My 8 favorite things about DoA

I'm approaching this as a countdown to my most favorite.

8. I appreciate the trouble-shooting info as in, "What do I do if/when...?
7. DoA is most often where I discover new companies and dolls.
6. Here is also where I can get feedback on those companies and dolls.
5. Love the databases! I can see owner pics and comparisons of dolls and also show off my new buys.
4. Selling on the marketplace--so much easier than e-Bay.
3. Buying on the marketplace--have found some amazing stuff.
2. The gallery and photo/game threads! My favorite aspect of the hobby is photography.
1. ​Anniversary games and challenges!!

 

In no particular order:

1. I've found out about SO many sculpts I wouldn't have otherwise
2. I've learned how to make props instead of spending a fortune on them.
3. Hybridding is MUCH easier with people that can give pics of different resins together
4. The marketplace is a great place to find new dolls and pass my old ones on to loving homes.
5. Galleries! I've realized that some sculpts have much more potential than factory pics made me think
6. Meet ups! Until DoA meet up threads, I thought I was the only BJD owner in KY. :P
7. Problem transaction threads. i KNOW that sound horrible, but in other places like ebay, I see a positive or negative symbol and one sentence, if that. Here, I can make my own decisions based on the full story as to whether or not certain things would be an issue to me and makes buying and selling much safer.
8. All the friends to be made, both by me and my dolls!

 

In reverse order!

8. Newbieland - When I first started, I was so afraid to post my silly questions, but everyone is so nice in the Newbieland area. Now I'm returning the favor and helping out other newbies with advice, pictures and support.

7. Size discussions - They allowed me to learn size differences both in height and width, learn more about what each company offers, what fits and doesn't fit... and then I get to see all the pretty owner pictures on top of that!

6. The databases - These helped me decide on or change my mind about certain sculpts, or just get new ideas for the ones I have already.

5. Feedback - Learning about what to watch out for and good procedures to use have been infinitely important in how I do business both on DoA and everywhere else.

4. Picture Requests - I learned you can hybridize many dolls just by looking at picture requests! So many Soom parts, so little time!

3. New postings - I can learn about new companies, new products, sales and services in a quick and easy way. It's always posted on the sidebar and seeing all these opportunities makes it easy for me to plan ahead and plan gifts!

2. The Marketplace - Let's face it, I wouldn't have some of the dolls I have today had it not been for the Marketplace and some of the dolls that have left my possession never would have found a better home without it.

1. Meet Ups - One of the major reasons I got into the hobby was because of how social it is. Without the meetup threads, I would never have met the most awesome group of people I'm proud to hang out with and blessed to call friends.

Shout out to the Portland BJD Group~

 

:'D I'm so happy! The festivities are beginning again! I'm really thankful to DoA. For so many reasons. So I guess here's the top eight!

1.) Knowing there's a community out there is a lot of mental support for having such a weird hobby.
2.) Looking at all the beautiful dolls out there, owner pics are much better accurate representations of dolls than company pics that only highlight their best qualities.
3.) The galleries are great, I really enjoy photostories and whatnot.
4.) It's a great place of learning. I've learned so many things about taking care of BJDs and even how they work on here. So many things I would have never researched on my own I've learned on here.
5.) For DOA specifically, I like how many guidelines and rules there are. Weird huh? I don't like chaos and many other forums don't have many rules so it turns into just another chat forum, I like how specifically this is a BJD forum and all the guidelines to make this forum as polite as possible.
6.) The fact I learn about new companies and events so quickly! I'm not much of a BJD collectasy person so this forum really keeps me up to date.
7.) The marketplace. Specifically the organization. It's so easy to find things, it's wonderful. I'm especially happy about the commissionable services subforum. Even when I'm not looking for a commissioner, I just love to look at people's art work and creativity.
8.) And lastly, I very much enjoy the annual festivities DOA runs. It's very entertaining and keeps many people in high spirits... right before the doom of school X3

Thank you to all the forum staff (and old staff members) for making DoA so clean and fun ^^

 

Congrats to DOA on its 8th anniversary!

My favorite things:

8. The news threads, which are somewhat dangerous, given the new sculpts arriving daily.
7. The technical threads, dealing with faceups, photography, etc. These definitely guided me through anxious noobdom.
6. The company specific discussion threads. I've made quite a few friends within these. They bring down to the forum to a manageable size.
5. The marketplace (although my pocketbook disagrees).
4. The sewing threads which inspire me daily.
3. The gallery and gallery+ threads, which often take my breath away and make me rethink beauty and art.
2. The friends I have made on DOA, both in person and online.
1. The work done by DOAs owner, mods and virtues. It's a hard job, and you are appreciated (although you should hear it much more often...)

 

Wow! 8th Anniversary? That's amazing! I've really enjoyed the time I've spent here, even if I've only been active about a year!

1.) I've learned so much about so many different companies thanks to databases and buying&shipping Q&A.
2.) The discussion threads for company sculpt sizes makes it easier to connect with people who love the same dolls you do! I've made most of my friends in the hobby here. :3
3.) I get news of doll companies faster here than if I was browsing through on my own- I love knowing about the new releases right when they happen!
4.) The support and kindness from other members; how everyone becomes enthusiastic when someone orders a new doll and chips in with their excitement! It just makes it so much more worth it to be able to share the love for the hobby and your dolls.
5.) The marketplace, of course. I love that everything is so easy to find and it truly is the largest online market for bjds- I prefer it so much more to ebay.
6.) The databases- whether it's of company sculpts or resin matching. It's so nice to see the versatility in a doll! it really makes me know whether or not it will work for what I want!
7.) Meet-ups! I would have never met people locally with the same hobby if it weren't for people being able to plan them
8.) The help and support of moderators when there's a question to be asked about the forum, and of course the fact that there is the option for paging threads. It really makes me feel safer buying & selling on the marketplace.

