There are two things to remember when you are looking to buy dolls online - firstly, there's a difference between buying antique dolls and modern dolls online.

Modern dolls such as the the Barbie collection can be easily purchased online and generally are pretty durable to be sent through postal or direct delivery means. On the other hand, antique dolls can be a bit of a challenge if you're buying them online especially as they compass a long history and different types have there own uniqueness especially in the clothing department.

In recent years, buying dolls online over platforms such as Ebay has become extremely popular and the great thing to keep in mind is that while pricing will determine overall purchase, buying online has some big advantages than going to a physical outlet and making a purchase. The emphasis is on deals and dolls deals online are big business. More importantly, you as the buyer can be in a strong position to grab a great deal especially if you're following auctions.

There are basically two types of doll enthusiasts - those who revel in the enjoyment of enjoying eras gone by with antique doll collecting and those who are more modern orientated or people buying for kids.

Buying Antique Dolls Tips

Here's a few things to keep in mind when buying an antique doll. These tips can save you a lot of frustration.

#1. Because they are older there is always a concern that they may be hiding some issues. Things to look for include cracks which can put a dampener on your purchase. Especially look for hairline cracks.

#2. If you are buying the doll physically then ask that you can remove things like the hair so you can check beneath. Always remove the body or ask the seller to do it for you. This only makes sense because when you're looking at shelling out hundreds of dollars you want to make sure your purchase isn't flawed.

#3. Make sure the doll is original if that's what it has been advertised as. This can be difficult to check online and that's why buying through platforms such as Ebay are great in that you are protected in many areas from purchasing a dud.

#4. Also, buying the complete original doll and by complete we mean it has it's original clothing intact can be important. It depends how badly you want it but inexperienced collectors should be aware that replacing parts and clothing can be expensive. It's almost like buying new parts for a motor vehicle - they always seem to be priced over the top.

	1990 - Ashton-Drake Galleries - Edwin M. Knowles China Co - International Festival of Toys & Tots - Natasha : Little Russian Girl - Bisque Porcelain Doll - COA - Created by Kathy Barry-Hippensteel - Out of Production - New - Collectible Sale Price: $60.99
	1990 - Ashton-Drake Galleries - Edwin M. Knowles China Co. - Natasha : A Little Russian Girl - Bisque Porcelain Doll - Created by Kathy Barry-Hippensteel - International Festival of Toys & tots Series - Number #6414 A - With COA - In Original Box - Out of Production - Collectible - Great Gift

	Charisma Butterfly Kissy Tiny Tot Sale Price: $34.95
	Marie Osmond is pleased to send butterfly kisses your way with her charming new "Butterfly Kissy Tiny Tot" doll. A mini-me of the original limited edition toddler doll of the same name, "Butterfly Kissy Tiny Tot" features Marie's own sculpted "Kissy" porcelain rag doll, and lots and lots of netting "poof"! "Butterfly Kissy Tiny Tot" is truly a collectible doll sculpted by Marie Osmond...

	Marie Osmond WINTER GLOW Tiny Tot Porcelain Doll by Karen Scott Sale Price: $29.95
	Keep the holidays glowing in your heart all year long with Marie Osmond's Winter Glow Tiny Tot. She is costumed in a holiday dress of radiant red with glowing gold trim and accents. She features rich brunette curls swept up high on her head with gentle tendrils to soften her innocent, timeless face.

	Marie Osmond Doll 5.5" Seated Harmony - Let Me Call You Sweetheart Tiny Tot Sale Price: $44.95
	Marie Osmond is excited to present Harmony Let Me Call You Sweetheart Tiny Tot sculpted by Karen Scott. She is a Retail Exclusive Launch for 2011 and is quite unique as the original toddler's eyes were blue but the tiny tot's eyes are brown! To give you the back story, originally in 2010, Marie came out with the Harmony Let Me Call You Sweetheart Toddler...

	Seymour Mann Wizard of Oz DOROTHY Doll - Hand Painted Porcelain LIMITED EDITION Story Book Tiny Tots Sale Price: $74.99

	MARIE OSMOND MOMMYS GIRL TINY TOT PORCELAIN DOLL Sale Price: $48.99
	Approx. 5" Seated New in its original box and includes the Manufacturer's certificate of authenticity Item # 040108057

	Seymour Mann Wizard of Oz GLINDA Doll Hand Painted Porcelain LIMITED EDITION Story Book Tiny Tots Sale Price: $78.99

	Seymour Mann, Story Book Tiny Tots Glinda from the Wizard of Oz porcelain doll Sale Price: $50.00
	A Seymour Mann Story Book Tiny Tots Glinda porcelain doll. Includes stand for doll.

	MARIE OSMOND NETTIE 6" PORCELAIN TINY TOT DOLL Sale Price: $43.00
	New in its original box Size: 6" Seated Includes a Manufacturer's Certificate of Authenticity.

	MARIE OSMOND FAILING FOR YOU PORCELAIN TINY TOT DOLL Sale Price: $49.95
	New in its original box Material: Porcelain Size: 5" Includes a numbered Manufacturer's Certificate of Authenticity.

My precious porcelain dolls were stolen!?

My porcelain dolls were stolen, from my apartment. The only they could have been taken, was when I went downstairs tot he first floor of the building to get a coke. While My nieghbor was visiting. I kept them on top of the fridge. There is no way they got lost. If I go to the building manager, all I will hear s that it's it's his word against mine. even the "cop" who lives in the building will do nothing. I don't know what to do. Those dolls meant so much to me. They are expensive, costing about one or two hundred dollars. although I did not pay that much for them. At least the one my sister gave me as a birthday gift, one year is still there. And a couple of others. What should I do??
If The police didn't do anything when I got beat up, why should I believe they will do anything about my dolls? When I called them after getting beat up, they did nothing.

