[Adopted] Raccoon Doll Discussion

Hi everyone, I've been a lurker here for a few weeks. I don't have a BJD yet, but I've been admiring all of your Raccoon dolls.

Has anyone tried the JID clothes on Raccoon doll? I apologize if this question has already been asked and answered.

I hope to have a RD one day to share with you all. Thank you!

 

I have a parcel of JID clothes on its way from Iple at the moment but the red and black outfit that Lucy is wearing in the photo above (belongs to luluna) is I think a JID one.

 

That sounds fantastic! I hope you post pictures. Thank you for your reply.

 

I need to keep a better eye on this thread - I am awful at keeping up with the latest posts!

@Lanfeardk & @Phoenixflower383 Great to see you both in the thread! Always good to have more Raccoon Doll fans around!
And congratulations on getting Lucy @jemmilly!

@boudica Congrats on your girl's imminent arrival! Can't wait to see some pictures of her!
A Mulan doll would be just gorgeous! (You keep giving me doll ideas - I'm still fixated on mocha Lucy as Lara Croft! ) Asa is a favourite Iple sculpt of mine and a Raccoon doll with similar features would be fantastic. And a Rex lookalike? Yes please!

@luluna Gorgeous photo! I love how Lucy's wig matches those brilliant red lips!

@PennyDes - (Love the photos of Gene with her violin, she looks like a born musician!) & @vermont chick Thank you both for your kind words, and for not making me feel quite so guilty about my regrets surrounding Emma. I suppose it was going to happen at some point with a doll and considering the buying spree I went on last year, I feel like is was pretty likely. I do still love the photos of her on the website but I think it is down to the faceup more than anything - I could always get the Black Emma faceup on another doll in the future though.

Emma's head has returned from being fixed (that was quicker than I was expecting) and she's now back on her body. Hopefully the new faceup is free of any problems. She looks as gorgeous as ever, but we just haven't 'clicked', and I don't want my dolls to simply be pretty ornaments. I'm going to give her another chance for a few months or so and try some different wigs and clothing etc, and then if I'm still having problems with her, I'll probably put her up for sale (as nerve-wracking a thought as that is) since it makes no sense to have her sat around when someone would appreciate her more. And doll-space is precious...

I'm definitely going to get Daisy, probably in Mocha. It won't be right this moment, but hopefully there will be an event this summer where she's released again and I'm actually in a position to buy her. She's so gorgeous I can't stop thinking about her!
Daisy does look incredibly similar to Sarah, but I prefer her out of the two of them, although I can't quite put my finger on why. It would be good to see the blank sculpt at some point, and as beautiful as the photos are, I agree the diffuse effect is a bit too much. I think there should be a photo at the bottom of the page that just shows the faceup, like Iplehouse do with their dolls - no photo filters, and no wig either, since I think the wig has a big influence. I often struggle to imagine the doll wearing any other wig than the one they're pictured with, so a bald photo really helps me to see the actual doll without any wig-based bias.

To finish, here's a photo of Emma fresh from Korea. She's pinched my other MSD girl's wig just to see how it suits her and it looks pretty fantastic! (I have to admit that this is perhaps my most favourite doll wig ever! Monique Gold 'Ellowyne Rose' in case anyone was wondering! )
. by Zaliayn, on Flickr

 

Hi,

Thank you for your kind welcome. I love your Emma and the wig. Which size is that? I like Daisy, too. There's so many BJDs. It's so hard to choose.

 

@PennyDes I totally agree, definetely the most lovely 1/4 body I own too It's the natural Mika I have with glamourous body, but I might not keep her since my doll collection is getting too big ^^' And Sarah is Type A with normal body and works as my mini me

@vermont chick they are both normal skin, the sculpt and type mentioned above And it's true, I actually haven't seen any Mikas beside mine either. They both have lack of wig and clothes selection for now but I look so forward to giving them photoshoots as well, I'll be sure to post thanks I have a hard time finding wigs that look proper on them ^^

@Zaliayn Also thanks to you for the kind welcome It is hard to keep up all the time with the many wonderful participants in this thread ^^

 

First of all, welcome to the new participants on this thread! I was quite absent from the discussion the last few days , but I read you nonetheless!
I'm looking forward to see the new dolls of everyone!
For myself, I have not change my Lucy's head at the moment ...a bit of apprehension to ruin the new one perhaps? And I lack the supplies to clean the old faceup and need to buy sealant. I will probably do it next week.
I also ordered new hands from Iplehouse today! I had a little doubt about what colour to order, so I chose "normal skin", I hope it's ok...?
Here I share a pic, she still has the damaged face up but I try to camouflage it by taking the picture from the other side ^^
You can see the last items I made for her: a bra, and the garrison hat.