 

In no particular order:

1) The news postings on the homepage -- so convenient and up-to-date, this feature really takes advantage of the speed that info travels on the internet! I always see the latest news about my favorite companies here. It's gotten even faster than BJDcollectasy!

2) Maintenance help -- Wiring, sueding, putties, masks, materials: I don't mod much but when I do I can be confident that ALL the information I'll need to make my project a success will be here.

3) Marketplace -- I find people's sales pictures to be the most convenient way to learn about sculpts and companies. Why people loved their dolls, why they need to be rehomed, it's all very useful in adding information about doll brands and why each one is unique.

4) MEET UPS! The social element is a must-have for me. I haven't been to many meetups, but when I go I love the opportunity to see new dolls in person and learn more about these wonderful doll friends of mine.

5) Gallery+ -- I am a terrible photographer, and I have NO sewing, crafting, faceup, blushing, customizing skills whatsoever. But I do try! And seeing these fantastic pieces of artwork remind me why I try over, and over again and gives me a goal to aspire to!

6) Waiting Rooms -- Boy do I hate to wait for a new doll! I get dolls off the MP so often that on the rare occasion that I actually purchase one from the company I find myself completely not accustomed to the horrific long wait! The waiting room threads make it so much better, people's incoming doll photos, tips, tricks, and plans help make that wait bearable.

7) Box openings! Always my favorite gallery feature of DoA, I find the box opening section to be a sentimental fun trip. It reminds me of how excited I was when I got my very first doll, and it's always wonderful to see someone get a doll that I've been waiting for or had just missed. It's all part in sharing the excitement!

8) The Rosette discussion thread -- Never have I found a group of collectors I can enjoy the company with more! The Rosette discussion thread is a welcoming casual spot to talk about all the wonders of these lanky ladies, even for those who don't own a Rosette girl! It's just so wonderful to have so much positive energy in one spot, it's my go-to place for a warm hangout on Den of Angels. Even during my busiest day, if I see an email come in from the Rosette discussion thread I make sure to check it It's always going to put a smile, smile, smile on my face.

 

In no particular order!

1. The sheer amount of information that has been collected over the years is mind-boggling! If there's anything I need to know about a doll or a company, I know that I will find it here.

2. The galleries. I am always looking to improve my photography, and DoA's galleries are an inspiration, especially Gallery+.

3. The atmosphere. The mods do a great job at maintaining a fun and welcoming atmosphere. It's not an easy job, but I'm very glad that I can enjoy the forum without unnecessary snark or drama.

4. The marketplace. Especially the Group Orders section! I wouldn't have half the things I do, if it wasn't for the numerous group orders hosted here on DoA.

5. The people. I've made numerous friends here, especially in the Rosette discussion thread, which I consider to be my little chatty home-base here on DoA - big shout-out to all the Rosette people!

6. The workshop/customization area. If it wasn't for the numerous tutorials here on DoA, I would never have started blushing my dolls myself. It's been a very fulfilling and interesting thing for me to learn!

7. The News section. If there's anything new in the BJD world, I'll find out about it there!

8. The Drudgeon Project. It's been extremely humbling and enlightening project to participate in.

 

This sounds like fun! My fave things about this place are, in no particular order:

1. The people. Most of the people I've talked to here have been very nice, and I've met a lot of friends both online and IRL because of DoA!

2. General Discussion. I love chatting it up and learning more about BJDs!

3. MEET UPS! I absolutely love getting to hang out with people that love BJDs, especially because it makes me feel a little more "normal."

4. The News. I really enjoy seeing the latest the dolly-world has to offer!

5. Gallery and Gallery+. I'm trying to become better at photography, and seeing some of the great shots in these sections really helps. I also enjoy the Gallery because it helps me get a feel for how a doll looks when I'm considering a new one, especially those I haven't seen in-person yet.

6. Size-specific Discussions. Not only are there so many wonderful people in these areas, but they're also a font of information!

7. Marketplace. I've only had good experiences with both buying and selling through the MP, and it's great to know that if the time ever comes that I want an LE and don't have the money when it's released, there's still the possibility of finding it here. I also really like the feedback and paging system just in case things go awry.

8. The support from the Mods. I really appreciate that the mods take the time and effort to make this place work as smoothly as possible for everyone, especially when it comes to keeping people from being pressured and/or bullied.

 

No special order here...

1. DoA is international. Users come from all over the world. You can meet people from your own country as well as people from another continent.
2. It has a forum for everything. From customizing threads to waiting rooms and picture galleries. You'll never miss a forum.
3. You can get inspired by the wonderful gallery pictures and by many people's work and tutorials.
4. It has a really friendly atmosphere between users for most parts and considering the thousands of members, that's great!
5. It's one of the best places to buy and sell and also get information on companies, dealers and recent developments.
6. You can also get a bundle of news and information for dolls/companies/events in one search or through the wiki, even if the topic is years old.
7. Someone's always online and can help you with any problem, and you won't feel like a dunce, even if you are a total newbie.
8. The Mods and everyone managing this forum are really polite and are keeping up their work in a competent, friendly manner for years. Thank you, everyone! ^^

 

1. Shopping
2. Advice
3. Random pretty pictures
4. Sales & event news straight from the artery - even after 8 years, I would still never be able to manage to navigate any Volks event without the help of those Dolpa threads & its gurus
5. It's global & it's 24/7 - no matter what time of night, one of my friends from SOMEwhere around the world is online
6. Great place to post pics & get feedback about what does/doesn't work on your latest choices for that doll
7. Fun events & contests, as well as some challenging discussions & debates
8. Nicely controlled atmosphere that filters out most of the trollery & general bullshit you get elsewhere on the internet

Happy 8th, DOA! And many many more!!

 

Happy 8th Anniversary DoA! another spectacular year <- yay truffles!

