Doll collecting is a popular hobby amongst both old and young. The types of these endearing toys one can collect are many, some prefer those made from china or plastic, while others are drawn to the heart-warming appeal of soft dolls, stuffed and made with cloth such as the iconic Raggedy Ann and Andy. Collectors should be aware of factors that influence the price of these playthings and they should also know how to properly care for and preserve them.
The doll's era often plays a big part in determining how valuable it will be considered on the market. Typically antique and collectible dolls will fetch a higher price than newer ones, but not always. An informed buyer will also be aware of particular details to note which are tell-tale marks of quality such as hairstyle, features, stitching, and even the clothing they are wearing.
Minor imperfections such as holes, cracks, or worn spots can develop over time as a doll is played with or just as a result of aging, but these flaws can often be repaired sufficiently by a toy restoration specialist. When there is such issues with a doll, it will likely be offered for a considerably lower price than it would otherwise.
How in demand and popular a doll is also plays a major role in determining how much it's worth. Doll buyers whose goal is to select items for resale will need to research market prices for the dolls they are looking to purchase, but they must realize that these are normally based on a mint condition doll, so those in poorer shape will go for less.
Cloth dolls can be both cherished collectibles in an adult's collection or the loveable pal of a child. Whatever role they play, it will eventually be a good idea to clean them. This must be done cautiously however, to avoid ruining the doll's appearance. Proper cleaning can help freshen up the doll's looks and preserve its condition.
It's advisable to figure out what materials the doll is made from prior to cleaning it. Some will have labels attached that should contain this information, but if they don't it will be necessary to do some experimentation to figure out the most suitable cleaning method. In order to find out if the fabric will run or bleed, dab the doll's back with a damp cloth, if it runs water cannot safely be used.
If the doll's exterior proves to be washable, the stuffing will need to first be removed unless it happens to be polyester. The outside of the doll's body can be washed with a mild baby shampoo or fine washables detergent, thoroughly rinsed to remove all residue, wrung out, and then hung on a drying rack. Once fully dried, the doll's stuffing can be replaced and the seam where it was taken out can then be neatly stitched back up.
Dolls in reasonably good condition made of cotton fabric, which contain polyester stuffing and have acrylic yarn hair, can even be washed in the gentle cycle of the washing machine with regular detergent and hot water. If they have no plastic parts sewn onto them, they be tumble dried on low heat, but in most cases air drying on a line is recommended.
The doll's era often plays a big part in determining how valuable it will be considered on the market. Typically antique and collectible dolls will fetch a higher price than newer ones, but not always. An informed buyer will also be aware of particular details to note which are tell-tale marks of quality such as hairstyle, features, stitching, and even the clothing they are wearing.
Minor imperfections such as holes, cracks, or worn spots can develop over time as a doll is played with or just as a result of aging, but these flaws can often be repaired sufficiently by a toy restoration specialist. When there is such issues with a doll, it will likely be offered for a considerably lower price than it would otherwise.
How in demand and popular a doll is also plays a major role in determining how much it's worth. Doll buyers whose goal is to select items for resale will need to research market prices for the dolls they are looking to purchase, but they must realize that these are normally based on a mint condition doll, so those in poorer shape will go for less.
Cloth dolls can be both cherished collectibles in an adult's collection or the loveable pal of a child. Whatever role they play, it will eventually be a good idea to clean them. This must be done cautiously however, to avoid ruining the doll's appearance. Proper cleaning can help freshen up the doll's looks and preserve its condition.
It's advisable to figure out what materials the doll is made from prior to cleaning it. Some will have labels attached that should contain this information, but if they don't it will be necessary to do some experimentation to figure out the most suitable cleaning method. In order to find out if the fabric will run or bleed, dab the doll's back with a damp cloth, if it runs water cannot safely be used.
If the doll's exterior proves to be washable, the stuffing will need to first be removed unless it happens to be polyester. The outside of the doll's body can be washed with a mild baby shampoo or fine washables detergent, thoroughly rinsed to remove all residue, wrung out, and then hung on a drying rack. Once fully dried, the doll's stuffing can be replaced and the seam where it was taken out can then be neatly stitched back up.
Dolls in reasonably good condition made of cotton fabric, which contain polyester stuffing and have acrylic yarn hair, can even be washed in the gentle cycle of the washing machine with regular detergent and hot water. If they have no plastic parts sewn onto them, they be tumble dried on low heat, but in most cases air drying on a line is recommended.
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