It does not matter what they cost
They were stolen from your home
Call the police and file a report.

Sarmizegetusa Regia - Romania

	Miniature Baby Girl Doll in Porcelain Dollhouse Miniature Sale Price: $6.99
	Miniature Baby Doll in Porcelain. The hand and face are handpainted porcelain and the somewhat poseable body is made of cloth with jointed porcelain legs and porcelain arms. Measures: 3 in long with her dress and 2 1/2 without...

	Creating Original Porcelain Dolls: Modeling, Molding and Painting Sale Price: $161.99

	Dollhouse Fairies - 8 Inch Porcelain Plate Sale Price: $34.99
	Dollhouse Fairies Plate is new and handcrafted utilizing a unique process resulting in a stunning high gloss finish. White porcelain plate measures 8.25 inches in diameter, trimed with two 24 kart gold rims and comes with a stand.

	Dollhouse 1:24 Scale Cherubs Rug Dollhouse Miniature Sale Price: $6.99
	Cherubs Rug in 1:24 scale in 3" x 4.375" Rug is printed on flocked paper designed to coordinate with many of the 1:24 scale wallpapers and fabrics.

	Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Foundation, Porcelain Ivory Sale Price: $0.01
	See younger looking skin instantly! Regain radiance. Restore firmness.

	MD01: Porcelain Dollmaking 1 Sale Price: $34.95
	Join expert dollmaker Judy Orr as she shares the best techniques she has learned from five master dollmaking teachers. Learn the secrets for creating both large and miniature porcelain dolls - beautiful works of art you will treasure! Judy takes you step-by-step through the dollmaking process, using techniques she has developed over 17 years...

	Gramophone Trinket Box Sale Price: $4.50
	You don't have to be a collector to appreciate the beguiling beauty of this hand painted porcelain trinket box. It makes a memorable impression as a collection piece especially from Tender Hearts Treasures

	2008 Reutter Porcelain Dollhouse Miniature Bathrobe Sale Price: $11.25
	New Introduction for 2008!!! Reutter Porcelain Miniature Bathrobe in cotton terry imported from Germany. Designed for the 1:12 scale miniature setting. Through the years the MW Reutter Porcelain Company in Germany has gained an international reputation for fine quality tea sets, miniatures & giftware...

	Dollhouse Fairies - 3 Inch Snowflake Porcelain Ornament Sale Price: $12.75
	Dollhouse Fairies Ornament is measuring 3 inches. This Glossy Porcelain Snowflake Ornament is perfect gift for grandparents, aunts, uncles and friends. Commemorate each holiday season with a new ornament...

	Dollhouse 1:24 Scale Aubusson Red Rug Dollhouse Miniature Sale Price: $7.99
	Aubusson Red Rug in 1:24 scale in 3.75" x 4.7" Rug is printed on flocked paper designed to coordinate with many of the 1:24 scale wallpapers and fabrics.

Help!!!!!! Ideas for a dollhouse themed haunted house?

Us 8th graders have to create a haunted house for our school.
We will be having 4 separate rooms.
Our area is quite small though, so we have a very limited amount of space.
Our theme for the Haunted House is like creepy old fashioned porcelain dolls.
Each of our rooms will be having a sub-theme.
So far we have come up with two; like an Alice in Wonderland playroom thing, and like a Tea Party.
Im just wondering if anyone has any good ideas for the rooms?
Or Music? Costumes? Decorations?
ANYTHING that will help and improve our Haunted House.
Thank you so much.

hey! i got some ideas for you guys. You could have cob webs hanging from the walls, blood spills running down the walls or on the floor, heads on spikes out the front...ok so its a little out there....i got plenty more if you want to hear them...

Or, you could do the whole alice in wonderland theme...BUT....make it all creepy, like her dress can be all cut up...and the tea cups can have blood in it...and so on....
i hope ive helped ;p

Miniature cookie of clay - demonstration

	Baby Dolls: With Heads Made of Bisque from 1909 Until Circa 1930 Character Baby Dolls Sale Price: $79.65

Pennypacker Auction Center 2 Day Public Sale, Collection of Elsie L. Batdorf, West Reading, PA, J.C. Turner, Peapack, NJ, Elenore Althouse, Reading, Brooke Peters, New York City, Pearl Wolfe Henne, Phoenixville, Mary & Irvin Koch of West Reading, PA (Eli Terry & Son Pillar & Scroll Clock, 200 Dolls, Doll furniture, Bisque, China Head and Wooden Dolls, more., November 13, 14, 1967, Vol. 11, No. 13)

	DOLLMAKING PROJECTS & PLANS magazine Summer 1991 Renaissance Paper Doll by Sarajane Helm (Doll Making, Howw to mold a felt doll head, One-pattern wardrobe, Bisque Doll Care, Danielle by Kezi)

	China, Parian & Bisque German Dolls Sale Price: $42.99

	Nippon Dolls & Playthings: Identification and Values Sale Price: $44.95
	With over 800 full color photographs and almost 200 catalog pages and vintage ads, Nippon Dolls & Playthings will become THE guide for your newest hobby. Valuable historical information is provided, as well as answers to frequently asked questions, and backstamps information...

	Simon & Halbig Dolls: The Artful Aspect Sale Price: $44.95
	Latest reference book for collectors by this author! 26 beautiful color and 445 b/w photographs with extensive details for each doll. Historical background to this German doll's head maker. Greatest variety of S&H molds ever shown! Exposes the collector to the captivating Simon & Halbig faces plus the accurate identification desired by collectors...

