Traveling Shirt
Pattern Overview
The Sturdy Traveling Shirt pattern is designed as a versatile wardrobe staple for the Little Dude doll system, offering a practical base garment for adventurers, travelers, and everyday characters. Rather than being tied to a single outfit or aesthetic, these pants are intentionally simple and adaptable—making them an ideal foundation for custom characters across fantasy, tabletop, and role-playing settings.
This pattern is fully compatible with all Little Dude body sizes. Clear instructions are included to adjust the length of the shirt so they properly match dolls whose height has been modified during construction. Whether your character is short, tall, or somewhere in between, the pants can be customized to maintain correct proportions and a clean fit.
Skill level is beginner-friendly, making this an approachable project even for newer makers. The construction uses straightforward techniques and minimal shaping, allowing you to focus on consistency and fit rather than complex garment engineering. For best results, it is recommended to use the same yarn weight as the base doll, ensuring the pants sit naturally on the body and integrate seamlessly with other garments and accessories.
This traveling shirt is designed to function as a blank canvas garment, suitable for a wide range of character styles. They can be styled on their own for simple outfits or paired with armor, boots, cloaks, belts, and accessories for more detailed designs. Their neutral structure makes them especially useful for characters that evolve over time or require multiple outfit variations.
As part of the broader Little Dude system, this pattern supports creativity and customization rather than prescribing a finished look. It’s meant to work alongside custom hair, weapons, armor, and future accessory patterns—helping makers build layered, personalized characters that reflect their own stories and imagination.
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Materials
Less than 1 Skein Red heart super saver in your preferred color(s)
4.5 mm hook
Stitch marker if desired
Yarn needle for tucking tails and minimal sewing
Scissors, or preferred tool, for cutting yarn
Stitches that may be used, US terms:
- Ch – Chain
- Sl st – slip stitch
- SC – single crochet
- HDC – half double crochet
- DC – Double crochet
- TR – Treble crochet
- Inc – increase, 2 stitches in same space
- Dec – decrease, sc 2 stitches together (invisible or not doesn’t matter)
- BLO – back loop only
- FLO – front loop only
- BO – bobble stitch, yo and pull through 4 times, yo and pull through all 4 stitches on hook
- FO isn’t a stitch but means finish off.
- Sk isn’t a stitch but means skip
Notes
You can use invisible increases and decreases or standard, the change will be minimal.
I work in continuous rounds but if you are more comfortable with joining at the end of the round and chaining up then go for it! The change would be minimal, make this comfortable for yourself.
Change the colors! Blue, purple, green? Change your color to suit or make several so your Little Dude can always be fashionable.
Change the yarn type if you want. If you use thicker yarn then use a bigger hook, thinner yarn use a smaller hook, be aware that the final size of your character will change. Just remember to match what you did with your Little Dude Body.
Red words are customization tips/ideas, take them or leave them
I recommend reading through the pattern once before you begin. You don’t have to read every single stitch count, just pay attention to the general layout and any notes to get a feel for if or how you may want to customize.
Pattern
Sleeves, make 2 4.5 mm In your preferred color
Shirt body 4.5 mm
If desired lace up the front of the V of the shirt in desired color
All done! It’s my hope this is a jumping off point for you. Try lots of color variations, different outfits, different hair styles, fun accessories, your imagination is the limit. You’re welcome to send me your ideas/desires to [email protected] Thanks for crocheting with me, please remember to tag @LittleDudeCentral. I’d love to see what you make and celebrate you!
Ready to make some shoes? Check out options here: Foot Wear – Little Dude Central
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this shirt fit all Little Dude body sizes?
Yes. This pattern is designed to fit all Little Dude body sizes. Instructions are included to adjust the length of the shirt, so it properly matches dolls whose height was modified during construction, ensuring correct proportions and a consistent fit.
Is this pattern beginner-friendly?
Yes. This pattern is suitable for beginners, using straightforward stitches and simple construction techniques. It’s a great introduction to doll clothing while still producing a polished, wearable result.
What yarn should I use for the best fit?
For best results, it’s recommended to use the same yarn weight as the base doll. This helps the pants sit naturally on the body and ensures they integrate smoothly with other garments and accessories in the Little Dude system.
Can I adjust the length or style of the shirt?
Yes. The pattern includes guidance for adjusting the length to match different doll heights. You can also change sleeve length. Because the design is intentionally simple, it also works well as a base for further customization, such as adding cuffs, trims, or decorative details.
Can I sell finished dolls wearing this shirt?
Yes. You may sell finished dolls made using this pattern on a small scale. Please do not resell, share, or redistribute the pattern itself. Please tag me @LittleDudeCentral. I would love to see your character!