FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to the Studio Seren help page. Here you’ll find answers to the questions I’m asked most often about my doll sewing patterns, including fabrics, tools, downloads, what sewing experience you need, printing, and more
Whether you’re making your very first doll or you’ve sewn lots of Studio Seren patterns before, I hope this page helps answer your questions
If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, please don’t worry, you can always contact me at patterns@studioseren.com and I’ll do my best to help
Lots of love
Emma x
Animal doll sewing patterns
What size are the finished dolls?
You can make stuffed animal dolls in three sizes using our patterns...
- Original: 15" or 38cm excluding ears
- Mini: 11" or 28cm excluding ears
- Baby: 7" or 18cm excluding ears
You can find out the size of doll a pattern makes by checking the listing description. Additionally, browse our shop using the three available doll sizes
Do the doll patterns come with clothes?
Yes, all of the animal sewing patterns come with at least one outfit. The clothes that you see in the listing photos come with that pattern
Are the clothes that come with the doll patterns available to order separately?
The clothes that are part of the animal doll patterns are not sold individually. However, a variety of clothing patterns are available to order separately that fit all our original-sized dolls...
We are hoping to offer clothing patterns for our mini and baby size dolls in the future too!
Can the dolls wear each other's clothes?
The dolls are available in three sizes - original, mini and baby. The animals in each collection have the same size bodies so they are able to swap and share clothes with other dolls the same size as them. For example, the original-size bunny is able to wear the original-size bear's clothes
Can you make the dolls different sizes by changing the scale that you print the pattern?
Adjusting the print scale to make bigger or smaller dolls is not recommended. Doll patterns are designed with specific proportions in mind. Altering the scale can distort these proportions, making the doll look unnatural and the finished doll will look different to the original, rather than a smaller or larger version of it
Additionally, using a printer to change the scale of a doll pattern doesn't take into consideration things like seam allowances and folds in the fabric. Parts that were meant to fit together may no longer align properly and the shap of the doll and how well the clothes fit will be affected
We offer three different size animal doll sewing patterns so that you can make more than one size of our dolls. We are adding to this range all the time and hope to offer all three sizes in all of the animals in the future
Do you sell finished animal dolls?
I don't sell dolls. However, making dolls with my sewing patterns is easier than you may think. If you're new to sewing, my original-size bunny sewing pattern is perfect for beginners! You can find out which other patterns are suitable for beginners and read some tips for making your first doll here
Can the dolls be given to babies and young children?
Our sewing patterns are NOT suitable for making dolls intended for children under 3 years old due to small parts, loose fibres, or other potential risks
Sewing experience
Are your patterns suitable for beginners?
Most of my patterns are suitable for beginners. You will need to know how to safely use a sewing machine and other sewing tools, but you don't need specific experience making dolls. If you're just starting out, I recommend trying the original size bunny pattern first, as it's the easiest. I've intentionally designed the clothes to be simple and beginner-friendly. Check out my beginner's guide to Studio Seren patterns for more tips for beginners
Even in my more advanced patterns, I write the instructions as if I'm speaking to a beginner. I believe that everyone can benefit from helpful prompts, regardless of their level of experience. If you're curious about the difficulty level of any of my patterns, you can find out more here. For those patterns that require more experience, I provide a reason why, so you can decide if you're ready to give it a try
How do I know how much experience is needed to make a pattern?
All of my patterns include an experience rating, which you can use as a guide to find a pattern that matches your skill level...
- Beginner: These patterns are designed for people who are completely new to sewing. You don't need any specific doll-making experience, but you should have a basic understanding of how to use a sewing machine
- Confident Beginner: These patterns are still beginner-friendly, but they include slightly trickier elements, such as sewing curves or gathering a skirt. I recommend gaining some experience with my beginner patterns before moving on to these
- Intermediate: While none of my patterns use advanced sewing techniques, the intermediate patterns involve more precise sewing which will be easier the more sewing experience you have. If you have had plenty of practice making my beginner and confident beginner patterns you should be ready to sew them
The description for each pattern includes the experience rating. You can also search my shop by experience rating
Even in intermediate patterns, I write the instructions as if I'm speaking to a beginner. I believe that everyone, regardless of their level of experience, can benefit from helpful prompts. If you're curious about the difficulty level of any of my patterns, you can find more details here. For those patterns requiring more experience, I explain why I've given them that rating, so you can decide whether you're ready to try them
General questions about the sewing patterns
I need help making one of your patterns
Our sewing patterns come with step-by-step photographs and detailed instructions that walk you through each step. We also include lots of tips and prompts to help you avoid common mistakes. For things that are a bit tricky we sometimes include a video to make it easier for you to understand. When you order a stuffed animal doll sewing pattern you will be invited to join our friendly Facebook community where you can watch some video demonstrations and find the answer to lots of common questions about our patterns
If you are still having trouble making our patterns email patterns@studioseren.com with the name of the pattern you are making and the step number you are having trouble with and we would be happy to help. Please be aware we are a very small team so it might take us a little while to get back to you during busy periods
What language are your patterns written in?
