How to Collect Bridal Dolls

A fun way to collect dolls is to collect only a certain type, such as bridal dolls. Bridal dolls are usually in their best clothes, usually have very ornate dresses, veils and accessories and may be more varied than you would like if you get into collecting bridal dolls from other countries or other decades. If you want to collect bridal dolls, there are some things to keep in mind.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Narrow your selection, since most doll manufacturers make bridal dolls, to make it easier to collect your dolls. Consider narrowing your selection by manufacturer (perhaps only collect Barbie or Madame Alexander bridal dolls) or by decade (only collect from the 1960s) or by country.

2. Learn what you can about bridal dolls. If you're purchasing older bridal dolls, find out all you can about hair design and how the plastic or fabric of the dolls starts to degrade. Since bridal dolls tend to be in white dresses, find out what dust and light can do to fabrics so you can watch for this type of damage. Learn about different doll collecting terms such as crazing and mohair.

3. Attend doll shows as you collect your bridal dolls. At doll shows, you can network with other collectors, with doll sellers and can add to your collection, usually for below retail costs. Even if you have no money to expand your collection, doll shows are great places to see in person dolls that you may have had your eye on.

4. Go onto auction websites such as eBay to purchase bridal dolls at affordable prices. When shopping on eBay make sure to read seller's descriptions, look at all pictures included in the auction and note any negative feedback from other buyers.

Resources

• Go to Madame Alexander for more information.
• Go to Barbie Collector for more information.