Omar Khalid
Whether you're an avid collector or simply looking to spruce up an old toy, antiquing a plastic doll can be a fun and rewarding project. While some prefer the pristine look of a vintage doll with bright features and neat clothing, others may seek a more antiquated appearance. Achieving an antique look involves various techniques, from styling the hair and repairing tears to employing specific restoration methods like paper mache clay or glue. It's important to exercise caution when handling dolls, as certain materials and tools can react negatively with the plastic, and power tools should generally be avoided. Proper storage is also crucial, as factors like lighting, temperature changes, and pollutants can impact the condition of your doll over time. With the right approach, you can successfully give your plastic doll a charming antique makeover while preserving its value and sentimentality.
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What You'll Learn
Cleaning plastic dolls
To clean the plastic parts of the doll, dip a soft cloth in warm, soapy water. Wring it out until it is just damp and rub the plastic. Use a damp, soft toothbrush to scrub the doll, especially the fingers and toes. For the eyes and eyelids, use a cotton swab or cotton ball moistened with a gentle cleaner. If there are any stains, such as ink, on the doll, dip a cotton ball in rubbing alcohol and use it to rub them out.
Let the doll dry completely before putting clothes back on. Do not use abrasive cleaners or those containing bleach, as these can damage the doll. It is also important to avoid using a hairdryer, as the heat can ruin the plastic.
To prevent damage to your doll, it is recommended to keep it away from natural light, as this can cause fading of skin tones and costumes. Incandescent bulbs are preferable to fluorescent bulbs, and UV lighting sleeves can be used to protect doll cases. Additionally, avoid storing dolls in plastic that cannot breathe, as some plastics give off gases that can be damaging. Keep dolls in a closed case, away from outside air pollutants, and maintain a stable temperature to prevent rapid changes that can cause composition to crack.
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Repairing plastic dolls
Inspect and Assess the Damage:
Begin by carefully examining the doll to identify the areas that require repair. Pay close attention to the joints, neck, and limbs, as these are common areas of damage. Look for cracks, chips, or missing pieces. Assess the severity of the damage to determine the appropriate repair techniques and materials needed.
Gather the Right Tools and Materials:
Having the right tools is essential for successful repairs. Some useful tools and materials include:
- Glues: Super glue or thin epoxy glue for repairing cracks and chips. Choose glue that dries clear and avoid excessive use, as glues may react with the plastic.
- Sanding and Filing Tools: A nail file or fine sanding device can help smooth out imperfections and repair moulding issues.
- Miscellaneous Supplies: Small brushes, cotton swabs, toothpicks, and rags for various tasks.
- Cutting Tools: Select the appropriate cutting tools based on the specific materials of your doll, such as hard plastic, vinyl, or fabric.
- Protective Gear: Wear gloves to protect your hands from chemicals and materials.
Repair Procedures:
The repair process will depend on the specific damage. Here are some common repair scenarios:
- Neck Repairs: For small neck cracks or chips, use an appropriate glue to fuse existing pieces together, strengthening the structural integrity. Ensure the head is secure and avoid bonding it to the neck during the repair.
- Joint Repairs: Examine the joint carefully and compare it to similar joints. Use a pointed tool to remove any loose pieces or leftover plastic from the moulding process that may be causing issues.
- Limb Repairs: If limbs are severely damaged or missing, you may need to sculpt new limbs using techniques like paper mache clay over spray foam. Ensure you follow safety precautions when working with materials like spray foam.
Storage and Preservation:
Proper storage is crucial to maintaining the condition of your repaired doll. Here are some tips:
- Avoid direct sunlight and artificial lights, as they can cause fading and damage. Use indirect lighting and UV filters when possible.
- Store the doll in a closed case to minimise exposure to pollutants and rapid temperature changes, which can cause deterioration.
- Do not store the doll in airtight plastic containers or bags, as they can trap moisture and gases that may damage the doll.
- Avoid storing the doll with jewellery to prevent green marks on the ears and wrists.
Remember to always research and test repair techniques on small areas before proceeding with major repairs. Each doll is unique, and you may need to adapt these instructions based on your specific doll's materials and condition.
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Storing plastic dolls
Cleaning the Dolls:
Before storing plastic dolls, it is essential to clean them thoroughly. Start by researching the type of material the doll is made of, as different materials require specific care. Use a feather duster or a large soft cloth to gently remove dust from the doll's surface. If the doll has hair, be cautious not to disturb any curls or tangles, as some hairstyles should not be brushed. For example, vinyl fashion dolls can be washed with diluted baby soap or shampoo, and their hair can be detangled with fabric softener.
