Barbie for big girls.

About

I am an avid Silkstone and Fashion Royalty collector who enjoys photographing her collection.  I enjoy sharing tips I have learned about doll photography and collecting as well as making and displaying dioramas.

133 responses

  1. Rebecca, your photos are sensational and this glimpse into your creative world is fascinating. Needless to say your doll room is a thing of beauty and a joy forever. Look forward to receiving updates from your blog,
    thank you
    Barbara

    February 6, 2011 at 2:11 am

    • Thank you very much Barbara! I hope you continue to enjoy the blog….and I hope I continue to keep adding content 😉

      –Rebecca

      March 9, 2011 at 8:42 pm

  2. Barbara Batchelder

    Enjoyed reading your blog, Rebecca! Great job!

    March 8, 2011 at 9:55 pm

    • Thank you very much Barbara!

      March 9, 2011 at 8:43 pm

  3. Great blog. Enjoyed reading through it. Looking forward to more posts 🙂

    March 13, 2011 at 12:24 pm

    • Thank you so much Julia! Glad you liked it. I hope to be able to add new content each week. Thank you so much for your comments and support!

      March 13, 2011 at 1:20 pm

  4. Hi Rebecca!
    i like your work, is reallly Great!!!
    I know what I mean…. i like your “Vogue-Paris-50´s” very elegant vision
    Jose
    My pics in:

    LastTweetArrivederci

    psd. i like Barbie but prefer Ken

    June 14, 2011 at 3:24 am

    • Thank you Jose! Thank you for the link to your flickr photos. They are fabulous! You have a great eye for composition and detail in your photos.

      June 14, 2011 at 7:05 am

  5. Aitziber

    Hi Rebecca,
    I use to see your flickr photos, but didn’t know about your blog (of course, I’m already suscribed). I love you doll room, collection and photos. I`m trying to do a diorama and your work inspires me!
    Greets from Spain! Aitziber

    July 21, 2011 at 5:25 am

    • Thank you so much for the comment Aitziber! I am happy you are enjoying the collection and photos. Good luck on your diorama project. I am inspired by so many people on flickr and it really warms my heart to hear that I am giving some of that back to others.
      –Rebecca

      July 21, 2011 at 6:04 am

  6. Rita Bright

    Hi, I have been receiving your posts and love them. I have a question ( I know it’s a long shot!) about one of the silent auction items you photographed. The 3rd picture with the red haired Barbie and the package of outfits (WOW!), do you happen to remember who donated that set? I can’t stop looking at it–I love that set and just want to know who put that all together. All of the convention photos were wonderful.

    Thanks, Rita in CA

    August 12, 2011 at 10:09 am

    • Hi Rita,
      Let’s see if I can help….if the photo you are referring to is the lovely orange red haired barbie with Ken and the outfits with the colorful umbrellas, that was donated by Vickie Ruby. Hope that helps! 😉 Wasn’t that set TO DIE FOR?!

      August 12, 2011 at 12:06 pm

  7. Teri Allbright

    Rebecca it was so great to meet you at the convention this year. I had so much fun and look forward to next year. You were a hoot! Hugs to you girlfriend and kisses too! Best, Teri (SmittenKitten)

    October 15, 2011 at 1:13 pm

    • Clairess23

      Hello Teri,
      I´m really sorry to contact you this way, but is your listing Poppy Parker Baby It\’s You on NuFace body?

      I´m interested to buy her, but the internet connection on this site has problems.
      I´m from central Europe.
      I´ll be glad of any response,

      Have a nice day,

      Claire N.

      January 30, 2015 at 1:06 pm

  8. DSDIVAS

    Thanks for accepting! 🙂
    WONDERFUL SITE
    DIANA S.

    November 3, 2011 at 4:53 pm

  9. Del Molto Amore

    Hi Rebecca, you have a fabulous blog, congratulations!
    I would like to show my OOAK work, I hope you like it!

    http://www.facebook.com/pages/Del-Molto-Amore/118015168278416

    Regards from Spain!!!

    November 13, 2011 at 11:05 am

    • Thank you very much or should I say Muchas gracias! 😉 I am glad you like the blog and your OOAK work is fantastic! Thank you for posting the link. I will check back for new work.

      November 13, 2011 at 11:48 am

  10. Mary Mcelroy

    Rebecca,
    I posted a link to your blog on Pinterest. If you want it taken down, I’ll be happy to do so. But I want others to see your awesome collection and photography.

    Mary

    January 6, 2012 at 7:13 am

    • I don’t mind at all Mary. Thanks for posting it!

      January 6, 2012 at 8:26 am

  11. What a fascinating wonderful blog you have! I have recommended it to a few friends as well.

    Wonderful, wonderful!

    February 16, 2012 at 2:51 am

    • Thank you! I am glad you are enjoying the blog.

      February 16, 2012 at 9:01 pm

  12. Donna

    Just discovered your site from Pinterest and enjoyed all the photos … brought back memories of growing up playing with Barbie.

    P.S. When you asked us to not to use your photos as they are copyrighted by you, does that include Pinterest too?? Thanks ~donna

    March 19, 2012 at 1:44 pm

    • Hi Donna,
      Glad you are enjoying the blog. I don’t have a problem with people using my photos on Pinterest as long as they are linking the photos back to my blog. I have a problem with people using my photos to try and sell something without getting my permission. Hope that clarifies things and a big “Thank You!” for asking.

      March 19, 2012 at 2:05 pm

  13. Jeris Ragusa

    Hi. I am new to this doll stuff and I need your opinion. I am interested in the “The Birds” Barbie because I visited Bodego, CA recently and saw the school house. I am torn between the 2008 Mattel version and a non silkstone Matt Sutton from the 2005 Barbie convention. How much do you think his Barbie cost in 2005 and which one would you buy??????

    March 29, 2012 at 9:22 am

    • Hi Jeris,
      I am an unabashed fervent collector of Matt Sutton’s work so I will always be biased in his direction. The 2008 version from Mattel is very nice and I am sure is much less expensive than one of Matt’s OOAK’s. That being said, being able to have a OOAK work of art by Matt Sutton would definitely have value for me as a collector. I guess you have to go with where your heart leads you on this one.