She has quite a teasing pose!

 

My Iple order with JID clothes and NS hands is in Customs at the moment so should arrive next week.

 

@vermont chick - Thank you! I really love this red wig on her.
@Zaliayn - Thank you! And congrats on your fresh new Emma head. She looks really beautiful in that wig!

@Poulette - I always enjoy seeing your Lucy in her vintage style! Her garments are just perfect! As is her hair!

And here is my Lucy in the Iplehouse JID top that actually goes with the above plaid outfit she was wearing.
She's the small bust...but the large should fit well also.

Lucy by luluna33, on Flickr

 

@vermont chick you're welcome oh I'm sorry to hear you are having pattern trouble. I hope one of the other patterns will work for the corset and am looking forward to how it comes out . It will be beautiful as always I'm sure.

@Phoenixflower383 welcome to the group I don't have any JID clothes personally but I have seen several posts by others that JID girl works ok for tops (no sleeve or short sleeve...I think long sleeve is too short for Raccoondoll arms?). JID boy pants fit ok and JID boy sweaters/shirts are long enough in the arms. Form fitting JID girl skirts won't work as Raccoondoll hips are wider. Long skirts for JID girl will not reach the floor as Raccoondoll has longer legs. Again I'm not speaking from direct experience so if I have something wrong anyone feel free to correct me .

@Zaliayn thank you for your comments about Gene and you are very welcome. Over the past 10 months I have bought 7 new BJD and only liked 2 enough to keep ( not counting second hand Asa head). Congrats on Emma being back home and hopefully problem free . I'm sorry you haven't clicked with Emma. I totally agree with you on not keeping the doll as an ornament of sorts even though selling is a nail biter. I have to say she does look super in the ellowyne rose wig you posted . Thanks for the wig name...I've Been considering that for gene but wasn't sure how it would look on a raccoon girl.
For me Daisy is prettier over Sarah because of the eyes. Daisy has some sparkle to her eye sculpt that's far more lively. Sang Yoon seems to release the limited dolls several times so hopefully you won't have to wait too long for the second release and the mocha sounds like a great choice. If Gene is ever released again I'm going to get a mocha version of her. That would be so great if he had the photo at the bottom like Iplehouse... No wig and no filters just to give buyers a clear look. I have found those photos to be the most accurate to how the doll will look in hand.

@Lanfeardk I am with @vermont chick on seeing Mika pictures. Not many pictures of Sarah floating around either. I'm with you on the wigs. So far Monique Gold 5/6 fits and looks the best. Looking forward to seeing your pictures

@Poulette i can understand your apprehension Your old Lucy is looking great in the photo . I think Normal skin is correct for JID Iplehouse hands. That's what I ordered a few weeks ago and I can't wait until they get here

@avrilpaeony thanks for confirming the color of the hands and I look forward to seeing how they look

@luluna love that red wig!

I think that's everyone...I hope I didn't miss any posts

 

You're making it really hard for me to keep from buying that outfit, @luluna. I tell myself that it looks too young for my girls, and then you present a new photo showing another part of the set that proves me totally wrong!

That wig looks great on your Emma, @Zaliayn. I need to check out what other colors it comes in. My list of "wig wants" is ever growing.

Your garrison hat came out much better than mine, @Poulette. And the bra! OMG! I wouldn't even attempt that on such a small scale. Great work as usual.

@PennyDes I found a corset pattern that works better. It's Gracefaerie's #21 Corset for MSD. I'm using the size designed for Narae and adding a half-inch to each piece to account for Lucy's longer torso. Now I only need to add fasteners: either snaps or the eyes I had on the other corset, depending on how much room I have in back. The skirt is cut out and ready to sew. I had to add three-quarters of an inch to each pattern piece just above the knees because of Lucy's height. And if the lining is anything to go by, the skirt is going to be snug. This pattern is turning out to be not as Raccoon-friendly as I had originally estimated!

 

Sarah will definetely get more pictures in time I only have naked photos of Mika unfortunately but even in those she is beautiful. Thanks for the wig tip! I didn't know of those wigs. Their website seems a bit offputting so would probably not have gone their myself either But looks like a wide range of wigs so will for suresies check it out!

