If you're like me, you love everything that has to do with mermaids, especially mermaid dolls! If you are a beginner collector of mermaid dolls, here are some tips for online shopping:
Sirenita's Tips For Mermaid Doll Shopping:
1)
Never, Never, NEVER buy a doll in a used or out-of-box condition. Not only does this decrease the value of the doll, but the doll might come in an inadequate condition. For example, the doll might be missing important accessories (such as crowns, necklaces or even tails! Yikes!), the doll's facial paint might be chipped or worn away, or the hair might be a knotted mess! I would only recommend buying open dolls if you would like to build your own mermaid from scratch.
2) If you see a doll on this page that you like, check online stores such as
ToysRUs.com or
DisneyStore.com or even
Walmart.com. You might find the dolls a bit cheaper compared to other online stores. Only use Ebay and Amazon if you cant find the doll of your choice on these websites.
3) If you are starting a new collection for the first time, make sure you have space! Once you buy one mermaid doll, you might want to buy a complete series or collection, and then another and another. Before you realize it, you'll run out of shelving space. This is a lesson I have learned the hard way :(
4) Do not open your dolls out of the box unless you are sure you want to keep them permanently. Once the doll is box-free, the value is pretty much gone!
5) Don't spend all of your savings on one doll! Some dolls are listed at ridiculous prices; some non-collectible dolls have been listed at 50 dollars and higher! Be patient, and wait until the price comes down. I have seen the Mermaid Fantasy Barbie dolls priced as high as 85 dollars a doll. However, with patience, I was able to find them for 30 dollars or less.
6) Buy from brands you trust. This ensures you will be getting a great quality doll and collectible. Mattel and Disney are great brand choices.
7) Go with your inner mer instinct. If you are buying on a website such as Amazon or Ebay and you feel that something about the pricing or the seller is not right, pick a different seller. I have had my purchases cancelled for no reason with no contact from the seller, so make sure you look at their profile to see how other buys rate them.
9) Pick dolls for your collection that really speak to you! Dont just buy any old doll that your not crazy about! For example, I have been buying merdolls that I used to have as a mergirl, such as the Mermaid Fantasy collection. Customize your collection so that it suits you.
10) If you plan on taking your doll out of the box, buy doll stands. This ensures that the doll is not only displayed nicely, but wont get scratched or damaged from laying around. These are the stands I use:
They are durable, and coated so they wont rust or damage your doll. They can be found on Ebay or hobbyist shops for a very cheap price.
Have fun!
-Sirenita The Selkie
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