1. The Community!- When i first started this hobby i felt so.. alone. I hadn't met anyone else who shared my interests and I didnt even feel comfortable sharing them with my own family. Since joining Ive made lots of friends and just had tons of great interactions. Ive even had total strangers go out of thier way to help me! Once I expressed sadness over receiving a doll with a different faceup than the one i had fallen in love with and a member offered to trade heads with me because she was going to wipe the faceup on hers! I was blown away someone would be kind enough to go to the post, and put plans on hold, just to help me bring home a dream doll. I cant express how thrilled I am to be a member of such a fantastic community!
2. The Market - A safe place to buy, sell and trade. Ive brought many amazing dolls home and found great homes for the ones that didnt work out. I love how much you can talk during a transaction and get to know the other person, it just makes everything feel closer to home. Ive also managed to bring home some rare/hard to find dolls for good prices... tan minifees ftw!
3. The Security- I can come here and relax and make mistakes without fear of being trolled lol I also know that the forum has my back if I get stuck in a bad transaction and that the mods will do whatever they can to help. There are also tons of threads/ members willing to give advice for pp disputes and the like.
4. The Galleries- So much creativity and beautiful photos! I always come here for inspiration and just to gawk at everyones talent.
5. Workshop- This place really get me inspired and off my butt to make stuff for my dollies! Its full of great ideas, how-tos, and conversation.
6. Databases and Picture Requests- An absolute must for me, someone who need to look at owners pictures before committing to a doll. People are really helpful and I always appreciate when someone takes pictures for me
7. Company Specific Threads- This is probably there 75% of my time on the forum is spent. You get to make friends who have similar taste in dolls that you do and share their issues, escapades, stories... etc. Even though I dont post much I love going to keep up with everyone and see what their dolls are up to.
8. Anniversaries!- I look forward to these every year XD I love how everyone comes together and gets to play games. People can be really silly and do them for fun, and everyone ive seen has been such a good sport. Its also great to see the surprises and vote on the wonderful entries.

 

My favourite things...hmm

1. Meetups Section! It is so easy to organise local get-togethers, and I would've never met my boyfriend if I hadn't been to a local meetup; so a big & honest thank you DoA! (and I would've never know just how many people in my city have BJDs!)

2. Discussion threads! Teenie Gem and Rosette are my daily hangouts; but in general all discussion threads are a fantastic way to see tonnes of owner pics, be social and learn heaps of info about the doll (what wigs, eyes, shoes, clothes fit best, ect)

3. PMs! It sounds silly but I always get a little excited when I get the 'New PM' Popup. I feel like 'Ooh! Someone wants to talk to me!' They're extremely useful too! :3

4. Databases! A wonderful resource for owner-photos and sharing some character info; I love looking through them (and adding my dolls too!)

5. Picture Requests! Will the resin match? Does it fit? Will my hybrid work? White hair and green eyes? Who is this doll? It is just so helpful for all kinds of information~! I love looking and I love helping out when I can!

6. Customisation Workshop! So.Much.Information. @_@ But it's all there, and no matter what you're doing, you can find safety tips, tutorials and helpful advice! I love reading though the "Mod-In-Progress" threads too!

7. The Market Place! I've bought and sold on here, it's easy and hassle-free. If you're patient (and quick) you can sometimes grab a great deal, or nab a long-sold out LE! Sometimes I just enjoy window-shopping! XD I also appreciate the Pageing/Feedback systems too they're VERY useful! Not just for MP transactions but swaps, GO's and Splits too!

8. News! Up to date and 24/7! I love checking out what's new in the BJD world; new sculpts, body updates, company events, promotions and competitions!

Happy 8th Birthday Den of Angels! I hope next year brings just as much fun!

 

No particular order disclaimer:

1. Minnesota Meet-up Threads
2. Soom Lami waiting room thread
3. Resinsoul tiny human and dragon threads
4. LTF discussion threads
5. Customization subforum
6. Marketplace
7. Juniper Snowpea photostories (and all other funny photostories, really)
8. Photo request threads

 

1. Meetup threads! Since they helped me meet my awesome friends
2. Marketplace, though it's dangerous for my wallet
3. Picture Requests, to see hybrids and other helpful things
4. Waiting rooms. Sharing the awesome of getting a new doll!
5. Gallery and Gallery+ Because I love to see all the beautiful and amazing pictures.
7. News threads, to see all the nifty new things companies put out!
8. Databases because I love to see pictures of the same sculpt done up differently and get an idea as to if I really want that sculpt or not.

 

1.The commissionable artists subforum! I would never have completed most of my characters without it.

2. Waiting rooms. I have spent many hours happily anticipating new dolls with fellow anticipators. (I still have fond memories of the enormous Heliot thread, in particular!)
3. The rest of the marketplace. It has been great for finding treasures, and for rehoming when things don't work out.
4. The databases. Awesome for seeing all the possibilities in a sculpt.
5. The galleries for browsing.
6. The tutorials for great ideas.
7. The doll/company specific threads for all the info anyone could need.
8. The photography subforum. I haven't used it as much as I'd like, but I have definitely picked up some great ideas in there.

 

OK... Wow... I don't suppose I could just say "all of it" -- no? All right, here goes, in no particular order:

* The Customizing subforum - such great projects, works in progress, wonderful creative mods. It's given me tons of ideas
* All the crafty (sewing, knitting, crochet, etc) threads - not only can I show off my own stuff but drool over what other members have created
* Ask the Mods - love it that you can get answers here
* The community - all the wonderful people you meet
* Photo galleries - such stunning pictures make me want to improve my own picture taking skills
* If I'm curious and interested in a particular doll, there are so many places I can go for discussion, information, photos etc.
* The Marketplace is an added bonus. How great that you can buy or sell a doll without listing fees or selling fees , and know that you are selling to someone within the community.
* The Rules -- yes, those pesky rules that we sometimes chafe at - getting your knuckles rapped by the mods for a inappropriate or off topic comment can sting, but after all it's what keeps this huge community in line. Think of the mess it would be without them!

