18 Inch Doll Clothes And Accessories Convert The Dolls Into Magnificent Pieces of Art

<!-- @page { margin: 2cm } P { margin-bottom: 0.21cm } A:link { color: #0000ff; so-language: zxx } -->

Nowadays, the growing popularity of dolls is much more than that of toys. This is because dolls are collected by not only children but many adults also who have taken to the hobby of doll-collection. The doll industry is also responding to this growing demand and is coming out with various types of dolls. One of the most popular varieties of dolls is the 18 inch dolls.

These children and hobbyists do not stop with collecting these dolls. They decorate them with 18 inch doll clothes and other accessories and exhibit their prowess in such grand work of art. When they do these decorations, these dolls acquire a greater value both in terms of quality and price.

Commercial production of these 18 inch dolls takes place on a massive scale and they are made with rubber and plastic. These manufacturers also come out with special edition collections like miniature models of great leaders, heroes who walked on this earth, historical figures and so on. Buyers can also order the dolls of their liking but these may prove to be expensive.

Apart from manufacturing these dolls, these companies manufacture 18 inch doll clothes and other accessories also. They also manufacture furniture that can be used by these children and hobbyists. Even the clothes and accessories that belong to various historical periods are manufactured by these companies. Appropriate fabrics are used for making these clothes of historical eras.

Not only as a hobby, these dolls are collected for investment purposes also. Many boutiques have sprung up for designing and making 18 inch doll clothes and these are run by competent designers. Clothes designed and made by such designers cost much more than those manufactured in bulk. These designer clothes may come with beads and other ornamental items and hence, you need to wash and clean them with a lot of care and attention. It is better you hand-wash them so that these expensive clothes and their ornamental designs can be preserved for a longer time.

Some collectors preserve their expensive dolls by keeping them in specially-made glass boxes. They also have special furniture for storing the accessories and the 18 inch doll clothes of these dolls. Simply put, these 18 inch dolls occupy the same place and importance as a piece of art does in the minds of these people.

After the advent of the Internet, almost all the manufacturers of these 18 inch dolls have electronic commerce sites to sell their dolls. You can also make use of these sites for buying your dolls. The most important benefit you can get from buying online is that you can compare the features of the dolls that are sold by various manufacturers and choose the dolls you like the most. You can also compare the prices and buy at the most competitive price. Buying online will definitely work out cheaper than buying from stores because the retailers' margins are not loaded on the prices. You can also make the purchases from the comfort of your home.

These manufacturers sell 18 inch doll clothes, accessories and furniture also online. But, while buying these items online, you should decide the design and size of the clothes you want because these dolls come with various designs and features and also the size of these dolls vary according to their year of manufacture. If you do a patient search, you can get the clothes of the right size, features, style and design.

1923 ARTICLE ON THE MULTI AGE LURE OF DOLL COLLECTING US $12.98

5 Black Folk Rag Cloth Doll Article LOT Collecting Jan Foulke Zimmer Campbell US $9.99

DISCONTINUED Girl Scout Junior COLLECTING HOBBIES BADGE Doll Coin Stamp Patch US $4.95

HOPI KAHINAS BY WRIGHT COMPLETE GUIDE TO COLLECTING KACHINA DOLLS COLOR PHOTOS US $5.91

Hopi Kachinas Doll Collecting Book Barton Wright US $35.00

The complete Guide to collecting KACHINA DOLLS 19771984 US $9.99

Hopi Kachinas The Complete Guide to Collecting Kachina Dolls US $13.45

Guide Book to Collecting Black Dolls US $25.15

NEW Madame Alexander Doll “Teddy and Me Collecting Bears” US $65.00

Exeter/Hampton/Rockingham community calendar
n pea's sustainability film series: held monthly through May 2011 in Phillips Exeter Academy Center's Forum at 6:30 p.m. Fridays. Free, open to public. Information: 777-3450. April 29: "Poisoned Waters."
Read more on Exeter News-Letter

Kaiser Doll Stand 2101, Box of 12 - White Doll Stands for 8" to 12" Dolls and Action Figures
Kaiser Doll Stands are high quality American made accessories for your dolls. They come in 24 sizes and several colors. These adju...

Doll Collecting
A DRM free eBook.All About Dolls History of Dolls Barbie Dolls Bobble Head Dolls China Dolls Disney Dolls Collectible Baby Dolls K...

Joe Blitman's Oh You Beautiful Doll! Doll Collecting for Fun & Profit, Featuring Barbie
Doll collecting for fun & profit - in this fabulous full-color video Barbieexpert Joe Blitman shares his vast knowledge of the nut...

Coll. Encyclopedia of American Composition Dolls 1900-1950 (Collector's Encyclopedia of American Composition Dolls)
This second volume makes American composition dolls more accessible to collectors by presenting hundreds of clear photographs and ...

• Venturing Into Doll Collecting
• Miniature Porcelain Dolls Are A Terrific Collectible

For Baby Doll Collectors, Start A New Line With Boy Dolls

Dolls are sought after by discerning collectors, and for those who enjoy collecting baby dolls, you may want to consider expanding your horizons with the addition of boy dolls to your collection.  If you already have several girl dolls, it makes sense to balance your collection our with a series of boy dolls, and one particularly adorable line to take a look at is the American Boy Dolls line.  When grouped together, your doll collection can give a fascinating look at all of the different styles created by a variety of designers.

