Tools & Materials for
Doll Making
On this page, you'll find all my favourite tools and materials that I use for doll making.
When you're just starting, it could be a little overwhelming - and quite expensive - buying everything at once. So I’ve gathered my favorite materials to make it easier for you. If you're an experienced doll maker, I hope you'll discover something new!
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![A pack of La Doll air-dry clay.]()
Clay
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![A hand holding a metal tool with a textured white handle, surrounded by additional similar tools and a large white knife on a wooden surface. Eucalyptus leaves are visible in the background.]()
Sculpting Tools
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![A hand holding a craft knife with three other craft knives on a wooden surface, next to a sprig of eucalyptus leaves.]()
Carving Tools
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![A collection of watercolor paints, paint tubes, and water color palettes with various colors on a white textured cloth surface.]()
Painting Supplies
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![Three traditional Chinese calligraphy brushes resting on a white porcelain brush holder with blue pattern on a black surface.]()
Brushes
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![A purple spray paint can labeled "Mr. Finishing Surface 1500 Gray" with a white cap, standing upright, with another can lying on its side beside it.]()
Varnish
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![A handmade fabric pin cushion with sewing pins, placed on a gray rectangular sewing box with compartments, along with scissors and a tape measure, all arranged on a gray surface.]()
Sewing Supplies
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![Close-up of a pair of intricately embroidered doll shoes.]()
Decor
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![A doll with long, wavy blonde hair adorned with butterfly-shaped hair clips, wearing a detailed white lace dress decorated with gold beads, surrounded by greenery.]()
Hair
CLAY
The most important ingredient! I work with air-dry clays only. Three choices I use constantly - each with their own character and strengths.
SCULPTING TOOLS
A few good and comfortable sculpting tools will be more than enough to create beautiful dolls.
CARVING TOOLS
Air-dry clays are so easy to carve. A sharp scalpel and carving tools will elevate your sculpting.
PAINTING SUPPLIES
Watercolours, pastels, and acrylics - knowing which materials fit which technique will save you time and money.
BRUSHES
A variety of good brushes is as important as sculpting tools. Use them for detailing and blushing!
PRIMER & VARNISH
Spray matt varnish to secure your work. Gloss to highlight lips and eyes beautifully.
SEWING SUPPLIES
Intricate costumes, plush dolls, artistic garments - sewing became central to my doll-making journey very early on.
DECOR
Bead embroidery, decorative metal pieces - I see each doll as a piece of art with intricate details to discover.
HAIR
Natural fibres only. Fine and silky hair is so pleasant to touch - and looks incredible on a finished doll.