If you’re looking for a new hobby, I want to share with you the fascinating world of ball-jointed dolls, also known as BJDs. This unique and beautiful form of doll collecting has taken the world by storm for a good reason. Not only are BJD’s stunning works of art, but they also provide endless opportunities for creative expression and personalization.
Discovering the World of Ball-Jointed Dolls
Hello, my name is Janna, and I’ve been a passionate doll collector throughout my life. It all began with Madame Alexander’s international dolls, but my collection soon included many other types of dolls. Most of the dolls I collected were small, so they would easily stand on the bookcase shelves in my parents’ living room. While I appreciate that my mother started a doll collection for me at a young age, I must admit that back then, I was more fond of my Barbies and baby dolls that I could play with and hold.
Collectors Dolls That Can Be Played With Too!
In 2006, after relocating 60 miles from Seattle and welcoming a new baby, I felt lonely in our new community. It seemed challenging to find others who shared my interests. That’s when I discovered ball-jointed dolls (BJDs) and decided to purchase my first one. For many collectors of ball-jointed dolls, the anticipation of receiving their first doll is a memorable experience. Unfortunately, the wait can be lengthy, as many dolls ship from overseas and are manufactured after the order is placed. For example, I waited several months for my first BJD, Sooah from Elfdoll, to arrive from Korea. One thing collecting BJD’s teaches is patience!
However, during the waiting period, you can plan out the doll clothes you want to create and even start learning to make your own patterns. If you’re interested in doing this, I recommend the book “How to Make Sewing Patterns” by Donald McCumm. The moment your first BJD arrives is a memorable experience reminiscent of the childhood excitement from anticipating a wished-for gift under the tree on Christmas morning. It’s incredible how the presence of a special doll in your home can bring so much joy and anticipation, making you look forward to returning home after a long day.
The Joy of Crafting Clothes for Ball Jointed Dolls
My initial attraction to purchasing an Elfdoll was my passion for knitting and sewing. At the time, making clothes for myself wasn’t as appealing due to 20+ pounds of extra post-pregnancy weight. Every day, I looked forward to my son’s nap times so that I could work on doll clothing for Sooah.
On Den of Angels, a popular forum for ball-jointed doll collectors, some of the most popular threads are the ones with members sharing the outfits they’ve created for their dolls. The pose-able bodies of BJDs make dressing them a breeze, as removing the head or faceplate simplifies putting on a sweater or t-shirt.
We often aspire to create fashion styles seen on runways or in magazines. Still, we might not have the opportunity to wear such clothes ourselves. Sewing for dolls allows us to explore various styles, such as Lolita, Goth, Cosplay, and historical outfits. While we might wear these styles to a convention once, our dolls can don these outfits daily.
Both knitting and sewing offer a calming and therapeutic effect. These activities allow us to reconnect with a time when life was less demanding. For instance, I used to come home from high school, watch my favorite soap opera, General Hospital, and sew. My father never disturbed me because he recognized the value of my sewing. And it was a peaceful way for me to decompress from school-related stress.
That sense of tranquility still returns when I sew clothing for my ball-jointed dolls, and knitting offers a soothing rhythm that adds to the experience.
Connecting with Ball-Jointed Dolls: A World of Possibilities
Ball Jointed Dolls (BJDs) can transport us back to a time when our imaginations were unlimited and creativity flowed freely. There are various ways to connect with these intricate dolls, such as:
- Writing stories
- Designing outfits
- Organizing artistic photoshoots
- Using dolls as reference models for sketches
As grown-ups, our interaction with dolls often serves a specific purpose. We may aim to capture stunning images of our dolls to share on social media, create an intricate diorama for display, or paint a face-up that perfectly embodies our doll’s persona.
The Emotional Bond with BJDs
My fascination with BJDs began when I realized they reminded me of the cherished connection I had with dolls during my childhood.
When I engage with dolls now – designing outfits, constructing scenes, and taking photos for my blog, it brings back memories of rainy days when no one could come out and play, and dolls were my only loyal companions.
The opportunity to sew clothing for my dolls, and perhaps eventually for others, is a nice bonus!
Creating a Safe Haven for Your Doll Collection
For years, I stored my dolls in boxes tucked away in my husband’s closet, fearing their resin might yellow or my curious cats might knock them over. However, having them out in the open brings me more joy.
If you’re weary of keeping your dolls hidden away, consider creating a secure space for them, shielded from pets and sunlight. My husband has helped me create various areas throughout our home where I can safely display, engage with, and photograph my dolls.
This soothing interaction with dolls could aptly be dubbed “doll therapy.”
Four Ways Ball-Jointed Dolls Can Bring Comfort and Joy Into Your Life:
1.) Hold one of your dolls when you feel anxious and let them comfort you.
2.) Spend time playing with your dolls. It lets you escape from the world and your responsibilities.
3.) Let your dolls inspire you to learn a new skill, such as making wigs, shoes, or clothing.
4.) If your work becomes good enough, why not think about selling some of your creations?
Making and selling doll accessories can help you earn enough to buy the things you don’t make for your dolls, or it might turn into much more!
Can Ball-Jointed Dolls Become Real Friends through AI?
As young children, it was easy to imagine that our dolls possessed genuine feelings and emotions, teaching us empathy and compassion. However, we now stand on the brink of a new era where advanced robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) can create lifelike dolls that may evoke similar emotions.
Given the potential risks associated with all our devices connecting to the cloud, the thought of AI-infused dolls is somewhat unsettling. Perhaps watching Dr. Who influenced my perspective. However, I’d prefer robots to resemble iconic characters like Rosie from The Jetsons or R2D2 and C3PO from Star Wars. This would make it easier to remember that they are, indeed, not real beings. The development of realistic facial expressions and human emotions programmed into these humanoid robots only adds to the concern.
AI is rapidly permeating various industries, with companies like Adobe integrating AI into all of their apps. In addition, smart toys were on the market for Christmas this year. Many came equipped with microphones and cameras. For example, this article warns parents about AI-driven dolls: Experts warn about smart toys. And according to the advocacy group, “Privacy Not Included”, there are no regulations requiring manufactures to disclose these AI devices on the packaging or what information is being collected and how it will be used.
While I adore engaging with my dolls, I don’t think I want them to become sentient beings and I certainly wouldn’t want these types of companies monitoring what was said in my home. So I will say no to intelligent dolls until there are clear regulations in place.
Connecting with the World through Dolls
My primary interactions with fellow doll collectors have been online, where we view each other’s photographs and celebrate our shared hobby. You can use BJD collecting to connect rather than disconnect by posting on forums and Facebook groups. In addition, we can find meetups in our areas.
Believe me, I know it isn’t always easy to do something out of our comfort zones. Ultimately, my pets, family, and human friends help me navigate life’s complexities. I am grateful for the incredible individuals I’ve met online through our mutual love for dolls. Our shared journey with these captivating BJDs creates a unique bond.
I hope this article sparks your interest in the BJD hobby and encourages you to explore it further. Stay tuned for more BJD-related posts, and consider joining forums like Den of Angels to connect with other passionate collectors.
For those who already collect ball-jointed dolls, what inspired you to start? I would love to hear your story!