	DOLLMAKING PROJECTS & PLANS magazine Summer 1991 Volume 7 No. 2 Renaissance Paper Doll by Sarajane Helm (Doll Making, Howw to mold a felt doll head, One-pattern wardrobe, Bisque Doll Care, Danielle by Kezi)

	DOLLS magazine June / July 1990 Volume 9 Number 4 (The Collector's Magazine, Rare Decorated Bisque Heads, Germany's Engel-Puppen, Annette Himstedt's Porcelain Sita)

	Doll Values: Antique to Modern Sale Price: $5.37
	Thanks to doll experts Barbara DeFeo and Carol Stover, this series continues. With almost 500 color photographs, the eighth edition of Doll Values, Antique to Modern, will retain its #1 bestselling status...

	Collector's Guide to Horsman Dolls 1865-1950: Identification & Values Sale Price: $38.95
	This is the first book on the market to tell the Horsman story. Partly historical and partly tale of an ambitious entrepreneur and his son, the book is a story of these American doll manufacturers who created literally millions of well made dolls that generations of youngsters loved and cherished...

Collecting antique bisque dolls is a hobby some people engage in. Bisque dolls are commonly referred to as as porcelain dolls. Up to the 1860s, dolls were made from porcelain. These were glazed and looked like china.

The truth is they are different from porcelain dolls. They were first made with leather for its clothing as well as the bodies. Nowadays, these dolls are very expensive and breakable. They are rarely manufactured for playing. These are for collectibles only.

To elaborate, bisque is porcelain that is not glazed whereas porcelain is a result of paste from a mixture of water and clay. However the process of molding for bisque dolls and antique porcelain dolls are pretty much the same.

The application of the color creates a skin tone that is realistic, as if it is really human. If no color is added to antique bisque dolls, then these are called parian dolls.

The production of these dolls were circa 1860s in France. A lot of doll factories made unglazed porcelain dolls and they were the first to do. It gained popularity and the factories were able to obtain the right material to make doll heads circa early 1900s.

The composition of these replaced bisque as the material that was used for the dolls. But since antique bisque dolls have such a history on dolls in general, contemporary collectors continue to collect these.

The sizes and characteristics vary. If the heads of the dolls are made from bisque, then these are considered to be antique bisque dolls. But because of the weight of the material, most dolls are not completely from bisque.

If so, they wouldn't just be heavy, they would also be fragile. The smaller ones were such a hit during the 1800s up til the 1930s. They were called the penny dolls. The sizes range from 1/2 inch up to life size which is around 5 feet tall.

There are companies that continue to produce antique dolls because of the demand. All throughout history, these dolls are still produced. Most factories are located in France (because this is where these dolls started.).

Then manufacturing companies transferred to Germany circa 1880s. In 1900s, there were already manufacturing companies in the United States. In the end of the 20th century, China also has their own factories which manufacture these dolls.

Nearly all the bisque dolls that are created today are made in China, except for those rare antique bisque dolls which most collectors are searching high and low for.

Discover where to buy antique bisque dolls online. Learn where to buy cheap antique porcelain dolls online.

Doll identification: 5 inches, jointed arms & head, big ears, almost like kewpie and elf boy , bisque? antique?

Tufted topknot on head, 2 tufts on back of head, cute smiling face with teeth showing, big eyes with lashes, Beautiful elf-like kewpie like doll? there are some numbers I think on back but can't really make out. I hope you can tell me the name and or maker of this doll.

Could you take a photo and post it with you question it would make it a bit easier to id see if Rose O'Neill the American artist from the 20's who originally designed these dolls and paper dolls. Also the doll should be all bisque, is that true. There was one called Cupid With the tuft's over each ear and one on the top of the head at 5.25 inches also had a sister marked Germany and 10954, this doll was a copy by an artist to sell along with the Rose O'Neill dolls. These dolls in books are referred to as all bisque.

	Connoisseur Collection Doll From Seymour Mann "Bonita" Sale Price: $69.95

	Connoisseur Collection Doll From Seymour Mann "Betty" Sale Price: $50.00

	a connoisseur collection doll
	a connisseur collection doll handcrafted by artisans in china exclusively for seymour mann Inc

	Seymour Mann Sale Price: $46.99
	A Connoisseur Collection Doll with stand.

	SEYMOUR MANN Sale Price: $29.99
	FEATURES HAND PAINTED PORCELAN HEAD, ARMS, AND LEGS PLUS DOLL STAND

	A Connoisseur Collection Doll

Porcelain dolls...?

I have a relatively rare porcelain doll in my possession. It's from Seymour Mann's Connoisseur Doll Collection. It's not in a case, but is in pretty excellent condition. It's on it's original stand and has it's original tags. The tag says "This edition is limited to 7500 dolls. After this edition is sold out, the only way to acquire a doll from this edition will be from a collector willing to sell at a price the market dictates." I'm not sure how old the doll is exactly, perhaps 20 years.
Where can I sell this doll? How do I figure out how much this doll is actually worth?

I don't think you'll have any luck selling it without the box. They don't do too well on Ebay. There's a whole page of ended auction with only one sale - 3 dolls for $25.00.

http://completed.shop.ebay.com/items/Dolls__seymore-mann_W0QQ_nkwZseymoreQ20mannQQQ5ftrksidZp3286Q2ec0Q2em228QQLHQ5fCompleteZ1QQ_sacatZ238

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	Pat Smith's Album of All Bisque Dolls: Identification and Value Guide Sale Price: $81.71

	Dollmakers Workbook - All-bisque Dolls

	The Complete Book of All-Bisque Dolls Sale Price: $250.25
	Renowned doll historian, collector, and author Mildred Seeley wrote her 20th book at the request of her husband and children. The resulting volume is the first all-encompassing study made of the unique, small children dolls and figures made entirely of bisque This book is primarily photos of dolls with supporting text of explanatory and historical facts...