 

@vermont chick that great you found a pattern you could make work for the corset part . Too bad the dress pattern isn't Raccoondoll friendly...makes it more difficult I'm sure. It sounds like a great solution you came up with...you are so clever I can't wait to see it.
I have the Opulent pattern for Deeana Denton I'm going to be trying soon (I hope). Fingers crossed it will fit ok.
@Poulette I didn't realize you made that outfit for Lucy Very impressive! did you make that awesome hair do as well?
@Lanfeardk thanks I'm looking forward to seeing them . You're welcome for the wig tip and I have to agree their website is off putting. I stayed away and bought only from eBay for quite awhile but eventually gave them a try and they are safe and the customer service is great. Another wig brand is "for my doll" size SS. Another sketchy looking site but so far safe and customer service is good as well. For my money Monique Gold is the best though as "for my doll" wigs don't flow like hair very well.


On my tablet so I can't post the picture into the thread but here is a link to a new Sarah pic. She borrowed Gene's wig for the photos . I was pleased with how she looked and wanted to share. Raccoon Doll Sarah

 

Hi @PennyDes , thank you for your post. That was very helpful.

I like Daisy, too. Maybe I will get her. I also like Modern Gene.

Monique Gold wigs are the best? Which size works best for raccoon dolls?

I love seeing everyone's raccoon dolls. Everyone is so nice here!

 

You're very welcome I personally like the Monique Gold wigs best. They are soft and flow more like real hair...size 5/6 fits great . Keep us posted on your doll decision .

 

@luluna Thank you! your Lucy is great too with her red hair!
@vermont chick Thank you, but you know, my garrison hat is far from perfect, the picture shows it at it's best
@PennyDes Thanks, yes I did the outfit and the wig myself , the wig is made from alpaca, that I dyed and styled .
Your Sarah looks great, her faceup is really pretty.

 

@Poulette Gosh your Lucy is looking stunning! Her outfit is just fantastic and I am really impressed by your sewing skills. She's making for a really amazing project!

@luluna Thanks I am very glad to have the makeup problem solved at last! It's nice to know that Sang Yoon is willing to help people with any issues that arise. It definitely makes me feel more confident about getting another doll with a company faceup in the future.

@vermont chick Thank you! It is a very lovely wig - I'm considering buying it in a few other colours and sizes for a couple of my other dolls too
I just wish Monique wigs were easier to find in the EU - I've been browsing Facets by Marcia and there are several I'd like to order but the thought of the customs fees is very off-putting.

@Phoenixflower383 Thank you very much
I also recommend size 5/6 for Monique wigs - it's the size Emma's wearing in the photo and it's definitely a good fit.

As mentioned already, ForMyDoll wigs in size SS (5.6/5.7 inches) are also a nice fit. FMD wigs are made of fibre rather than mohair like a lot of the Monique wigs, so they aren't as soft but they're still good quality. I have a few of their wigs in different sizes but I've never ordered from them directly, although I hear they are great to deal with. You can also ask to have a wig made for you in a different colour or mix of colours too which is pretty awesome!

@PennyDes Wow that's a pretty high turnover of dolls, although it does make me feel a lot better! I'm limiting how many dolls I buy this year (to help offset last year! ) so I'm being really careful which ones I buy now. Hopefully I won't run into the same situation again for a long while.
I think the biggest worry for me in selling dolls is the thought of having to sort out international shipping. Sending one somewhere in the UK I could deal with, but anywhere else makes my head spin. I've been looking at delivery companies and some of the shipping cost quotes seem absolutely ridiculous.
I think the Ellowyne Rose wig would look brillant on your current Gene, and getting a second Gene sounds great (they could be twins!), I'm sure she'll appear again at some point. Would you get her with the modern faceup option this time?

 

Well, I have finally finished the Night at the Opera outfit. It's designed for DeeAnna Denton, should fit Raccoon slim body, but the pattern needs adjustment. I ended up using Gracefaerie's #21 Corset for MSD instead of the Opera bustier, which I couldn't figure out how to alter. My girls all have the small bust; the bustier might fit better on the large bust. The Opera skirt is very snug on the slim body, so don't try this pattern for the glamour body unless you are prepared to redraw it. I lengthened it above the knees by three-quarters of an inch for Lucy; it could have used an extra quarter to half-inch at the hemline, too. The skirt needs more ironing--those seams don't want to lie flat. Stupid synthetic fabric. Next time I'm using real silk.