      March 29, 2012 at 4:40 pm

  14. Jeris Ragusa

    So, when you go to conventions, what does a non silkstone Barbie cost approximately? I am so glad that you said that you would go with the Matt Sutton because the aution ended last night and I already picked that one!!!!

    March 30, 2012 at 7:03 am

    • Matt’s work is artwork so it isn’t inexpensive. At convention, his works will go from mid 200’s to over 600 dollars. His OOAK auction pieces will sell in the thousands. I can easily say that Matt’s pieces are many of my absolute favorites in my collection. If you won the auction…contrats! If not…there is always next time 😉

      March 30, 2012 at 7:10 am

  15. mayenobe

    Thank you so much for letting us glimpse at your wonderful collection. It’s a dream! And the way you enhance it is really inspiring!!!! I could never do such a thing!
    I myself have started a vinyl collection which I called “Chronicle of the Western Costume” (from Middle Ages to today). Some outfits are manufactured, others are OOAK but I sometimes find it difficult to find the right period clothes; so I’m desperately seeking all sites selling period suits and accessories (I find your 1940s beauties so cute!!!)
    So first of all thank you for giving us the link to Bogue’s site. That’s a really clever artist. You also mentioned “La Boutique” several times but I don’t know what it is (although they seem to sell very nice things). Could you please tell us a bit more?
    And – sorry I’m being very novice – I don’t know what DD (as in the “Trace of Lace in DD Savoir Flair”) means either…
    Thanking you in advance for your advice
    Mayenobe (= means “new house” in old French and that’s the name of my house)

    April 2, 2012 at 5:45 am

    • Hello et Bonjour Mayenobe,
      Thank you so much for the lovely comment! I am glad you are enjoying the photos of my collection and blog. Your collection ” Chronicle of the Western Costume” sounds wonderful. I agree that finding people who do period clothing in 1/6 scale is very difficult. La Boutique is a pair of sisters who do 1/6 purses and outfits. They are more well known for the purses they produce and they have a “Purse of the Month” Club. You can find photos of their work at http://www.picturetrail.com/dianawieler
      If you want to order anything from them, email them at dianawieler@sympatico.ca

      Thank you for asking what DD means. I realize that I use abbreviations sometimes and don’t stop to think that many people will not know what that means. I will try to be better about that.;-) DD stands for Dressmaker Details. They make very detailed clothing for 1/6 scale and I adore them. They are manufactured by a company called Masterstroke’s and Steven Frasier is the designer and owner …..I love all his work. Steven is one of the nicest people you could ever hope to meet. You can find Dressmaker Details at many retail doll stores. I buy most of mine through http://www.windycitydolls.com or http://www.pinkponytail.com. Sometimes I go directly to Dressmaker Details at http://www.masterstrokecanada.com/miva/merchant.mv?Screen=CTGY&Store_Code=MC&Category_Code=DRE

      Hope this information helps.
      Rebecca

      April 3, 2012 at 11:03 am

  16. Karle

    Hello! I really lile your pictures. Would you mind sharing a secret? How do you hide / remove the doll stand in the pictures where the doll is free standing?
    Thanks!

    July 7, 2012 at 6:33 am

    • I don’t know how I missed this comment. Sorry for the late reply. In many of my shots, I use armature wire that has been twisted around one of the dolls legs and attached to a stand off camera. I photoshop out the wire in post processing. Sometimes I will use wires that support the dolls under the arms but that usually turns out to be more work to photoshop out the wires. If I can get away with just leaning them against something, that’s the road I choose. Hope this helps. 🙂

      December 16, 2012 at 7:47 pm

  17. Hi there, I just adore your site, it is so informative, thank you. I am a Doll Artist that deals ONLY with creating METAL MESH costumes for dolls, I was not sure if you would like to feature this work on your site and share it with other doll collectors. We have been designing now for over 12 years. I have never created a gown or costume on a FR and would love to. Thank you in advance and keep up the GREAT work!!! Fan Forvever!

    September 25, 2012 at 3:12 pm

    • Thanks for sharing the information Kat and Josh. I will be sure to check out your website!

      December 16, 2012 at 7:48 pm

  18. Do you sell your photographs? Someone asked, but I don’t see an answer. How do you make Barbie stand? Earthquake wax under her heels? Remove the stand using Photoshop or what? Thanks!

    December 16, 2012 at 7:04 pm

    • Yes, I sell my photos. I am currently working on a book of photos. I have also done a 2013 daily planner that was sold at the 2012 Barbie Convention. Feel free to email me if you are interested in obtaining a print or in the daily planner. I finally answered Karle’s question about how I make the dolls stand. There are a variety of methods that I use but typically armature wire is my “go to” method. The wire is hidden underneath a skirt usually and the part that is attached to something off camera is typically easy to photoshop out. I actually did a write up on this for a fellow blogger here http://fashiondollfoto.blogspot.com/2012/03/foto-tip-7-strike-pose-rebecca-berry.html

      Hope this answers some questions.
      –Rebecca
      raberry65@msn.com

      December 16, 2012 at 7:58 pm

  19. Anne Laurence G

    Hi Rebecca,
    Oups, sorry, I used a picture of yours to show to my french Ellowyne doll forum the chandelier I want to buy.
    Here’s the link :
    http://www.lemanoirdellowyne.com/t3016p30-la-future-vitrine-des-ellowynes-et-autres-poupettes-de-puppedoll
    I hope you don’t mind but if you do, I will remove it obviously.
    Sorry again, I didn’t mean any harm.
    Puppedoll from France

    December 18, 2012 at 2:52 am

    • Hi Anne,

      I don’t generally have a problem with people sharing my photos as long as they give it some kind of photo credit ( like a link back to the blog :-)). The main thing I don’t allow is when someone uses my photos to sell something without my permission. If you are just using it to show something, no problem..as long as you link the photo back to the blog. Hope that helps. I can’t see the photo you are referncing because I have to sign up for the forum you posted it in. Thanks for letting me know. Did you find your chandelier?

