Dolls are, by definition, playthings. But the best of today's dolls are highly collectible works of art. This book traces the history of dolls and doll collecting, and takes you into the wonderful world of artists dolls, many of which sell for thousands of dollars. The stunning creations of fifty internationally renowned artists are showcased in full-colour photographs. Discover the artists and delight in their inspiring stories.

An appreciation of the most beautiful dolls made in America and Europe during the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries.

“A foolproof guide.”—Vogue Patterns. “This book by one of the world’s top doll designers provides detailed information, patterns and ideas to make several different 18-inch cloth dolls....Loaded with valuable information for the fabric doll maker.”—Doll Castle News.

Examines a variety of dolls throughout the world, discussing how they have been used at different times and how they reflect the cultures that created them.

What a Doll! The year is 1959. It is an era of one-dimensional paper dolls and cherubic baby dolls. And then, seemingly out of nowhere, there is Barbie doll. Sophisticated and full of possibilities. Barbie changes everything--forever. When Ruth Handler created Barbie doll five decades ago she not only introduced a wonderful toy for little girls, she helped create one of the most popular and prized collectibles in the toy market. Imagine, Handler's first doll, a Ponytail Barbie, sold for more than $25,000 at auction; a staggering amount for a doll that originally sold for $3. Barbie: A Rare Beauty hosts an amazing visual feast of 50 years of beautiful dolls, showcasing more than 500 striking photographs of some of the finest and rarest dolls ever created. Author and celebrated Barbie doll expert Sandi Holder presents a banquet of gorgeous vintage dolls, classic fashion sets, prototypes, one-of-a-kind rarities, Japanese fashions, store displays, licensed products and many never-before-seen items in this stunning presentation of the grandest doll ever: Barbie.

Collectors will delight in acquiring the first and only Black dolls book that is completely published in Full Color! Author Debbie Garrett has written an extensive book of reference on vintage, modern, fashion and artist Black dolls. Featured in this book are Black dolls made from cloth, bisque, celluloid, composition, rubber, wood, and hard plastic. Fashion dolls, modern artist dolls and other doll categories are covered. This long overdue, insightful book includes a price guide and tips.

For a doll contest at a party, a little girl chooses to enter a doll that seems least likely to win a prize.