 

8. The massive amounts of hybrids and pictures to help create them!
7. The sewing forum. The threads there have help me out numerous times with doll sewing and cosplay sewing!
6. The customization forum. All of it. It's so amazing to see what people create and how they go about doing it!
5. The marketplace. Without it, I wouldn't have my l-Bi girl hybrid, nor would I have ever thought about making her! Not to mention all the happy new homes dolls I've sold have found!
4. The SoulDoll waiting room, waiting for the Souloid boys wouldn't have been fun without you guys!
3. Beneath the Midnight Sun photostories! They've really inspired me to take better pictures and to actually work on my own dolls story and characters.
2. The Leekeworld Mikhaila discussion threads. Everyone in there is so friendly and eager to share all of their beautiful Mikhaila's. It never fails to make me smile when I scroll through all the post!
1. The Resin Nation Indy group. I've made several wonderful new friends since I first met them in when I got into the hobby. They've really helped me to become more social and confident in almost everything I do. That's definitely my favorite thing about DoA!

 

1. The fact that DoA is always there for me first thing in the morning when I stumble out of bed, blearry eyed and comfy-jammie-frumpy. I grab a cup of coffee and sit in front of the computer and go straight to DoA. It's my morning newspaper...only filled with fascinating creativity and art and friendship instead of depressing news about the ills of the world. Caffeine and a good dose of happy fantasy is exactly what I need to start my day off right!

2. The news postings on the homepage...keeps me caught up on what new sculpts companies are realeasing. And if a new doll peaks my interest, chances are excellent that there will be a link to a forum discussion thread for it that I can learn even more from.

3. The galleries...especially Gallery +...they're a hot bed of creativity and talent!

4. The stellar work done by the Mods and Virtues to keep DoA running smoothly. I dislike the utter chaos of some other forums. My doll collecting relieves the stresses of a very busy and active life for me. I've been on other forums where doll discussion had more to do with the incessant whining about how mad someone was at the inconvenience of their city repaving the street in front of their house, or how someone's little grandson possibly had cancer (she neglected to let the group know that it turned out to be only a wart that was quickly and easily removed, and instead strung everyone along expressing buckets of sympathy and concern her way for more than a week...literally hijacking the the site from all doll content...before casually announcing that she had over-reacted and it was just a false alarm, with the "Oops! forgot to mention it over a week ago when we found out" phrase...and she was the forum leader!) These are just two of the actual examples I have personally witnessed on other forums, so yeah...I especially appreciate the way DoA is run like a tight ship with logical content rules that protect us all!

5. The swaps! Oh so much fun to interact with the community, make things for others and get something surprising in return. And the greatest benefit of all is that the themes are awesome and help me actually develop characters for my dolls. And I often receive gifts that expand my doll's existing characters as well. It's all full of win!

6. The games and projects! There's always something to do around here, and you can stay as active as you like in the community. I especially love the Runway Challenges because they inspire me to create new outfits for my dolls and the newer Sewing Project thread for the same reason. Too much fun!

7. The subscription function...oh so handy! I can quickly and easily stay on top of the fun discussions for doll types I own and manage all those swaps I enter! Also keep track of fascinating gallery threads or anything else that peaks my interest.

8. The marketplace...oh yeah baby! I've bought and sold and taken part in many a group order over the years. And even though my collection is currently complete, I still love going through the doll sales just to window shop and see what's out there. It's just plain fun!

 

1. The people. The community is very nice!

2. The news feeds. It helps me discover new dolls and keep up to date with the newest stuff.

3. The waiting rooms. Waiting stinks and it's a good place to be with people who are feeling it with you; it's kinda like group therapy.

4. The marketplace group orders! I love GOs because I can't afford the shipping all by my lonesome.

5. Box openings. These are so fun because we all have been there and it's just like christmas!

6. The galleries. It's nice to see all the creative ways to pose and photograph your doll.

7. The customization area. It's a good way to get help or show your recent project.

8. Chat threads for the dolls. It's fun to talk to others about similar dolls and see what they're doing with them.

 

In no particular order:

1. News. So up to date and all.
2. Marketplace. Some of my dolls I wouldn't have without it.
3. All the info I can find and pictures on hybrids and stuff.
4. Size-specific discussion threads
5. Waiting rooms
6. Box Opening/Arrival Gallery
7. All three photo galleries
8. Customization + Maintenance

 

Happy Birthday Den of Angels!

~*~ My absolutely favorite thing about Den of Angels is that it exists!
~*~ There is almost always someone who can answer my questions.
~*~ The Arrival Gallery is invaluable when it comes to seeing what dolls really look like
~*~ The Picture Request thread is invaluable for helping me to map my next purchase
~*~ The Size-Specific Doll Discussion forums which feel like smaller communities
~*~ The Marketplace + ability to look up seller's feedback +post history; better than Ebay.
~*~ The Workshop has been an almost endless source of information and inspiration
~*~ The people who work behind the scenes. I definitely wouldn't have the patience they do.

Thank you guys!

 

1. I found my very first dream doll in the Marketplace! She was phased out years ago, and I'm so glad she was put up for adoption here.

2. I love being able to buy bits and pieces that won't normally be available from the doll company.

3. Awesome databases! It always amazes me how just one sculpt can look so different.

4. The waiting rooms make the wait a little less agonizing.

5. Feedback threads, both for companies and for individual members. I know better now which companies I'd like to steer clear from, and which individuals would be better to transact with.

6. Box opening galleries! I get a kick out of looking through other peoples' box openings and always get a thrill when they do the big reveal.

7. General discussions are good for getting feedback on questions and concerns that a lot of doll owners can relate to.

8. The lovely members of DoA who are very much willing to help when they can!

 

1. The photography! Everytime I see an amazing post in the gallery or gallery+ I am inspired and amazed.

2. The Memes, For me this hobby is all about the characterization so the memes help me make my characters more well rounded and give them more depth.