@Zaliayn Have you tried the French shop that @avrilpaeony uses for Monique wigs? I don't know the name of it, but maybe she can help you.

I know I should be trying to encourage you, but international shipping makes me cringe. I've done it, sometimes with good results and sometimes with problems galore. I had a package addressed to the UK go to Saudi Arabia! Why? No idea. The Saudis, bless them, sent the box on to its correct destination. My current problem child is on its way back to me because the recipient's Post Office decided the address was wrong. I think after this I will limit my shipping to the US and Canada.

 

Ooh that dress looks gorgeous @vermont chick , the little flower print on the bodice is so pretty, and in perfect doll scale. And I do like the skirt fabric, even if it isn't behaving itself! Lucy is looking very glamorous in that wig too!

No, I wasn't aware there was a French shop selling Monique wigs, but it would definitely be great to know which one it is

Yikes! That is rather terrifying - I hadn't considered the package could end up in the wrong part of the world too! I reckon international shipping is going to be just a little too stressful for me! I think I'll start off just offering shipping within the UK or maybe the EU, and keep international shipping as a last resort. Fewer sleepless nights then! Not to mention the buyer not having to deal with customs fees on top of everything else.

 

@Zaliayn Thank you! There are white cranes on that flowered fabric, too, but I think they ended up in the seam allowances. Lucy's wig is Shaine by Monique Gold; the color is Champagne. I think I bought this one on the evil bay from a seller called Juju's Dolly Mall. She's a reputable seller; I've purchased from her several times.

I hate to throw another horror story at you, but take it as a word of caution. In the past I sold some dolls on the evil bay. The last time I used it, my listings were attacked by one or more people in China who hit the buy button and then just as quickly cancelled their memberships. I had to wait while the bay tried to determine if we were dealing with real buyers or not. I relisted only to have them come back with new identities and do it again. The third time I cancelled all my listings. I haven't sold anything there since.

 

Thanks for your advice!

Thank you for the info. I am a true BJD newbie. I have a few hand me down Blythe dolls and MH dolls. There's so much to learn. I appreciate the advice.

 

The French shop I use is www.fleurdelysdoll.com they carry a good range of 5/6 wigs, shipping is also very fast. I have to say I have sent many parcels (doll items and others) around the world and never had any problems, only hiccup was a head I sent to Pepstar in the US for a face-up which vanished for 4 weeks then suddenly turned up, we assumed it had sat in a sorting office somewhere. I have also bought Monique wigs from Jpopdolls in the US and as they tend to send them in a small envelope have never been charged any customs fees for them.

 

I have ordered from Fleurdelys shop too, and can recommend them.

About international shipping, I never had a really bad experience . I usually require insurance and signature.
The shipping costs can be a bit high, but usually the buyer is aware of that.

@vermont chick That dress is beautiful, and its shape really enhance the RD body curves (even on slim body). i really like the colours, which match well with her tan skin and blonde hair,and the japanese-style pattern of the bustier.

 

I've had intermittent problems with Jpopdolls over the years with wrong or missing items. I tried to order Lucy's wig from her. The rest of my order arrived, but there was no mention of that wig and no refund. When I emailed, I was told that the wig was sold out. I was unhappy, because that wig had been reduced by a significant amount. The kicker is that the wig appeared on the site for months afterward at the sale price. I wonder if she would have remembered to refund my money if I hadn't asked?

@Poulette Thank you! I wanted to see my Lucy in something other than the military style pantsuit she has been wearing for the past few months. I'm happy to see she does the blonde bombshell quite well!

My current international shipping problem started because my buyer insisted that I undervalue the package so she could avoid customs fees. The value she insisted on was so low that we couldn't insure the package at all. I won't go into the details, but the problems simply escalated from there.

 

You can choose which countries you will ship to on ebay. Also, I would include an statement that you will not undervalue packages.

 

So many gorgeous pictures to catch up on! Great job everyone! Keep it up. Love seeing all the girls.
A new fun semi profile shot of my Lucy
Special Effects by wizgerg3, on Flickr

 

@Poulette wow that is very impressive I love the look (especially the wig). This might sound silly but what does the alpaca wig feel like? It looks nice and soft.
Thank you Raccoondoll did a great job on the custom face.

