1. Den of Angels is closing in August 2026. New account registrations are closed. Please see this thread in Den of Angels news for important information: /threads/the-future-of-den-of-angels.893314/
    Dismiss Notice

Shopping Lesser Known Doll Makers?

Jun 17, 2017

Watch Thread
    1. Hello, all!

      I'm trying to create a list of realistic MSD (40-49cm) dolls for future consideration. For some reason, I am especially drawn to dolls made by Russian/European artists, but I'm open to any ideas. The problem is, every time I think I've found all the artists with the style I love, another one comes along that I've never heard of before, even though I've searched many times!

      I know I would like to buy an MSD-sized doll at some point, and I would feel better if I know what my options are, in case pre-orders open up for any of those already on my list.

      Anyway, this is my current list:
      Tender Creation Dolls by Anna Dobryakova
      Example: Rachel.

      Popovy Dolls by the Popovy Sisters
      Example: Instagram post by Sis Popovy • May 18, 2016 at 7:24pm UTC

      Natalie Lovesa Dolls
      Example: DSC_0046

      Ancient Tales by Olga/Helga Reinhard (if they sell their larger size - I'm waiting for a reply about that):
      Example: DSC_0015

      And I just found these artists, who apparently offer resin versions of their porcelain dolls:
      Lutsenko Dolls by Anastasiya and Sergey Lutsenko
      Example: Instagram post by Anastasiya and Sergey Lutsenko • May 23, 2017 at 2:47pm UTC
      Example 2: Sophie, resin, 42 сm.

      (I'm not sure these dolls are on topic, but I hope I will be forgiven for mentioning them if not, since I'm trying to find similar dolls that may be on topic!). Aren't their dolls hauntingly beautiful? (especially "Sophie"!)

      Anyway, does anyone know of similar dolls sold by other artists? I have considered Twigling's "Miningenue" as well, but something about her face seems a little inhuman to me (even though she's very beautiful).

      Thank you in advance for your time!
       
      #1 StellaMarigold, Jun 17, 2017
      Tools
      + Quote Reply
      • x 4
    2. There's Agatti too.
       
      #2 iamkathybrown, Jun 17, 2017
      Tools
      + Quote Reply
    3. Oh, that's true! I forgot Agatti! I really like their men, and the woman seem to have beautiful engineering, I'm just not as drawn to their less delicate faces.

      Thank you!
       
      #3 StellaMarigold, Jun 17, 2017
      Tools
      + Quote Reply
    4. Afrodita dolls look pretty interesring and have a very innovative shoulder joint for better posing.
       
      #4 Kayble, Jun 17, 2017
      Tools
      + Quote Reply
    5. I'd recommend Pygmalion Doll. Although some sculpts might not be exactly what you are looking for, others are fairly realistic.
       
      #5 Lavender Sage, Jun 18, 2017
      Tools
      + Quote Reply
    6. Thank you, Kayble and Lavender Sage!

      The Afrodita dolls are very pretty. The Pygmalion 30cm male dolls are very nice, too, although I'm more interested in female dolls at the moment.

      I appreciate the help!

      Edited to add: Argodoll is making 1/4 versions of her "Leith" and "Ifit" sculpts, which are beautiful! I already own a 1/6 Ifi, but someone else might find the information helpful.

      Another one that may be off-topic (although their 1/6 doll is mentioned in the 1/6 Mature Dolls thread): Bardo Research 40cm "Deepti" - very elegant!
      Deepti_02
       
      #6 StellaMarigold, Jun 18, 2017
      Last edited by a moderator: Jun 18, 2017
      Tools
      + Quote Reply
    7. Thank you for posting this! I spent an evening going through a very old list of BJD Seller's only to find the lesser known ones were gone. Of course, now all my money might be in peril!

      I've had a hard time finding the lesser known artists still making dolls.
       
      #7 Indiscretion, Jun 20, 2017
      Tools
      + Quote Reply
    8. You're welcome, @Indiscretion

      My preferences definitely go to the lesser known companies (although I enjoy photos of all kinds of dolls!). I hope this list will be helpful to others. I'm going to add the names suggested to my list in the original post, and I hope others will add to the list over time!
       
      #8 StellaMarigold, Jun 21, 2017
      Tools
      + Quote Reply
    9. Oh, I forgot Lumedoll. I don't collect minis, but I find the more mature ones interesting.
       
      #9 iamkathybrown, Jun 21, 2017
      Tools
      + Quote Reply
      • x 1
    10. #10 Lisa_Alisa, Jun 23, 2017
      Last edited: Jun 23, 2017
      Tools
      + Quote Reply
      • x 2
    11. @Lisa_Alisa - now THESE are exactly what I'm talking about! Thank you so much! They are all beautiful!

      Osdolls - very pretty, beautiful hands and feet.

      RA duet dolls - lovely! They kind of remind me of a cross between Tender Creation dolls and the Twigling dolls.

      Delicacy dolls - these remind me of Enchanted Doll in the best way!

      Nina Kurilenko dolls - really unique faces and very interesting accessory projects.