3. The doll reviews, I am NOT a first adapter so I usually don't buy the newest, shiniest thing and would rather wait to hear what people think of it/them. I love being able to see what the positive and negative points are of a certain doll or doll company and see pictures other than company pictures.

4. Sharing, For the most part this seems to be a fairly solitary hobby since BJDs are not all that mainstream. It is nice to be able to share stories and pictures with other doll owners.

5. The diversity, I love hearing from people that live all over the world about their dolls and all of the unique tastes

6. The marketplace, of course

7. Meetups, I love being able to have a place to set up meetings with other doll owners!

8. The moderators, Seriously, you guys keep this place organized, welcoming and running smoothly and rarely get enough credit. You are all, really, the best moderators from any forum I've been at. Thank You!

 

all of it? : )

1. The community - all the wonderful people you meet, and all people are so friendly and having fun!
2. Pictures - They help you with creating hybrids and lots of other stuff!
3. Tutorials - Love them! Lots of ideas and inspiration!
4. The doll or company specific thread - All the information you need!
5. Waiting rooms - When you wait a doll, you can share your waiting time there with other people!
6. Databases - I love to see pictures of same sculpt done up differently and get an idea as to if I really want sculpt or not.
7. Marketplace - Without it there wouldn't be my Minney honey!
8. It's global and online 24/7 - No matter what time it is, there must always be someone who is online same time!

Oh.. 8 already? :C

 

Hard to limit it to eight! Here's my top reasons for loving DOA, in no particular order.

1. The Marketplace - I've bought the majority of my dolls and their stuff here! Plus it's fun to look around even when I'm not looking to buy anything... although, I always end up buying something... <<;

2. Customization forum - I love looking at other people's projects!

3. Galleries - So many pretties! I love looking at other people's dolls and how creative they can get with their photoshoots. c:

4. News - Keepin' me updated! &#9829;

5. Database & Picture Requests - My consultant before I buy a certain sculpt, or when deciding whether or not they'd be right for the character. Plus it's so awesome to see how versatile one sculpt can be.

6. DoA members 18-30 thread - I've made some friends here and the conversations are always interesting!

7. The People here! Everyone is so nice and I love chatting with other doll people. *u*

8. Sewing Tutorials - What would I do without these?!

 

1: The MP. I love that place! It's like wandering round a bazaar, all the delicious resiny scents of the dolls tempting you to throw your money at the screen!

2: The mods and how hard they work to ensure this place runs as smoothly as it does. Thank you thank you thank you!!!

3: The amazing amount of information available here. Any imaginable doll problem can be solved with a quick search. And if not, you can always ask-

4: The incredibly helpful, knowledgeable members! Such a great community here, so lacking in bitchiness and bigotry. LOVE.

5: The creativity on display, from sewing to wigs to photography. It's lovely to see so much talent.

6: The diversity of all different kinds of dolls portraying all different kinds of characters.

7: The hubs of news, about new dolls, new companies, updates, releases, etc.

8: The tolerance, open-mindedness and non-judgementalness of the atmosphere here. Very rare online!

All in all... DOA is lovely resin love

 

Hard to choose from so many, but here are the subforums I visit the most!

1. The News - of course! To find out about events, new dolls, new stuffs! ^^b
2. The Marketplace for Dolls - to sell and to buy, and because it's one of the safest on the Internet!
3. The Waiting Rooms - where I can see new dolls coming and spend time while waiting~
4. The Gallery - uwah, where do I start? ^^ It's a good place to see the dolls I want to see!
5. The Box Opening - perfect place to see owner photos, especially straight out of the boxes!~ ^^
7. The Discussion Room - the community here is the best I've ever found~ ^^b
8. The Picture Request Subforum - perfect place to find comparison shots, photos of dolls I need, etc.

...no particular order there! I spend my time on DoA too much. Happy Birthday! XD

 

1. PoeticSoul, I'd have to agree wholeheartedly with your number 1. First thing in the morning I sit at my laptop with a fresh hot cup of coffee and log in to DOA for the kind of news and discussion that makes me want to wake up in the morning rather than stay in bed.

2. The DOA community! If it wasn't for all the wonderful eclectic hodge podge of owners, collectors, artists, crafters, photographers, illustrators and general BJD fans here that make this forum what it is and the wonderful discussions that therefore ensue and all the amazing people I've had a chance to communicate with & / or meet via this forum my world would be all the duller for it!

3. The Help! Emergency! subforum. The place I turn to first to resolve any dolly dilemma!

4. The Marketplace. The perfect place to trade with other doll owners both as a buyer and seller and save some money or build future dolly funds as desired!

5. The Feedback Forum. Much like any other online marketplaces it's the perfect place to both determine the trustworthiness of an MP seller or leave praise for the wonderful transactions I've had with other buyers and sellers both!

6. The News Thread. Yes, it can be too dangerously tempting to hang around the News Thread too long for all the Event and New Release info that sends my wallet a-shivering and my palms itch terribly but it can be a valuable source of information.

7. The Mods. Where would this forum be without all the hard working mods that keep it in running order. Thank you, DOA mod team for all your efforts to make this forum the wonderful place that it is.

8. Again, the people! Yes, I've said it twice now but I can't say enough that it is the people just as much as dolls that make up this forum that keep it fresh, interesting, inspiring and fun!
Thank you to the members of DOA for making this amazing place what it is today!

And Happy Birthday DOA!

 

1. Community! All the awesome people who make up DoA - so many people, all loving dolls. Yep, that sounds like heaven to me
2. The sheer amount of available, relevant information. Need to know how to make dreads? We got it. Wanna know if a hybrid will work? We got that too.
3. Size specific discussions. Whole threads of people who love this mold, this size and want to squee about it with you.
4. & to play favorites, the MNF thread *waves*
5. Box openings/Arrival Gallery. New dolls are always exciting!
6. Picture request subforum. Ties in with #2, plus it's just fun to browse through.
7. The Marketplace, without which I wouldn't have half my crew & the other half would remain naked.
8. Again, this ties in with #2, but I love finding out about all the new molds (& companies).

