How to Make a China Doll
A china doll has porcelain/bisque parts that are glazed to give the surface a shine. The doll is fired in a kiln and certain steps are required to ensure good results. When starting out, check your kiln manual and consult with a doll-maker for tips, or have an expert fire and clean your doll. Following are some basic steps to make your own china doll.
Note: Breathing in porcelain dust has longterm health hazards. Consult with a doll expert on preventative steps if firing and cleaning your own porcelain.
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Things You'll Need
- Kiln and firing cones
- Liquid porcelain slip
- Craft knife
- Small paintbrushes and tools
- Sandpaper
- Gloves
- Apron
- Face mask
- Fiberfill
Instructions
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Choose your mold: Porcelain doll molds are plaster and made by a number of manufacturers. Some doll artisans also sculpt their own dolls and have their own molds made. Check doll supply Web sites for details and prices.
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Starting your doll: Choose a liquid porcelain slip from manufacturers such as Seeley's. (Most slip comes in gallon jugs, so choose wisely or have another doll maker pour your doll for you.) China dolls use white porcelain that is not tinted. (There are flesh-tinted china dolls, but they are rare). Most antique china dolls are recognizable by their molded hair, white face and limbs, and painted eyes. They can range from under one inch in size to dollhouse scale and larger.
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Pouring doll: Pour slip (it may need to be thinned with distilled water) into mold wrapped with rubber bands. After about one-sixteenth inch thickness (about a dime's width) of slip forms on edges; drain excess by blowing into mold with a cocktail straw. Let sit 10 to 30 minutes or until the mold opens easily. Time needed is based on individual humidity, etc.
Open the mold when the figure can be removed without ruining its shape. Place on fiberfill to harden. Smooth over any imperfections. Let dry.
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First firing: The first step is soft firing with cone 018-019. The kiln may need to be heated in stages, so a soft-fire can take several hours. Check kiln directions for suggested time. Let kiln cool overnight. Next, soak the doll pieces in water for at least five minutes, and clean the seams with the craft knife. Smooth any imperfections or make corrections. Paint doll parts with high-fire clear glaze.
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High firing: Once the doll/doll parts are ready, add kiln wash to the shelf so glaze won't bond to the surface. Vent the kiln during firing (it can take up to eight hours) so glaze fumes can escape. Be aware that porcelain shrinks and the finished piece will be smaller than the mold.
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Painting and cleaning: China painted dolls come out glossy and need no sanding. China painting on a slick surface can be tricky, so go slowly. It can take at least five firings for additional coats of china paint. Once the doll is completely fired and cooled, parts can then be assembled.
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Dress and costume: As most china dolls are still made in an antique style, consult pattern sites for the proper clothing. Add vintage lace or jewelry for a personal touch. Enjoy your new doll!
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Tips & Warnings
Go slowly; don't skimp on time.
Follow your kiln directions; ask another doll-maker for advice if in doubt.
Encouragement and advice on doll-making can be found on doll forums or doll groups under Yahoo Groups or other sites.
Work in a well-ventilated room because porcelain dust can be hazardous to breathe in.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit (c) 2009 Lucie Winsky, http://luciewinskydolls.com
