This page is to showcase my doll collection, with a focus on the characters of the dolls and the backstories I've created for them. Click the links above to see learn about each sub-collection, by type.
The term BJD (Ball-Jointed-Doll)is often used to refer to any articulated artist doll. However, traditionally only resin dolls strung with elastic (with ball-joints) were considered BJDs, and collectors distnquish between these and vinyl/plastic dolls with hard joints, as well as dolls of different sizes.
Most BJD-style dolls feature in-set eyes and brushable hair wigs that can be swapped out. They also tend to be produced on a small-scale in Japan, China and Korea.
As with EGL fashion, I initially became interested in BJDs in my teens, but was not able to pursue this much, due to lack of funds and access to Japanese Shopping. My first doll theredore, was a frankendoll custom job, made from Obitsu parts (head, bust and hands) sewed onto a cloth body with teddy-bear joints. It was budget-friendly, but definitely not the best quality!
My interest was re-ignited after a trip to Japan, where I visited Doll Point and the Azone store in Akihabara. While there, I bought a Pullip doll, and on my return started researching and saving for a larger doll. I've owned many dolls, over the years, but now have a collection of nine large dolls, and around ten smaller dolls.
Most dolls sold on Aliexpress and Ebay are not legitimate! They're counterfeit copies or 'recasts.' These are not tolerated by the community, as it is considered art-theft. Although many collectors experiment with recasts to practice face-ups on, this is heavily frowned-upon. Recast dolls are not usually welcome at in-person meets and photos/posts about recasts are not allowed in online groups.
Don't rush in! Do your research and save up for the doll you really want. These dolls can be really expensive, so it can feel very daunting to take the plunge and order your first one. Video reviews can be really helpful, as well as photos and posts.
Try and connect with other collectors in-person. Look for a local group, or make one! Meet-ups are often the best way to learn more. Collectors often attend anime conventions and organise informal meet-ups. Ask respectfully if you want to see/touch other people's dolls. I personally love showing mine off, but other people are understandably cautious.
UKBJDcon provides a dedicated convention for BJD collectors in the UK. I've attended almost every one so far, and highly-recommend it! You can buy a lot of hand-made clothes and accessories from UK and International vendors, and see a lot of different dolls.
Don't be tempted to buy a 'bargain' doll just because it's cheap! Only take on a project if you're interested in face-up painting and customisation, for it's own sake. Otherwise, you're likely to be dissapointed and regret not paying extra for a finished doll. Buying a doll in parts, can seem tempting, but often cost more in the long-run, especially if it is a less-common doll with parts that are hard to find/match.
Budget for customs fees, as well as shipping! This can be very expensive. Ask around, for the going rate. I would recomend setting aside enough money to pay for all fees and get your doll its first wig/outfit, so it doesn't end up sitting around bald and naked.