Crocheted Sleepyhead Doll

My family of sleepyhead crocheted baby dolls is growing.  As I explore new color combinations and decorations, I am excited by the infinite possibilities this doll provides.  Actually, when I gifted the first pink babydoll to my granddaughter months ago, I had no idea how attached she would become to it. At first it joined her many other dolls and loveys that she played with on her play area mat at home.  However, increasingly she would select  the doll and carry it off to nap time.  By the time she entered her 3 day a week nursery and day program, pink "baby" was her constant companion.  My daughter requested a new red baby for school, but my granddaughter held on to her precious one.  On the first day, she presented the "baby" to the other children and adults, but clearly chirped "mine" to establish ownership in no uncertain terms.  At first, she kept one hand on her doll  with the other on new toys.  Now she uses the doll in the morning to transition in and for naps since she feels secure enough to explore more of this new environment and all it holds.  

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The sleepyhead doll is ideal for the beginner,  but the more advanced crocheter can embellish the simple design with decorations, appliques, and even hair.  Some may even choose to personalize their doll with the baby's first initial.  The doll basically consists of a pear shaped rounded bottom  section, a head, and two arms.  The hat may be the long sleep hat or a cap.  Closed eyes, nose, and mot, are embroidered on.  The following link provides a reliable and easy-to follow-set of directions as well as a video for building your dolls.  Many other crocheters and bloggers show their own dolls, but most of these refer back to this post:  Type in  http://www.lanasyovillos.com/en/amigurumis/sleepyhead.  Some versions are in Spanish, but you should be able to find the English pattern here. The video tutorial is helpful to a beginner, learning how to make amigurumi parts.

I like to add flowers,hearts, stars, bows, and other decoration to my dolls to make them individual and to add interest.  The pompom at the send of the sleep cap is such a playful bit.

Yesterday, I decided to make a sleepyhead doll with a striped body. This is an excellent way to use up those scraps of yarn we all moan and groan over.  Besides you are being extra creative. 

These rustic dolls are inviting to cuddle and do not require much care.  When dirty, toss in a mesh bag or old pantyhose and throw in the washing machine on delicate or actionwear.  You can put them in the dryer to get rid of the extra water, remove them while damp, and then leave them to air dry. I am not finished making baby dolls for the spring season.  There are a few real babies, I would like to present with a baby doll.  Also each time my granddaughter sees me making a new doll, she anno0unces "mine."  I think I will have to hold her off a bit if I am to have anything to sell by fair time.  I also found a pattern for a two legged babydoll that offers other possibilities.  I will be following this post up with that article.I will be posting this article and photos on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram.  I hope you will follow metherere andleave your photos, ideas, and feedback. In the meantime, "Happy Crocheting!"  I would love to see your unique interpretations of this basic pattern.