BJD Beginner’s One-Stop Learning Guide

Before discovering BJD, I often heard about SD dolls, which are commonly mentioned in novels due to their exquisite craftsmanship. They are sometimes even used metaphorically to describe people or things. There was one girl I met who was quite confused, saying,

“I really like SD dolls, but I’ve heard BJD dolls are also beautiful. Which one should I choose? But isn’t maintaining a doll really expensive, like over a thousand or even ten thousand dollars?”

This is actually a common misconception. When I first got into BJD, I made the same mistake. After some research, I realized that SD dolls are a type of BJD. Therefore, if you’re interested in BJD, it’s best to read some introductory posts and get familiar with the basics to avoid any confusion.

How to Get Your Favorite BJD Doll

1. Find the BJD model you love and do some research, making sure you’re prepared with the necessary budget.
2. Purchase through official websites, authorized dealers, or trusted second-hand platforms.
3. Decide whether to go for official accessories and face-ups, or find an independent artist for custom face-ups and freely choose matching accessories. Don’t forget to purchase essential maintenance supplies.
4. Wait for your doll to be made.
5. Once your doll arrives, perform maintenance and dress it up to develop the desired look and personality. If you love a doll but aren’t sure about its exact model, you can ask for help by posting photos on BJD forums/groups.

Things to Consider Before Receiving Your BJD Doll

Before you decide to step into the world of BJD, there are several things you should take some time to understand. This will help you better develop this hobby in the long run, give you a general idea of the financial costs involved, and effectively prevent you from overspending your budget.

01 | Definition of BJD (Ball-Jointed Doll)

The full name BJD stands for Ball-Jointed Doll. These dolls feature ball-shaped joints that act as the pivot points for movement, with parts connected by elastic bands, strings, aluminum wire, and other materials. The joints are fully articulated, allowing the doll to be posed in various positions. One of the key features of BJD dolls is their high level of customization: you can change parts like skin tone, face-up (makeup), hair, eyes, eyelashes, clothes, shoes, and socks, enabling you to create your own unique look and personality. This customization process can be quite expensive.

The first resin BJD dolls were released by the Japanese company VOLKS with their SD (Super Dollfie) series, which introduced the first resin BJD, NANA, in 1999. As a result, many people mistakenly refer to all BJD dolls, and even all jointed dolls, as SD. However, this is incorrect, as SD is just one brand within the BJD category, similar to how Nokia is a brand within the mobile phone market. Dolls like Barbie, Blythe, Cabbage Patch Kids, American Dolls, and AZ Dolls are not BJD dolls, as their joint systems differ significantly.

Additionally, Dollfie Dream (DD), also produced by VOLKS, features an internal skeleton with mechanical joints and is designed in an anime style. While DD dolls also use ball joints, the assembly, design, and functionality are different, and therefore, they are not strictly considered true BJD dolls.

Due to the high cost of doll collecting, it is recommended to have an independent income before considering purchasing.

Which Dolls are BJD?

Korea: Withdoll Hannah&Noah

China: DOLLDoll-Chateau – Alan

Russia: ECHANTED

Japan: Volks sd Dai&Mako

Which Dolls are Not Considered BJD?

China: Ye Luoli Keer Doll

Hasbro Blythe Pretty Peony

Volks dd

Barbie

Azone 御伽の国 Otoginokuni Sera

ddung

Additionally, resin small dolls are not considered BJD. Dolls that lack full-body joints or even have no joints at all cannot be classified as BJD. On the other hand, animal dolls with full ball-jointed systems fall under a subcategory of BJD.

In conclusion, dolls should not be defined as BJD solely based on appearance, material, or price; the defining characteristic lies in their joint system. While there are variations in price and material quality among dolls, all original designs should be respected, and discrimination or personal attacks on dolls should be rejected.

02 | How to Purchase a BJD (After Receiving Your BJD)

1. Things to Note When Ordering a New BJD from the Official Website or Authorized Agents

When placing an order, some doll companies offer options to select official face-ups, wigs, clothes, and accessories from the images on their website. These custom accessories typically come at an additional cost. Special skin tones, such as “tan skin” or “grey skin,” usually require additional color adjustment fees.

If you choose a naked doll (a doll without face-up, wig, or clothes), you will receive a fully assembled doll that generally comes with a headplate, official box, and birth certificate (some doll companies may not include a headplate or certain accessories, and counterfeit dolls typically do not come with any official accessories, or may only include poorly made replicas; some counterfeits may include a headplate, official box, or certificate). This naked doll will be a blank body without a face-up, wig, eyes, or clothes.

Typically, you do not need to restring the doll yourself, but you can choose to remove the head and send it to a pre-booked artist for a face-up. You will also need to purchase the appropriate size wig, eyes, and clothing separately (for example, a 1/3 size doll requires 1/3 size clothes, not 1/6 size). If you plan to do the face-up yourself or make your own accessories, please continue reading the following section.

