The Bert Doll Has Arrived Inside Modern Rag Doll

There is something especially rewarding about a project filled with thoughtful little details.

This month inside the Modern Rag Doll Membership, members are creating the Bert Doll, a story-filled character inspired by the Spoonful of Sugar series. With his jacket, hat, pockets, and stitched details, Bert is a project that feels playful, classic, and full of personality.

Bert is also the fourth doll in the Mary Poppins-inspired Spoonful of Sugar collection, joining Mary, Jane, and Michael to complete the full character series.

And for the first time, members now have access to both versions of the pattern:
• Machine Embroidery
• Sewing / Hand Stitched

This means members can choose the method that works best for them while still creating the same finished doll.

A Project That Builds Skills Naturally

The Bert Doll is a wonderful project for practicing finishing techniques and garment construction on a smaller scale.

As you work through the doll, you will practice shaping, turning, pressing, appliqué, and jacket assembly. The hat construction also introduces layering and finishing methods that help the final project feel polished and complete.

The sewing version finishes at approximately 16" , while the embroidery version includes multiple hoop and doll sizes.

Even though the doll includes several detailed elements, the pattern is broken into manageable sections that allow you to work at your own pace.

The Details That Make Bert Special

One of the things that makes the Bert Doll stand out is how much personality comes through in the smaller elements.

The lined jacket, little pockets, scarf, and hat all help create a doll that feels finished and expressive. These details give makers an opportunity to slow down and enjoy the process while creating something that can be treasured for years to come.

The pattern is shown using the A Spoonful of Sugar fabric collection by Jennifer Long for Riley Blake Designs , which gives the doll its soft storybook feel.

Supplies + Helpful Tools

To create the Bert Doll, helpful supplies include:

• HeatnBond Soft Woven Fusible Interfacing by Thermoweb
  • HeatnBond Lite Iron-On Adhesive by Thermoweb
  • Poly-Fil stuffing from Fairfield World
  • Quilty Hemostat for turning and stuffing doll pieces
  • Basic sewing or embroidery supplies

Preparing fabrics and stabilizers ahead of time can help the process feel smoother and more enjoyable from the beginning.

Join the Modern Rag Doll Membership

The Bert Doll is available now inside the Modern Rag Doll Membership, where members receive new doll patterns, tutorials, resources, and access to a supportive creative community each month.

Whether you enjoy machine embroidery or sewing on a standard sewing machine, there is now a version designed for you inside the membership.