Currently, our sewing patterns are only available in English. However, we are hoping to offer them in other languages in the future. In the meantime lots of my customers use Google Translate. Using this link you can upload the PDF instructions files and it will create a new file in your language
Our patterns have instructions that include step-by-step photographs that can be helpful even if you don't speak English. When. you order a stuffed animal doll pattern you are invited to a friendly Facebook group where you will find video demonstrations for some things like sewing the eyes and stuffing the head. There are people from all over the world in the group which makes it easy to connect with people who speak your language who have sewn our patterns
What fabric should I use to make your patterns?
You can read about the fabrics we recommend for making our patterns here
When you order a stuffed animal doll sewing pattern you will be invited to join a friendly Facebook group where there is a post with a list of fabric shops around the world recommended by members of the group
Do I need a sewing machine to make your patterns?
While using a sewing machine will make things quicker, it's not a requirement. Some of our customers have successfully sewn our patterns completely by hand
What tools do I need to make your patterns?
All of our sewing patterns include a detailed list of tools that you will need to be able to safely use to make our patterns. You can read more about the tools we recommend for doll making here and find links to doll making tools that we use in our Amazon list
Are measurements metric (cm) or imperial (inches)?
We use both! We refer to both measurements in the fabric requirements and instructions to make it easy for you to use our patterns, wherever you live
Is seam allowance included in your patterns or do I have to add it myself?
All of our patterns include seam allowance so you don't need to add it
What do I do if I find a mistake in your sewing pattern?
Oops! We put a huge amount of time and effort into creating, testing and proofing each pattern but occasionally mistakesstill happen. We value your feedback, especially if we’ve made a mistake. Please contact us at patterns@studioseren.com so we can fix it. Thanks for your help!
Can children make the sewing patterns?
Children aged 12 or above should be able to make the sewing patterns if they are supervised and instructed by someone who is responsible for their safety and they understand how to use a sewing machine and tools safely
Knitting patterns
Do I need to know how to knit to make your patterns?
Our knitted accessories for beginners part one and two patterns are perfect for beginners! The accessories are knitted in order of difficulty, taking you on a journey that introduces new techniques along the way, helping you build both your skills and confidence while making adorable accessories like scarves with pom-poms, cute headbands, sweet shoes, and more for your dolls. They are packed full of tips for beginners and include video demonstrations of knitting techniques that will be used
Orders
When will I receive my order?
As soon as your payment is processed, you will be taken to a confirmation page where you can download your patterns. You will receive an email to confirm your order. Soon afterwards, another email will be sent to you, which contains links to download your patterns. If you don't receive this email, please check your junk or spam folder as sometimes your email provider will send it there. When you place an order you will be given the option to create an online account. If you choose to do this you will always be able to access your downloads there too
If you are still having trouble accessing your downloads, email us at patterns@studioseren.com, and we will be happy to help
Can I order patterns from my country?
Our sewing patterns are available as digital downloads and can be ordered from nearly any country in the world. Patterns are sent by email, allowing you to download and print them at home. If our website shop is not available in your country, you will be automatically redirected to our Etsy shop where you will be able to order our patterns
What currencies do you accept?
Card payments can be made in GBP, USD or Euros. You can pay using a wider range of currencies using PayPal or by ordering through our Etsy shop
What payment methods do you accept?
Our website offers a wide range of payment options for your convenience. You can use Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Maestro, Discover, Diners Club, and UnionPay for both debit and credit cards. We also support digital and mobile payment methods like PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Shop Pay, Bancontact, and iDEAL
We also have an Etsy shop where you may be able to use a wider range of payment methods
What type of patterns do you sell?
Our sewing patterns are PDF files that are digital downloads. To open and print them at home, you'll need the latest version of Adobe Acrobat Reader You will need to print the pattern files. To save paper you can view the instruction files on a screen
If you are unable to print from home, feel free to send the saved files to a printing store to have them printed. Some printing stores require approval to have copyrighted files printed. If you need approval, please email patterns@studioseren.com and we are happy to give you written permission
We can not provide printed sewing patterns
Why is there an additional fee at the checkout?
The extra cost you see at checkout is the tax or VAT (Value Added Tax) that we are legally obliged to collect on behalf of your country's government. When you sell digital products, such as PDF sewing patterns, you are obligated to pay taxes in the country where the customer lives. The good news is the tax that you pay goes directly to your country and helps support people who live there
Do you offer discounts or bundles?
