Where to buy ball joint doll?

Answer 1

The best place to buy BJDs is from the manufacturer directly. This will ensure that you're getting the real doll, and not a recast (knockoff) doll. While BJDs are available on eBay, recast BJDs are being sold more and more commonly on that website, even though this is against eBay's policy. While it may save you some money in the short term to buy a recast doll, if everyone were to buy recast dolls, soon, the market on BJDs would crash, and no new molds or dolls would be produced. I think this would be a crying shame.

BJDs are a work of art--they are hand-poured. Each piece is lovingly hand cast and poured, with liquid resin, and it requires a certain skill to created a mold that functions properly and still looks good. Additionally, the skill required to produce a beautifully painted face is another issue all together. Therefore, I recommend sticking to either the manufacturer or its licensed dealers when making your purchase.

You'll be able to feel good about your purchase then as well--you'll know your money went to someone who lovingly created your doll from start to finish, and will want to work on a new sculpt for you in the future as well.

Another great place to purchase a BJD is in person at a show or convention. If you're in the Los Angeles area, there is a great show coming up called the Korean BJD Show on April 24-26, which will be held at the Westin Los Angeles Airport. You'll be able to see quite a few actual Korean BJD manufacturers in person, meet them, and peruse their dolls right there. The great thing about this is that you won't have the typical three to six month wait for your hand-made doll if you buy one at the show, which is terrific. Plus, you can also take classes on how to sculpt your own doll or do your own face-up at the show. It should be pretty fun!

Answer 2

junkyspot.com or ebay is my best answer for you. That's where I get my wigs for my dolls and where I sell my doll dresses I design and make. Generally though, ball jointed dolls are very rarely cheap. Best bet is to get a used one and even then they could remain around $200-$500. That or get the doll piece by piece. Buy a head one month, body after that, wig the month after and then eyes and what not.

Hope this helps.