What is a BJD (Ball Jointed Doll)?

So it probably went something like this for you...(I know it did for me). I was searching through eBay when I found this doll, that I needed. I went to tons of different sites searching for information. So here's all the information that I wish I had starting out.

A BJD is a doll that has ball and socket joints, usually connected by strings on the inside. Today's market for these dolls started in 1999 when Volks, came out with the Super Dollfie. It quickly became a hit and Volks continues to produce dolls to this day (along with several other doll companies).

They range in size from 10 cm (4 in) to 70 cm (28 in). They are highly customizable, meaning their eyes, wig, shoes, and clothes can be changed. If you are really looking for something special you can even get a custom ordered doll or try to match parts from different companies (but I'll expand on that in later posts). You can even can even get a doll that is modeled after a animal, elf, fairy, etc.

Most people in the BJD hobby make a distinction between resin and vinyl BJDs. Vinyl BJDs are made out of plastic, sort of like Barbie. Resin BJDs are made of polyurethane (basically a special type of plastic), but are closer to the look of porcelain dolls. There are also fashion BJDs that are closer to collectible dolls, such as Gene, Tyler, and Tonner.

Still curious? Keep reading!