	All-Bisque and Half-Bisque Dolls Sale Price: $25.46
	This authoritative reference is the first book exclusively devoted to all-bisque and half-bisque dolls. It covers all periods, from the very early up through present-day makers of originals and reproductions...

	ALL-BISQUE DOLLS The Dollmakers Workbook Identifying All-Bisque Dolls - Complete Instructions for Making, Costuming, Wigging..

	The Little Ones - French and German All-Bisque Dolls

	Seeley's Doll Pattern CP-916 - Dress, Bonnet & Panties for 6.5" to 7.5" All Bisque Doll Sale Price: $6.98
	Patterns and directions to make dress, bonnet and panties for all bisque doll measuring 6 1/2" to 7 1/2".

	DOLL NEWS magazine Summer 2000 (United Federation of Doll Clubs, Volume 49 Number 4, Multi-face dolls, Musee de la poupee, All Bisque Doll, Doll Collectors, Pierrots and Punchs)

	DESIRABLE ALL BISQUE AND MINIATURE DOLLS

	All-Bisque & Half-Bisque Dolls

If a doll collector is looking for antique German dolls, chances are she is on a lookout for a Handwerck.

These antique German dolls have large almond shape eyes that are said to be the best and most prominent features. It may have a French appearance but it has good quality because it is made from the best materials.

Antique German dolls such as the Handwerck were manufactured in 1876. This continued til the early 1900s. The Handwerck manufacturing company was owned by Kammer & Reinhardt after the original owner Heinrich Handwerck passed away in 1902.

The Handwerck is found on a ball. This is the composition for the body which Handwerck made as he was constructing the doll. Doll companies purchase the bodies and the parts of the dolls that they are constructing from other manufacturers nowadays.

Therefore, a collector must have a keen eye and determine which are the original authentic parts of antique German dolls and which aren't. As much as possible, they want to collect dolls that are unmarked. They want the dolls they invest in to come from original antique German dolls parts.

Collectors know that there are a lot of “doll hospitals” during the manufacturing of the antique German dolls. If there is a paper sticker on any part of the doll, then these might have been obtained on a hospital repair visit.

This does not make the doll less desirable for any collectors. Collecting it is still a trend but those true blue collectors want their dolls to be as authentic as possible.

In fact, businessmen made profits by buying then selling antique German dolls and there is a difference in pricing when the dolls are authentic and when these dolls have stickers. The average doll collector prefers those attic finds.

They don't want any modern restoration facilities doing something t the antique German dolls because these would make it modernized and not antique.

The hype on collecting antique German dolls has even hit eBay. Most collectors check out the values and prices of the dolls that are sold online.

They compare and check whether these dolls are authentic antique German dolls or they have parts from other construction companies making these less authentic.

There are some collectors who remove the non-original bisque parts of their antique German dolls and continue to scour stores and online sites in search for the original parts so that they could replace these.

Since the doll is connected to a ball, there are chances wherein the stringing cord is already black with dust and can no longer be used but this is what those die hard collectors prefer.

About the Author:

Discover where to buy cheap antique german dolls online. Learn where to buy cheap porcelain dolls at my site.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Buy Cheap Antique German Dolls

I've got a pain in my sawdust, that's what's the matter with me. What book was this line from?

I know it was on CSI for the miniture killer.
But I also heard it's from a book.

Those are the lyrics to an old popular song from the turn of the last century.

You can find the complete lyrics on the Wiki

	So Truly Real Baby Doll Accessories: Wicker Bassinet With Pink Liner/Pillow by The Ashton-Drake Galleries Sale Price: $29.01
	Exclusive So Truly Real(R) Baby Doll Accessories! Rock Your Doll to Sleep in Wicker Bassinet Made Just for Her! - It's naptime for your baby doll and what better way to rock her off to dreamland than in this beautiful wicker bassinet with a comfy pink liner and matching pillow...

	The White Victorian-Style Wicker Baby Doll Carriage: Baby Doll Accessories by The Ashton-Drake Galleries Sale Price: $129.99
	Your precious baby dolls deserve the very best, so display them proudly - or even take them out for a stroll - in this elegant wicker doll carriage available from The Ashton-Drake Galleries! Beautifully crafted in the time-honored style of the finest Victorian doll accessories, this exquisite white carriage surrounds your baby with the finery of yesteryear wherever you go...

Dolly Mama's Hot Dolly Mama! Doll by The Ashton-Drake Galleries Sale Price: $39.99

She's still hot, but it comes in flashes! Take aim at being old with simply divine results in this collectible Dolly Mama's age humor doll. This sassy sister is here to remind you that she's still one "Hot Dolly Mama!" This Dolly Mama's doll has all the stylish pizzazz of artist Joey Heiberg's beloved Dolly Mama's characters, including fancy fabrics, feathers and frills galore, plus a FREE coordinating miniature lounge chair so you can pose her to express your own moods!Available only from The Ashton-Drake Galleries, this collectible Dolly Mama's doll is hand-painted and features bendable arms and legs for unlimited posing...

So Truly Real Baby Doll Accessories: Wicker Bassinet With White Liner/Pillow by The Ashton-Drake Galleries Sale Price: $29.99

Exclusive So Truly Real(R) Baby Doll Accessories! White Wicker Bassinet with Lacy Liner and Pillow Made Just for 10" Size! - Here's the perfect So Truly Real(R) baby doll accessory for your little sweetheart to "nap" in when you're not holding and cuddling her! Custom-designed just for our 10" long dolls, you'll adore tucking your collectible cutie into this basket bassinet crafted in white painted wicker...