Production Time After Ordering a BJD Doll

Since BJD dolls are custom-made upon receiving an order, it is rare to find them in stock. The production time varies depending on the speed of the doll company, and typically takes between one week to three months from order placement to shipping. During promotional periods or busy production times, the waiting time may be longer, and in some cases, it could feel like a “ten-month pregnancy” due to the extended wait.

Things to Confirm After Ordering a BJD Doll

Due to the long production time of BJD dolls, some doll companies or agents will require customers to pay the full amount and confirm the order before starting production. Some companies may only ask for a deposit and require the remaining balance to be paid when the doll is ready or in stock. Some doll companies may even offer dolls in stock, where you can pay the full amount upfront without confirmation and receive the doll immediately.

It is important to check the ordering page of each doll company for specific payment and confirmation requirements. Generally, as long as you choose a reputable doll company or agent, the payment process will be straightforward.

Additionally, some dolls are made by enthusiasts who create sculpted prototypes and cast the doll heads or full dolls. Due to the higher production costs, these dolls are typically sold in limited quantities and may have an open-sale schedule. In such cases, you may need to confirm and pay the deposit in advance.

Counterfeit Dolls Have No Quality or After-Sales Guarantee, Use Low-Quality Resin, Shrinkage is Significant, Yellowing Occurs Quickly—Experienced Doll Enthusiasts Can Spot Them Easily, Do Not Buy!

Counterfeit and Custom-Made Are Not the Same—Custom-Made Dolls Are Original Creations, While Counterfeit Dolls Are Copies That Steal Others’ Work. Do Not Confuse the Two.

2. Things to Keep in Mind When Buying BJD Dolls from Second-Hand Websites

• Request Actual Photos: Always ask the seller for real photos of the BJD doll to ensure the actual condition matches the description.
• Avoid Installment Payments: It’s advisable not to choose installment payment options, as they may lead to future disputes.
• Do Not Confirm or Pay in Advance: Avoid confirming the order or making payments in advance, especially if the seller claims to be a minor or a student and asks for a direct transfer.
• Do Not Rush to Pay for “Cheap Deals”: Never rush into a payment because of a tempting offer. Always follow the official transaction process to ensure safety.
• Check the Doll Thoroughly After Receiving It: Once you receive the doll, make sure to inspect it carefully for any damages, yellowing, or other issues.

If You Accidentally Bought a Counterfeit, Please Protect Your Rights.

If you accidentally bought a counterfeit BJD doll, it’s crucial to protect your rights. Do not make the mistake of joining counterfeit groups in a moment of impulse. These groups are becoming increasingly common, with many participants even posting counterfeit or fake content without realizing that this is illegal.

Currently, counterfeit dolls have taken up a large portion of the BJD community, significantly impacting the original doll companies, with several of them having gone out of business due to these illegal activities. Counterfeiting is no different from theft, as it involves stealing someone else’s hard work. Do not abandon your principles and integrity.

Introduction to BJD Dolls and Resources

01 | BJD Sizes

1. Common Sizes: 1/3, 1/4, 1/6, “uncle” dolls.
2. Special Sizes and Unique Body Types: 1/6 adult body, 1/2, 1/8, 1/12, full-scale (1/1), and animal dolls with ball-jointed articulation.

The Concept of ‘Size’ in BJD Dolls

The term ‘size’ refers to the proportional scale based on human height. For example, 1/3, which is often called “one-third scale”, is calculated by multiplying the average human height (e.g., 180CM) by one-third. Early one-third scale dolls were typically around 60CM tall.

However, as BJD companies became more creative and experimental, doll sizes have diversified, with heights ranging from 58CM to 65CM. As a result, the term “size” no longer has a strict standard, and the following are general approximations for various sizes.

Regarding the Volks line of BJD dolls, I’ve written a dedicated article to introduce them, as they are undoubtedly the number one name in the BJD community

BJD Doll Size Variations and Compatibility

16cm is a common size, but it is unclear whether it should be classified as 1/8 or 1/12 scale.

Special body types can vary greatly, with some dolls having toddler-like proportions in 1/3 scale, and others having adult-like proportions in 1/6 scale. While the height of a doll may be the same as another size, the age and style of the doll affect its overall appearance, meaning accessories cannot always be interchanged.

BJD doll heads, bodies, and hands of different skin tones and sizes should not be randomly mixed, as this can result in mismatched or awkward appearances.

Additionally, clothing, wigs, and accessories are generally not interchangeable between different sizes, unless the dimensions are exceptionally specific.

Further Reading: Common BJD Doll Size Guide and Accessories

Even within the same size category, there may be slight variations between different companies. For instance, two dolls of the same 1/3 size may have different head circumferences—one may be 21cm, while another may be 23cm. Even if the head circumference is the same, the neck circumference may vary.

When mixing and matching heads from one brand (Brand A) with bodies from another brand (Brand B), or combining hands from a third brand (Brand C), it’s important to carefully compare the skin tone and size specifications. It’s often helpful to consult with other BJD owners who have experience with these dolls.