We do not provide discounts or bundles, nor do we have sales. Our aim is to maintain consistently low prices throughout the year. We believe in offering everyone the best price at all times
Downloading and printing the patterns
How do I download my pattern?
Once your payment is processed, you will be taken to an order confirmation page where you will find a link to download your pattern. You will also receive an email which contains the link. Click on either link to save the files to your device
I can't find the email with the link to download my patterns. What should I do?
If you can't find the email in your inbox, here are some possible explanations...
It was redirected to another folder: Emails often end up in Junk or Spam folders, especially if it the first time you are placing an order with us. If you are using Gmail we recommend that you also check the promotion or social folders. It's also possible you may have accidentally moved or deleted the email. Search your email account for patterns@studioseren.com to see if you can find it
Your inbox is full: If your inbox is full, there may not be space for new messages. Clear out some message, then message patterns@studioseren.com and we would be happy to resend the email
You typed your email incorrectly: If you still can't find the email it is possible that you entered your email address incorrectly during checkout. Please send a message to patterns@studioseren.com with the full name that was used to place the order and your email address and we will check your order and resend the download email
I ordered on Etsy and can't find my download?
When you place an order through Etsy, a download link is sent to the email address associated with your Etsy account. If you can't find the email, check your junk or spam folders as it may end up there. Alternatively, you can access the files by logging into your Etsy account, navigating to the purchases section, and locating your order to find the download links
Please be aware that Etsy's app does not currently support downloads. When accessing your order via the app, you will not find any download links. Clicking the links in the email will prompt the app to open, so you won't find the download links. To download the files, log into Etsy using a web browser like Chrome or Safari. If you are still redirected to the app, consider logging in from a different device such as a laptop
For more information on accessing Etsy downloads, visit this link
If you are still having trouble accessing downloads, please email patterns@studioseren.com with your order number and the full name used to place the order, and we will email you the files direct
The files won't download. What should I do?
If you are experiencing difficulties downloading the files, try these steps. Firstly, a dropped internet connection or phone signal during the download may lead to incomplete or corrupted files. Delete the files and retry when you have a stable signal or WiFi. If you click the download links and nothing happens, it may be due to an issue with your web browser. Try disabling any non-standard add-ons, such as ad blockers or toolbars, and attempt the download again
If you are still experiencing problems, please message patterns@studioseren.com and we would be happy to help
Please note - we moved to a new download system on 24 April 2024. If you are trying to download files from an email you received before this date the links in the email won't work. You can still access your files by logging into your online account. If you don't have an account/need help accessing your files message patterns@studioseren.com and we would be happy to help
I can't open the files. What should I do?
Please make sure that you have downloaded the latest version of Adobe Acroabat Reader
It is free to download and use. Our patterns may not open correctly with older versions of the software. To check for updates in your current program, select theHelpmenu andcheck for updates, or visit Adobe to download the latest version
I can't print the pattern. What should I do?
The Printing Instructions file which is included in your download explains how to print the pattern and instructions accurately for A4 and Letter Size paper
Please make sure that you have downloaded the latest version of Adobe Acroabat Reader It is free to download and use. Many of our patterns may not open or print correctly with older versions of the software. To check for updates in your current program, select the Help menu and check for updates, or visit Adobe to download the latest version
Returns
Do you accept returns?
As our sewing patterns are digital downloads, we are unable to offer returns. If you accidentally purchased the same pattern twice, please reach out to us at patterns@studioseren.com. We'll gladly send you with another pattern of equal value as an exchange or offer a refund
Exchanges
I accidentally ordered the same pattern twice. What should I do?
If you accidentally purchased the same pattern twice, please reach out to us at patterns@studioseren.com We'll gladly provide you with another pattern of equal value as an exchange or offer a refund
Facebook group
What is the Studio Seren Facebook group?
When you order one of our animal doll sewing patterns, you'll be invited to join our friendly customer Facebook community
The group is packed with valuable resources to support you on your doll-making journey. You'll find helpful video tutorials demonstrating techniques that may initially seem challenging, such as closing the doll's body or sewing their faces
Additionally, you'll have access to answers to common questions and recommendations on where to buy fabric and other supplies. You’ll also find exclusive free patterns and doll-making resources that have been created specifically for our valued customers
What makes the group truly special is the sense of community. You'll be inspired by dolls made by people from all over the world, and you'll always find a helping hand whenever you need it. Many wonderful friendships have blossomed through a shared love for sewing and doll-making
To create opportunities for everyone to sew together, we organise regular themed sew-alongs. Joining a sew-along is a fun way to experiment with new techniques and connect with other members of the community. Throughout the sew-along, we share inspiration through our social media platforms and create complimentary resources to help you make dolls in the theme of the sew-along
How do I join the customer Facebook group?
