PLEASE NOTE: This pattern is only for the dress and head wrap. It DOES NOT include the doll, which is listed separately as the “Big Worries Doll.”

A traditional Guatemalan worry doll is only about 1-2” tall, but I have some pretty big worries about the state of immigration and due process in the United States, so this is my “Big Worries Doll.” I designed the dress to emulate, as best I could, the look of a traditional worry doll.

This project was originally designed as fundraiser for the Asylum Seeker Advocacy Project (ASAP) and Kids in Need of Defense (KIND.)

UPDATE 3/21/2020: In light of the COVID-19 global pandemic, I’ve decided to make this pattern free for anyone who wishes to make them. There are a lot of worries going around right now. If this can bring a little light into someone’s life, then I’m happy to share it at no cost.

If you’re able, though, I hope you will consider a donation of any amount you can afford to Kids in Need of Defense. https://supportkind.org/

This pattern is intended for personal or donation use. Please do not produce these dolls for sale. (Legally, you can do whatever you want with it, but I hope you will respect my wishes as the pattern designer.)

Pattern Notes:

This pattern is written for any gauge; you should use the same yarn weight and hook size as you use for the doll in order to ensure a good fit. I have made the doll with with worsted weight yarn to get a doll about 6-8” or with embroidery floss to get a doll about 3-4” tall. This dress makes a great stashbuster project as it can be done with scrap amounts of 2-7 different colors, depending on what you have to use up.

The pattern is written for a relative beginner; however you will need to have some previous understanding of reading a pattern and working in the round, particularly in spiral. Previous knowledge of colorwork is also helpful. I have included several photos at the end of the pdf to clarify any confusing areas.

Stitch Guide (US Terminology):
ch – chain
ch sp – chain space
sl st – slip stitch
st – stitch
sc – single crochet
inc – increase (2 sc in same st)
dec – decrease (invisible decrease recommended)
csc – center single crochet