Paper dolls have fascinated young children for generations. They were first made in America in 1812, but they did not become popular until the mid-1800s. Originally children cut out the dolls and clothes from special books.

Like many American children, fashion designer Claire McCardell enjoyed playing with paper dolls. Born in Frederick, Maryland in 1905, Claire cut dolls and clothing out of her mother's fashion magazines to create her own paper dolls. From this early inspiration, Claire went on to study fashion in New York and Paris. She became famous for designing women's clothing. Using her creativity and imagination, Claire continued to make paper dolls like the one on this page.

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PAPER DOLL CUT OUTS

Here is how you can make your own paper doll using Claire's designs:

1.   Click on the following selections to view and print out paper doll items: Doll, Dresses, Slacks and Blouse.

2.   Color in the clothes using crayons, colored pencils, or markers.

3.   Carefully cut out the paper doll and clothing. Remember to cut around the tabs so you can attach the clothes to the doll.

At home, look through magazines to add to your collection of paper dolls. You can also create clothes for your doll using your imagination. Then you can be a fashion designer like Claire McCardell.

Maryland Historical Society Education Resource Material. Paper doll and clothes from Claire McCardell, A Designer of the American Look. Whitman Publishing Co. ©1956 by Claire McCardell Enterprises.