DIY Face-ups for my first doll: Good, or not?

So I'm considering about doing face-ups myself on my first doll in an attempt to save myself some cash and get the looks I like, since pre-face upped heads on YJA are pretty expensive (and I don't really understand other sites), and Volks doesn't always make heads that I like.

However, I also read that I should buy pre-face upped heads for my first doll somewhere, so what are your opinions?

And if you think it's good, could you provide your favorite tutorial on face-upping dolls, please?

 

Thanks in advance.

You can find tips about customization here at the forum, and also see the work of some talented faceup artists if you decide not to do it yourself:

 

viewforum.php?f=18

 

Personally I prefer dolls with faceups already, since I don't have the talent (or time to develop the talent) to do it myself. You can always say you're looking to buy a damaged or stained head in the "Looking for" section, and get one to practice on.

 

Linda S.

galatia9

I did my own faceup on my first doll, and have zero regrets doing so! However, I am a hobbyist artist/crafter, so I only had to buy MSC and some 91% strength rubbing alcohol (to take her old faceup off).

 

If you've already *got* some supplies, like acrylic paints and decent brushes, *or*, you're really motivated by your artistic vision more so than price, then absolutely do your own faceup. I've found it emotionally rewarding and a good 'bonding' experience, even when a faceup doesn't go quite right.

 

But if you don't have supplies, and were intending to do your own primarily to save money, then honestly you're at cross-purposes--you'll wind up forking out more than you think buying paints, sealer, pastels, etc. At that point, it's probably more cost-effective to get a blank head and have someone here on the forums do it.

 

Both routes are completely valid, but I hope this helps a bit in figuring out which is best for you.