Meet the Butterfly Doll: A Softie Pattern That Teaches, Delights, and Inspires

Learn a new in-the-hoop technique while making a beautiful softie that’s perfect for play, gifting, and storytelling.

If you’ve been curious about in-the-hoop (ITH) doll-making, the Butterfly Doll is a wonderful place to begin. This month’s featured pattern inside the MRD Membership is all about layering texture, shaping fabric in the hoop, and creating a doll that’s as beautiful as it is beginner-friendly.

Whether you’re sewing for your child, building a handmade collection, or adding a new design to your creative business, this project offers meaningful techniques and opportunities to grow as a maker. And with exclusive printables, private video tutorials, and a step-by-step sew-along, the  MRD Membership  is the best way to enjoy the full experience.

Let’s take a closer look at the technique featured this month—and why this pattern might be your favorite yet.

A Gentle Introduction to Stitch & Flip + In-the-Hoop Appliqué

The Butterfly Doll is built with two foundational embroidery techniques: Stitch & Flip and Appliqué Placement.

These methods are core to ITH doll-making and allow you to construct dimensional shapes, clean seams, and crisp edges—all within the hoop.

Here’s how they work:

• Stitch & Flip: Fabric pieces are placed right sides together along a placement stitch. The machine sews a seam line, and then the top piece is flipped open and finger-pressed flat. This creates smooth transitions and reduces bulk in the final shape.
  
• Appliqué Placement: The embroidery file outlines where each fabric layer belongs. After the placement stitch, the fabric is secured, trimmed close to the stitch line, and finished with a satin or decorative stitch. This allows for bold visual contrast and polished finishes.
  

These beginner-friendly techniques are not only useful for this pattern—they form the foundation for dozens of future softie and ITH projects. Inside the  MRD Membership, you’ll find a full video tutorial walking you through each step with clear visuals and easy-to-follow guidance.

Inside the Pattern: What Makes the Butterfly Doll So Special

This exclusive pattern includes three finished doll sizes (6", 7", and 8") and is designed for common hoop sizes (5x7, 6x10, and 8x12). It’s formatted in all major embroidery file types and includes complete cutting charts and diagrams.

Here’s what you’ll learn as you create your doll:

• In-the-hoop shaping and softie construction
• How to hoop and layer stabilizers effectively
• Basic appliqué trimming and tack-down techniques
• How to shape, turn, and stuff the body for a clean, finished look

The wings of the Butterfly Doll offer a canvas for customization—mix fabrics, embroider names or messages, or embellish with trims, buttons, or sparkle paste. Whether she’s made for snuggles or display, this doll tells a story.

Exclusive MRD Bonuses: Not Available Anywhere Else

Your MRD Membership  gives you more than just a pattern. This month, members also receive:

• A full step-by-step video tutorial for Stitch & Flip and appliqué in the hoop
• Printable accessories and outfit instructions
• Access to a private four-week Sew-Along with community support and guided weekly goals
• The chance to be featured on the Sew A Story blog and Instagram
  

Everything is curated to make your experience smooth, inspiring, and personal—especially if you’re still gaining confidence with machine embroidery.

Recommended Supplies: What You’ll Need to Get Started

We’ve carefully selected and tested the supplies below to ensure the best results:

• Fabric Collection: Created With Love by Jennifer Long for Riley Blake Designs
• Stabilizers: Lightweight Tear-Away and Fiber Wash-Away (Riley Blake or Kimberbell stabilizers recommended)
• Thread: Robison-Anton Super Brite Polyester Embroidery Thread
• Notions:
  
• Quilty Hemostats (for stuffing and turning)
• Bird Stiletto Turning Tool
• Curved Appliqué Scissors
• Washi Tape for fabric placement
• Batting and Poly-Fil stuffing
  
• Machine Discounts: MRD Members receive exclusive pricing on Singer embroidery machines and recommendations for Husqvarna models used in our studio
  
  
  

Join the MRD Membership and Start Sewing Today

When you join the  MRD Membership , you gain access to:

• The full Butterfly Doll pattern
• A library of exclusive tutorials and printables
• A vibrant private community of makers
• Monthly Sew-Alongs to guide and inspire you
• Member-only discounts on supplies and machines
  

Whether you’re brand new to ITH embroidery or looking for your next creative project, the Butterfly Doll is a perfect place to begin.

Click below to become a member and download your pattern today. Let your creativity take flight—one stitch at a time.

🔗 Join the  MRD Membership  Here!