Angela Pennock
19 mars 2023
How to Successfully Sell Your Reborn Doll: A Complete Guide
Whether you're a collector looking to make room for new additions or an artist ready to find loving homes for your creations, selling a reborn doll requires the right approach to attract serious buyers and achieve the best price. Here's your step-by-step guide to a successful sale.
1. Prepare Your Doll for Sale
Document Everything
Take high-quality photos from multiple angles
Include close-ups of facial details, hair texture, and any unique features
Photograph the doll with and without clothing
Add watermarks to ALL photos - include your nursery name or seller ID
Position watermarks strategically - overlap them where they're difficult to crop out
Avoid showing certificates of authenticity in photos (scammers can steal and misuse these)
Gather Documentation (Keep Private Until Sale)
Certificate of authenticity (share only with serious buyers via private message)
Original artist information and sculpt details
Purchase receipts or provenance
Any special edition or limited run information
Care instructions and original accessories
Security Best Practices
Never post certificate photos publicly - scammers use these to create fake listings
Watermark every single photo - make it part of your standard process
Use overlapping watermarks - place them across important details that can't be easily edited out
Share certificates only after payment is confirmed and you're ready to ship
Consider adding your contact information to the watermark for additional verification
Condition Assessment
Clean the doll gently with appropriate products
Check for any damage, wear, or modifications
Be honest about the condition—transparency builds trust
Consider professional restoration if needed for valuable pieces
2. Research Your Doll's Value
Key Factors Affecting Price:
Artist reputation - Renowned sculptors like Ping Lau or Doris Moyers Hornbogen command higher prices
Sculpt rarity - Limited editions and discontinued kits are more valuable
Condition - Pristine dolls with original accessories fetch premium prices
Age and provenance - Early works from established artists often appreciate
Market demand - Popular sculpts in current demand sell faster
Research Methods:
Check completed eBay listings for similar dolls
Browse reborn doll Facebook groups and forums
Consult with reputable dealers or appraisers
Review current retail prices for new versions (if still available)
3. Choose Your Selling Platform
eBay
Pros: Largest general marketplace, auction format can drive up prices Cons: Fees (10-13%), potential for returns, buyer protection heavily favors buyers Best for: Rare or high-value dolls, reaching collectors outside Facebook
Facebook Marketplace & Groups
Pros: Global reach, direct buyer communication, lower fees, largest reborn doll marketplace Cons: Safety considerations for transactions, varying group rules Best for: Most reborn doll sales, building relationships with collectors, international sales
Specialized Reborn Communities
Pros: Knowledgeable buyers, appreciation for quality, fair pricing Cons: Smaller audience, may take longer to sell Best for: High-end or artist dolls, building reputation
Consignment Shops
Pros: Professional handling, established customer base Cons: Commission fees (20-40%), less control over pricing Best for: Valuable collections, hands-off selling approach
4. Set a Realistic Price - Don't Listen to Facebook "Experts"
The Facebook Pricing Problem
We see it constantly on Facebook groups: "How much should I sell my doll for?" Then dozens of people chime in with random prices about what THEY think it's worth - but notice how not one of these "pricing experts" actually offers to buy the doll at the price they quote! These people are not buyers, and they're certainly not pricing professionals.
Calculate Your True Baseline Cost
Add up ALL your actual expenses:
Doll kit cost (reborn kits typically start around £69)
Premium clothing and accessories
Weighting materials (glass beads, polyfill, etc.)
Rooting costs (mohair, needles, time-intensive work)
Paint costs (factor in a percentage of your paint supplies)
Any special materials (eyelashes, magnets, etc.)
This total is your break-even point - the absolute minimum you need to recover your investment.
Add Your Profit Margin
Once you know your baseline costs, add your profit margin on top. While you can technically ask whatever you like, smart pricing should reflect your skill level:
Beginner artists - Price slightly below established professionals while you build your reputation
Experienced artists - Command higher prices based on your proven track record
Master artists - Premium pricing for exceptional realism and craftsmanship
Remember: Buyers Pay for Realism
The most realistic-looking dolls command the highest prices. Your pricing should honestly reflect the quality and realism you're able to achieve.