      Thank you very much for sharing these names!
       
      #11 StellaMarigold, Jun 24, 2017
      Tools
      + Quote Reply
      • x 1
    12. #12 Lisa_Alisa, Jun 24, 2017
      Tools
      + Quote Reply
      • x 1
    13. Wow, she's different! I think shoulder joints are really interesting, and I wish more doll makers would show videos of their dolls moving - it would be really helpful.

      The super long legs set off my "warning! warning! out of proportion!" trigger since, as an artist, I'm constantly trying to get natural proportions for human characters, but I can see how they would be appealing.

      Thank you again for giving me suggestions! I'm having fun looking at all the instagram links!
       
      #13 StellaMarigold, Jun 24, 2017
      Tools
      + Quote Reply
    14. @StellaMarigold
      Artist name Olga Litvinovich (brand "Dancing dolls"), she's getting her fist resin girls from casting company in a couple of days. Preorder is open, and the price is very good. The dolls have a very good mature and fit body shape. Size 41/43 cm (flat feet/high heels)
      Mold Diana, pics of the master model Instagram post by Литвинович Ольга • Mar 18, 2017 at 10:52pm UTC
      Profile of the artist Литвинович Ольга (@litvinovich_dancing_dolls) • Instagram photos and videos
       
      #14 Lisa_Alisa, Jun 27, 2017
      Tools
      + Quote Reply
    15. @Lisa_Alisa
      That's a very nicely designed doll! Her proportions look very natural, and she seems to be pretty flexible. Thanks for including her in the list!
       
      #15 StellaMarigold, Jun 27, 2017
      Tools
      + Quote Reply
    16. Interesting what is Litvinovich dolls is not so much recognized yet! I thing she is a rising star in the BJD and art doll community. Her dolls are unique!
      I'm my self from Russia and have no problem to communicate with Russian artist, but I understand why some of them may be a bit obscure.
      Olga's dolls is wonderful and still quite low price (compare to Popovi or Tender Creations). I just placed a ordet for her Diana, a full painted doll (face, body m.m) with a wig and two pair of feet for a about 770 US Dollars. (40 000 rubel).
      A blank doll (no make up) costs 30000.
      At the same time a waiting time for a doll not so long. I placed the order yesterday and she said the doll will be ready june-july. I really looking forward to get this doll! :)

      Here is her Instagram: Литвинович Ольга (@litvinovich_dolls) • Instagram photos and videos
       
      #16 Candid, May 2, 2018
      Tools
      + Quote Reply
    17. @Candid: Me too, I am also waiting for Diana by Olga Litvinovich from the actual release. I am very impressed by her works and her pleasant style to communicate with the customers.
       
      #17 nufa, May 2, 2018
      Tools
      + Quote Reply
    18. Great! :)
      Dihat skin color did you order? Did you decide on hair and eyes? :)
       
      #18 Candid, May 2, 2018
      Tools
      + Quote Reply
    19. @Candid: Thanks. ^^ I have ordered her in color 2 (normal) and blank. The first wig she is getting is a reddish one.

      I think Olga Litvinovich is a very talented doll artist and it is only a question of time and a little bit more english descriptions provided on her blog, than she would be more known in the world.
       
      #19 nufa, May 3, 2018
      Tools
      + Quote Reply
      • x 1
    20. I think so too!

      I ordered a coffee milk, but didn't decide yet on eyes and wig.
       
      #20 Candid, May 3, 2018
      Tools
      + Quote Reply
      • x 2
    21. I'm so obsessed with Bidolls. I think their sculpt is just divine and so graceful the way they can move. I'm in actual love.

      I also wanted to know if these dolls aren't relevant to DOA as I haven't seen any posts about them.
       
      #21 wonsunjin, Jun 3, 2018
      Tools
      + Quote Reply
    22. This post was awesome thank you I am also looking for a few realistic looking dolls for characters thanks for all the help!
       
      #22 Ksherwood8713, Jul 19, 2018
      Tools
      + Quote Reply
    23. Found this thread through searching, I’m making my first BJD that fits this category.

      @dollsofchaos on Instagram

      she’s currently as casting stage!
      It’s been nearly a year in development.
      I would love your support!
      this board has always been great.

      thanks!
       
      #23 superboyfie, Nov 27, 2021
      Tools
      + Quote Reply
      • x 2
    24. Hi Stella,
      I hope you are fine and safe.
      If I was you, I would have a look at Joydolls by Julia Joy. I find her dolls very well made and beautiful.
      https://www.instagram.com/joydolls/
      Kind regards,
      Ioannis
       
      #24 IonM8, Jan 18, 2023
      Tools
      + Quote Reply
      • x 1
    25. I completely agree with IonM8, Julia's dolls are fantasic quality with many of bust, neck and shoulders options. There are also 7 skin tone options and sculpts to choose from. :)
       
      #25 Dollibird, Jun 28, 2023
      Tools
      + Quote Reply
Draft saved Draft deleted
Toggle Width
Styler
Styler
Color Options
Color Options