@Zaliayn I'm very glad you are feeling better about it and I hope you can avoid it happening again too. I think you have done very well . Lol, yes it is a pretty high turn over... I made so many newbie mistakes. When I discovered Raccoon Doll I ended up jumping the gun the same way I did with Iplehouse and was a little upset with myself. This last experience has solidified what I like and don't like as well as how to spot it.
I agree wholeheartedly with you on the international shipping. The cost and risk a seem so high. I haven't dared try it yet. Best of luck with whatever you decide to do and I'd love to know how everything turns out.
Thank you . I'm definitely adding Ellowyne Rose to my wish list. I'm not sure what face up to get should she be released again. Maybe modern Gene with some modifications.

@vermont chick oh my goodness that dress is marvelous!. Lucy looks fab! Thanks for the adjustment tips.
Eeeek that's awful your package got shipped to the wrong country like that. Saudi Arabia is not the UK. Your eBay experience sounds just terrible it's beyond me how people can do that to others for their twisted amusement.
I've ordered from the eBay seller juju dolly mall too...completely safe and very nice .
I would absolutely contact jpopdoll about the missing wig. You shouldn't have to pay for something you never received. I hope they make it right for you.

@Phoenixflower383 you are very welcome there really is so much to learn...I'm learning new stuff all the time The people here are the best.

@JinCIncy lovely photo of Lucy

Question for anyone who might know: I want to buy Low dome realistic oval eyes in 8mm for Gene but am having a very hard time finding them. I'm hoping low done will fit better...the normal dome eyes hit in a bad spot and they sit too far back in her head and it looks awkward from most angles. Any suggestions? Thanks

 

@vermont chick - Your Lucy is very beautiful, I love her new dress .
@PennyDes - when I saw Daisy for the first time, she also reminded me of Harace (which was trouble for me as I like her like a lot ).
@luluna - I like how each Lucy is so different. Your Lucy looks pretty dangerous .
@Lanfeardk - welcome to Raccoon doll discussion. Do you have any pictures of your girls?
@Zaliayn - I really hope Raccoon will realease "Mulan like" sculpt. I was wondering if I should buy SD girl from Iple for this character, but I have limited space, so MSD sculpt would be better regarding that. And Lara would be amazing . Sorry to hear, you have not bonded with Emma yet. She looks great with the curly wig.
@Poulette - your girl is truly Pin up girl . Great work on her costume and wig.
@JinCIncy - your Lucy is great too. It seems to me that Lucy is the most favourite sculpt so far, regarding the number of posted photos.

My Sarah is currently hold hostage at customs. I was hoping she will pass through with lower value but I was not lucky and had to declare the total value. I know it's right to pay it but let's be honest, who wants to pay 25 % up from the doll's price to customs. Well, I hope I will receive her this week when I pay the ransom .

 

@nancy_schroeder_ca My current shipping problem isn't on ebay; she's here on DoA. I am going to add a statement to my threads saying I won't undervalue my items, if I haven't already. Of course, you always get people who see your statement and say, "I know you don't undervalue (or take trades, or ship overseas, or whatever) BUT..." And then they ask you to do the very thing you said you wouldn't do. What I need is a spine of steel so I can say no and mean it!

@JinCIncy Great photo! I love how you kept Lucy's eyes a vivid blue while muting the other colors.

@PennyDes Sorry if my post wasn't clear. I did get my refund, but only after I questioned why my order was one wig short.

Dollmore sells low dome oval realistic eyes. I'm assuming you mean glass, because I haven't seen any in acrylic. Unfortunately there's not much selection in 8mm. They had three colors available and one is sold out. I don't know if they plan to restock.

@boudica @PennyDes Lucy says thank you!

@boudica 25% for customs duty is a huge amount to pay! It makes an already expensive doll so much more so. I hope customs releases your Sarah soon.

 

I've always been wary about the idea of selling things on ebay. I don't think I'd ever sell something of high value like a bjd there, I just don't have enough confidence in the place.
I decided a while ago that when I start selling things I wouldn't undervalue packages - if things do go wrong I don't want the hassle of dealing with it. It seems a little rude to ask someone to mark down even when they've already stated they won't. As far as I'm concerned it's a case of 'deal with it, or don't buy'. I've never asked anyone or any company I've bought things from to mark items down either, although I've had a couple of doll companies do it anyway. Customs is the worst thing about this hobby but it's unfortunately one of those things you have to contend with.

Ouch @boudica that is a hefty charge! I hope she escapes soon!
Customs here in the UK is 20% of the doll + shipping cost, and then of course ParcelForce slaps on its extra little fee just to add insult to injury - that handling fee actually irritates me more than the customs charge itself!