Don't Undervalue Your Work
Many artists drastically undercharge because they don't properly calculate their costs or they listen to Facebook "advice." Know your numbers, price fairly, and don't let random commenters devalue your artistry.
5. Create a Compelling Listing
Write an Engaging Title
Include key search terms:
Artist name and sculpt
Size and gender
Special features (rooted hair, glass eyes, etc.)
Condition and completeness
Craft Your Description
Start with the most important details (artist, sculpt, size)
Describe the painting technique and materials used
List all included accessories and clothing
Mention any special features or modifications
Be honest about condition and any flaws
Include care instructions for the new owner
6. Professional Photography Tips
Lighting Setup
Use daylight bulbs or strong LED lights for consistent color accuracy
Ring lights work excellently for even, shadow-free illumination
Position two lamps at different angles to eliminate harsh shadows
Avoid yellow tungsten bulbs which can distort the doll's true colors
Test your setup by taking a few shots and adjusting lamp positions until shadows are virtually eliminated
Camera Positioning & Angles
Get down to eye level - this creates the most natural, engaging perspective
Avoid overhead shots - they flatten the doll's features and look unnatural
Never shoot from the foot end - this creates an unflattering, distorted view
Minimize pacifier shots - buyers want to see the full facial features and mouth details
Capture at the doll's eye level for the most lifelike, appealing photos
Other Photography Tips
Use a neutral background (white or cream seamless paper or fabric)
Show the doll in natural, lifelike poses
Include scale references (next to common objects like a ruler or your hand)
Take detail shots of unique features like rooted hair, painted details, and glass eyes
Capture the doll's "personality" - the expression that makes it special
7. Outfit and Presentation Strategy
The Golden Rule: What You Show Is What You Sell
Never use "outfit of my choice" language - this is a recipe for disappointment and disputes
The outfit in your photos IS the outfit that goes with the doll - period
Price your doll to include the cost of premium outfits - don't treat clothing as an afterthought
Why This Matters
Buyers fall in love with the complete look they see in photos
Changing outfits creates immediate disappointment upon arrival
"Not as described" claims can result in chargebacks where you lose both the doll AND the money
Premium outfits are part of the doll's perceived value - factor them into your pricing
Outfit Presentation Best Practices
Ensure outfits are absolutely pristine - no wrinkles, stains, or wear
Steam or iron clothing before photography
Choose outfits that complement the doll's coloring and style
Include close-up shots of outfit details and quality
If you have multiple outfit options, photograph the doll in each and let buyers choose
Build outfit costs into your pricing - don't absorb these expenses
Avoid These Costly Mistakes
Photographing in expensive outfits you don't intend to include
Using vague language like "similar outfit" or "outfit of my choice"
Underpricing your doll and then skimping on the outfit to maintain margins
Assuming buyers won't notice or care about outfit changes
8. Dealing with Buyers - Maintain Professional Boundaries
The Golden Rule: Buyers Are Not Your Friends
While buyers can be friendly and pleasant, remember this is a business transaction. Maintain professionalism at all times. Your kindness should never be mistaken for weakness or an invitation to take advantage.
Payment Plans - You Are Not a Credit Agency
If buyers ask for payment plans, be very clear about your terms:
State exactly what happens if they miss a payment - this happens frequently
Set specific dates and amounts
Require a substantial deposit upfront
Make consequences crystal clear in writing
Remember: A reborn doll is a luxury item, not a necessity
The Excuse Playbook - Stay Sympathetic But Firm
Buyers will use every trick in the book to delay payment or get the doll without full payment:
Hospital admission
Child is ill
Medical bills
Family member died
Pet died
Car broke down
Financial emergency
How to Handle Excuses:
Deal with excuses sympathetically and tactfully
Acknowledge their situation with empathy
Remain absolutely firm on your terms
Remember: You wouldn't spend £800 on a designer bag if you couldn't afford your electricity bill
Owning a reborn doll is not an entitlement - it's a luxury
The Non-Negotiable Rule: Never Ship Without Full Payment
NEVER, EVER post a doll to a buyer until they have paid in full. No exceptions, no matter how convincing their story or how long you've been talking.