The American Boy Dolls line has the President Barack Obama Commemorative baby doll, the Realistic African-American baby doll, and the He Shoots, He Scores doll.  The Barack Obama doll wears a white t-shirt that has "Yes We Can" as well as "The Birth of Hope January 20, 2009" emblazoned on it, along with blue shorts and white booties.  The doll is crafted from vinyl to capture all of the lifelike detail necessary for a collectible doll.  

The African-American baby doll is part of the So Truly Real Tiny Miracles line.  It is dressed in a blue sleeper, with a white cardigan edged in blue trim.  The realism of the miniature vinyl doll has been enhanced with micro-rooted hair, vinyl skin that feels real to the touch, and realistic eyelashes, with fingernails and toenails that have been carefully hand painted.  This doll can also be easily posed.  

If you love hockey, then you're sure to be delighted with the He Shoots, He Scores doll.  This blonde-haired, blue-eyed doll wears a hockey jersey, pants, striped socks and gloves in the patriotic red, white and blue colors.  The doll wears black hockey skates and carries a pint-sized hockey stick.

Other boy dolls are also available for your consideration and addition to your collection.  For the height of realism, why not get an anatomically correct baby doll?  They are available in the So Truly Real collectible vinyl line.  There are even life sized and lifelike baby dolls.  Artist Tinneke Janssens has created such a doll, who wears a three-piece baseball outfit in red and blue and comes with a pacifier and saddle shoes.  Other baby dolls come wearing a NASCAR racing outfit or a Batman outfit.  Some of the dolls are even musical.

To add to your doll collection with these fine dolls, you can visit a website that offers fine collectibles for the highest quality dolls.

Living Dead Dolls Value Reference Guide to Collecting by Robin Moore US $14.65

The ABCs of Doll Collecting by John C Schweitzer US $5.95

DOLL BOOK Guide to Buying Selling Collecting GERMAN GIRL BISQUE DOLLS Jan Foulke US $5.00

lot 30 pieces Heirloom Dolls Bambini Faith Wick doll maker collecting antique US $29.99

Doll Collecting for Fun and Profit Mildred and Colleen Seeley 1983 Paperback US $3.85

Lot of four books on Doll Collecting US $43.09

The ABCs of Doll Collecting by John C Schweitzer US $5.99

2 Books How To International Dolls the Wide World Over Doll Collecting US $19.75

DOLL COLLECTING FOR FUN AND PROFIT BOOK BY MILDRED AND COLLEEN SEELEY 144 PGS US $9.99

Mary Hillier The History of Wax Dolls doll information collecting book US $23.51

Doll Making Collecting 1800s Dolls Dressmaking 1949 US $5.95

Doll Collecting for Fun and Profit by Mildred and Colleen Seeley 1983 US $9.50

PATRICIA N SCHOONMAKER 2 x S C DOLL COLLECTING BOOKS US $37.65

Unauthorized Guide to Collecting Living Dead Dolls NEW US $26.07

1947 DOLLS GUIDE for COLLECTING Clara Fawcett SIGNED US $29.95

Doll Making and Collecting 1949 Hard Cover Vintage US $12.50

3 vintage MODERN COLLECTORS DOLLS series P SMITH HB DJ doll collecting identify US $33.65

Barbie Ken Todd Family Friends Doll Collecting Software US $19.95

1949 The Complete Book Of Doll Making And Collecting by Catherine Christopher US $16.00

Doll Making Collecting C Christopher 1971 HB Ex lib US $7.99

Joe Blitman's Oh You Beautiful Doll! Doll Collecting for Fun & Profit, Featuring Barbie
Doll collecting for fun & profit - in this fabulous full-color video Barbieexpert Joe Blitman shares his vast knowledge of the nut...

Baby Boomer Dolls Plastic Playthings of the 50's & 60's, Second Edition
The book features the latest secondary-market prices for over 500 dolls and includes 400+ colour photographs. The author provides ...

MELINA Charms clip on pendant russian doll matroshka sterling silver 925 enamel
- sterling silber 925- 3D charm- lobster claw clasp- lenght incl. Lobster clasp approx. 3,2 cm- nickle free- high quality -enamel...

MGA Entertainment Lalaloopsy Doll Pillow Featherbed
Your child will enjoy playing with the Pillow Featherbed Bitty Button Doll. The Bitty Buttons are rag dolls that magically come to...

The Beginners Guide to Doll Collecting
Inside The Beginners Guide to Doll Collecting you will learn:--History of Dolls – Dolls have been traced back to prehistoric tim...

• How to Start Your Own 18 Inch Doll Collection
• Add Asian Baby Dolls To Your Collections

Collectible Porcelain Doll Buying And Cleaning Guide

Porcelain dolls have been popular for a number of years and are generally produced for home decoration and collection purposes. Most porcelain dolls are mass produced, but a few unique ones are painstakingly hand-made in limited quantities. If doll-collecting is a hobby of yours then you would probably want to get your own collectible porcelain doll. Use the following tips to shop for the perfect porcelain doll.

