Instructions for Making a Mop Doll

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Country chic mop dolls have made it into a mystery story and a children's book, establishing their place in the rag doll family. They are easy to make and even easier to decorate, so they are also a simple project to share with children. Because the supplies are inexpensive, you can easily turn these lovable dolls into a group craft project, as well.

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Things You'll Need

  • 24-inch mop head

  • Scissors

  • Yarn or string

  • Craft glue (optional)

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Step 1

Remove any stitching or seam tape on the mop, but keep the strings together.

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Step 2

Tie a piece of yarn or string around the middle of the mop strings, pulling it as tight as possible. Fold the mop over the yarn.

Step 3

Make the head and neck by tying another piece of yarn about 3 inches below the fold or at the spot where you want the neck. Again, pull the yarn as tight as you can without snapping it.

Step 4

Section six to nine strands out from either side of the mop and braid them to make the arms. Tie a piece of yarn tightly at the end of each to make the wrists.

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Step 5

About 3 to 4 inches below the neck, make the waist with another piece of yarn tied tightly.

Step 6

If you want your doll to have legs, divide the strands below the waist in half and tie the ends to make the ankles. If you are going to add a skirt to the doll, you can skip this step, if you prefer.

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Step 7

Trim the ends below the wrists and ankles to make them look neat and even.

Step 8

Add a drop of craft glue to each knot to help secure them, if you choose.

Step 9

Embellish your doll with a hat or bonnet; painted, embroidered or glued-on face; and whatever clothing you like.

Tip

You can also make a head from muslin or other cotton fabric by cutting two circles of fabric, stitching them together with a small opening and stuffing them with polyester doll stuffing. Insert a craft stick for stability and glue the head to the mop body. If you make this kind of head, you will only need to tie the waist, arms and legs.

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