Continue the Story with the Nutcracker
Every great story has memorable characters, and this month we're welcoming one of the most iconic of them all.
The Nutcracker Doll is the second doll in our five-part Nutcracker Doll Series, inspired by the beloved holiday tale. With his distinguished beard, tall hat, classic uniform, and signature boots, this timeless character is a wonderful addition to any handmade holiday collection. Whether you enjoy sewing by hand or creating with machine embroidery, the Nutcracker Doll is available in both versions.
A Technique to Practice: Building Character Through the Details
One of the most enjoyable parts of creating the Nutcracker Doll is watching the finishing details bring his personality to life.
From assembling the hat and boots to shaping the beard and adding the final touches, each step helps transform simple fabrics into a keepsake full of charm. Whether you're sewing the hand-stitched version or the machine embroidery version, this project is a wonderful opportunity to practice techniques that you'll continue using throughout the Nutcracker Doll Series.
About the Nutcracker Doll
The Nutcracker Doll is designed as a story-filled keepsake that can be displayed throughout the holiday season or treasured for years to come.
The Machine Embroidery version is available in three sizes, while the Sewing & Hand Embroidery version finishes at approximately 16", giving makers the opportunity to choose the style that best suits their creative journey.
As the second doll in the five-part Nutcracker collection, he's the perfect companion to Clara and continues the magical story one stitch at a time.
Simple Ways to Make It Your Own
Every Nutcracker has its own personality.
Choose traditional holiday fabrics, experiment with different hair or beard colors, or add your own decorative touches to make your doll uniquely yours. Whether displayed alongside Clara or given as a handmade gift, your Nutcracker is sure to become part of many holiday memories.
Supplies to Get Started
To create the Nutcracker Doll, here are a few helpful supplies:
- Fabrics from the Nutcracker Tradition collection by Jennifer Long for Riley Blake Designs
- Fairfield Poly-Fil for smooth, even stuffing.
- Quilty™ Hemostat for turning, shaping, and stuffing doll pieces.
- Nutcracker Tradition Aurifil Embroidery Floss Box, designed to coordinate beautifully with the Nutcracker Tradition collection.
- Therm O Web HeatnBond Soft Woven Fusible Interfacing and HeatnBond Lite Iron-On Adhesive for the Sewing & Hand Embroidery version.
Having your supplies ready before you begin will make the sewing process smooth and enjoyable.
Ready to Start Sewing?
The Nutcracker Doll is available inside the Modern Rag Doll Membership, where members receive a brand-new doll pattern every month in both Sewing & Hand Embroidery and Machine Embroidery formats, along with bonus downloads, exclusive resources, and a supportive community of doll makers.
If you're ready to continue the Nutcracker story, the Nutcracker Doll is waiting for you inside the membership.