@JinCIncy gorgeous photo! Your Lucy looks amazing with those deep blue eyes!

@PennyDes yeah Dollmore does (or rather did, from looking at their tiny selection) sell Glib eyes but I have no idea if they plan to restock at all. You could always ask them via their Q&A section.


Thank you @avrilpaeony for that link! I'll definitely be ordering from there in the future Thanks too @Poulette for the extra recommendation for them. Oh and cheers for the ebay seller recommendation @vermont chick .
Does a list of legit ebay sellers & dealers actually exist anywhere? It seems like the kind of thing that would be quite useful.

 

Sarah is at home. She is lovely, yet her arrival has bittersweet feel - I was too optimistic regarding custom fees - I paid in total for VAT + customs fee + other fees 28 % of the price of the doll . I am really not looking forward to paying this for Nina next month . I know there are countries where they pay much more (I heard some horror stories where fees are 100 % of the doll price, but yet we are European country). Ok, I will stop complaining, I just had to get it out of my system.

She is lovely, her resin has the same velvety feel like the one from Iplehouse. Her poseability is great and the glamourous body is not so big in person, it's nice figure. The only complaint regarding her sculpt are the feet - they are too tiny regarding her height, but I understand it's cultural thing for Asia - they like women with small feet (as I am proud owner of footwear in size 44 I do not get it ). She will be true Cinderella . I will post pictures when I have time to take any.

 

@boudica Congratulations on ransoming your Sarah, although all I can say about the fees is Yikes! If I lived in a country that charges 100% of the doll price in fees, I think I would own one doll. Period. Or maybe just a head.

I hadn't thought about the size of the feet reflecting Asian culture but you're right. Did any Asian countries besides China practice foot binding? At least our dolls can stand on their two tiny feet.

 

I was really lucky with my 2 Raccondolls as both went straight through with no customs fees, the Iple JID clothes for them are out of customs with a charge and on their way to the York depot, hopefully they will arrive there tomorrow so I can pay by phone and they will deliver on Friday when I am home all day.

 

Holy crap Lucy looks amazing!!!!!
I think I'm in love!

 

@PennyDes : The alpaca fiber is very soft after cleaning and brushing, like baby's hair! In the case of my wig it's not so soft because I had to use hairstyling products to help maintain the shape.

@boudica That's not cool for the custom fees but congrats on her arrival!

I remove the damaged faceup of my Lucy, here is a pic of her blank face, maybe it can be interesting for someone! She's very different like that! Also you can see one of my first attempt at eyes making, using polymer clay.(I find it very difficult to paint both eyes similar!)



What strikes me is that I think she could make a very cool boy! (I find her to have some kind of resemblance with Jim Morrison or Jon Bon Jovi , it shows less in picture than in real life) Honestly I'm half tempted to turn her into some kind of rock star boy!

 

@boudica sorry to hear about the fees - that's a large chunk of the original cost but at least she is home with you now. I look forward to seeing the photos of her
I can't imagine fees of 100% - that's extortionate! And pretty limiting too unless you can find a dealer to buy through.
Like @avrilpaeony, my Emma slipped through customs without fees, so it looks like UK customs hasn't cottoned on to what they are yet.

@Poulette oooh wow blank Lucy looks amazing! - I'm glad her faceup came off without any problems. She does have a bit of a boyish look to her - I think she'd work pretty well as a rock star guy, especially in that wig! I love the colour of if by the way I'm very impressed by those eyes, you've done really well with them! They're a fantastic size too. Did you just make a ball of white clay and then paint the irises on after baking?

 

@Zaliayn Thanks, they're are not even, but I'm wanting to try and to do better (I always want to add "the last" touch of paint, and finally it ruins the whole thing. Sometimes less is more!) I didn't paint directly on the ball of clay, but I use a Dremel tool to do a little cavity, I painted in that cavity and then filled it with liquid Fimo to form the eye globe, and then use some gloss varnsih.

 

@Poulette You're right, Lucy would make a good boy. I see the resemblance to Morrison and Bon Jovi--except Lucy is better looking. She also reminds me of Iplehouse Bianca (not surprising given that they share a sculptor).

I can't believe that is one of your first attempts at eye-making! My attempts usually go straight into the garbage. I take it liquid Fimo is transparent? I really want to try this technique for myself. Have you tried making the cavity before baking the eyes? I have some small ball bearings that I could push into the raw clay to make the holes. I'd probably need to leave them in during baking so that the holes don't close. The problem is I don't want them to get stuck in there and not come out!

