How to Replace Eye Lashes on Movable Doll Eyes

Replacing a doll's eyelashes requires a steady hand, but is not too difficult.

Replacing eyelashes on any doll requires some concentration and a steady hand. The technique used can be either rooted into the doll's face or applied to the exterior of the face, depending on whether the face is made from vinyl or porcelain. However, if the doll has movable eyes where the lids open and close, the best technique is applied lashes. For a life-like look, use human hair or mohair to create the lashes.

Things You'll Need

• Lens cleaning tissue
• White glue
• Paint for eyelids
• Pair of eyelashes
• Small scissors
• Toothpicks
• Linseed oil
• Paintbrush
• Glass paint gloss

Instructions

1. Clean the old wax and dirt, and any remaining lashes, from the doll. Remove the color from the eyelid, unless it's still in good shape and you can see where the old lashes were attached.

2. Roll one lash strip off the tray packaging, and hold it against the eye to see if it needs cutting. Make certain the longer lashes face the outside edge of the eye.

3. Trim away a bit of the lash at a time. Trim slowly to make sure you don't trim too much. Trim the other lash to the same length, cutting in the same place on both lashes.

4. Apply glue with a toothpick to the inside of the upper eyelid near the eye. Lay the lash across the eye, and dip another toothpick in linseed oil. Use this toothpick to push the lash strip as close as you can to the space between the eye and eyelid. Make sure the lash is even and not overlapping on one side.

5. Allow the glue to dry. Add the second lash to the opposite eye in the same manner.

6. Repaint the eyelid, if necessary, using a small brush and eyelid paint. Use small strokes, and blend the strokes well for an even look.

7. Dip a small paintbrush into gloss, and apply it to the surface of the eyes, brushing it on the bottom edge of the lashes as well. This will hold the eyelashes in place and add a moist glint to the doll's eyes. Let the gloss dry completely before using.

References

• Sowatzka:Doll Repair Q&A
• Parabox: Custom Doll Beginners
• Cloud 9 Nursery: Basic Reborning Techniques