02 | BJD Wig Materials and Sizes

BJD wigs come in various materials, including heat-resistant fiber, Karis fiber, sheep wool, and mohair, each with its unique properties. The most common material is heat-resistant fiber due to its ability to withstand heat and its versatility in styling with tools like curling irons and straighteners. The range of colors and styles is vast, and the price can vary depending on the material and craftsmanship.

Wig Size Selection

Each BJD requires wigs that are specifically sized to fit their head circumference, though a few special sizes may be interchangeable. Generally, you should choose a wig based on the doll’s head circumference. For example:

• A 1/4 scale doll (40-46cm) should wear a 1/4 scale wig.
• A 1/3 scale doll (58-65cm) should wear a 1/3 scale wig.

Additionally, some brands use inches to denote wig sizes, so it is important to check the size specifications when selecting wigs from international sources.

By knowing these measurements, BJD owners can easily choose the right wig size based on their doll’s head circumference, ensuring a perfect fit.

03 | BJD Eye Materials and Sizes

BJD eyes are one of the key features of the doll, influencing the overall appearance and liveliness of the doll. The material and shape of the eyes are essential in achieving a realistic and expressive look. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the most common BJD eye materials and types:

Common Materials for BJD Eyes

BJD Eye Shapes

In addition to materials, BJD eyes come in various shapes designed for different doll styles:

BJD Eye Sizes

BJD eye sizes typically correlate with the doll’s scale:

Eyes can also be categorized based on iris size: small iris, standard iris, and large iris. It’s important to choose the right size and shape based on your doll’s look and style.

Eye Size Notation

When a BJD eye seller lists the size as 12-6, this typically refers to the diameter and iris size of the eye.

• 12mm refers to the overall diameter of the eye (the size of the entire eye, from one side to the other).
• 6mm refers to the iris size (the diameter of the colored part of the eye, the iris).

So, a 12-6 size means that the eye has a 12mm total diameter with a 6mm iris. This type of notation helps buyers know both the overall size of the eye and the size of the iris, allowing for a better match to their BJD doll’s eye socket and desired appearance.

If you’re looking for a more realistic effect (closer to the appearance of real human eyes), you might opt for custom sizes like 12-5 or 12-4, where the iris is smaller than half the total eye diameter. This typically gives your doll a more serious or mature expression.

If you’re aiming for a cuter effect (similar to anime-style eyes), you can choose custom sizes like 12-7 or 12-8, where the iris is larger than half the total eye diameter. This creates a more playful and adorable appearance.

In general, the smaller the eye size, the harder it is to craft (our smallest eyes currently feature a 3mm iris). Achieving perfection with such tiny sizes has a lower success rate. Similarly, eyes that exceed standard sizes (usually 20mm or larger) are more expensive due to the scarcity of molds in these dimensions. Custom molds are often required, and molds have a limited lifespan, needing replacement after a period of use.

Make sure to confirm with the seller if you have any doubts, as eye sizing can slightly vary depending on the manufacturer.

04 | Tips for Maintaining BJD Dolls

1. Avoid Prolonged Sun Exposure
   • Direct sunlight can accelerate yellowing of the resin. Keep your BJD out of the sun.
2. Prevent High-Temperature Exposure
   • Do not place the doll in high-temperature environments or in areas where reflected or indirect sunlight can reach it for long periods. Cover the doll with a cloth if leaving it unattended.
3. Keep Away from Children
   • Place your BJD in a location out of children’s reach to avoid potential injuries to the child or damage to the doll.
4. Protect Accessories from Moisture
   • Store the doll’s box, clothing, and accessories in a dry environment to prevent moisture damage.
5. Limit Flash Photography
   • While flash photography has minimal impact on resin, it can affect the quality of photos. Use soft lighting instead of flash for better results. When photographing someone else’s doll, avoid using flash as a basic courtesy.
6. Minimize Use of Chemical Solvents
   • Although resin is corrosion-resistant, minimize contact with chemical solvents and avoid frequent makeup changes. When removing makeup, avoid prolonged soaking in diluted solutions and do not rub harshly when using makeup removers to prevent scratches.
7. What to Do If the Doll Is Damaged
   • For Minor Scratches: Sand the affected area gently.
   • For Deep Wounds: Use putty to fill gaps or 502 glue to repair breaks. If unsure of your skills, seek help from professional repair artists or inquire about after-sales services from the doll’s manufacturer.
   • For Mold Lines: Sanding can remove seam lines (side seams) if present.
   • For Severe Yellowing: Consider full-body sanding.
   • Note: Hand-sanding may result in uneven surfaces, light scratches, or whitening, especially on detailed areas like the face. It may not fully restore the doll to its original factory condition.
8. How to Send for Makeup
   • Find a suitable makeup artist by browsing forums and reading their guidelines and terms. Discuss your requirements and agree on pricing before shipping the doll head for makeup.
   • The makeup duration depends on the artist’s schedule and weather conditions. Check reviews of the artist before making your decision.
   • Artists often include their location in their post titles; you can search the forum using keywords like “location + makeup” to find relevant results.

Further Reading: How to Maintenance a BJD doll? Some Dos & Don’ts

I hope this guide will help you care for and maintain your BJD while ensuring its longevity and aesthetic quality.