      December 18, 2012 at 6:16 am

  20. Anne Laurence G

    Thanks Rebecca, I had already put the link to your blog as well, under the photo.
    I didn’t know you had to sign up for my forum, I thought anybody could see this topic.
    And yes, I’ve found the chandelier, a nice ebay seller agreed to ship to France, hurray !
    Your photo shows the black chandelier but I’ve chosen the white one.
    Thanks for your photo, it was very helpful to assess the size of the chandelier compared to a doll.

    December 18, 2012 at 3:11 pm

  21. Teddie

    Thank you, Rebecca for all of your photos and comments. I’m trying to do some dioramas, now with my Barbie size dolls. The foamcore board is not cooperating. I have glue failures and bubbling under the wall paper several days after applying it and having it look great. Paint buckles the foamcore. Some glue buckles it even after sealing the surface with a lacquer. Yikes! It is so frustrating. I’m considering going to cloth covered walls and just gluing it to the back side. Any info from you or your readers would be appreciated.

    I share your weather much of the time, though we are a bit dryer here on the north tip of the Olympic Peninsula in the sometimes “Blue Hole.”

    January 27, 2013 at 7:12 pm

    • Hello fellow Northwesterner! Beautiful country you live in on the Olympic Peninsula…wish I could get out there more often. Yes, paint is often a problem with foam core. If I use it with foam core, I use light coats of spray paint and allow it to dry thouroughly between coats. Most often, I glue paper to foam coare and I also get glue failure from time to time and have to end up repairing. I don’t know that anything will last forever but I have been fairly happy with most of the spary adhesives I have used. I have not tried fabric on foam core yet…I have glued fabric on plastic furniture but not hung it up on the wall. I am sure it would look fantastic though 🙂 I think with diorama building, so much is just trial and error. The more we try, the more we learn right? Feel free to share what works for you and what doesn’t. That way we all benefit too. Would love to see photos of your dioramas 🙂

      January 28, 2013 at 1:19 pm

      • Teddie

        I don’t know what happened to the note I was writing. I tried to add a picture, and the note disappeared. I will try again to use the spray glue to mount wallpaper. I will also see if I can cover up the bubbly mess with fabric if I can break and flatten the bubbles. Thanks for the tip about spray paint. None of it is water based.

        January 28, 2013 at 3:29 pm

    • Bill

      Spray adhesive works well for me. Also, there is a product in the art supply store that comes in sheets that you rub onto one surface and then place the other surface onto it. It works best on paper-to-paper projects, but will occasionally work on adhering very light weight fabrics to paper or smooth cardboard.

      July 8, 2014 at 4:18 pm

  22. I actually Think article, “About Inside the Fashion Doll Studio”
    was spot on! Icould not agree together with you more! At last looks
    like I actuallydiscovered a weblog definitely worth
    browsing. Thanks for your effort, Lavonne

    February 11, 2013 at 2:46 pm

  23. Teddie

    Here’s a follow up on the bubbly walls. I could not rescue the wallpaper. It did peel off fairly easily from the foam core, though. One wall lost quite a bit of it’s paper covering. I had painted poster board a similar color to the one on the wallpaper. I gave it just two or three light coats to get the effect I wanted. Now, how to stick it to the foam core was the next challenge. I decided to use double sided sticky tape, but I needed tough stuff!! So, I got some of the 3 1/2 inch wide by 15 foot long double sided carpet seam tape. Wow!! It really sticks! The walls are rescued. I’m happy, and my grand daughter is happy. It took the entire $5 box plus one piece from a second box. Three new pieces of foam core would have been cheaper, but I had applied wooden wainscoting with wallpaper I printed and wooden floor trim around the top of the carpet. That is too much work to throw away.

    Thank you so much for the spray paint tip. I will never try to hang heavy vinyl wallpaper on foam core walls again, either. Too bad! I have a huge roll of it.

    February 11, 2013 at 5:45 pm

  24. Lisa Marie

    I just happened upon your blog & I’m spending my evening reading it. I love it! Your exhuberant personality including your whit, charm and creative talent make this reader a huge fan. Some of the things you shared are things I have thought about but never put in to words. I’m selling off my Vintage Barbie collection so like you, I can focus on my Silkiesd & FR’s. Thanks for your hard work in putting this great blog together. :o}

    February 11, 2013 at 6:22 pm

  25. Melissa Heather

    Dearest Rebecca,
    Hi, my name is Mel and I’m in Tasmania, Australia – yes all the way down here! I just wanted to thank you for your delightful blog. I have been stuck in bed for a week with a knee injury and have just spent the past few hours reading the blog in its entirity! I loved it!!
    I now feel like I’ve been to all the conventions with you, dressed and redressed all your beautiful girls and experienced heaven in your doll room – divine! It is so generous of you to share your love for this beautiful artform and I do believe it is art!
    I received my first ever Fashion Royalty doll this week, the Bonjour Paris! from the Funny Face collection. My love for this movie pushed me over the edge to actually buy a doll and now I believe I am hooked – have just bought Obsidian Society Vanessa NRFB on ebay!! Very excited!!
    Anyway my absolute delight in my doll prompted me to search from other people in this wonderland and low and behold I found many, many others down this enchanting rabbit hole – and your blog!
    Thanks again, so very much. Would love to make it to a convention one day but that’s a LOT of money from here (which translates to lots of dolls!). I will do it one day – I’m sure the 10th Anniversary one will be awesome.
    Lots of love,
    Mel

    February 28, 2013 at 8:06 pm

    • Hi Mel!

      First and foremost, how is the knee coming along? Hope you are healing quickly. Wow! Thank you so much for this lovely comment. I am so glad you enjoyed reading through the blog and that it is helping keep your mind off of the knee. Congratulations on your first Fashion Royalty purchase. You bought a beauty! There are many, many collectors who connect via the internet…we are an avid bunch 🙂 Hope you are finding the doll boards like Doll Divas and Pink Parlour. Welcome to the rabbit hole 🙂

      {{Hugs}}
      Rebecca

      March 8, 2013 at 8:39 am

      • Melissa Heather

        Thanks Rebecca,

        Knee is much better thank you – have to be able to walk to the door and get my Obsidian Fedex delivery!!
        Have a wonderful time in Paris, what an absolute dream.