Ashton Drake ~ "PRINCESS IN TRAINING" ~ Lifelike Resin Baby Doll ~ by Artist Sherry Rawn ~ Anatomically Correct Miniature Baby Doll Sale Price: $39.95

She may be chubby and shy now... but this little sweetheart has a bright future as a Princess in Training. You can tell, of course, because she seems born to wear a tiara! Doll artist Sherry Rawn has sculpted an adorable childhood "portrait" in this anatomically correct resin baby doll, so full of personality she's irresistible! An exclusive from The Ashton-Drake Galleries, this amazingly lifelike baby doll is adorably chubby and posed to perfection just to make you smile...

	So Truly Real Baby Doll Accessories: Plastic Bassinet With Pink Liner/Pillow by The Ashton-Drake Galleries Sale Price: $29.99
	So Truly Real(R) Baby Doll Accessories - Just What You Need to Rock Your 10" Doll to Sleep! Exclusive Plastic Bassinet - Tuck your little one into this sweet plastic bassinet, the perfect So Truly Real(R) baby doll accessory! It's custom-designed to fit all of our collectible 10" dolls, with a pink liner and matching pillow that are sure to make naptime extra comfy...

	Dianna Effner Blossom Baby Doll by Ashton Drake Sale Price: $39.99
	Exclusive Chinese Baby Doll by Master Doll Artist Dianna Effner! A Portion of the Proceeds Go to Children's Charities! - Master Doll Artist Dianna Effner creates a new masterpiece of the dollmaker's art with her first-ever Chinese baby doll for The Ashton-Drake Galleries...

Denise Farmer Cherish Collectible Lifelike Vinyl Baby Doll: So Truly Real by Ashton Drake Sale Price: $99.99

Name Her Yourself! Newborn Baby Girl Doll is a Collectible Masterpiece of Realism by Doll Artist Denise Farmer! - Experience an astounding level of realism with this collectible So Truly Real(R) newborn baby girl doll! Echoing the heavenly beauty of a real live newborn, this breathtaking collectible lifelike baby doll is a marvel, from her exquisite face to her delicate wisps of hair, her supple fingers, and even her tiny, wrinkled feet...

	So Truly Real Baby Doll Clothing: Christening Ensemble by The Ashton-Drake Galleries Sale Price: $24.99
	Exclusive So Truly Real(R) Baby Doll Clothing! Get Your Doll Ready for Her Blessed Event in 7-Piece Christening Set! - The day of your doll's christening has finally arrived! On her most blessed day, only the best will do...

	Waltraud Hanl Hush, Little Baby Collectible Lifelike Baby Girl Doll: So Truly Real by Ashton Drake Sale Price: $129.99
	Collectible Lifelike Baby Girl Doll Breathes So Peacefully, So Truly Real(R)! An Exclusive by Doll Artist Waltraud Hanl! - Shh, you don't want to wake this collectible lifelike baby girl doll. She's so peaceful - and look! She's breathing! In fact, if you place your hand against her little tummy, you can even feel it moving gently up and down...

Dolls can be babies or high fashion models, sweet little girls or vampish sirens. There are almost as many kind of dolls as there are collectors, so whether you find yourself lingering amongst the pink boxes of the Toys 'R' Us doll department or gazing at the magazine photos of lifelike Ashton-Drake baby dolls, if you're reading this article you're probably thinking you'd like to start a doll collection.

Where to start?

First of all, collecting dolls can be an expensive hobby, so be sure you know where your "dolly dollars" are going to come from. Many doll collectors support their hobby by sewing, knitting, or crocheting doll clothes to sell, either on ebay, a Website, or at craft fairs. Dolls can be like potato chips -- it's impossible to just have one -- so be aware of your budget and space restrictions. You might not want dolls taking over your home!

Second, think about what kind of dolls you're attracted to. Some collectors are eclectic and like to own many different types of dolls. Others prefer to specialize in one main type, such as baby dolls or fashion dolls, while still other choose to concentrate on one brand or line. So while one collector may own several Barbies, a Ginny, a Madame Alexander doll, a few antique porcelain dolls, and a reborn baby doll, another may own Barbies, Genes, Kitty Colliers, and even a few Bratz, and yet another collector may choose to own only Sasha dolls. In short, no two doll collectors -- or collections -- are alike, and each doll collection is a unique expression of its owner's tastes.

If you're not familiar with all the different types and lines of dolls out there, the best thing to do is a lot of research. The Internet has really revolutionized doll collecting and is a seemingly endless source of information on the hobby. Many brick-and-mortar doll shops are also online, but many shops are Internet-only. Read, read, read -- pore over the doll magazines and thumb through collectors guidebooks. Look at lots of photos and read lots of descriptions to see what interests you. It's important, if you can, to attend a doll show or visit a doll shop to see dolls in person -- seeing dolls "in the flesh" is very different from seeing them in photos, and you may find yourself surprised to be pulled toward a doll at a show that you hadn't looked at twice online.

A doll show will expose you to a wide variety of dolls. You'll see, of course, the popular vinyl fashion dolls like Robert Tonner's Kitty Collier, Tyler Wentworth, and Betsy McCall, but you'll also see vintage Barbie and Ken dolls, as well as dolls by the venerable older companies like Effanbee and Madame Alexander. You'll see antique French and German dolls, play dolls, American Girl dolls, Bleuette, and even paper dolls. Take it all in -- this is your education.

Once you're ready to start purchasing dolls, the doll show and the brick-and-mortar doll shop are great places to begin, but the Internet has taken hold as a wonderful resource for doll collectors. Browse ebay for deals, but depending upon the dolls you want to own, you may want to gravitate toward online shops. Building a relationship with a doll dealer can work well for a collector, as once the dealer gets to know you and your collecting interests, she can let you know when something comes in that she knows you want.