Love the color of Lucy's wig. Did you make that, too?

 

I agree about the resemblance to Bianca, first thing I thought of when I looked at the photo. My JID clothes are in the York depot so I will get them tomorrow, then time for a clothes try on.

 

@avrilpaeony I look forward to the fashion show! I haven't ordered any JID stuff for my girls yet. Every time I get near the buy button I seem to hang back for some reason. Hope everything works!

 

Me too ^^

@vermont chick : The very first pair of eyes I made, ended the same way : garbage. Mostly because of the product I used which was not transparent enough. I tried making the cavity before baking, it can work, but the risk is to deform the ball when pressing (on such small eyes, it shows quickly). Probably I don't have the right tool too.
No i didn't make the wig, it's a cheap fur wig I got as a gift with another doll. The colour is strange like pink-blonde...

 

Me three!

And how cool to see a blank Lucy! (Makes me want another one!)

 

Agreed!
Her curves are so lovely! The hips are bonus points as well. She's just so pretty. ;;

 

@Poulette When it comes to painting, knowing when to stop is always the hard part!
That sounds like a pretty good eye-making method, I'm going to have to attempt some myself at some point. I might start with a larger size to being with though, I don't know if I can manage eyes that small yet!

 

@boudica Daisy really does have a Harace look about her but fortunately for me I'm not a fan of Daisy's mouth shape so I think I'm safe. Otherwise I would have been totally tempted. Are you planning on getting Daisy? I can't wait to see owner pictures of her.
I am so glad Sarah is finally homeand no longer a hostage of customs . 28% fee is awfully high... I'm sorry your customs fees are so steep . I can't even imagine paying 28% let alone 100% of the value as a fee. I think I would cry.
I'm looking forward to photos of Sarah and the Cinderella outfit you are creating.
I agree with you on the feet being kind of small for the rest of the doll. Good thought on that being cultural. I bet that's the reason why.
@vermont chick I'm so sorry... Your post was clear but my brain was not . Lol...I read it wrong. I'm glad you got your money. Too bad about the wig though . "You're welcome" to Lucy

@vermont chick @Zaliayn thank you for the Dollmore eye tip . I got the few remaining on dollmore and found an OOAK doll shop online that is selling them too. Hopefully the eyes will be here in the next week. Yay! The oval eyes are so much easier to position than the round ones and I'm hoping low dome will solve my problem.

@avrilpaeony congrats on the clothes being on their way I will keep my eyes peeled for photos and looking forward to it.

@Poulette thanks for the information on the alpaca. It sounds wonderfully soft. That wig style really is just amazing. Do you use regular hair styling products?
Wonderful job on the eyes! Such tiny work and very well executed.
Blank Lucy looks great. Lol I can totally see bon jovi! Especially with the wig you have in the picture.

My Iple JID hand and JID coat and ankle boots are on their way for Gene. The eyes are too. I'm hoping everything will be here next week and I will share how it all looks.

 

JID clothes arrived yesterday, everything I got fits really well, even the leggings are a perfect length and the denim ones fit on the glamour hips as well, haven't tried the grunge ones on her. Only things not from Iple are the lemon jumper which is from rRabit Shop and the scarf. Excuse the horns in the background, they aren't growing out of her head, it is a stag Christmas ornament that looked good on the wall of their little room box.

 

@avrilpaeony Cool! I like how everything fits. Iple seems to be making more form-fitting clothes than they used to. I once bought a jumper/blouse combination from them on sale that was too big even for JIDs! The boots look great. I think I have the brown ones, I just haven't tried them on anyone yet. They'll look fab with the Sadol outfit my Gene is wearing.

 

Thank you. If my country charged 100 % in custom fees then I would not own any doll - so in the end I guess I am lucky that we have "only" 28 % custom fees .

Well, the custom fees are no fun, but I have already overcome the first shock, so now I know I really have to count with them - better be surprised with lower fees than be angry about higher ones.
The eyes are cool, good work. I can't help it - with that wig Lucy reminds me of small elf .

Thank you. Our customs are allergic to word "GIFT" - so I will ask Raccoon to ship Nina as "Merchandise" and we will see if I am charged the same amount next time . I posted one picture at the end - nude and faceupless so far.