        Enjoy,

        Love Mel xx

        PS I look forward to you filling us all in 🙂

        March 8, 2013 at 2:24 pm

  26. Hi – great site – like your design!
    I visited a lot of websites but I think this one has got something special in it. Excellent Blog!

    March 22, 2013 at 10:33 am

  27. Beth

    Hey Rebecca it’s Beth, I am sending you a pm over at BFC to ask for some advice, if you could check it when you get a chance would appreciate it very much. Thanks my dear and as always love love the pics, the new ones are to die for..:-)

    May 27, 2013 at 3:29 am

  28. Would love to introduce you to Designer Dolls Magazine, the fashion doll enthusiasts magazine that celebrates customizers, fashion designers, and dioramas. It’s all about the fashion doll at: designerdollsmagazine.com. I’ve also written a couple of entertaining books on the subject!

    August 6, 2013 at 11:16 am

  29. Rebecca your photos are so beautiful!! So happy I found your blog. We are already friends on Flickr but didn’t know you had a blog too.

    Any chance you would do a feature on my shop? http://www.tinyfrockshop.com I sell resale Barbie and 12″ doll items styled in a Vogue like way! LMK. xo Pamela 🙂

    tinyfrockshop[at]gmail.com

    December 1, 2013 at 2:12 pm

  30. In case anyone here is interested, I have published a few books on the fashion doll, such as “The Fashion Doll Diorama,” and “Photographing Your Favorite Dolls.” They are just fun, informative, entertaining little books, both available on Amazon and Kindle. others can be found by me, too, searching “Karen Carson-McGuire” (I am editor of Designer Dolls Magazine.) Thanks for looking and Happy Designing!

    December 2, 2013 at 6:04 am

  31. Hello Rebecca,

    I stumbled upon your site today . . . not sure how I got here . . . but am I ever glad I did! Your dolls, photos and tips are wonderful. I’m just starting out in my doll collections – what would you suggest as a first Silkstone doll? I have several vintage Barbies and I love the look of the Silkstones.

    Thank you and I look forward to following you!

    Blessings,
    Teresa

    December 3, 2013 at 12:47 pm

  32. this is awesome 🙂 thank you for sharing

    June 29, 2014 at 6:44 am

  33. If anyone would like to submit their dioramas for the September issue of Designer Dolls Magazine, please send them to: DESIGNERDOLLSMAG@gmail.com. If you include a couple of paragraphs about yourself, you may be a Featured Artist in the issue. NOte: Designer Dolls Magazine is a monthly, printed doll customizers’ and diorama enthusiasts magazine. Thanks! Karen Carson-McGuire, Editor (designerdollsmagazine.com)

    June 29, 2014 at 12:02 pm

  34. Does anyone have a staircase how-to they’d like to have published in Designer Dolls Magazine? I for one would love to see one of these instructional articles, using foamcore board, I think(?)

    July 9, 2014 at 6:30 am

  35. Abi W.

    Hello! You have a lovely collection! I might have a potential offer for you that you won’t want to pass up! I work for a vintage Barbie Collector and she is retiring. If you would like more information, please say so and I will give you my email address so we may talk further on the subject. Thank you,

    September 9, 2014 at 7:13 pm

  36. Lindsay

    Hi! I have a question about lighting. I made a couple dioramas a few years ago and was using my iPhone camera to take pictures, because that’s what I had and didn’t know any better. Then I had to pack everything away and take a break on my hobby due to space restrictions. But now I’m getting into it again and this time I’d like to put as much thought into the camera & lighting as I did into the things I made. What would you suggest I try and purchase as far as lighting goes? I’ve seen the white umbrella things (diffusers?) on the web. I need a set up that is easy to well, set up and also to store away when I’m not using it. Any suggestions for a beginner?
    Also, if you’d like to see what I made back then, I put it on Pinterest at the time, my name is Lindsay wilkinson. Thanks!

    October 1, 2015 at 7:50 am

    • Hey Lindsay! You ask some really good questions. So I guess my first question is are you going to trying to photograph the display in a specific area and you need to light that area or can you move the display to an area that is better lit? I ask because the least expensive way to photograph a display would be to move it to an area in your home that gets better diffused light…a large west facing window usually works well for a good chunk of an afternoon. The key here is looking for as much diffused(not directly in sun) natural light as you can get. That is the least expensive way anyway. Also, another low cost trick would be to set up the display in an area with good diffused light and use a small reflector to direct even more light into darker areas. I use these all the time when I shoot in natural light. You don’t need the big mondo sized ones…a small 3 foot by 3 foot one will do and they curl up to store really easily. Or…just use a piece of white foam core..it will reflect the light as well. If you are looking for artificial light, it will be more expensive. There are plenty of diffused lighting set ups that will give you more of a studio lighting effect. They will cost and they can be big so storage is an issue ( I battle with this all the time) but it does give a nice studio effect to your shots. I guess it all depends on what kind of feel you are going for and what you would like to spend. I would try with natural light first and the reflectors, this costs the least and see what you get then move on to studio lighting if you are not getting the results you want. Hope this helps. I am off to Pinterest to look up your displays 🙂
      –Rebecca

      October 1, 2015 at 10:45 am

      • Lindsay

        Rebecca,
        The first diorama that I’ll be working on is going to be an outside (and at night) shot. I want to recreate the fountain scene from the Friends (TV show) intro. The last time I tried a similar thing was for my Survivor pictures, and they didn’t turn out so great. Looking back I wish that they weren’t so dark. I was looking at some light box tutorials today, I think I may start working on one of those over the next few days, using a box with thin white fabric over the sides and the top, and buy some goose neck type lamps. It would be nice to have that set up for regular pictures and if the box is big enough maybe I can get the fountain scene to look good in there too.
        I’m thinking over a title so that I can make a blog with future pictures, Pinterest is okay but I think the blog would function better for what I want to do. Either way, it’s good to be getting back into my dolls again, I really missed having that creative outlet!
        Your site is such an inspiration, I really enjoy looking through all the pics and reading the tutorials.