 

Here are mine:

1. Marketplace - even if I don't have money its fun to see what's there.

2. Information About Customizing - storing away for future use.

3. The artistry that people apply to their BJDs

4. Seeing pics of dolls that I am interested in

5. Well done Costuming and Settings

6. How helpful people are with questions that I have

7. Company info and reviews

8. How the forum maintains its focus, when it could become an out of control frenzy like some MBs

 

1. I love that you can post Commission threads. I wouldn't have half the business without DoA!

2. The Tiny threads - I adore anthros, and its so much fun to be able to talk to other enthusiasts and share photos.

3. The Marketplace. I have found some wonderful purchases that I would never have been able to find without it.

4. You can find out so much news, like what is happening with new dolls, etc.

5. The moderation. It really keeps SO much trouble out of the forum. Strict really is the best avenue here. Its a large forum, and yet SO well maintained. I have been on many other boards that BS starts constantly and is not policed.

6. I love that there is a critique section.

7. The best source to help you learn how to care for your new doll.

8. So many awesome people who are helpful when you have a question, etc. Not to mention that you can see a whole community of people that are just as "crazy" for their dolls as you are!

 

Ok so I'm pulling a "Lonely Island" because I'm on a boat.... shifty moment on my laptop between watches when I should be sleeping buuut its DoA's 8th anniversary and despite withdrawing from the hobby - I wouldn't miss this for the world....

In no particular order 8 things I love about DoA:
1. Waiting Rooms - the only place in the world where people understand thrice daily check-ups of a tracking number....
2. The Databases - to see the extent of others creativity and how they can make a "mass produced" doll into something entirely unique...
3. The Amazing Galleries - The photography never ceases to amaze me
4. The Workshop Threads - I still am floored at the variety, degree of talent and skill one forum can hold from so many areas of life.
5. Swap Threads - WAY cooler than buying and selling!
6. Umm The Marketplace - its just awesome - and awful at the same time, because sometimes you shouldn't but you just HAVE to!!
7. The Newbies Q&A - the best addition to the Forum IMO, our fledgling members can ask the same question a b'jillion times and never feel bad about it while they get used to forums lay-out etc...
8. The wealth of tolerance and impartiality from every member from all walks of life, its a place where regardless of religion or race or political ambitions we have kinship because of the hobby we love.

 

1) THE DATABASE! Seriously, that is the best thing because it has so many pictures of so many sculpts. I especially love it because it shows popular sculpts done by many different hands.
2) The Marketplace. It's so evil though, so much temptation...
3) Gallery+! It's so easy to get your daily dose of amazing dollies just by dropping in there.
4) Newbieland! I love helping new people when I can, though it's not much these days as I haven't the time.
5) The sewing subforum! So many people have contributed patterns and pattern-free tutorials there, which is so helpful for clueless folk like myself.
6) News threads! So nice to be able to see the new things coming out without having to hunt them myself.
7) The sheer size of this place! With so many people contributing, this forum can answer almost any questions you have.
8) The people! People say DoA is full of drama but I suppose I've been fortunate to never experience it, I've had great experiences here.

 

In no particular order:

~ Local meetup thread - I had no idea there were others like me in Wichita. ^__^
~ The Marketplace - so many reasons! I've gotten probably half my "kids" here
~ Tips and tricks - I've gotten so many great ideas from member suggestions
~ Comparisons - SO much easier to hybridize (which I love doing) when I can get comparison pix
~ Memes - silly, maybe. But great for killing time at work. <.<...>.> *shhh!*
~ Advice - because really, who can't use that?
~ The Mods - helping stamp out Trollery and BS, much appreciated!
~ Pix - yay looking at loads of pretty dollies!

^__^

 

1. News-- so I don't miss out on new dolls being sold. I've been very lucky to get many nice limiteds because I can keep up on when they go on sale in the News!

2. Over 55 Thread in General Discussions-- just love communing with my peeps! and the over 30 Thread is cool, too! I check with these both religiously.

3. Marketplace--Just a money-pit! But so nice being able to get ahold of rare items and not paying huge shipping costs. I am checking it WAY too much, but I love it.

4. Meetups-- Much of my overall socializing is doll-related (yeah, I have no life!). DoA is the best place to go for finding meetups and events and things to go to... (and all of the above, too--best for news and chatting and information... all things BJD!).

5. Gallery-- So many beautiful, funny, clever, fascinating images of fantastic dolls. I love it. So inspirational! There are more talented people here taking great doll photos than anywhere else.

6. Waiting Rooms-- Great to be able to pass the long wait times with others. I love it.

7. Box Openings-- I love seeing the excitement of getting a new doll--even if it's not my doll! Really--so much fun seeing others do this (and much less expensive!). PLUS--it gives me a look at owner photos of dolls that are nice and basic--no fancy lighting or photoshopping. It's very informative, both the pictures and the commentary.

8. Everyone On DoA-- Just love all you talented, creative, crazy, hard-working, fascinating, knowledgeable DOLL ENABLERS!!!! Seriously--you all make owning dolls so much more easy, interesting, safer and enjoyable.

 

1. How user friendly it is.
2. The excellent job the mods do running a smooth, relatively drama-free space. Other forums I have found to be way too chaotic & negative.
3. The news forum!
4. The newish "Ask the moderators" forum. It has been very helpful to me, and the mods are always so sweet.
5. The marketplace. Buying, but selling mostly. It's set up so nicely.
6. BJD Database! I love how easy it is to look up specific sculpts.
7. The Database Database. Again, I love the user-friendliness of it all.
8. The ability to make subscription folders. I just love that!

 

My favorite 8 things...in no particular order

1) Information: All the information on this board is so helpful. I have learned so much from reading through all the posts.

2) People: I have met so many wonderful people on here and I enjoy talking so much with everyone. Really a wonderful community we have here.