Handling Abusive Buyers
If a buyer becomes abusive:
Do not engage further
Tell them clearly: "I do not appreciate this behavior"
State: "If this continues, the deal is null and void"
If abuse continues: "I will be making a police report"
Follow through - verbal abuse and threats are criminal matters
Remember: You Have the Power
You own the doll
You set the terms
You can walk away from any deal
Your safety and respect come first
9. Never Sound Desperate - Maintain Confidence in Your Product
The Desperation Red Flags
We see these posts constantly on Facebook, and they're absolute sale killers:
"I can't sell my doll"
"My dolls just won't sell"
"I keep reducing the price and feel like I'm giving it away and still nobody buys it"
"Why is nobody buying this doll?"
To buyers, these are massive RED FLAGS. You're essentially telling them your doll is virtually worthless! It's like walking into a shop and having the owner immediately tell you how nobody wants their products!
The 4-Week Rule
If you haven't sold your doll within about 4 weeks:
Remove your doll from sale completely
Take different photos - your photos are your shop windows
Try a new outfit - fresh presentation can change everything
Relist as a "new" listing with renewed confidence
Remember: Photos Sell Your Doll
Your photos are everything. They're your shop window, your sales pitch, and your first impression all rolled into one. If a doll isn't selling, the problem is usually the presentation, not the doll itself.
Stay Positive Always
Never ask "Why is nobody buying this doll?" - you may get a brutally honest response you don't want to hear
Present your doll with confidence and pride
Let the quality speak for itself
If you don't believe in your doll's value, why should buyers? Its like going into a shop and the shop keeper tells you "all my products are so bad nobody buys them....."
Reframe Your Mindset
Instead of "Nobody wants this doll," think:
"This doll is waiting for the right collector"
"I'm being selective about who gets this beautiful piece"
"Quality takes time to find the right home"
Professional Presentation Beats Desperation
Confidence sells. Desperation repels. Always present yourself and your dolls as valuable, sought-after pieces that deserve the right home - because they do.
10. Navigate the Sale Process
Communication Best Practices
Respond promptly to legitimate inquiries
Be patient with genuine questions from new collectors
Provide additional photos if requested
Clearly state your terms and conditions upfront
Build rapport while maintaining boundaries
Payment and Shipping
Use secure payment methods (PayPal Goods & Services, bank transfers)
Require full payment before shipping - no exceptions
Provide tracking information
Consider insurance for valuable dolls
Communicate throughout the shipping process
Packaging for Success
Invest in quality packaging materials
Use bubble wrap and tissue paper generously
Include care cards and any documentation
Add a personal touch with a handwritten note
Ensure secure packaging to prevent damage
11. Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Overpricing - Research thoroughly to set realistic expectations
Poor photos - Invest time in quality photography
Incomplete descriptions - Provide all relevant details
Inadequate packaging - Protect your investment during shipping
Being too trusting - Maintain professional boundaries
Shipping before full payment - Never compromise on this rule
Outfit bait-and-switch - Never promise one thing and deliver another
Sounding desperate - Confidence sells, desperation repels
12. Building Long-Term Success
For Collectors
Build relationships within the community
Maintain detailed records of your collection
Consider specializing in specific artists or styles
Join collector groups for market insights
For Artists
Develop your signature style and technique
Build an online presence and portfolio
Engage with the collector community
Consider limited editions to create exclusivity
Final Thoughts
Selling reborn dolls successfully requires patience, preparation, and understanding your market. Whether you're parting with a beloved piece or launching your artistic career, taking the time to present your doll professionally will attract serious buyers and ensure a positive experience for everyone involved.
Remember, each reborn doll represents hours of artistic skill and emotional investment. By following these guidelines, you're not just making a sale—you're helping these beautiful creations find their perfect new homes while protecting yourself from costly disputes, disappointments, and potential fraud.
The key is consistency: what buyers see in your photos should be exactly what they receive. Price fairly, photograph professionally, maintain professional boundaries, and always deliver on your promises. This approach will build your reputation in the community and ensure successful sales time after time.
Most importantly: Never compromise your safety, respect, or financial security for any sale. No doll is worth being taken advantage of or abused. Present your dolls with confidence - if you don't believe in their value, neither will your buyers.