Decide whether you want to display your porcelain doll as home decor or keep it as part of a larger collection for your own viewing pleasure. If you want to get an antique hand-crafted doll then there are some specific features that you need to take note of. You also have to decide whether you will be getting just one doll or several dolls carrying one theme or period. You may also want to collect a set of porcelain dolls made by the same artist. Popular examples of such dolls are Madame Alexander dolls, Victorian dolls, and Miniature Fairy dolls. Of course, you can expect antique collectible dolls to be pricier than decorative dolls.

To ensure that the collectible porcelain doll you get is of top quality, ask for an expert's opinion and find out what the best antique dolls are. Shop only at reputable antique shops or auction houses and never forget to note the doll-maker's label. Review online auction sites to get an idea of what collectible dolls are considered hot items and how much a buyer paid for them. Bear in mind that there are a lot of antique doll reproductions. These dolls are great for decorating purposes, but they do not have much collectible value. Be careful not to get duped into buying a reproduction for the price of the real thing.

To keep your doll collection looking great, you will have to clean it from time to time. Be sure to clean it properly so as not to cause any damage to the doll. Remove all clothing from the doll and wash them according to the manufacturer's instructions. Some garments may need to be dry-cleaned, so be sure to read the labels carefully. Turn on your blow dryer to a cool setting and then point it towards the doll to remove dust and bits of loose dirt. Dip a piece of clean cloth into cool water then gently rub the doll using a circular motion. Start rubbing at a hidden part like the back of the doll's neck. Check to make sure that no damage is being caused by the cloth.

If the cloth causes no damage, continue the rubbing motion until all parts of the doll is clean. Dampen a cotton swab and then use it to clean small areas around the doll's ears, mouth, and nose, as well as between the doll's fingers. Take note that a collectible porcelain doll that is really old may be prone to cracking. You have to use a very small amount of water on this type of doll in order to prevent damage.

Living Dead Dolls Value Reference Guide to Collecting by Robin Moore US $14.65

The ABCs of Doll Collecting by John C Schweitzer US $5.95

DOLL BOOK Guide to Buying Selling Collecting GERMAN GIRL BISQUE DOLLS Jan Foulke US $5.00

lot 30 pieces Heirloom Dolls Bambini Faith Wick doll maker collecting antique US $29.99

Doll Collecting for Fun and Profit Mildred and Colleen Seeley 1983 Paperback US $3.85

Lot of four books on Doll Collecting US $43.09

The ABCs of Doll Collecting by John C Schweitzer US $5.99

2 Books How To International Dolls the Wide World Over Doll Collecting US $19.75

DOLL COLLECTING FOR FUN AND PROFIT BOOK BY MILDRED AND COLLEEN SEELEY 144 PGS US $9.99

Mary Hillier The History of Wax Dolls doll information collecting book US $23.51

Doll Making Collecting 1800s Dolls Dressmaking 1949 US $5.95

Doll Collecting for Fun and Profit by Mildred and Colleen Seeley 1983 US $9.50

PATRICIA N SCHOONMAKER 2 x S C DOLL COLLECTING BOOKS US $37.65

Unauthorized Guide to Collecting Living Dead Dolls NEW US $26.07

1947 DOLLS GUIDE for COLLECTING Clara Fawcett SIGNED US $29.95

Doll Making and Collecting 1949 Hard Cover Vintage US $12.50

3 vintage MODERN COLLECTORS DOLLS series P SMITH HB DJ doll collecting identify US $33.65

Barbie Ken Todd Family Friends Doll Collecting Software US $19.95

1949 The Complete Book Of Doll Making And Collecting by Catherine Christopher US $16.00

Doll Making Collecting C Christopher 1971 HB Ex lib US $7.99

Doll Collector Doll Collecting Degree: Custom Gag Diploma Doctorate Certificate (Funny Customized Joke Gift - Novelty Item)
One customized novelty certificate (8.5 x 11 inch) printed on premium certificate paper with official border. Includes embossed Go...

The Colemans on Doll Collecting; I. Introduction and Doll Identification
The Colemans demonstrate how to interpret markings and provide an understanding of the manufacturing processes....

Joe Blitman's Oh You Beautiful Doll! Doll Collecting for Fun & Profit, Featuring Barbie
Doll collecting for fun & profit - in this fabulous full-color video Barbieexpert Joe Blitman shares his vast knowledge of the nut...

American Girl Kit Mystery Challenge
Kit is the best-selling American Girl doll with a built in consumer base with over 1 million books and videos sold! Kit Kittredge...

• The Best Porcelain Bride Dolls For Your Collection
• Porcelain Collectible Dolls Make Great Gifts

25 Years of Doll Collecting

The past 25 years have seen tremendous changes in the collectible doll industry. Until that time, collectors only had antique dolls, or newer children’s dolls to add to their collections. As there were relatively few “new collectibles” to purchase, the market on these “played with dolls” and antiques was vibrant and exciting.

There were many doll shows scattered all over the country, and a visit to one would find three types of dolls available, antique dolls, rescued discarded play dolls, and booths featuring doll makers wares. Doll makers were many, with their work ranging from dreadful to stunning.

Flea markets also found doll sellers, usually of the “discarded child doll type”, and many collectors searched regularly for collectible dolls. At the time, dolls being grabbed up were from the Chatty Cathy family, Chrissie and Velvet family, Patti Playpal types , Vogue, and of course Barbie.

With the emergence of the “Ashton Drake Gallery” dolls, followed by many mass produced porcelain dolls by many other companies, all offering limited editions, artist renderings and much media advertising, many collectors changed direction and began to purchase these new dolls.