Choosing a Storage Location:
The ideal storage location for plastic dolls is a temperature-controlled environment with good ventilation. Avoid attics, basements, or garages, as these areas are not typically climate-controlled and can experience extreme temperature and humidity fluctuations. Instead, opt for a well-ventilated room in your home that does not receive direct sunlight, as natural sunlight can fade and damage plastic dolls over time. Additionally, ensure the storage area is secure from pets, as they can cause accidental damage to the dolls.
Selecting Storage Containers:
When choosing storage containers for plastic dolls, avoid using airtight plastic containers or plastic bags, as these can trap moisture and lead to mould or mildew issues. Instead, opt for archival boxes made of acid-free materials, as acid can damage the dolls and their clothing. Wrap each doll individually in acid-free tissue paper or cloth before placing them in the boxes to provide an extra layer of protection. Ensure the storage area is free from pests, as insects can infest and damage the dolls' wigs and clothing.
Displaying the Dolls:
If you plan to display your plastic dolls, be mindful of the lighting in the room. Direct sunlight can cause fading and discolouration, so it is best to use LED lights, as they do not emit ultraviolet light and generate less heat than incandescent bulbs. Rotate the dolls on display regularly to minimize their exposure to light and dust, and always handle the dolls with clean, lotion-free hands to prevent stains and the transfer of dirt.
Storing Doll Clothing and Accessories:
The original clothing, shoes, and accessories of a doll add to its value, so it is essential to care for them properly. Before storing, research the appropriate cleaning methods for the specific materials of the doll's clothing and accessories. For delicate fabrics, hand washing with laundry soap for delicate items is recommended, followed by air drying. Avoid using dryers, as they can damage the fabrics. Store the clothing and accessories separately in bead organizers or hanging jewellery holders to keep them organized and accessible.
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Using heat on plastic dolls
Heat and dolls generally do not mix. Extreme temperatures can degrade dolls, and heat can damage the composition of a doll. However, there are a few situations where heat is useful on hard plastic dolls.
If you are using heat on a doll, it is important to first determine what material your doll is made of. Heat should never be applied to celluloid dolls, as they are flammable. If you cannot tell the difference between hard plastic and celluloid, do not use heat.
Wax-head dolls can also show a response to heat, and it is not pretty. The heat from sunlight can be damaging to dolls, so it is best to avoid storing dolls in direct sunlight or fluorescent lighting.
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Painting plastic dolls
Prepare the Doll's Surface
Before painting, it's important to remove any factory paint or unwanted marks on the doll's surface. Use cotton swabs dipped in acetone, nail polish remover, or isopropyl alcohol to gently scrub off the existing paint. Be sure to get as much paint off as possible, as any leftover paint can make the new paint job difficult. Rinse the doll immediately after removing the paint to prevent damage to the plastic. If there are only small marks or stains, you can try using a small amount of acetone on a cotton swab to spot-treat the affected areas.
Protect the Hair
If the doll has hair, it's important to keep it covered and out of the way during the painting process. Use a cloth to cover the hair and secure it in place with a rubber band or hair elastic. This will prevent sealant and paint from getting into the hair and making it sticky or stiff.
Apply a Sealant
Once the doll's surface is clean and dry, it's time to apply a sealant. A sealant will provide a base for the new paint to adhere to and will help protect the plastic. Mr. Super Clear is a popular choice, but be warned that it has a strong odour and is toxic. Always use sealants in well-ventilated areas or outdoors. Apply two or more coats of the sealant, allowing each coat to dry for at least 15 minutes in between applications.
Painting the Doll
Now comes the creative part! When choosing paint, keep in mind that acrylic paints can be used for a bold, stylized look, while pastels and coloured pencils can create a softer, more realistic appearance. If you want to add sparkle to your doll, you can use PearlEx powder, a craft product that adds a glittery effect when applied dry or mixed with paint. When using paint, work in thin layers, allowing each layer to dry completely before adding more colour. Use small, careful brush strokes, avoiding thick, blocky lines.
Sealing the Paint
After you've finished painting and are happy with the results, it's important to seal the paint to protect your work and ensure its longevity. You can use the same sealant you used in the beginning. Again, apply two or more coats, allowing each coat to dry thoroughly.
Remember, when working with sealants and paints, always work in a well-ventilated area and follow the manufacturer's instructions and safety guidelines. Enjoy bringing your plastic doll to life with a beautiful new paint job!
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Frequently asked questions
Wash, bleach, and starch the clothing.
Wash the hair in lukewarm water and baby shampoo if it is dull or dusty.
Use a damp, soft toothbrush to scrub the face gently. Use a cotton swab or cotton ball moistened with a gentle cleaner to clean the eyes and eyelids.
Use sculpting techniques to fix broken body parts.
