The Ultimate Gift Guide for Doll Makers (Things They Actually Want)

 

Buying gifts for a doll maker can feel a little risky - there are countless tools and supplies that look tempting but end up gathering dust on a shelf. So to make holiday shopping easier (and much more fun), I’ve put together a curated list of artist-approved gifts that doll makers truly use and love.

Whether you’re shopping for a beginner, a seasoned artist, or you want to treat yourself, these seven items are behind every doll I make. They’re practical, inspiring, and guaranteed to make any doll maker’s heart skip a beat.

This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. I wouldn’t promote anything I don’t absolutely love!

1. Good-Quality Clay

If you’ve followed my work for a while, you already know how passionately I advocate for investing in good clay. It makes sculpting more enjoyable and elevates the final result.

My personal favorite is La Doll Premix - an air-dry clay that holds fine details beautifully, remains consistent, and sands down to a satin smooth finish. I use it for almost everything: sculpting BJDs, creating prototype parts, and making plush doll faces.

It can be pricey (I’ve seen it reach up to $22 per pack in the US), which is exactly what makes it such a thoughtful gift. Good clay is one of those materials artists get genuinely excited about because they can use it right away.

Clay I recommend:

2. Soft Pastels

Soft pastels are a staple in the doll-making world. They’re perfect for blushing, shading, and adding delicate makeup to resin or clay dolls. They’re also wonderful for adding soft blush to plush dolls.

My go-to brands are Rembrandt and Renesans. Both offer high-quality pigments and the option to buy individual sticks - ideal for slowly building a personal palette. A full set, however, makes an absolute show-stopping gift. Just keep in mind that sets can be around $60 and go up depending on size and brand.

A single set can last for years, which makes them a long-term investment for any artist.

Soft pastels I recommend:

3. A Book About Costume History

Because many doll makers sew their own costumes, understanding historical fashion can be a goldmine of inspiration. A well-illustrated costume history book helps artists understand silhouettes, fabric shapes, and the storytelling behind clothing.

I always keep mine close when designing outfits for my BJDs. While mine is in Lithuanian, there are many fantastic English-language options that cover everything from ancient garments to early 20th-century styles.

Whether someone wants to recreate period-accurate outfits or simply gather visual references, a costume history book is a thoughtful, timeless addition to any artist’s shelf.

Books I recommend:

4. Fine Detail Brushes

When painting tiny faces and delicate features, thin detail brushes are essential. A high-quality brush can completely transform the precision and finish of the artwork.

I rely on a small selection of ultra-fine brushes for my porcelain dolls and other miniature details. A curated set with different lengths and thicknesses makes a beautiful, elegant gift that any doll maker will appreciate, no matter their experience level.

It’s one of those tools that feels special but is also used constantly.

Brushes I recommend:

5. Ball-Jointed Doll Making Courses (30% Off Until December 7)

If you want to give someone (or yourself!) an immersive learning experience, now is the perfect moment. All of my doll-making courses are 30% off with the code DOLLS30 until December 7 (2025).

I currently offer three classes, each focusing on a different stage of the BJD-making process:

You can choose just the one you need or follow the entire process from beginning to end.

All courses include access to a private Facebook group - a warm, supportive space to ask questions, share progress, and connect with other doll makers.

6. Good-Quality Watercolors

Watercolors are another dreamy but often pricey supply that doll makers adore. A single good set can last years, especially if you’re mainly painting dolls.

I personally prefer watercolors over acrylics for clay dolls because they allow delicate layering, smooth blending, and a soft, natural finish.

Prices vary widely, from budget-friendly Japanese brands to luxury sets like the Schmincke wooden-box edition (which can reach nearly $600). Whether you choose something practical or extravagant, watercolors make a gift that feels both creative and indulgent.

Watercolors I recommend:

7. A Ceramic Palette

A ceramic palette is one of those studio tools that feels humble but becomes indispensable. They’re easy to clean, don’t stain, and work beautifully with any type of paint - from watercolors to china paints.

I use a handmade ceramic palette most often (I made it myself!), but you can find gorgeous handcrafted versions on Etsy or through ceramic artists like Sugarhouse Ceramics.

If you dabble in ceramics yourself, making a palette for a friend is a deeply personal, meaningful gift. If not, purchasing one still offers that “functional artwork” feel that creatives adore.

Palettes I recommend:

Final Thoughts

I hope this gift guide helps you discover something special for the doll maker in your life or inspires you to treat yourself this holiday season. All the items I mentioned are ones I personally use and love, and they truly make a difference in the doll-making process.

If you’d like to explore the materials further or join one of my doll-making courses, everything will be linked (don’t forget the 30% off code DOLLS30).

Wishing you a cozy, creative holiday season - and feel free to share your own doll-maker gift ideas in the comments!

 
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