As your collection grows, it becomes harder to remember every detail. A simple log book can help you stay organized. You can find them in many places such as Amazon.ca, Walmart.ca AliExpress, Some secondhand BJD dealer websites.
Your collection isn’t just a group of dolls it’s an investment, a creative outlet, and for many of us, deeply personal. That’s why it’s so important to keep track of your dolls properly. This is something I took for granted as a young hobbyist. It's best to start these practices while your collection is beginning or small. However it's never too late.
What is a COA? A Certificate of Authenticity (COA) is a document provided by the doll company that proves your doll is legitimate. This is especially important in a hobby where recasts exist. (A topic for another day).
Your COA typically includes:
- Company name
- Sculpt name
- Serial number
- Sometimes a date or signature
Why COAs Are Important? COAs protect you in several ways:
1. Proof of Legitimacy If you ever sell your doll, buyers will often ask for a COA. Without it, your doll may lose value or be harder to sell.
2. Peace of Mind Knowing your doll is authentic is important for many collectors.
3. Protection Against Mix-Ups If you have multiple dolls from the same company, COAs help keep everything organized.
How to Store Your COAs
- Keep them in a safe, dry place
- Use a folder, binder, or document sleeve (I put mine in a special tote bag)
- If you keep your doll boxes you can keep the COA with each appropriate box.
Some collectors also: - take photos or scans of their COAs - keep digital backups just in case
Tracking Your Collection (Log Books) As your collection grows, it becomes harder to remember every detail. Especially when you reach double digits. A simple log book can help you stay organized. You can find them in many places such as Amazon.ca, Walmart, AliExpress, Some secondhand BJD dealer websites.
You can track:
- Doll name / character name
- Sculpt & company
- Skin tone
- Purchase date
- Price
- Where you bought it
- COA details
- Modifications (faceups, body swaps, etc.)
- Current Condition (yellowed, damaged, pristine)
-A picture of the doll for reference
Why a Log Book is Worth It
1. Organization No more guessing which doll came from where.
2. Insurance & Value Tracking Helpful if you ever need to document your collection.
3. Personal Connection It’s a nice way to document your journey as a collector. I've seen people put cute notes such as 'my first doll, my grail & my first hybrid'.
Final Thoughts Keeping track of your dolls might seem unnecessary at first but as your collection grows, you’ll be glad you started early. It doesn’t have to be complicated. Even a simple notebook or spreadsheet can make a big difference. Your collection is something you’ve built with time, care, and intention keeping it documented helps protect and preserve it.
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