This new collector market was huge for a number of years. People scrambled to complete sets of dolls and to find dolls by certain doll artists. The market on older vinyl “designed for play dolls” softened considerably during this period.

Home based porcelain doll studios, where you could take classes teaching you how to make your own dolls, also became very popular during this time.

A quarter of a century later, many dolls that were so popular, have now come onto the secondary market. Due to the market being so flooded at the time of production, and so many collectors jumping onto the bandwagon, the secondary market is now flooded with these dolls. The value on many has plummeted as a result, particularly Ashton Drake Dolls.

Other collectible porcelain dolls that were mass produced are for the most part worth only a fraction of what was paid for them initially. The biggest reason for this is the fact that these dolls are still being produced, the quality has improved a great deal, and the prices have gone down. What reason would anyone have for purchasing an older one!

The market on genuine antique dolls continues to be strong, and investments made seem to be sound. As the years pass, it is harder and harder to find antique dolls unless they are coming directly from another collector’s private collection. This keeps the prices high. Unlike modern dolls, there are only so many antiques to go around!

Kaiser Doll Stand 2001, Box of 12 - White Doll Stands for 6 1/2" to 11" Dolls
Kaiser Doll Stands are high quality American made accessories for your dolls. They come in 24 sizes and several colors. These adju...

Coll. Encyclopedia of American Composition Dolls 1900-1950 (Collector's Encyclopedia of American Composition Dolls)
This second volume makes American composition dolls more accessible to collectors by presenting hundreds of clear photographs and ...

Star Sacks Stuffed Doll - Reggie White
Star Sacks Stuffed Doll of Reggie White...

Alice in Wonderland Collecting
Everything Alice from books to dolls to Disneyana to ephemera.Kindle blogs are fully downloaded onto your Kindle so you can read t...

Doll Collecting with Tina: Classic Dolls from 1860 to 1960
Increase the value of your dolls many times over by following the essential strategies presented in a decade-by-decade guide by th...

Kaiser Doll Stand 2075, Box of 12 - Black Doll Stands 6 1/2" to 11" Dolls
Kaiser Doll Stands are high quality American made accessories for your dolls. They come in 24 sizes and several colors. These adju...

Collectors Guide to Ideal Dolls (Collectors Guide to Ideal Dolls Identification and Values)
Ideal's blockbuster dolls include Shirley Temple, Toni, Betsy Wetsy, Miss Revlon, Patti Playpal, Thumbelina, Tammy, Crissy, and ma...

• All About Barbie Doll Collecting – Why is Barbie so Popular?
• Venturing Into Doll Collecting

All About Barbie Doll Collecting - Why is Barbie so Popular?

Have you ever asked yourself why Barbie doll collecting is so popular? What drives tens of thousands of people to snap up every type of Barbie doll imaginable?

Barbie Was Brilliantly Marketed Mattel learned early on exactly how to market the Barbie doll. No other doll maker has come close to her. Barbie has been seen on TV commercials since the early 1960's. With over 40 years of continuous television exposure you can't help but see the ads throughout your childhood and into adulthood. This exposure has led Barbie to being one of the most popular toys in history.

Barbie Dolls Are Nostalgic

If you are a woman under the age of 60 then you most likely owned a Barbie when you were a kid. Just like baseball cards, if you collected Barbies's when you were young, the chances are good that you enjoy it now.

Many people still have their original dolls from their childhood and it almost has become an obsession to collect each and every Barbie doll there is.

Barbie Is Not A Fad

You know that when you buy a Barbie doll that you will always be able to buy new clothes and accessories for her. She is not here today, gone tomorrow. No other doll can say that.

The Internet Has Fueled Barbie Doll Collecting

That's right, the online world has helped promote Barbie doll collecting to the next level. You can find all sorts of Barbie doll forums as well as websites to purchase Barbie's. Ebay is a great example of this. Both advertisers and collectors alike can get together and discuss anything and everything to do with Barbie, as well as buy and sell.

What does the future hold in store for Barbie doll collecting? No one can say for sure, but if it is anything like the past, you can expect some really great things to take place.

All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Reprint Rights: You may reprint this article as long as you leave all of the links active and do not edit the article in any way.

Baby Boomer Dolls Plastic Playthings of the 50's & 60's, Second Edition
The book features the latest secondary-market prices for over 500 dolls and includes 400+ colour photographs. The author provides ...

The Beginners Guide to Doll Collecting
Inside The Beginners Guide to Doll Collecting you will learn:--History of Dolls – Dolls have been traced back to prehistoric tim...

Kaiser Doll Stand 2299, Box of 12 - Assorted Rainbow-Colored Doll Stands for 11" to 12" small-waisted Fashion Dolls like Barbie
Kaiser Doll Stands are high quality American made accessories for your dolls. They come in 24 sizes and several colors. These adju...

American Character Dolls (Identification & Value Guide)
Sweet Sue, Betsy McCall, Tiny Tears, Little Ricky, Whimsies, Toni, Toodles, and Tressy, American Character's most popular dolls, a...

Joe Blitman's Oh You Beautiful Doll! Doll Collecting for Fun & Profit, Featuring Barbie
Doll collecting for fun & profit - in this fabulous full-color video Barbieexpert Joe Blitman shares his vast knowledge of the nut...