When you first order an animal doll sewing pattern you will be sent a message inviting you to join the group. You can also find the link to the group at the beginning of the instructions in all our animal doll sewing patterns
To join the group you will need to provide the full name of the person who ordered the pattern and your order number. This will allow us to match your Facebook profile to your order
If you placed an order through our website you should have received an order confirmation email which includes the order number in the heading (if you haven't received this email check your junk or spam folders to check if it has gone there). If you placed an order through Etsy you can find your order number by going to the 'purchases' section of your Etsy account and looking for your order
Please check the name used to place the order. If you have used a maiden name or a partner or family member's name, for example, we won't be able to find your order unless you tell us. Even when we use the correct name to search for an order on Etsy it doesn't always show up, which is why it is really important to also include your order number
If you can't find your order number or are having any other problems accessing the Facebook group email patterns@studioseren.com and we would be happy to help
Why isn't the Facebook group available to everyone?
The focus of the Facebook group is to support our customers to make our sewing patterns. It is a private space where they can ask questions about specific instructions within the patterns. It's also a place where we can share extra resources such as videos for making our patterns
We also share additional free resources with the group such as pattern hacks and free patterns as a thank you to them for supporting our small business
There are lots of other places that you can find out more information about our patterns and where you can ask questions about ordering them. This website, for example. Or you can follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Tik Tok
Can I invite family or friends to join the Facebook group?
You are welcome to invite them if they have ordered one of my animal doll sewing patterns. Pattern sharing is not allowed. Only the individual who made the purchase is eligible to join the group using the order number. If the pattern was ordered on your behalf or as a gift, please provide details when requesting to join the group and ensure the person who ordered the pattern has not already joined
My Facebook group request wasn't accepted and I need help
Why do I need to provide my order number and full name to join the customer Facebook group?
The customer Facebook group is an exclusive space for people who have purchased one of my animal sewing patterns (not just clothing or accessory patterns). This helps me ensure that the group stays focused on supporting those who are making my dolls
Order number and full name requirements:When requesting to join, please provide both your order number and the full name you used when ordering. This allows me to quickly confirm your purchase and approve your request. Here’s how to locate your order number:
- If you ordered from Studio Seren, your order confirmation email includes this number. If you no longer have the email, please provide the exact name and email address used when you placed the order
- If you ordered via Etsy, you can find your order number in the "Purchases" section of your account. Even when searching by the exact name on the order, Etsy’s search function doesn’t always locate the order, so using the order number from your purchases section is the best way to verify your purchase
If your Facebook name differs from the name on your order, such as when you’ve used a maiden name or a spouse’s name, please provide the name exactly as it appears on the order to avoid any delays in approval
If someone else ordered for you:If the pattern was bought as a gift, you can mention this in the request form. Note, however, that only the recipient of the pattern may join, as pattern sharing is not permitted
Request processing:I review group requests daily and prioritize those with a full name and order number. Occasionally, my group is promoted elsewhere, leading to a high volume of non-customer requests, so providing this information helps me process your request more quickly
Why it matters:This information also enables me to match your Facebook profile with your order, which is important as Facebook does not allow me to directly message group members. If you post a question in the group that’s better addressed privately for example, I’ll need to contact you by email. Additionally, I run exclusive giveaways and sew-alongs in the group, and your order information allows me to notify you if you’ve won!
What to do if your request is denied: If your request to join the group is denied, ask to join again and please double-check that the name on your request matches the one used when placing your order and make sure you have included your order number. If you have any questions or need help feel free to contact me at patterns@studioseren.com
Selling dolls made with our patterns
Can I sell dolls made with your patterns?
You are welcome to sell dolls made with our sewing patterns as long as you follow our terms and conditions for selling items made with our patterns
Workshops
Can I run workshops using your patterns?
You may use our sewing patterns to run face-to-face workshops in your local area with our permission. Online workshops are not permitted
You must order a sewing pattern for the workshop leader and each participant that is taking part in the workshop. If participants are making items from more than one pattern, you must buy all of the sewing patterns that they use. For example, if your participants are making a bunny wearing the clothes from the bear pattern you will need to order a bunny and bear pattern for each particpant. To place the order please contact patterns@studioseren.com with details of your workshop, the number of participants, the names of participants and the sewing patterns that they will use. You will be sent a custom order with a 10% discount which must be paid before the workshop. You will receive an order number which workshop participants can use to join the customer Facebook group