Legwarmers for Blythe

Legwarmers for Blythe by Pollymakes

What is Being Made

These are miniature legwarmers designed to fit Blythe dolls. The finished pieces are sized to slip over the top of doll boots and can be scrunched down the leg for an authentic 1980s-inspired aesthetic. This downloadable knitting pattern allows makers to create wearable accessories for their collectible dolls.

Craft and Techniques

This project uses knitting as the primary construction method. The pattern offers two distinct variations, each employing different techniques and materials to achieve different finished effects.

The felted version utilizes 3-ply pure wool that will felt when subjected to heat and agitation. This technique transforms the knitted fabric through the felting process, creating a denser, more structured legwarmer. The recommended felting method is the soap and hot water combined with cold water method, though crafters may use their preferred felting technique.

The kid mohair version uses lace weight mohair yarn (such as Rowan kidsilk haze) for a delicate, lightweight alternative that does not require felting. This version creates a more ethereal appearance suitable for different doll styling preferences.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns Used

The legwarmers feature a combination of fundamental knitting stitches:

• Knit stitch (K) – the basic knit loop
• Purl stitch (P) – the reverse of the knit stitch
• Ribbed knit (K1, P1 rib) – an alternating knit and purl pattern that creates vertical columns and provides elasticity

The pattern begins and ends with 3 rows of K1, P1 rib for a finished edge. The main body features a 6-row repeat pattern combining knit and purl stitches in varied sequences (P2, K1 combinations and K2, P1 combinations), which is repeated three times for textural interest and structural integrity. This stitch pattern creates a decorative yet functional fabric suitable for miniature doll clothing.

Materials and Tools

The pattern accommodates two material options depending on desired finished effect:

Felted Version Materials: 3-ply pure wool yarn that has felting properties, worked on 2.75mm knitting needles. The wool selection is crucial, as not all wool will felt effectively.

Kid Mohair Version Materials: Lace weight mohair yarn (the pattern references Rowan kidsilk haze as an example), worked on 2mm knitting needles. The smaller needle size is appropriate for the delicate lace weight yarn.

The pattern calls for casting on 18 stitches and working the complete pattern before casting off loosely. Finishing involves stitching up the back seam to form the tubular legwarmer shape.

Pattern Details

This is a free, downloadable PDF pattern from independent designer Pollymakes. The designer permits crafters to sell finished handmade items created from this pattern, provided proper credit is given to the original pattern designer.