Doll Collector Doll Collecting Degree: Custom Gag Diploma Doctorate Certificate (Funny Customized Joke Gift - Novelty Item)
One customized novelty certificate (8.5 x 11 inch) printed on premium certificate paper with official border. Includes embossed Go...

Dolls (Shire Library)
Dolls are one of the most popular subjects for collectors. A collection does not have to consist of antique dolls or ones of grea...

• Barbie Doll Collection ? Guidelines
• 25 Years of Doll Collecting

Barbie Doll Collection ? Guidelines

Barbie Doll Collection – Guidelines

Here I wish to give an explicit list of instructions to collect Barbie dolls and a note on changing trends.

1. Look for no damage: Check the Barbie Doll you collect thoroughly, for any breaks or scratches since the defected dolls are less valued.

2. NRFB dolls are worthy: The Barbie Doll in ‘never removed from the box’ condition is more valuable than the one removed from pack.

3. Insist on original: A restored or an altered Barbie may be appealing but it is no good for collector, in terms of value.

4. Time of the make: The date you usually find on the abdomen of a doll is the designed date of mold but not the date it was made.

5. Distinct ones get more: The rarity of Barbie Dolls always counts. Dolls which are produced less than 35,000 as Limited editions are valued more than the Collector editions that are released more than 35,000 in number.

6. Attire: Doll with original getup and accessories are worthier than the Barbie Doll’s outfit when it is sold.

7. Update with latest price list: Buy a book that gives existing values for Barbie Doll. Assess your collectible Doll’s value by finding the same doll in list and an average of prices shown in such lists tells you the actual value.

8. Compare: Doll-shows at your place, auctions, local stores and online shops help you to compare the doll you are looking for with that of others.

9. How you evaluate is important: A Barbie Doll finds place in your collection only when it attracts you. In that way, your emotional attachment with that doll outdoes the market value and it becomes so precious for you!

10. That’s like a good doll: Good dolls never look weird as dumb or too trendy. You can pay more for collector picks and classics.

First is The Best

I received my first Barbie Doll on my fifth birthday in 1960. Like any other girl, I love the first doll of the collection. At that time Barbie was just one year or so and her first design was with strapless black and white zebra lines swimsuit and brown colored short hair.

Houseful of Dolls

It didn’t take much time to find plenty of Barbie Dolls within our collection. We, three little sisters collected dolls with every outfit and possible haircut. Our room used to be filled with sunglasses, earrings and plastic mules. Headless bodies of dolls in the garden and floating heads in the toilets had become common as the collection amassed.

We would have made much fortune if such large collection of 1960s was well taken care of.

Barbie’s Allies in 1960s

Barbie used to have apparently less number of friends, clothes, careers or vehicles in 60s. Assorted things and friends of Barbie was a big fascination for most girls.

Ken Carson, Barbie’s beau who was another important doll of my collection but I took less care to dress him up since he wore very casual clothes all the time including formal occasions accompanying Barbie.

Midge, the red haired friend of Barbie came later. However, Mattel was smart enough to design Midge’s clothes so specially that Barbie’s clothes never fit the blonde.

Barbie got a sister called Skipper and we had one Skipper doll at least.

Time for Multicultural Barbies

I was told about Caucasian dolls by couple of my African-American friends of our group while talking about toys and dolls we had. Including Mattel, the maker of Barbie couldn’t catch up the trend in time.

Old is Gold

If I were to buy, I would prefer to go for number of Barbies that look so chic and distinguished made in the years between 1959 and 1965.

As far as ‘the best collection’ of Barbie is concerned I recommend to spend on originals and first of the series and avoid indifferent qualities of latest ones.

Gift a lookalike Barbie

Barbie is a perfect gift when you present it dressed in a similar way of little girl whose birthday or other occasion is on. Then the girl likes to keep her Barbie clean, new and carefully dressed as she does for herself.

Collector's Guide to Dolls of the 1960s and 1970s: Identification and Values, Vol. 2
This doll book has all-new photographs and no repeats from the first volume. Well-known dolls featured include Barbie, Blythe, Sea...

The Beginners Guide to Doll Collecting
Inside The Beginners Guide to Doll Collecting you will learn:--History of Dolls – Dolls have been traced back to prehistoric tim...

Kaiser Doll Stand 2201, Box of 12 - White Doll Stands for 11" to 12" small-waisted Fashion Dolls like Barbie
Kaiser Doll Stands are high quality American made accessories for your dolls. They come in 24 sizes and several colors. These adju...

Hobo Bean Bag Dolls - Just Like Emmit Kelly
This is for Hobo Bean Bag Dolls. These are brand new, never used, and comes case packed. Each doll looks just like Emmit Kelley, e...

The Colemans on Doll Collecting; I. Introduction and Doll Identification
The Colemans demonstrate how to interpret markings and provide an understanding of the manufacturing processes....

Doll Collector Doll Collecting Degree: Custom Gag Diploma Doctorate Certificate (Funny Customized Joke Gift - Novelty Item)
One customized novelty certificate (8.5 x 11 inch) printed on premium certificate paper with official border. Includes embossed Go...