If you've done your homework, you'll have a sense of what to pay for your dolls. New dolls' prices are often fixed, and it can be hard to get a bargain, but if you're buying dolls on ebay or elsewhere on the secondary market, you may be able to get some good deals.

It's exciting to bring your first doll home, and you may find that you want to share the fun with other collectors. Look for doll clubs in your area -- the United Federation of Doll Clubs http://www.ufdc.org can help steer you toward a local club. Also check Yahoo Groups http://groups.yahoo.com to see if there is a doll collecting group that appeals to you. These online discussion groups can be excellent sources of information and friendship.

As a doll collector, you can learn about fashion, history, and culture, but above all, you should just have fun!

Florence Bassett is a writer and doll collector, specializing mainly in Sasha dolls, Heidi Ott dolls, and Bleuette reproduction dolls.

Does anyone know where to find a porcelain doll called the Apache teardrop, I think it is Ashton Drake?

I know it is a young indian girl kneeling with her hands up, draped in her hands is a necklace with the sacred Apache teardrop on it, I know it was released a few years ago but am not sure which company released it, might be ashton drake or franklin mint. I am not entirely sure if that is the actual name of the doll or not, any help would be dearly appreciated

You can get it here for $65

http://www.dollpeddlar.com/advanced_search_result.php?keywords=Apache+teardrop

	Doll Repair: Modern - Antique
	Self-published guide book for repairing modern and antique dolls. Book begins with list of all tools and supplies necessary. Describes many kinds of both modern and antique dolls. Many pictures of dolls and doll parts in black in white...

	MGA Lalaloopsy Doll Tippy Tumblelina Sale Price: $21.95
	Your child will enjoy playing with the Tippy Tumbelina Bitty Button Doll. The Bitty Buttons are rag dolls that magically come to life, taking on the personalities of the fabrics used to make them. This Bitty Button Doll lives in a colorful, silly world full of magic...

	MGA Lalaloopsy Doll Blossom Flowerport Sale Price: $21.95
	Your child will enjoy playing with the Tippy Tumbelina Bitty Button Doll. The Bitty Buttons are rag dolls that magically come to life, taking on the personalities of the fabrics used to make them. This Bitty Button Doll lives in a colorful, silly world full of magic...

	MGA Lalaloopsy Doll Patch Treasurechest Sale Price: $23.49
	Patch Treasurechest was once a rag doll who magically came to life when her very last stitch was sewn. Hes a clutterbug who loves to collect shiny things. He also likes to travel, but hes terrible at following maps.

	Collectible Patsy Dolls and Patsy-types (Number 4)

	Doll News - United Federation of Doll Clubs / Volume 53, Number 2 / Winter 2004
	This issue of Doll News contains: 1-The Doll heads of KMP (shown on cover), 2-Raynal's Lenci-type Cloth Dolls, 3-Greeting Cards~Cut out for Fun, 4-Louis Amberg & Son: A Half-Century of Dolls: Part 2. The Golden Years, 5-Purses in Miniature, 6-Silver Threads and Golden Needles...

	Collectible patsy dolls and patsy-types Sale Price: $39.59

	Kaiser 11.5 To 12.5 Barbie & Similar Types Metal Doll Stand Sale Price: $2.00
	FITS ALL BARBIE AND SIMILAR TYPE DOLLS. THIS IS THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF BARBIE CHOCKING HAZARD - CONTAINS SMALL PARTS - NOT FOR CHILDREN UNDER 3

	An Illustrated Guide to Making Soft and Hard Dolls of Various Types Sale Price: $6.89
	This book contains classic material dating back to the 1900s and before. The content has been carefully selected for its interest and relevance to a modern audience.

	Sew the Contemporary Wardrobe for 18-Inch Dolls: Complete Instructions & Full-Size Patterns for 35 Clothing and Accessory Items Sale Price: $11.85
	This book provides 35 patterns for clothing and accessory items that can be mixed and matched to create an infinite number of outfits to fit the ever-popular 18-inch dolls. The wardrobe includes all the latest fashion items for girls, such as a jean jacket, flared jeans, all styles of t-shirts, special occasion dresses, nightwear, purses, and hats...

Japanese porcelain dolls are available in a wide range of sizes, ages, and dress. Although some antique Japanese porcelain dolls are created of fine crushed oyster shells, each one holds a unique and fascinating story.

Japanese Porcelain Doll Styles

Geisha porcelain dolls are typically found in traditional dress and makeup, wearing brightly colored silk kimonos, often with accessories like a traditional fan. Small child porcelain dolls can be found wearing short sets, or more traditional clothing. There are porcelain dolls representing every age, and time period of Japanese history. With the wide variety of Japanese porcelain dolls available, it is impossible to have one of every type. Many Japanese porcelain dolls are completed with real hair to authenticate their look, and provide for a more realistic appearance. The realistic appearance and the attention to detail in the crafting of the Japanese porcelain doll is a tribute to the people of Japan.

Japanese Geisha Porcelain Dolls

The ancient Geisha was known as a performer, an entertainer and was held in very high esteem. She traditionally received many years of training, sometimes beginning at birth. The Geisha porcelain doll is often found posed in a move from one of the traditional dances. Other Japanese porcelain Geisha dolls can be found seated or standing. She demonstrates the grace and beauty of ancient Geisha. The Japanese porcelain Geisha doll often comes with accessories such as a traditional fan, small musical instrument, or flowers to demonstrate the elegance and esteem of these women. The popularity of the Japanese porcelain Geisha doll can also be linked to her colorful dress. The clothing of the Japanese porcelain geisha doll is typically a silk kimono adorned with a floral or dragon print. Her hair and makeup are crafted to complete the look of the traditional Geisha.