        October 1, 2015 at 4:04 pm

    • Hi, Lindsay! I’m Karen Carson-McGuire, author of “Photographing Your Favorite Dolls,” and editor/publisher of Designer Dolls Magazine. Over the years I have learned a lot of lessons about photography. And, because I didn’t have a lot of money, I tried doing the makeshift camera holder, and all that. But it didn’t really work. I had to eventually invest in a lighting stand that supports a large light, along with a white umbrella to diffuse it. A good camera is always a great investment. I got a Nikon Coolpix. And don’t forget the stand for the camera! If you can work with a stand, where your camera has no chance of moving while you shoot the picture, your photos will be a thousand times better.

      I also wrote, “Stop-Motion Fun Using Fashion Dolls.” This is another very ambitious type of photography, and the lighting still gets tricky, because you’re constantly moving the dolls very little by little.

      Hope this helps!

      October 2, 2015 at 6:08 am

  37. Carlea

    Working with these beautiful dolls must be the best job ever! I can spend hours just looking at them; the details, the designs, the artistry is just mesmerizing! I play with dollhouse designing but its a fun hobby for me, I am so envious of you all who get to do this every day and get paid for it. Thanks for creating a great way for me to relax and decompress after a hard day in the office.

    January 27, 2016 at 6:39 pm

    • I am glad you are enjoying this wonderful hobby just like all of us Carlea! It’s a great joy isn’t it?! I wish I could say I get paid every day to do this but the simple truth is I get paid a little bit by advertisers to put up ads in my posts but that is about it. I do this blog as a labor of love and a way for me to also decompress and relax :-). I do it also to give back support to a community that has given and continues to give a great deal of support to me. It truly is a community of amazing human beings..including yourself. Thanks for commenting and joining the conversation and the love of fashion doll collecting. Feel free to comment and share any time.

      January 30, 2016 at 8:04 am

  38. I love the your photos. I really love the ones with the Dressmaker Details fashions. I am looking to buy direct from Steve Fraser. Do you know were I can buy his fashions from him? Any help would be great. THanks

    January 30, 2016 at 12:08 am

  39. Hallo I Love Barbiedolls Since my childhood and i want to ask you is it possible to buy the dolls and clothes on your Website? Best greetings Michaela Hinterscheid from Germany

    March 13, 2016 at 9:54 am

    • Hi Michaela! I am not a retailer of these products so there is no place on my website for purchasing. You can find many products on http://www.thebarbiecollection.com but they don’t ship to Europe so you will need to find a service or shipping buddy that will do that for you. Perhaps some other European collectors can chime in with their thoughts. Perhaps, ebay or Amazon?

      March 13, 2016 at 10:30 am

  40. Hi Rebecca
    Here Alessandro from The OOAK Artist duo ARTIST CREATIONS
    Giuseppe & I Are in love For your pictures , Congrats For your eonderful work ON
    So glad to Know that You have some of our Creation in your personal collection .
    Can ‘ T wait to see one of them in one of your BREATHLESS set
    Kisses from Rome

    March 16, 2016 at 1:11 am

    • Thank you Alessandro! I look forward to photographing your work!

      March 20, 2016 at 8:36 pm

  41. Absolutely gorgeous.
    I would love to put out a book of your wonderful photographs!
    Contact me!

    May 17, 2016 at 1:41 pm

  42. Leo

    Hello, I hope you’re fine and just busy these days. I always follow your website but there has been no updates since the IT Convention. Take care

    December 6, 2016 at 4:34 pm

    • Hey Leo :-). You are absolutely correct…I have been remiss in posting on the blog since IT. I have not even had time to pick up a camera since IT. Typically late October through this next week in December are super busy at my house. You will be seeing some of the ballet photos to prove it next week :-). Rest assured, I will be back to blogging in another week and happy to share some new photos. I have some really fun holiday photos to share! Thanks for checking in! –Rebecca

      December 6, 2016 at 6:01 pm

  43. Izzie

    Wow I’m totally blown away by your pictures they’re absolutely awesome👍…..I’ve never seen anyone do photography this way, your Very Talented what a beautiful gift you have🎀. Thank you for sharing your Tips n Collection it’s nice to know that we can come here to not only look at those totally awesome photos, but we can also ask you questions about how to do a photo etc……
    Thanks again for sharing TOTALLY BRILLIANT 💞
    Izzie

    January 14, 2017 at 4:53 am

  44. Izzie

    Wow I’m totally blown away by your pictures they’re awesome👍…..I’ve never seen anyone do photography this way, your Very Talented what a beautiful gift you have🎀. Thank you for sharing your Tips n Collection it’s nice to know that we can come here to not only look at those totally awesome photos, but we can also ask you questions about how to do a photo etc……
    Thanks again for sharing TOTALLY BRILLIANT 💞
    Izzie

    January 14, 2017 at 4:54 am

    • Thank you so much Izzie!! I am glad you are enjoying the photos and the blog.

      February 7, 2017 at 7:27 am

  45. Susan

    I’m new to your blog. ( Thank you ) for all of the stunning photos from the latest doll convention. Wonderful to see so many beautiful creations. Hoping you may be able to direct me towards a few web sites; if you have a few good ones in mind. Do you know of any retail web sites that carry hard to find furniture, doll trucks, Integrity Toys dressing rooms, designer handbags ..? Regarding your photos: there is a recent photo from the doll convention in your photos; that I’m really interested in. One of the furniture artists displayed white modern mid century doll dressers and cabinets; some of the doors + drawers have patterned paper on them ) in the photo. I know it’s a long shot; but I thought you might know the company name or designer. Thank you for your time and help. xo

    February 6, 2017 at 10:28 pm

    • Hi Susan and welcome to the blog! Let’s see if I can answer some of these questions…. 1) websites: Hmmmm…well there are many. I guess I find a lot of things on Ebay and Etsy. Use search terms such as “1:6 furniture” or 1/6 furniture. Also use 1:6 or 1/6 to preface any of the other items you are looking for. Try and find the exact name of what you lookin for…for example, the IT dressing room is called “refresh and renew trunk”. If you are interested in diorama items, following boards like WClub Forum, Doll Divas and BFC forum can help. I find my diorama items from all over so it’s really hard to list a few places. I would start on Ebay and Etsy. 2) Doll dressers: I have recent images from multiple doll conventions both domestic and international on the blog so I think I need more information before I can answer this one. If you give me the blog post you are referencing, I can go have a look and try and answer it for you. –R

      February 7, 2017 at 7:24 am

  46. Violet

    Does Shane (Fashions by Shane) still have a website? Do you have a link?
    Thanks for your reply.