Mattel suit: MGA playing games
Toymaker Mattel has filed a lawsuit alleging MGA Entertainment fraudulently transferred hundreds of millions of dollars to keep Mattel from collecting on anticipated judgments and to defraud other creditors. The suit filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court alleges MGA transferred $ 430 million in dividends and other assets to CEO...
Read more on New York Post

• All About Barbie Doll Collecting – Why is Barbie so Popular?
• Tips to Buy and Sell Barbie Dolls Online

How to Start a Fantasy Doll Collection

Copyright (c) 2010 Ian Campbell

Fantasy has never been more popular; films based on fantasy literature have become chart-topping must-sees, particularly amongst the teenage audience who are queuing up to catch the latest in the Twilight series.

As well as books and movies, fantasy is entering every area of life, and it's an interest that lends itself well to collections, with sets of characters to complete and many particular areas in which to specialize your collecting

If you live in a good-sized community you will more than likely find a store specializing in fantasy. Try comic book stores which often double as outlets for all sorts of memorabilia and collectible items related to the fantasy genre and will have fantasy dolls and figurines from such popular series as The Lord of the Rings and the Twilight series.

Also take a look at toy stores. Although a fantasy doll collection is fine and respectable hobby for people of all ages, the dolls and figurines are often aimed originally at a teenage and pre-teen market.

As items often bought for children, fantasy dolls have great chance of finding their way into thrift stores and charity stores: growing up is a great time to cast aside childish things and a college student might well be embarrassed by their previous enthusiasm for dungeons and dragons figures and be all too keen to see the back of them, while having little idea of their potential value to other collectors. Keep your eyes open at all times and don't forget yard sales too.

Anyone shopping these days will know that the Internet is one big marketplace where you can find pretty much anything you want.

Shopping online may help you save money by going directly to the manufacturers of fantasy dolls. There are also many message boards and forums for collectors with marketplaces for collectors to swap or sell extra or duplicate items from their collections.

You can also hang on to some of your money by taking a good look at non-specialist auction sites - eBay is just the most obvious example, there are lots more - where fantasy dolls will crop up in all sorts of categories.

Many fantasy dolls are sold to be painted to bring them into their full beauty. However, bear in mind that to keep their future value at an optimum it's a good idea to keep your collection in its original packaging, as pristine as possible.

Most popular Doll Collecting eBay auctions:

US $5.00 End Date: Sunday Feb-05-2012 15:56:10 PST Buy It Now for only: US $5.00 Buy it now | Add to watch list

US $19.95 (0 Bid) End Date: Sunday Feb-05-2012 15:56:10 PST Bid now | Add to watch list

• How to Start Your Own 18 Inch Doll Collection
• Liven Up Your Doll Collection With Fun New Clothes and Accessories

Liven Up Your Doll Collection With Fun New Clothes and Accessories

For some of us, the little girl who loves her dolls is still hiding within. For many of us, though, she's not hiding; she's enjoying her collection every day. Doll collecting is a fascinating hobby. Whether you like porcelain dolls with elegant period costumes, baby dolls with lots of clothes, or the popular 18 inch brands such as American Girl, there are plenty out there to choose from.

Part of the fun of doll collecting is the many different costumes and outfits you can find for them to wear. Updating outfits to match the season or the holiday is a fun way to keep your collection looking fresh. Red velvet Christmas dresses, Halloween costumes, traditional ethnic clothing, seasonal attire, pajamas, and bathing suits are just a few of the garments available. Bridal gowns, evening dresses and historical clothing are favorites of a lot of collectors. Hunting for precious little shoes, lacy undergarments, and other doll accessories to match the outfits is part of the fun.

Purchasing furniture is a lovely way to display and arrange your collection. There are many delightful pieces to be found, both in specialty shops and on-line. Some of these are period pieces, which are great for 18 inch dolls as well as many other types. Others are contemporary, and may match your own furniture or decorating style. Doll beds are available in many styles and sizes, from sweet, swinging cradles to bassinettes, bunk beds, four poster beds, and canopy beds. Pillows and bedding complete the look.

But there are also kitchen tables, bistro tables, wooden hutches, dishes, high chairs, and play food. A doll tea party is a beautiful display for spring, or Mother's Day. Night stands, coffee tables, living room chairs, and lamps of all kinds are available for your pleasure.

Including chests of drawers, armoires, and steamer trunks in your vignette is a great way to keep track of all the small pieces. By storing each doll's clothing together, it's simple to locate the desired outfit. Underclothes, socks and shoes are so tiny, and easily lost. Fortunately, bloomers, pantaloons, slips, chemises, and panties are easily replaceable at many companies. Tights and socks come in colors to match any outfit. Undershorts for boy dolls are also easy to find.

Any of these items would make a unique and truly appreciated gift for a doll collector of any age. Vintage clothing is available from several manufacturers. Patterns are also available for those who like to sew, knit or crochet.

Ice skates, cowgirl boots, bandannas, eyeglasses, purses, backpacks, earmuffs, brushes and jewelry are some of the more unusual items you can find for your collection. Looking for outerwear for your doll? Tailored jackets with matching hats, a fur jacket or stole with a hat, a trench coat with a matching tote, and hooded sweatshirts are all to be found.

Many manufacturers make huge arrays of clothing and accessories created for specific doll sizes, especially for popular dimensions such as 18 inch dolls. With all the fun items and clothing available, there's no excuse not to indulge your love of doll collecting.

