Your First BJD Now What?

Is this BJD “for you”?

One of the first things new collectors worry about is whether they chose the right doll. You've gawked over your favorite influencers collections and now it's time to start yours. 

There’s no universal “best” BJD despite what the old forums tell you. There is only what works for you. Here are some things to consider, it's okay to not know all the answers right away. It takes some collections years to hone in on these categories.

Aesthetic: Do you like realistic faces, anime-inspired sculpts, fantasy features, or something in between?

Size: BJDs range from tiny palm-sized dolls to large, heavy dolls that require dedicated space. The most common sizing you will see floating around is 1/6 (Yosd) scale, 1/4 (MSD) scale and 1/3 scale (SD).

Maintenance comfort: Some people enjoy restringing (which will need to be done eventually), posing, and customizing (yes you can customize even as a beginner). Others prefer minimal handling. It's a good rule of thumb to have a toothbrush to start for brushing wigs of all types, Mr super clean eraser for scuffs and a zip lock to keep your doll clothes organized and in nice condition. 

Budget: This is the most challenging aspect of the hobby because let's face it. These aren't Barbies here! These dolls cost some decent cash. When I started collecting as a airhead teen, I thought all I needed was the initial cost. $240 CAD (a weeks pay at the time) and boom! I would have my first doll everything included. HA! Imagine my surprise when my doll showed up naked with wrong sized gift eyes and a ratty 'fur' wig. Unless otherwise stated or you buy a full set doll, assume the doll comes with NOTHING no faceup (doll makeup) no eyes NOTHING.

 I recommend putting a minimum of $100 to get your essentials (wig, outfit, eyes, shoes) on top of the price of your doll. Some dolls will come with faceups phew! Otherwise it can cost you another $50-$100 CAD to get a faceup. Faceup pricing varies per doll company/artist. If you're Canadian make sure to put another $50-$100 for shipping on top of that.Some companies are generous and shipping is free when you spend a certain amount of money. Buying secondhand shipping is always charged (and expensive ) unless you are buying local. If your doll makes you excited to open the box, you chose well.

What to expect after ordering

One of the second biggest surprises for new collectors is wait time.Unlike mass-produced toys, many BJDs are made to order. Wait times can range from a few weeks to several months to a year(s).

This is normal and not a sign something has gone wrong. Most companies provide updates, but patience is part of the hobby. I recommend going with a company with a shorter wait time for your first doll to erase nerves. I also encourage to read the companies production time on their website/social media. As well as a check in/follow up if the time has passed and you haven't been updated. 

Personally I do not recommend for collectors of all stages to order dolls that will take years to arrive. You will not have protections from PayPal after a year and it gets dicey after a year if you paid via credit card. I will always recommend to pay via the most protected method. No bank wires, e-transfers (unless in person) PayPal friends and family.

Almost everyone unfortunately has a scam story in the BJD hobby. Companies and Doll Influencers/ artists can scam as well. Be sure to learn from our mistakes and protect yourself no matter what.

Fullset vs blank dolls

Another early decision is whether to buy a fullset or a blank doll. Fullset dolls usually include: face-up, wig, eyes, outfit (sometimes shoes) They cost more upfront but arrive ready to enjoy.

Blank dolls are: usually cheaper, fully customizable and ideal if you want to design the look yourself. Neither option is “better.” Many collectors start with fullsets and move toward blanks later or happily do both. Do what works for your budget and capability. As an advanced collector I still prefer fullset dolls (or as close to it as possible). I rather focus on other aspects of the hobby. Do what works for you.

Outfits, sizing, and fit

Clothing can be one of the most confusing parts at first. BJDs don’t follow standard fashion sizing. Always check:

Doll size category (1/4, MSD, 1/3, SD, etc.)

brand-specific measurements

Whether clothing is made for slim or standard bodies

When in doubt ask the seller,check community posts, look for photos of the outfit on similar dolls. Ill-fitting clothes happen to everyone. It’s part of the learning curve.

Where to find information

One major difference between now and the early days of the hobby is: information is everywhere. Gone are the days of needing passwords and acceptance applications to secret forums, squinting through grainy webcam videos and stumbling through early Flikr. Today, you can find answers through

Community websites like this one (be sure to share!)

Forums and archived discussion boards

YouTube reviews and box openings

Instagram, blogs, and Discord groups

Most beginner questions have already been asked and answered somewhere. Learning how to search is just as valuable as learning the hobby itself.

Social media: to post or not to post?

This is a personal choice and both options are valid. For me a social craving 16 yr old (at the time) Canadian with a love for all things Japanese. Finding someone in my tiny city who was also into BJDs was near impossible so I immediately jumped into social media after receiving my first doll. (I've got the cringe YouTube videos and ancient instagram posts to prove it). 

Pros of social media

Endless inspiration.

Community for those who can't get it local, have trouble socializing or want to add to their in person experience.

Learning through others’ experiences, this is a life saver for newbies.

Sharing your joy, this ties into community and creative expression.

Cons

Comparison pressure, the current algorithms prey on comparison culture and it's easy to get caught up in it which leads to: trend fatigue and feeling like you need to “keep up”.

 You don’t owe anyone content. Some collectors post daily, others never post at all. Your enjoyment of your doll doesn’t depend on visibility. This is a BIG one. It is unfortunately incredibly easy to fall into pressure in this hobby because it's so niche. You can feel like you're in a bubble with all eyes on you. MAKE THIS HOBBY YOURS. Or in more infamous words 'make your own kind of music'.

A final reminder

Your first BJD doesn’t need to be perfect. Your setup doesn’t need to be complete. You don’t need to know everything yet. The hobby unfolds over time, through learning, mistakes, discovery, and connection. Ask questions, use available resources, and move at a pace that feels right for you.

Welcome to the hobby. You’re allowed to enjoy it exactly as you are.