    March 16, 2017 at 11:56 pm

    • Hello Violet,

      She doesn’t have a website currently and normally only sells at doll conventions like NBDCC or Integrity Toys conventions. Sorry 😦

      March 17, 2017 at 7:50 am

    • Hi Violet,

      I think I replied to your other comment but will reply here as well. Unfortunately Shane does not have a website. She sells mostly through conventions like NBDCC and IT conventions.

      March 17, 2017 at 8:22 am

  47. Heather Hulinsky

    I have just discovered your blog – love it!! the stunning photos and writing. I am on my way to purchase my first Silkstone darling. that said- Who do I buy first? Do I start with a new jointed girl? or start with an older one? I really need some guidance. I have loved them since they first came out- but admired and not purchased. The jointed girls got me excited. What are your thoughts? and thank you!! for sharing your knowledge.

    March 22, 2017 at 8:42 am

    • Hi Heather! Welcome to the wonderful world of fashion doll collecting ( if you are considering an actual purchase then you are about to go down the rabbit hole ;-)) I wish I could give you guidance on where to start. The only thing I can say is go with what inspires and moves you. My first purchase was the Day at the Races Silkstone. She just “spoke to me”…and it was straight down the rabbit hole after that. Good luck and welcome!!

      March 22, 2017 at 8:48 am

  48. Marsha Weaver

    Hi,

    I’m enjoying your blog posts. I just got back into the 12″ dolls recently after collecting Sybs for a while. I checked out the Integrity Toys site and I noticed that the FR dolls they are showing are 2015. Do you know why they haven’t updated their site? Also, I checked out Doll Divas and Pink Parlor and they both look like they have been hacked or something – lots of non doll related posts. Then I tried to find Shuga Shug’s blog and nothing. I saw a pic on her Flickr account of Rare Appearance Dania and I wanted to contact her to see where she got an outfit. I googled and could find nothing. Thank you for any help you can give me. Thanks, Marsha Weaver

    June 18, 2017 at 6:59 pm

    • Hi Marsha! Glad you are enjoying the blog posts. The Integrity Toys site is notorious for not being updated. Your best bet is to check the IT retailer sites for new offerings and what is available right now. Not sure why you were getting the unrelated posts in Doll Divas or PP. As far as I know they have not been hacked but it’s possible you caught them on a day when some unrelated postings got through. Might want to check them again. Sadly, Shuga Shug is no longer blogging. A sad loss to the collecting community. As with many of us bloggers, we have regular day jobs and other life interests that take us away from blogging from time to time. Shuga does update her flickr account from time to time so feel free to leave a comment there for her to answer. Hope this helps –R

      June 19, 2017 at 10:50 am

      • Marsha Weaver

        Thank you so much Rebecca!
        Much appreciated, Marsha

        June 19, 2017 at 3:30 pm

  49. Karen

    Hi. Not sure if this msg was supposed to come to me. I’m Karen McGuire of Designer Dolls Magazine.

    June 19, 2017 at 10:43 am

    • Hi Karen…not sure why this is going to you either. Did you get an email with this? Perhaps you are following the comments and that is why you received email. Just an idea.

      June 19, 2017 at 10:46 am

  50. Annie

    Hello Rebecca,
    I have recently came across your website and collection on Barbies, and I am absolutely impressed at the presentation and sophistication of Barbies through your photographs. I am currently a start-up e-commerce Shopify store. I am highly aware of the copyright issues, and understand that you are the content holder of the images on your website (unless stated otherwise). I would like to ask for your consideration of my permission to use your photographs to print on products (i.e. phone cases). I have several of your photographs selected in which the content specifically belongs you you. If allowed, proper acknowledgement will be included with the descriptions of the product. Please do email me back and let me know the details to proceed.

    Thank you, hope to hear from you soon!

    June 24, 2017 at 6:28 pm

    • Hi Annie,

      Thank you so much for your lovely comments about the blog and my work. I will respond to this comment and request privately via email. Thank you for your interest! –Rebecca

      June 24, 2017 at 6:33 pm

  51. Douglas Martinez

    Hi Rebecca,

    Where can I buy more of the beautiful scarfs and miniature boxes?

    Doug

    August 30, 2017 at 2:40 pm

    • Hi Doug,

      If you are going to Integrity Toys convention in Orlando, I will be there. If not, I am still in process of trying to set up an Etsy site to sell my wares. Right now…it’s not looking likely I will have that open until January of 2018.

      August 30, 2017 at 3:02 pm

  52. Kelly red

    Hi Rebecca. I recently saw an exquisite silk scarf you did with macaroons on it and the miniature box. I believe my friend bought it from you at the Houston Barbie con. Do you make other designs? And would you do a commission? I’m thinking table gifts!! My addy is below if you’d like to contact me privately. Thank you and again, it was just fabulous.

    September 14, 2017 at 7:16 pm

  53. Sheila Nero

    Hi Rebecca, I hope you remember me we first met I believe at the 2006 Barbie Convention in Los Angeles we spoke about your beautiful daughter being a ballerina. Then I was lucky to introduced you to my club members at a Integrity convention in Los Angeles after showing them your blog at some of our meetings. I wanted to ask is there a way to contact one of your friends Rogier about his paper structures and paper Poppy Parker? I would like to purchase for myself and a few gifts for my club meeting spring 2018 if possible.

    December 5, 2017 at 12:54 pm

    • Hi Sheila! Of course I remember you. And even better, Megan remembers you too 😉 I can absolutely connect you with Rogier. Just send me an email (raberrly65@msn.com) and I will be happy to give you all the info.