Doll Collecting on eBay:

US $12.00 End Date: Sunday Feb-05-2012 12:23:21 PST Buy It Now for only: US $12.00 Buy it now | Add to watch list

US $29.99 (0 Bid) End Date: Sunday Feb-05-2012 13:57:19 PST Bid now | Add to watch list

• How to Store Your Doll Collection
• How to Start Your Own 18 Inch Doll Collection

How to Start Your Own 18 Inch Doll Collection

Most girls who outgrow playing with dolls feel a little loss. While little girls can't wait to grow up, giving up some of those childhood hobbies can be a bit sad. Collecting dolls allows a way to reconnect with childhood, as an adult. 18 inch dolls are a very popular size to collect. They are perfect for the beginning collector, but sophisticated enough for serious doll hobbyists.

An 18 inch doll is categorized by size. All the dolls in this collecting genre are exactly 18 inches tall. Most are hard bodied and are child like dolls, though there are a few that are baby dolls. The most commonly recognizable 18 inch doll is made by the American Girl company. These dolls are often designed around a historic period and come with books, full wardrobes and plenty of accessories. They can even be made to look like your favorite child. While this company is the most well known, there are dozens of other 18 inch dolls on the market, much of which are less expensive. These are better for a beginning or young collector. Clothing is also generally sold with each doll collection.

There are several things that draw collectors to 18 inch dolls. One is the sheer amount of clothing and accessories on the market. Most 18 inch dolls are compatible between brands, so you can buy clothing from any line and it should fit on another doll. This makes it extremely easy to customize your collection. Besides the commercially available clothing and accessories, there are also plenty of boutique designers that specialize in 18 inch dolls. There are even dozens of patterns and books on the market if you are interested in making your own clothing and accessories. In addition, for a truly customized doll, you can actually buy a 18 inch doll kit and build her from scratch.

Collectors each have their own unique way to organizing their dolls. Some focus on historical clothing, researching the time periods which their dolls represent. Other people are more interested in the style of the clothing and accessories. Many people like to recreate a complete scene in their doll's display. There are also several characters that are available in the 18 inch format, including literary stars like Madeline, Fancy Nancy and Raggedy Ann. These are generally soft bodied dolls.

The quality of different dolls vary greatly. You can often tell what to expect by paying attention to price and warranty. More expensive dolls such as American Girl sell for around a hundred dollars, while department store dolls are generally under . Starting with a cheaper doll is nothing to be worried about, however. You can begin on the cheap and build your collection as you get more familiar with the market and quality that is available. It's also easy to buy a cheaper doll and splurge on nicer clothes. You'll eventually get a feel for what makes you the happiest.

Collecting dolls is an age old hobby. 18 inch dolls provide an easy and enjoyable way to get into doll collecting. Do your research before making your first purchase. However, ultimately, doll collecting is about what makes you smile, so there's really no wrong way to go about it.
Description

Most girls who outgrow playing with dolls feel a little loss. While little girls can't wait to grow up, giving up some of those childhood hobbies can be a bit sad. Collecting dolls allows a way to reconnect with childhood, as an adult. 18 inch dolls are a very popular size to collect. They are perfect for the beginning collector, but sophisticated enough for serious doll hobbyists.

Doll Collecting on eBay:

US $49.99 End Date: Sunday Feb-05-2012 9:48:43 PST Buy It Now for only: US $49.99 Buy it now | Add to watch list

US $5.95 (0 Bid) End Date: Sunday Feb-05-2012 10:43:43 PST Bid now | Add to watch list

As theunofficial Baby-Boomer( IRA GALLEN )Guru of my Television Collecting Generation I knew it was the right time to create a Video Network for Baby-Boomers Only. www.YouTube.com www.YouTube.com www.YouTube.com What makes my content unique is that I have spent over 30 collecting and restoring from 16mm & 35mm Film Prints and Kinescopes some of the rarest and in many cases one of a kind FILMS, CARTOONS, NEWS REELS FILM SHORTS, FEATURES, INDUSTRIALS, TV SHOWS and especially COMMERCIALS from the birth of Film and early television. www.TVDAYS.com - 400 DVD's for Sale from my personal collection. Now my Video & Film Collection is decomposing and what you're seeing is my work digitizing my Video Elements and funding it by selling Stock Footage and now my line of over 400 DVD's http Rare TV SHOWS, FILMS, CARTOONS, NEWSREELS, FILM SHORT SUBJECTS, SILENT & SOUND FILMS, HOME MOVIES, SOUNDIES, INDUSTRIALS & especially COMMERCIALS from the 1950's/60's. ALSO GOOGLE VIDEO DOWNLOADS www.YouTube.com Links to over 3500 hours of Video's housed on both Google & YouTube www.YouTube.com Over 7,5000 Commercials to watch -- Sports-Toys-Cars-Soft Drinks-Beer-Cigarettes-Milk-Cosmetics-Ho usehold Products-Drugs-Cereal- Gasoline -Clothing-TV Sets. In Search of TV History -- Hey Boys & Girls of 50's TV were you on a LIVE show, was a family member always telling you they were in commercials back then...Now spot someone. SPECIAL HELP SAVING MY TV HISTORY www.adobe.com PRIEMERE EDITING PROGRAMS FOR ...