3) Creativity: I get so inspired seeing people customs and photos and styling. Sometimes I just need an extra push to get motivated to take a picture or two.

4) 24/7: I always know I can log on at any hour. I feel a real comfort in knowing this. Helps when I am anxious or just feeling blah!

5) Marketplace: I have gotten a few great things on the marketplace and I am glad we have this option. Never had a problem with it.

6) The Waiting Rooms: Love these. So nice to gather and discuss when the new doll will arrive with hundreds of anxious people!!!!

7) Size Specific Discussions: Wow. I dont know what I would do without these. So much information and pictures and everyone is so eager to help. LOVE IT!!!!

8) Moderators: We wouldn't function without you so thank you for all your help 24/7 365 days a year. You all are the BEST!!!!

 

1. The community! I've met some fantastic people here on DOA and have made some wonderful friends, both online and in real life, thanks to this forum
2. News I would never know what the heck was going on in the world of BJD if it wasn't for DOA
3. The marketplace-it's an amazing resource and I've used it extensively as a buyer, seller and commissionable artist...and it provides hours of 'window shopping' pleasure!
4. Swaps
5. The galleries-I love sharing my own work. I love being inspired even more!
6. Box Openings!
7. Tutorials...the how-to's and tutorials here on DOA have saved me hours of teeth grinding and hair pulling over the years
8. Being exposed to sculpts/dolls that are out of my 'comfort zone.' I've fallen for a few BJD over the years that I never would have even taken a second glance at if it wasn't for DOA...yay for enabling!

 

1. All the photo galleries. The opportunity to see so many different dolls, all made unique by their owners. I'm absolutely blown away by the amazing photography and gorgeous dolls here! It's very inspiring, and challenging for me too -- to improve in my own photography and art/craft.

2. The Marketplace. What can I say?

3. The people I've transacted with on the Marketplace. I'm really fortunate that I haven't encountered a sour deal yet. Thanks to them for giving me the opportunity to buy dolls and goods that I otherwise wouldn't be able to obtain. Of course, thanks for buying my goods too.

4. The thoughtful discussions that I've read here, and the members who contributed. Even though I've never met any of them, and they probably wouldn't know that I'm referring to them, I've come to respect and value many active members here, and would certainly miss them if they left.

5. The picture requests and other informative forums have been invaluable. There are so many intricacies and technicalities in BJD world, and I'm thankful for the forums and members who've helped me navigate this wide and varied hobby.

6. The meet-ups forum, and all the people who've taken the initiative to run them. There's nothing like meeting other people and dolls in person, and it's great to know that there are other BJD lovers near me!

7. The news forum. I'm utterly dependent on it now for dolly updates!

The last will be first...
8. The amazing group of moderators. Den of Angels won't exist without them. That alone is enough for me to be thankful, but I can't imagine the dedication, sacrifice and effort they've put into keeping this forum chugging away smoothly, while we're having fun here. I'm immensely, massively grateful for them! Thank you!

 

In no particular order~

1. The MP ('nuff said)
2. Sharing my (vast and nearly useless in all other situations) knowledge of sculpts with people who post in Visual Concepts. XD
3. The MP
4. The databases and galleries are realllly helpful when it comes to visualizing a sculpt in a non-company-default way~
5. The MP
6. The News. I very much enjoy staying informed without having to check hundreds of sites every day to see if they have anything new. ;P
7. The MP (I like it thissssss much)
8. I never would have gone to dollmeets or met so many awesome people if I hadn't first found out about the local dollmeets on here. ;u;

 

1. the Marketplace - I feel secure buying a doll there due to feedback etc
2. ALL the info!!!! I need to know about anything dollie, I can find something here about it.
3. Meetups Have gone to several due to DoA - I love it.
4. PHOTOSTORIES - my number one thing that I longed to get onto DoA for. I love the pics in the Galleries & especially the stories - love love love it.
5. the discussion threads, cause I love BSing...
6. the databases to help w/all the different dolls, companies, etc.
7. the News threads
8. Finally, just the sense of being connected to people all over the world who share a love for BJDs

 

8. The Gallery and Gallery+ sections for ideas of styles, photoshoots, picture taking in general and being able to see dolls that I will never own.

7. The News section that has introduced me to new companies and sculpts.

6. 24/7 access!

5. Being able to "subscribe" to favorite threads for faster access.

4. Talented customizers who bring my dolls to life since I have no artistic skills at all.

3. The Marketplace baby!!!

2. Zagzagal for answering all my questions in the "ask the moderators" subforum. Thank you!!!

1. The friends that I've made in the community that have spilled over into real life.

 

1. The Drudgeon project. Many people have the tendency to balk at on- and off-topic decisions, but this really shows me how tough it is to decide and judge under proper criteria! I especially appreciate the inclusion of members to see what they say as well.

2. The mods and virtues. DOA has been my online home for about 6 years now, and though trends may change and the rules may be tweaked, it makes me so happy to know that it hasn't fallen to any chaotic level. It makes me even happier when I see them interact with other community members and be active in the gallery/discussion/debate threads. I don't know how to thank these guys enough for the tough work they do.

3. The databases. It's super handy to be able to see more of a certain sculpt without the hassle of digging through forum search pages and being referred to other sites that I am generally not a part of. I also love that I can read up on a doll's character background. Nothing means much more to me than being able to see what people do with their dolls, and how they do it so differently from another person who owns the same mold.

4. The marketplace. Granted, I've only ever bought a doll body secondhand but even the clothes and eyes/wigs section has helped me find just what I was looking for and so much more. I absolutely love that it's been tightened down to a community I'm familiar with, and that I can just look and see what's for sale and what its estimated worth is even when I have no serious intention of buying anything that day.

5. The feedback forum. I've been on other sites and never bothered much with feedback, but being on DOA helped me realize how important this is, not just to me, but to other members as well. Being able to look at company feedback is especially helpful too. There aren't many days where I don't go to peek at something.