Japanese Samurai Porcelain Dolls

The Japanese Samurai also are portrayed as porcelain dolls. This Japanese Samurai porcelain doll is as true to tradition as is the porcelain Geisha. He is dressed in a detailed silk costume, and may come with a range of accessories from a shield for personal protection, to a traditional samurai sword, to protect his family.

Friendship Dolls

In 1929, the United States sent over 12,000 blue eyed dolls to Japan in gesture of good will. These dolls were even sent with a special passport. Japan, in return, sent 58 hand-made Japanese porcelain dolls to the United States. These dolls became known as Friendship dolls. While some of the friendship dolls have been lost over the years, most still exist and can be found on display around the country. The Japanese porcelain doll is collected by adults and children, by boys and girls.

Displaying Japanese Porcelain Dolls

The wealthiest families only display their dolls on festival days. Children are not allowed to touch them, only to look because Japanese porcelain dolls are considered works of art, like a sculpture. Many attribute the Japanese porcelain doll with thoughts and feelings, almost a life of their own. The Japanese porcelain doll is best displayed in a glass case to protect her from dust, dirt, and grime. She needs to have a calm background, such as a piece of brown, black or tan cloth. The Japanese porcelain doll's clothing is very striking and colorful and will stand out to perfection with a calm background. Placing the Japanese porcelain doll on a background busy with other things will diminish the beauty of her traditional dress.

The wide variety of Japanese porcelain dolls available makes any collection incomplete without one. They are made with such a fine attention to detail and come in such a wide variety of shapes and sizes you could collect Japanese porcelain dolls for years and never find the same one twice.

A-Porcelain-Doll.com supplies porcelain dolls, antique dolls, and dolls collectible by everyone to everyone. They specialize in handcrafted porcelain dolls by internationally acclaimed artists from a variety of cultures. You can find Indian dolls, Persian dolls, Japanese dolls, Irish dolls, black dolls, ethnic dolls, and much more at A-Porcelain-Doll.com.

Copyright 2009

My daughter is looking for a Lolita Doll type dress. Where can we find one other than ebay or Hong Kong?

She needs the dress by 5/15/09. Thanks.

This site has just about every Lolita clothing link possible. I put the page of links where you can order without an ordering service. (Not websites that only ship to Japan.)

http://www.lolitafashion.org/brand_list_intshipping.php

If she are a beginning Lolita, I suggest she buys non brand name when she is still discovering your style. For example, if she want a skirt from the Japanese brand name Angelic Pretty, get a similar one from a less expensive non brand name like La Dauphine.

Making your clothes is another good alternative. I'm low on money, so I make most of my clothes, which works well, actually, because I like coming up with my own designs.

Definitely avoid Ebay if possible! Some things are good, but most are not. Everything I got off there has had something wrong with it. One shop actually just hot glues fabric together!

But not all Hong Kong Lolita clothing is bad. I've heard from many people that Anna House is really nice and inexpensive and I'm ordering a few things from there to try it out myself.

I hope this helps and I wish you the best!

	Aimee - A Three (3) Dimensional Paper Doll and Her Keepsake Trunk (Keepsake Collection), Based on an antique French bisque doll made by Bru Jne. circa 1875
	Karen Prince has based Aimee on an enchanting French bebe produced by Bru Jne and Cie around 1875. The Bru dolls were among the most beautiful and finely crafted French Dolls. Bebes by Bru Jeune of this period often had leather bodies with swivel necks, fine bisque heads, shoulder plates and lower arms...

	Mildred Seeley Henri Delcroix Pearl Antique Pan Doll Collector Plate - Limited Edition of 5,000 Sale Price: $24.99
	The Mildred Seeley Antique Doll Collection, French Bebe Delcroix's Pearl Limited Edition Collectible Plate. On the reverse side is a description of the dolls history. The plate is 8.5 inches in diameter...

	3.5 Inch Ceramic Bisque Pinecone Ornament, Antique Silver, 2 Styles Sale Price: $6.99

	Milettes: Small French Dolls to Collect & Make Sale Price: $14.95

	Doll Costuming, How to Costume French and German Bisque Dolls

	Antique Doll World: May/June 1994, Volume 1, Number 6: Miniature Wedding Belles, French Folding Rooms, Munich Art Dolls, Early Bebe Jumeau, Half Dolls
	Contains: "Doll News"; "Antique Auction Gallery"; "Wee Wedding Belles"; "Hertwig & Co. Half Dolls"; "Munich Art Dolls"; "Early Bebe Jumeau Dolls"; "The French Folding Room"; "Calendar"; "Portrait of a Collector: Florie Hirsch"; "Books and Videos"; NADDA Show"; and "Classified...

	Poupees: Un Monde Extraordinaire au Chateau de la Poupee (L'Estampille L'Objet D'Art, Hors Serie No. 6) (French Edition)
	Text in French. Illustrated with color photographs.

The second largest hobby within the United States is antique doll collecting, which includes porcelain dolls. There are a large variety of antique dolls to choose from and collectors need to learn every bit of vital information available to enable them to build their collections properly.

Porcelain dolls are normally handcrafted from a high quality of porcelain and then are hand painted to express facial features in eloquent poses. Collectors have even collect dream catchers that feature stunning porcelain dolls, which they feel gives them the power to have good dreams. Many dream catchers wear costumes that are made from suede with beads that hand applied and accented with feathers.