Comfort Lisa Doll Collectable Item (Comfort TV Advert)
10" Comfort Lisa Doll. Made famous by the comfort TV advertisment. Brand new in original packaging. This Item is rare and is great for collecting of for a child. Grab yourself a bargin. Only £1! £1 Postage anywhere in the UK £2 for Europe £3 Worldwide Cheaper postage for multiple items.
Read more on My Village Kensington

• Venturing Into Doll Collecting
• How to Start a Fantasy Doll Collection

Venturing Into Doll Collecting

Not all doll collectors make a conscious decision to become doll collectors at the start of our collection. We may purchase our first collectible doll simply because we found a particular collectible doll simply irresistible. Deep down all of us have our own reasons, most probably subconsciously, for purchasing that first collectible doll. Passion, warmth and excitement will, in all likelihood influence your decision to start a doll collection.

There are some doll collections that bring out the child in us whereas others have an uncanny way of bringing out the mother in us.

We can be the perfect mother to these children who never throw tantrums, never get sick, no dirty clothes to wash and no pajama drill. We can cuddle them if and when we so desire and in busy times we can leave them to sleep peacefully. We can buy new clothes and accessories for them when our budget allows, but if we don't at least they won't mind.

There are as many different collectible dolls as there are doll collectors. Toy dolls that you purchase at the local store are not classified as collectible dolls. They may be extremely cute and have priceless value for the children who play with them, but they will not increase in value, other than sentimental value. At the other extreme there are one-of-a-kind dolls created by world renowned doll artists. The waiting periods for these dolls are understandably extremely long and the purchaser would expect to pay thousands for this piece of artwork. These dolls are obviously beyond the reach of the average doll collector. In the middle of the two are a vast number of collectible dolls, created by renowned doll artists that are available on the market at prices that would be affordable for most budgets, and these are the dolls that are responsible for the growing popularity in doll collecting.

If you are new to the exciting world of doll collecting you will be amazed at the selection of dolls available for doll collectors today. If you have decided to venture into doll collecting then it may be that your biggest stumbling block will be in deciding what particular type or which particular artist/artists dolls you wish to include in your collection. Nowadays with the use of Internet access to the various doll collections is literally only an Internet connection away.

Guidelines for newcomers to the world of doll collecting:-

• Get as much information as you possibly can - from the Internet, bookstores, libraries and specialized magazines.
• Make sure that information you use to base your decision on is factual and knowledgeable.
• Research previous work of any doll artist and their selling platforms before making a final decision.
• Determine whether the dolls are issued with a Certificate of Authenticity.
• Reputable doll galleries will only sell dolls of exceptional quality.

Make sure, above all else, that whatever type of collectible doll you decide upon for your collection that you would welcome the idea of owning not one, but a whole collection of these dolls.

Some recent Doll Collecting auctions on eBay:

US $16.00 End Date: Sunday Feb-05-2012 7:03:11 PST Buy It Now for only: US $16.00 Buy it now | Add to watch list

US $14.50 End Date: Sunday Feb-05-2012 9:16:02 PST Buy It Now for only: US $14.50 Buy it now | Add to watch list

As theunofficial Baby-Boomer( IRA GALLEN )Guru of my Television Collecting Generation I knew it was the right time to create a Video Network for Baby-Boomers Only. www.YouTube.com www.YouTube.com www.YouTube.com What makes my content unique is that I have spent over 30 collecting and restoring from 16mm & 35mm Film Prints and Kinescopes some of the rarest and in many cases one of a kind FILMS, CARTOONS, NEWS REELS FILM SHORTS, FEATURES, INDUSTRIALS, TV SHOWS and especially COMMERCIALS from the birth of Film and early television. www.TVDAYS.com - 400 DVD's for Sale from my personal collection. Now my Video & Film Collection is decomposing and what you're seeing is my work digitizing my Video Elements and funding it by selling Stock Footage and now my line of over 400 DVD's http Rare TV SHOWS, FILMS, CARTOONS, NEWSREELS, FILM SHORT SUBJECTS, SILENT & SOUND FILMS, HOME MOVIES, SOUNDIES, INDUSTRIALS & especially COMMERCIALS from the 1950's/60's. ALSO GOOGLE VIDEO DOWNLOADS www.YouTube.com Links to over 3500 hours of Video's housed on both Google & YouTube www.YouTube.com Over 7,5000 Commercials to watch -- Sports-Toys-Cars-Soft Drinks-Beer-Cigarettes-Milk-Cosmetics-Ho usehold Products-Drugs-Cereal- Gasoline -Clothing-TV Sets. In Search of TV History -- Hey Boys & Girls of 50's TV were you on a LIVE show, was a family member always telling you they were in commercials back then...Now spot someone. SPECIAL HELP SAVING MY TV HISTORY www.adobe.com PRIEMERE EDITING PROGRAMS FOR ...

Comfort Lisa Doll Collectable Item (Comfort TV Advert)
10" Comfort Lisa Doll. Made famous by the comfort TV advertisment. Brand new in original packaging. This Item is rare and is great for collecting of for a child. Grab yourself a bargin. Only £2! £1 Postage anywhere in the UK £2 for Europe £3 Worldwide Cheaper postage for multiple items.
Read more on My Village Kensington

• How to Start Your Own 18 Inch Doll Collection
• All About Barbie Doll Collecting – Why is Barbie so Popular?