the base stand next — fold along the dotted line and slot in the support strip to help the doll stand upright.
- Cut each clothing piece carefully — take your time around the small tabs. These are the trickiest part, especially for younger children.
- Use small scissors — small craft scissors or embroidery scissors give you much better control around tight curves and tabs than large kitchen scissors.
- Score fold lines first — run a blunt knife or the back of a scissor blade gently along dotted fold lines before folding. This gives you crisp, clean folds.
Storing your doll
Envelopes
A regular A5 envelope keeps the doll and all its outfits together neatly. Label it with the breed name so you can find it easily.
Zip bags
A small resealable bag is perfect for storing cut-out pieces without losing the tiny accessories.
Print extras
Print two copies of the outfit sheet before cutting — one to color and use, one kept flat as a backup in case a piece gets lost or torn.