Frequently Asked Questions
What are these types of dolls called?
The types of dolls I make are most commonly referred to as “Customized Blythes”. The dolls I make are not true authentic Blythe dolls but are often referred to as such because they owe their likeness to Blythe dolls and share the same style of rotating eye mechanism which makes them unique from other types of dolls.
All the dolls I use as bases to create my custom dolls are fake blythes, sometimes also called “blyth”, “TBL” or “DBS”. I state so in every listing to avoid any confusion or misinformation.
What’s the difference?
Authentic Blythe dolls were first designed by Allison Katzman in 1972 and produced by Kenner, and then Takara, and currently being produced by Good Smile Company. They are sold on stores like Junie Moon and produced in limited quantities, with older releases being extremely rare.
Fake Blythes are dolls meant to imitate the look and eye mechanism of authentic Blythes, while offering more skin tone and hair options as well as usually being on articulated bodies that have changeable hands. They are most commonly sold on Taobao and AliExpress, and are mass-produced.
Why do you use fake Blythes?
There are plenty of collectors who prefer authentic stock Blythes as they are. The authentic dolls are made in limited quantities, so each time one is heavily customized, there are fewer stock dolls left for those who enjoy them. I am proud of the work that I do, but I don’t think I’m at a level where I’m comfortable using a limited quantity doll as a base.
Another reason I use fakes is because they offer more options for darker skin tones and many, many hair color and style options. When it comes to personalized dolls, I want to be able to fulfill my customers’ requests for what they want in their doll, which would be difficult with authentic Blythes. Fakes are also more affordable for me to acquire, which means the final cost will be more affordable for my customers.
I don’t believe the sale of fakes is harming the companies that design and produce authentic dolls. Authentic Blythes have kept their value and new releases continue to sell out. If there were authentic blank DIY kits like there are for Pullip dolls, I would absolutely opt to use those, but for now, using fake blythes is what makes the most sense for me.
How much do your dolls cost?
My prices typically range between $370 to $500 USD, depending on the complexity of the doll, the things included with her, and the amount of time spent working on her.
Do you ship to my country?
Currently, I only ship to the United States (where I am located), and Canada.
I do plan to offer shipping to more places in the future, but please be patient and understand that I need time to research the different restrictions and requirements of each country.
Countries I am looking into shipping to:
- United Kingdom
- Austrailia
- Brazil
Countries I am unable to ship to:
- Any country in the EU, as well as Northern Ireland: a new law requires all businesses to have a representative within the EU who acts on their behalf regarding product safety. This is a costly and lengthy process which is just not doable for me.
- Mexico: Mexico has strict restrictions on importing dolls with human-like faces/figures. I have not been able to find clarification on what types of dolls are allowed, so for the time being, I cannot take the risk of losing all the time, effort and money I put into my dolls due to a package being confiscated.
How can I buy a pre-made doll?
To see which dolls are available to buy, check the Dolls page. Click the doll you're interested in, and there you'll be able to add it to your cart and check out.
*Please make sure to read the full listing description before you buy. I do not accept cancelations or returns.
I can make small changes to pre-made dolls such as swapping the eye-chips for different colors I have available, but I will not be making major changes such as altering the faceup.
How can I buy a personalized doll?
To check if I am accepting personalized orders, check this listing. The title will let you know how many spots are available.
Please make sure to read the full listing description, it will explain how to reserve your spot.
*I do not accept cancelations or returns, so please only reserve a spot if you are seriously interested
When will this doll be available again?
Unless it's a character from a media franchise, I do not make copies of any of the dolls I've made in the past. I can make you a doll with similar features if you like the hair, eyes, lips of another doll I've made, but I don't make exact copies. My dolls being one of a kind is part of what makes them special.
When will you have more dolls available?
Can you make a boy doll?
I haven't made a boy doll before, but I'd absolutely be willing to for a personalized order!
Can you make a doll for my small child/sibling/niece/nephew/cousin?
The dolls I make are intended for people 13 and up. Because of the small parts like interchangeable hands, accessories and miniature items, my dolls are not safe for anyone under the age of 5.
Since they are handmade, they are delicate and should be handled gently. Even small scratches can easily damage the sealant and paint on the face. Before you buy, please be sure that the person you gift a doll to can take care of it.