      December 5, 2017 at 12:57 pm

  54. Laura

    Hi Rebecca,
    I recently discovered you on Youtube and was so impressed with your Barbie displays. They are very classy, inspiring and a joy to view. While I love and would like a source for all the Barbie scale items you are using, I am especially interested in the metal ? spiral staircase and would love to find one. Could you clue me in on where to look for it and anything else Barbie scale?
    Thanks so much for your help,
    Laura

    February 12, 2018 at 6:51 pm

    • Hi Laura. I am glad you found the blog! The metal staircase is a favorite of many collectors. I believe it was termed as a iron spiral staircase trinket stand when I found it years ago. I have seen them turn up on ebay from time to time but that is about it. You might want to look into a spiral plant stand. I know Houzz has something similar right now but it is SUPER expensive. I think I paid around $35 for mine. You might want to just keep an eye out on Ebay or Etsy for this. Barbie scale items are all around us…you just have to keep an open mind 😉 –Rebecca

      February 12, 2018 at 8:05 pm

      • Laura

        Rebecca,
        Just got to look at your nice reply…been busy with the real world which is much less fun. I will have to keep an eye out for something reasonable for the staircase. I did find the mantle you used in one of your displays through Gloria on Amazon. The scale was very good. I have also been searching under “1/6 scale doll furnishings” and am finding some nice things online for purchase as well as do it yourself projects. Perhaps other “newbies” like me will find this info. helpful.
        Happy Collecting,
        Laura

        February 24, 2018 at 12:21 pm

  55. Hi Rebecca,
    I was only able to see the first line of your message to me on FB. FB was preventing me from seeing all notifications. I want to apologize for using your photo and I always like to credit the sources of my posts. I found it on Pinterest and there was no source given. I also have orig photos on my shop so I wud never edit or alter anyone’s work. The photos are exactly as I find them. I will do my best to make sure I don’t use your work. If you see a photo that is your work, please let me know and I will take steps to remove it or credit you. Again, I am so sorry!
    Clairmarie~England in a Cup

    February 28, 2018 at 8:05 am

  56. I love your photography and was wondering if you sell prints? I was hoping to frame a large one in my hallway.

    May 15, 2018 at 8:10 am

    • Hello Cheri. Thank you so much! Yes, I do sell prints of my work. Feel free to email me at raberry65@msn.com with the print you are interested in and the size you need and I would be happy to give you an estimated price. 🙂

      May 15, 2018 at 8:49 am

  57. Emma

    Hello Rebecca,
    I love your work and your collection is just incredible !
    Do you have a shop on Etsy because I would really appreciate to buy Ladurée boxes ? Or could you please tell me how to do to find it ?
    Thank you so much !

    August 9, 2018 at 12:48 am

  58. Emma

    More precision : I have seen the boxes and the macarons on “The Barbie Vignette” site…
    Thanks a lot !

    August 9, 2018 at 12:50 am

    • Hi Emma, You can contact me via my email raberry65@msn.com and we can go from there. I am not set up on Etsy yet so email is the only way to order. 🙂

      August 9, 2018 at 1:37 pm

  59. BELDA

    Hello Rebecca,
    I love your work, everything is so perfect !!! And thank you so much for sharing all your pictures !
    I’m from France and I want to order your Ladurée items. Is it possible ?
    Best regards

    August 9, 2018 at 11:35 am

    • Bonjour Belda, You can contact me via my email raberry65@msn.com and we can go from there. I am not set up on Etsy yet so email is the only way to order. 🙂

      August 9, 2018 at 1:38 pm

  60. Debra Littlefield

    I have purchased your products at a convention before but don’t see how to purchase them online?

    August 19, 2018 at 2:54 pm

    • Hey Debra. My Etsy site is not active currently. If you are looking for something in particular, just email me at raberry65@msn.com

      August 19, 2018 at 3:16 pm

  61. Hi,
    I make wicker dollhouse furniture from paper.
    In addition, I would like to ask you write about the project on your blog.
    I really will be grateful if you respond. Please let me know how we can arrange it.
    Here’s my shops: https://www.etsy.com/shop/LenasMiniLand/
    https://amazon.com/handmade/Lenasminiland/
    https://www.ebay.com/str/lenasminiland

    Also, all my social media pages have a „LenasMiniLand“ name:
    https://www.instagram.com/LenasMiniLand/

    I really hope your help in this matter.
    And thank you again for your time.

    Sincerely,
    Lena

    October 15, 2018 at 9:22 am

  62. Oops, forget to subscribe. Done. ♥

    October 15, 2018 at 9:23 am

  63. Yasmine Stark

    Hey I am a Ceramic student currently designing my own ball jointed doll, and was wondering if I could ask what got you into dolls and why you enjoy them so much, I have a few other questions but would love to hear back from you and others that also love dolls
    please please please get back to

    December 31, 2018 at 4:03 am

    • Great question Yasmine! Firstly, good luck on your doll project! I guess you could say I entered collecting through playing with Barbie as a girl. That was definitely step one I think. Step 2 for me was re-entering the Barbie world with my daughter when she was 3 years old and re-experiencing that love through her. I started doing research on collector Barbie’s at that time because I thought it would be a fun thing to do with my daughter…get her a special Barbie for her Birthday and Christmas…that sort of thing. This was not long after Silkstone Barbie’s had hit the market and I was fascinated by them. I loved them mostly for the couture fashions. I have always been a fan of fashions and particularly post WWII fashions. As I did more and more research on these collector Barbie’s, I became ever more fascinated. I went to my first Barbie convention in 2008 and have attended 9 out of 10 in the last 10 years. I love the community of collectors and the large pool of creativity it generates. I guess I would say I entered collecting because of my love of fashion and have stayed for the amazing people I have met and formed friendships with along the way. Again, good luck on your project! –Rebecca

      December 31, 2018 at 8:56 am

  64. hayley

    Are you BARBIE’s Biggest Fan?
    • Do you have a huge collection of Barbie Dolls?
    • Do you collect Vintage Barbies? Do you own a fan site?
    • Are you or your child obsessed with all things Barbie?
    • Did Barbie influence you in some way? Your career or looks?
    • Do you live in a Barbie-like dream house? Own a Barbie jeep?