6. The news section. I check this every time I see it's been updated, and it's the part of DOA I visit the most because I would be floundering without it. I don't regularly check doll sites because I tend to forget or I don't understand the language, so this really is the biggest aid for me in seeing what's going on.

7. The customization section. I've only ever done a small subtractive mod on one of my dolls and without this, I don't know how disastrous the work could've done or what would happen without proper protection. Even better that I get to see how other people do their work and what they're doing. Some of my favorite dolls are created inside those threads! WIPs enlighten me so much, even though I might not embark on anything as daring as some of those modifications.

8. The gallery forum. I really have no words in me to express how grateful I am that people keep this active, and that I get to see dolls presented as their owners love them. I make sure to check as many threads as possible even when I'm not interested in the doll, because I'm almost always pleasantly surprised to see how gorgeous they are in the right hands and with the right amount of effort and love. It's also the area where I tend to make friends, whether by commenting on each other's threads or messaging the owner myself to say how much I adore their doll.

 

1.) The MP for sure! I love the new improvements to make searching much easier. DoA's marketplace is my first stop for buying anything BJD related secondhand stuff. And a lot of the sellers/buyers are very friendly and easy to work with.

2.) Gallery threads. I used to search them a lot more when I was knew to the hobby and didn't know about flickr. But they were a big help for finding different combinations of hair/eye color for a specific sculpt.

3.) The BJD database is a HUGE help for me. If I'm uncertain about what a certain sculpt looks like then I'll try there. I also love to go to the databases of my own doll's sculpt to see the newest ones in the community. :3 It's also a helpful resource for digging up information about what eyes/wigs/clothes fit and what brands they are.

4.) The swaps! I never did swaps outside of secret santa before so it's been a great experience for me. I don't have that many BJD collectors that I know irl so being able to share and exchange things with someone outside of a computer screen is pretty awesome to me. :3

5.) Ask the Moderators section has been a big help for me. I don't have a lot of questions but when I do, I try and research to find the answer before asking. But there are sometimes you need the advice of someone you knows more or it's something specific to the rules of the forum. I also feel more confident making a thread about it rather than PMing a mod and hoping it doesn't get lost in their inbox. xD It's a really good feature.

6.) News threads! I never seem to know what's going on without seeing it come up in the news threads. Lately I've been active in vying for the Volks lotteries and if it wasn't for the news threads and waiting room then I'd really be lost. I never knew about KL or WLDs without it or that there's an international lottery.

7.) The BJD Wiki. It's a good resource for finding quick information about just any doll company. I also like that they include links in the articles so that I can dig up more information or leads for other websites I could make use of.

8.) Meet up threads! Without it then I'd really be lost. And it's how I'm able to connect with local members. :3

 

1)The 18-30 bjd lovers topic. LOL I just started getting more active and have gotten to know awesome people on DOA.
2)Sewing and Customization forums. I am always looking through this section to see what can be made, tutorials, who has done what, and to see how amazingly creative people have been.
3) The MP. I don't use it a whole lot, but it is a great resource when I need that one specific item!
4)Swap forum. It's a great way to get to know fellow bjd owners. I don't really do this often either, but I have always had great experiences when I joined swaps.
5)Feed Back forum. I like how the site dedicated a section to Feedback, and anything you need to know about someone can be found easily. Either through search, a link in your profile, or just browsing through.
6)Feed back for Companies. I like this a lot as well, because you can easily look up a company to see if they have problems or not.
7)Galleries. Simply put: I like seeing all the pretty dollies, clothing, jewelry, etc.
8) Photo request section. I like to see comparisons of dolls, wigs, eyes, heights, resin, frankendolling. It helps in the deciding factor for what i want to buy for my doll.

 

I am too new to list 8 things,, but
I like the friendly nature of the group
the photos people post,
the loads of info available about bjds
I like the ability to look up a certain doll and find all of the info
I like that I can post a question and get so many replies to help answer it.
I like to see the custom dolls
I think the people moderating are so welcoming and are truly there to make this a great experience.
I am looking forward to being able to see the marketplace when the time comes

 

1) the discussions here where I can squeal and rant about dolls I love with people (can't do that in real life without being criticised)
2) the helpful moderators
3) galleries, some pictures and dolls are truly breathtaking
4) photo stories-really awesome
5) the friendly nature of the forum
6) company feedbacks and discussions are real helpful for future purchases
7) the news where I get important news of my favourite doll companies fast and early
8) fanatstic tutorials

 

1. The Relevant Advertisements
2. Talented Commissioners
3. The Firm Moderation
4. Bustling Marketplace
5. The Fun Contests
6. The Organization
7. Tutorials
8. News Forum

 

1) Swaps!
2) Project Runway games
3) Tutorials
4) Galleries
5) Meet up threads
6) Marketplace
7) Minifee discussion thread
8) Sewing & Customizing threads

 

Aww happy Birthday DOA! Big eight this year huh? Okay I'll try my hand at this. This isn't order so here goes.

1.The databases. Without those I'm sure many people would make very quick and impulsive decisions about dolls much more often. It's also quite fun to see all the sculpts and the best. Very ingenious.
2.The people. Where there will always be opposition and conflict ANYWHERE you go, I have met nothing but kind people here on DOA and I appreciate the way members come together in the forum and really reach out to help others.
3.Galleries. There's some epic stuff in there guys. Nuff said. XD
4.Marketplace. Never go there when you're broke though. You WILL find something you want.
5.The mods and the countless people that strive so hard to make this site enjoyable.
6.The Workshop. Thank you thank you thank you, to the person that thought of that.
7.The atmosphere. The fact that even in a community with so many users you never feel neglected
or ignored. There will ALWAYS be someone who will reach out to you and that's comforting.
8.Picture Requests. I can spend hours just looking at all of the nice things you can look forward to seeing for you little collection. Whether it's clothing or just personal tastes, there always something to look at.