Porcelain dolls are so expensive often time due to the popularity of the artist, the quantity that has been produced, and how limited the numbers were. Of course, original artists collectible porcelain dolls are much more valuable than the more mass produced porcelain dolls. These types of collections can be educational as well as exciting, and displaying your collection is an intricate part of the pride of a collector. Locating porcelain dolls from antique stores, flea markets, and garage sales can be quite challenging, but there are a variety of choices to choose from.

Collectors of these beautiful dolls know that they can be quite expensive, however, collectors can purchase porcelain dolls that are rarely found that have been restored. Before purchasing an porcelain doll that has had a restoration done to it be sure that it was done correctly by using original materials and the proper techniques. The fabrics and trims used to restore the porcelain doll should always be representatives from the period that the doll was originally produced, which will help keep its integrity and in determining their value.

During the 1800s, porcelain dolls were produced in Germany, France, and Denmark by hand, but then during the last of the nineteenth century manufactures began mass producing the arms, legs, and heads of these marvelous dolls in Germany. There are two types of porcelain dolls which are china that have a glazed face, and bisque where the skin has a more natural look and has an unglazed finish.

The French introduced the "BeBe" during the middle of the 1800s by Emil Louis Jumeau, which wore clothing that resembled the fashion that was currently being worn by the higher class females of that day. Porcelain dolls that were produced in Germany were not as elegant as their French counterparts, but they were much more popular with the general population because they were much more affordable. Today it is not hard to locate porcelain dolls that resemble babies, youngsters, and adults, which are available in a number of sizes, nationalities, and costumes.

When collectors purchase porcelain dolls today they will find that they are considered to be artistic pieces and they will usually come with a certificate of authenticity and a registration card. Porcelain dolls will be stuffed with cloth that includes a wire type armature to help pose the doll. Some of the dolls have a two piece head with the shoulder plate being constructed to help position the head. The heads, arms, and legs are normally produced from a high fire and high quality porcelain as well.

Victor Epand is an expert consultant about rare coins, stamp collections, and rare collectibles. Follow these links to find the best marketplace for: rare coins and stamp collections.

	Oneill Girls 7-16 Nectar Dress, White, Small Sale Price: $33.99
	Maybe it's cliche to say the O'Neill Nectar Dress is named for its sweetness, but jeez. Look at it. It doesn't get any sweeter than this light, airy cotton dress with embroidered detailing. It's as girly as it gets, which is absolutely delicious...

	O'NEILL Delila Womens Hooded Cover Up Sale Price: $37.99
	O'Neill Delila cover up. Lightweight and sheer. Lined. Allover smocking. Spaghetti straps connect over back with o-ring detail. Scoop neck with contrast studding details. Lurex O'Neill embroidery at low left...

	White Bunny Slippers. Fit 18" Dolls like American Girl® Sale Price: $5.95
	These adorable and comfy white bunny slippers will keep your 18 inch doll's feet cozy all winter long. Great for a day of lounging with your 18 inch, American Girl doll!

	Fox Diamond Doll New Tee - White X Med Sale Price: $19.50
	Online Exclusive! Its true what they say, diamonds are a girls best friend. Diamond and rose graphic. Fox logo featured. Model is 59 and wears a small.

	O'NEILL Mary Mary Dress Sale Price: $28.99
	O'Neill Mary Mary knit dress. Adjustable plunge v-neck via drawstring. Adjustable spaghetti straps. Allover horizontal stripes. Flowers printed at right. O'Neill embroidery at high back. Approx length from HPS: 33"(83cm)...

	Sophias Doll Clothes-18 Inch White & Blue Gymnastics Set-Leotard, Coat, Bag + Free Bow! Sale Price: $24.99
	This 18 inch doll 3 Piece Outfit includes gymnastic leotard, sparkly zip-front jacket, & drawstring bag with rhinestone star detail. It will fit 18" dolls, including American Girl. The doll itself is sold separately...

	Hot Pink & White Polliwog Set, Fits 18" American Girl Dolls Sale Price: $10.50
	These adorable and very popular polliwog's are perfect for your 18 inch American Girl Doll! Two Great pairs in hot pink and white are sure to brighten up any outfit your doll may have!

	Corolle Doll Clothes: 14" White and Pink Socks Sale Price: $7.99
	Fits 14" dolls. Pink and/or White Socks.

	O'NEILL Capri Dress Sale Price: $11.97
	O'Neill Capri knit dress. Adjustable plunge v-neck via drawstring. Adjustable spaghetti straps. Allover zig zag patterns. O'Neill embroidery at high back. Approx length from HPS: 33"(83cm). 100% cotton...

	White Lace Dress and Veil for 18" American Girl Dolls - Gift Wrap Available Sale Price: $18.00
	Long dress made in floral lace over a satin under dress and a tulle underskirt. Velvet ribbons and bows decorate the bodice and the hemline. Lace veil complete this special occasion outfit. Dress closes at back with snaps...

Restoring old doll clothes?

I have two porcelain dolls that my mom dug out of the bottom of the closet and tried to give away at a garage sale. they are probably from the sixties, they are wearing off white old fashioned clothes that are covered in red stains. how best to restore these clothes without disintegrating them? should i try to dye them a different color? these stains are probably 18 years old.

Orvis Soap is a great cleanser that can be purchased at a Tack and Feed Store. The clothing should be washed in a mesh bag.
Or, if you want to restore the clothes, but you don't want to risk putting them in the washing machine or ironing them - don't worry. If the color is fading or stained, this is a good thing to do; Let's say you have a red fading shirt. Take some cranberry juice and soak the shirt in it, then rinse, rinse, rinse. It will come out looking red - which is what you want. For blue - use blueberry juice, for purple - use grape juice, for orange - use spaghetti sauce. Realize that any restoration you do will ruin the dolls value to collectors, even though it may make the clothes look much better.