    New show looking for Barbie Fanatics!!!
    Mention Hippodrum Casting Ref’d you!
    Apply at: https://barbiesbiggestfan.castingcrane.com/

    January 12, 2019 at 9:59 am

  65. Sheila Nero

    Hi Rebecca, how can I order some of the accessories you sell?

    August 18, 2019 at 7:26 pm

  66. Johnny

    Absolutely love your pink haired swirl ponytail you have pictured in one of your doll room sales photos. Do you do your own reroots?

    June 2, 2020 at 2:32 pm

    • Yes, she is a favorite of everyone. I have only done one Silkstone reroot myself and then decided I would leave it to the professionals LOL! The one I have was done by Dan Lee who , sadly, does not do reroots any more.

      June 2, 2020 at 4:12 pm

  67. Joyce Jordan

    First let me say I love your work.
    Your attention to detail is amazing and I am in awe with your work. I’m trying to find out where to purchase Matisse fashions to give to a friend who is a Barbie collector. can you help?

    September 3, 2020 at 9:33 am

    • Hi Joyce! Thank you so much for the lovely comment 🙂 I am glad you like my work. Matisse ( Brenda Visaya) sells most of her work via her FB page and her Etsy shop. You can find her on FB under Brenda Visaya or on Etsy https://www.etsy.com/ca/shop/MatisseFashions . I would just send her a message through one of these platforms. Just be prepared. Her things are exceptional and they go fast once she announces them. What a great friend you are to want to give one of these pieces of art to. Wishing you luck at finding that perfect gift!

      September 3, 2020 at 10:27 am

  68. Anna Rogers

    Rebecca,
    You are awesome! Do you make these for sale for buyers? I adore both your flower shop and office. I am not artistic in that way but I would love the flower shop for the doll I am getting, Bijou in the pink gown.

    I am a new collector and am new to all of this.
    Please advise.

    Thanks

    Anna

    March 7, 2021 at 1:56 pm

    • Hi Anna! Welcome to collecting!! I don’t sell the structures I make. They are primarily for shoots and some I keep and some I remake into other things. This set is very popular so I may do some kind of tutorial on how I made it at some point in the future. I am also considering selling some of the plants I have made or perhaps kits for them. It’s still in the planning process so we will see where it goes. If I do any of this, I will be sure to talk about it on the blog so just keep an eye out there. Enjoy this wonderful world of collecting!

      March 8, 2021 at 9:07 pm

      • Anna Rogers

        Thank you for your reply. I would love any help you can give me, as I am new to the doll industry.

        I purchased the bistro set and would like to know what you used to put the flowers on? All I see on line is a bed, did you use that? If so, how did you get the flowers to be elevated?

        Yes, please keep me in mind for sale of flowers and tutorials. The flowers are very expensive, do you have any suggestions on where to buy less expensive ones lol

        March 17, 2021 at 8:40 am

      • Hello Anna! Thank you for the questions. For the flower shop diorama, the flowers are actually on a nail polish stand that I purchased with this diorama in mind. Here is the link on Amazon for the US https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07DQLZL7Q/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1 If it doesn’t show up as a hyperlink in response just copy and paste. Yes, paper flowers can be very expensive which is why I started making my own. I will announce on the blog if I ever decide to sell or sell kits so keep a look out for them. One of the first things to do when diorama making at this scale is to start thinking about how to use everyday things that will work in this scale …hence the nail polish stand. You will find that there are many everyday things we use that can be used as smaller scale props. I call that my 1/6 scale glasses. You start looking at things differently. You find that a thimble could make a very good flower pot if you painted it. Don’t get tied down with how it actually looks. Think about how you could change or tweak something to make it into what you want. Hope this helps as you wade into this glorious small scale world. Come on in! The water is fine 🙂

        March 17, 2021 at 8:52 am

      • Anna Rogers

        You are so fabulous in sharing all those fantastic tips! I brought the table and chairs and will order the stand. What a great idea.

        I am going to take your advice and begin thinking out the box and try developing my ideas. I love the thimble idea, you are so right in rethinking things.

        I am so excited to begin exploring this arena. I am doing it for myself and my granddaughter who is 11 as a way of bonding and introducing her to the doll world.

        I will keep checking the posts and thanks again.

        March 18, 2021 at 9:25 am

  69. Felicia

    Rebecca love your photos. You give me so much inspiration! Thanks for sharing your passion.

    April 28, 2021 at 3:42 pm

    • Aww! Thank you so much Felicia. I am happy you like the images. It gives me joy to create them and I am happy to pass it on. Thank you for the lovely feedback!

      April 29, 2021 at 7:59 am

  70. Donald

    Rebecca beautiful dolls and outstanding photos, looking at your collection can you please tell me if Eifeldolldress is still creating fashions I did find one but the site looks like repainted dolls. Thank you for your help

    May 2, 2021 at 8:48 am

    • Hi Donald. It looks like they have moved on to repaints of OOAK dolls. I have not seen them produce a gown in quite some time so I guess they are focusing on other projects for now. Wish I had better news for you.

      May 4, 2021 at 9:02 am

      • Donald

        Thank you so much I really appreciate your help
        Thank you I really appreciate your help. I love reading and looking at your fantastic photos

        May 7, 2021 at 6:05 am

  71. Susan Campbell

    Hi I have been given a suitcase full of which I’m assuming old Barbies and alot of accessories one of the Barbies are dated 1967 well a few are I’m not sure if I shld maybe keep these I live in the UK can’t seem to find the right person for advice thanks

    September 9, 2021 at 4:35 pm

    • Hi Susan! It sounds like you might have some wonderful items there. I am no expert in the vintage Barbie arena but I could certainly try and guide you towards someone who is. Feel free to email me at raberry65@msn.com and I can try and forward you to someone with more knowledge to help guide you.

      September 9, 2021 at 10:29 pm

  72. Cynthia Holt

    Member 50 years ago. Cindy Gordon.would I still be in there?

    October 17, 2022 at 10:17 pm

  73. Jane Arensberg

    I love your work! Keep expanding . . .

    March 10, 2023 at 8:33 pm

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