How to Make an Old World Santa

Written By
Chantel Alise
Chantel Alise
Published: Nov 14, 2008
Updated: Feb 23, 2021
3 minute read

Many people like to adapt the style and color of their Christmas decorations to the décor of their home. That means that, in some instances, the traditional red and white Santa simply will not fit in. An option in such an instance would be to turn to an Old World Santa design, complete with flowing robes in different colors and styles.

Things You'll Need:

Things You Will Need

  • Sewing Machine
  • Straight Pins
  • Needle And Thread
  • Pattern
  • Glue Sticks
  • Christmas Decorations
  • Glue Gun
  • Porcelain Or Plastic Santa Doll
  • Fabric
  • Trim (Fur And Any Other To Be Used)
  • Decide on the colors and types of fabric. A typical version will have a gown from one type of fabric and an overcoat from another, along with a hat of some kind.

    Lay out the pattern that came with the purchased doll or a separate one from Simplicity, Butterick or McCalls on the fabric as outlined in the instructions. Cut out all of the pieces needed to put the outfit together.

    Begin with the gown. Place the right sides of the back and front together. Using the sewing machine, sew the front and back shoulder seams followed by the side seams. Using a needle and thread, hand-sew the arm holes and back closure under with a blind stitch so that the fabric ends will not fray.

    Place the ride sides of the hat fabric together and seam shut. Turn the hat right side out. Trim the brim of the hat with the appropriate fur trim.

    Sew a running stitch at the top curve of each sleeve in order to gather them slightly so they will fit correctly between the front and back shoulder part of the Santa coat. Turn the hem of the sleeve under and secure with a blind stitch or trim it with fur or any other trim desired. Check the sleeve’s length against the doll arm to make certain that the sleeve falls about mid-hand, making any adjustments necessary.

    Advertisement

    Place the front and back of the Santa coat together with the right sides facing one another. Sew each shoulder seam closed across the top. Pin the prepared sleeves into place following pattern instructions. Sew each sleeve and side of the coat shut.

    Trim the Santa coat with fur and/or any other trim chosen all the way around the collar, front, back and bottom so that there are no raw edges left showing on the robe.

    Dress the Santa in the gown, coat and hat. If necessary, temporarily stitch everything into place so that nothing shifts.

    Add any additional Christmas decorations to the Santa to finish it off. For example, throw a bag full of miniature toys over his shoulders. Place a wreath, a miniature Christmas tree or walking stick into his hand, or add anything else desired.

    Resources

    Chantel Alise

    A business and education specialist for 30 years, Chantel Alise also owned a management and marketing training company. She has written newsletters and training manuals as well as business articles for Enid News and Eagle's Business…

    Sponsored
    Our Pastimes Logo

    A destination for the avid collector and weekend hobbyist alike, Our Pastimes features articles and tips about your favorite cards and games, hobbies and more.

    Property of TechnologyAdvice. © 2026 TechnologyAdvice. All Rights Reserved

    Advertiser Disclosure: Some of the products that appear on this site are from companies from which TechnologyAdvice receives compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site including, for example, the order in which they appear. TechnologyAdvice does not include all companies or all types of products available in the marketplace.