I do not plan to buy another doll this year - except if I cave in for the new Iple girl or if Raccoon releases MSD Leonard/Lawrence/Rex or if he releases Mulan .
The only thing that really bugs me about custom fees is that we have to pay VAT for shipping from other country - the service does not take place at our country, yet you are required to pay 21 % tax from it - I am lucky that I did not pay for shipping this time as I got Sarah within the Christmas event. About the Cinderella outfit - I have already ordered materials, but I have to construct the pattern first, so it may take some time till I will be able to present it .

The JID clothes look nice, great that they fit.

Here is first picture of my Sarah - I set it as spoiler as it includes doll nudity . I think that the large bust option is looking good compared to hips of glamorous body. She will be redhead - it does not seem very original but I think it suits her best with her pale skin tone. This is not her permanent wig - it's borrowed one from my sister's Evangeline Ghastly. She will have custom made wool wig if everything goes well. She will be redhead Cinderella , but the blue dress should look just fine with this hair color.

Spoiler: Sarah

 

Oh wow @boudica she's GORGEOUS! I love the colour of that wig, it's amazing against her skin colour and I think red hair will work out great with blue! The glamourous body looks much better with the large bust in my opinion, it helps to balance her out quite a bit. Congratulations on her arrival!

 

@boudica You and @Zaliayn are right. The large bust does balance the glamour body's hips better. Lucy is looking good. She'll make a gorgeous Cinderella. I can't wait to see her with a face-up.

 

I received my Modern Gene recently and spent some time today trying to see what I have that might fit her. Here she is wearing a Tonner dress from their 17" super heroine collection of a few years ago. It is stretchy and fits quite well. Her shoes are from Tonner's 18" Kitty Collier.

DSC_6321

I have tried some other 18" Kitty things on her and the fuller skirts fit better. They are not necessarily her style, but it has been fun trying different things on her.

 

Congratulations on your Modern Gene, @Meezer. She looks fabulous in that dress--sexy and confident all rolled into one. It's good to know of additional sizes that fit our girls. Now I'm wishing I had collected 18 inch Kitty Collier in my past life instead of Tiny Kitty.

 

I know, right???

 

@avrilpaeony Those Iplehouse clothes look great! Are the shoes from IH too?
@boudica Looking forward to see the dress you will make!
@Meezer This dress is really flattering, especially on her arms and shoulders, and your picture really shows how the RD legs are beautifully sculpted!

(sorry for the not very elaborated comments, but I have the flu, and that's about all I can manage )

 

Thank you . The red wig is really nice, yet it's too big - she had to wear head cap so it does not slide down, but I have already ordered Teeswater locks for her custom wig. What I really like about the glamour body is that it's so light . I am used to my EID Carina - she is quite heavy lady, so playing with Sarah is more fun as she is so small. Also the amount of material needed for Sarah will be proportionally smaller, for Carina I buy stuff in meters - especially for larger gowns.

Thank you . I am happy with the large bust/glamour body combo - it's great combination for outfits I have in mind - 1860s, 1870s, 1890s. When I receive Nina I will post comparison pictures as she will be small bust + slim body. I have to wait with the face up till Nina arrives and also for the weather to get better, it has been cold and windy outside with high humidity.

Congratulations, she looks great. The outfit suits her well.

We will see when I will be able to produce good fitting pattern, I am quite busy at work these days, but I will do my best as I am really curious how it will look.
Sorry to hear you have flu - hope you get better soon .

 

@avrilpaeony Those Iplehouse clothes look great! Are the shoes from IH too?

Yes both pairs of boots are from Iplehouse, I particularly like the brown ones as they are a bit slimmer in the foot than the shorter black.

 

I was going to order a Modern Gene, but she is sold out. Is she coming back or is she gone for good?

 

@boudica your Sarah looks great I can't wait to see her all done up . Your color choices sound great!
I had never heard of a VAT fee before so I looked it up... That really is lousy. I would be annoyed too if I had to pay that. .
@avrilpaeony the JID outfits look great! Thanks for sharing . My Iple hands and JID outfits came today and I will share too.
@Meezer congrats on your Gene! She looks fabulous.
@Poulette I hope you feel better! I have a flu too. Seems to be going around.
@derilan85 gene will most likely be released again several of raccoon dolls sculpts have had multiple releases.

Hope I didn't miss any posts. My apologies if I did. I'm under the weather with a bad flu.

 

Okay, that's good to know, hope you feel better PennyDes

 

I asked about Gene and received this answer