Simplicity 4940 makes a simple doll which can be dressed as either a boy or girl. The instructions have a copyright date of 1954.
The doll is 18" tall, with mitten hands, and feet sewn in a contrasting color to look like boots. There are no shoulder joints, so the arms stick straight out. The wool yarn hair is sewn only along the top seam, leaving the back of the head bald. Although not indicated in the instructions, the back of the head could be sewn in a fabric to match the hair. The same embroidery transfer is used for the face whether making a boy or girl doll; the maker is instructed to cut the hair shorter for a boy.
The clothing consists of a short sleeved shirt with a Peter Pan collar; skirt, shorts or long pants, all with suspenders; and a jacket with patch pockets. The jacket has a contrasting lining, collar and cuffs, with matching cuffs on the pants. The pants and shorts have front pleats. There is a petticoat, but no panty.
This simple pattern would be good for a beginning sewer. The cute clothing gives this doll a bit of style.
