How to Replace a Barbie Doll Head
Since its introduction in 1959 at the New York Toy Show, the Barbie Doll has been captivating the imaginations of children around the world. Barbie has filled many roles over the years, from surfer girl to doctor to babysitter and many things in between. Collectors struggle to keep their dolls in great condition for memory sake, but damage can easily occur to even the best-cared-for doll. Sometimes a full replacement is in order, and there are ways to replace Barbie's body parts, including her head.
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Instructions
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Boil a pot of water on a stove. Do not heat the water in the microwave or by another means, as the water may get too hot and can damage the doll.
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Pour the boiling water into a safe bowl and allow it to sit for up to three minute to cool slightly. Submerge the Barbie head-first in the water until it completely covers her neck joint.
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Allow the neck joint to soak for three minutes. Check the neck joint; the vinyl should now be pliable, or easily bent. If you have trouble pinching the vinyl, soak for a few more minutes and try again.
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Pinch the doll's neck and pull until the head is removed from the body.
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Submerge the neck joint into the warm water for another two to three minutes to soften it again. Snap the replacement head into place.
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Tips & Warnings
Try removing and replacing the head of a practice doll before working with your collectible Barbie dolls.
If you have trouble snapping the new head into the joint, soak the bottom of the new head in the water for two to three minutes to soften the vinyl there as well. In general, the head will snap into place so long as the neck joint is pliable.
These instructions will not work for "Miss Barbie;" this doll's head is attached with an O-ring. Do not use water on this doll, as you can damage the doll's features.
References
- Photo Credit Doll cake image by Stokholm from Fotolia.com
