Doll Collecting
Insider Info
There are hundreds of different types of dolls for all kinds of people.
Doll collectors can have fun, learn about the world and make friends by exploring
the diverse world of dolls.
Collecting dolls is a popular hobby. According to the National Antique
Doll Dealers Association, doll collecting is the second most popular hobby
in the United States.
That doesn't surprise doll collectors. Dolls make people feel good, says
Margaret Matsui. She's the owner of a doll store. Doll collecting combines
the fun of dolls with the chance to form social connections.
"[Collecting] is a great way to meet new people and bond with a family
member or friend," she says. "There are a vast number of doll types to choose
from, and you aren't limited to just one."
Collecting dolls isn't just fun -- it can also be very educational. Collecting
provides "a constant opportunity to learn," says collector Linda Edward. She
is also the owner of the Doll Museum in Newport, Rhode Island. "Dolls, being
the beautiful pieces of art that they are, aesthetically enrich our lives
as well."
Collectors collect all types of dolls, from antique dolls to ethic dolls
to fashion dolls. The cost of these dolls can vary as widely as the types
of dolls available.
"There is a level of price for every collector's pocketbook and area of
interest," Edward says. "As a kid, I wanted to collect antique dolls, but
thought it must be a hobby for millionaires. Happily, I discovered that this
is not so. Wonderful dolls are available in every price range."
People of all ages collect dolls. Although women outnumber men as doll
collectors, an increasing number of men are becoming interested in dolls as
antiques and works of art.
Dolls can be viewed at museums throughout the world. "I would say the majority
of collectors look at our collections as only being ours on a temporary basis
-- that we are really just keeping them 'in trust' for future generations
of collectors," Edward says.
Debra Gulea has connections with a lot of doll collectors. She has owned
a doll store since 1995. She also sells dolls online. "I exclusively purchase
antique dolls through my store," she says. "Collectors who are downsizing
their collections bring dolls in to sell to me, as well as people who inherit
dolls but do not wish to keep them. Most collectors purchase dolls from doll
shops, like mine, from dealers at doll shows, through websites or through
online auctions."
A growing number of people are collecting dolls and redesigning them, Matsui
says. This includes repainting faces, re-rooting hair and designing one-of-a-kind
fashions.
Matsui says that there is a lot of attention on fashion dolls these days.
"While baby dolls will always be loved and adored, adult fashion dolls
such as Barbie, Tyler and Fashion Royalty are ruling the doll market today."
Many doll collectors are older adults. This means there are declining numbers
of collectors, says Wheeler. In light of that trend, seasoned doll collectors
are introducing younger people to this hobby to spark their interest. National
organizations are also focusing on encouraging children to collect dolls.
Getting Started
If you're interested in doll collecting, you might want to decide to focus
on a certain kind of doll. Maybe you already know what kind you're interested
in, but if you don't, it's easy to do some research.
"The Internet, of course, is your most valuable resource," Matsui says.
"Learn as much as you can about the dolls you like before you start making
large purchases. Find out which dolls are the hardest to find, which are the
most sought after and what the average price is. Join an Internet chat group.
It's a great place to ask questions and to meet fellow collectors."
Matsui also suggests building a relationship with a doll store. This can
help you obtain limited edition dolls and getting important information.
What do you need to start? There aren't a lot of requirements for this
hobby.
"One must only have interest and drive and passion," says Mary Wheeler.
She's a doll collector who manages a collection in a museum. "The nice thing
about this hobby is that it can co-exist with all the business of everyday
life and provide great pleasure.
"If one decides to join a doll club -- and I encourage this for the benefits
of learning and friendships -- there are a few very simple requirements to
meet. The process of joining is almost absent of obstacles. After all, doll
clubs want members and want to see the hobby thrive."
Dolls can be found in a wide range of places.
"It's called the never-ending quest," says Edward. "Dolls can be bought
for collection at yard sales, flea markets, antique shows, doll auctions,
doll shops, via mail-order doll business, over the Internet and at the local
toy or discount store."
Doll collectors spend time studying to know dolls and whether a doll is
a good buy for the price or not. Wheeler suggests putting yourself on budget
with a specific amount of money with which to purchase dolls. Some people
decide on the number of dolls they will buy in a calendar year
Associations
The United Federation of Doll Clubs Inc
An international group of doll clubs
10900 North Pomona Ave.
Kansas City
,
MO
64153
USA
Internet
:
http://www.ufdc.org
Links
My Favourite Doll Inc.
For the latest on vintage Barbies
Toy and Miniature Museum of Kansas City
Take a virtual tour of a doll museum
The Playmakers
For news on collectible dolls and other timeless toys
The Doll Museum
Have a look at antique and modern porcelain, cloth and bisque
dolls
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