Doll Maker Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of creativity, the focus on doll makers has never been more pronounced.
Artistry evolves, and with each progression, the demand for skilled artisans who can create, enhance, and preserve our cherished childhood toys grows stronger.
But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a doll maker?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker trying to grasp the core of this role,
- A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
- Or simply captivated by the artistry of doll making,
You’ve come to the right place.
Today, we introduce a customizable doll maker job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s dive right in.
Doll Maker Duties and Responsibilities
Doll Makers are artisans who create dolls using a variety of materials and techniques.
They combine artistic creativity with skilled craftsmanship to produce dolls that are often collectible items or playthings.
Doll Makers have the following duties and responsibilities:
- Designing and creating original dolls or reproducing popular doll styles
- Sketching and implementing doll designs, including the body, face, and clothing
- Choosing appropriate materials for the doll such as fabric, clay, plastic, or porcelain
- Sewing or sculpting the doll bodies and fashioning the doll clothing
- Painting facial features and applying makeup to give the doll a lifelike appearance
- Assembling the final doll product, including attaching limbs and hair
- Maintaining a clean and organized work environment to ensure safety and efficiency
- Repairing and restoring antique or damaged dolls
- Keeping up-to-date with current trends in doll making and collecting
- Communicating with clients or retailers to understand their specific doll requirements
- Ensuring the quality of the final product before delivery or sale
Doll Maker Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are looking for a talented and creative Doll Maker to join our team.
The ideal candidate will have a keen eye for detail, artistic skills, and a passion for creating beautiful, unique dolls.
The Doll Maker’s responsibilities include designing and creating dolls, sourcing materials, and ensuring that the finished product is of high quality.
The candidate should be able to work with various materials, like cloth, clay, and porcelain, and create dolls that are both visually appealing and safe for children.
Responsibilities
- Design and create unique and high-quality dolls
- Select and source materials needed for doll production
- Paint or embroider facial features on dolls
- Assemble doll parts and ensure they are securely attached
- Inspect completed dolls for any defects
- Repair or replace defective doll parts
- Keep a record of all materials used for inventory purposes
- Stay updated on latest trends and styles in doll making
- Work with team members to brainstorm new doll designs
Qualifications
- Proven experience as a Doll Maker or a similar role in the arts and crafts industry
- Experience working with various materials like cloth, clay, and porcelain
- Knowledge of safe and non-toxic materials for doll making
- Artistic ability and creativity
- Attention to detail
- Good hand-eye coordination
- Ability to work as part of a team
- High school diploma or equivalent
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Opportunities for creative expression
Additional Information
- Job Title: Doll Maker
- Work Environment: Workshop or studio setting. The role can be physically demanding as it involves standing for long periods and fine motor skills.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Production Manager or Art Director.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $30,000 minimum to $50,000 maximum
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a portfolio of your work, and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].
What Does a Doll Maker Do?
Doll Makers are artisans who create dolls for collection, play, or display purposes.
They may work for larger toy production companies, small boutique doll-making businesses, or as self-employed individuals.
Doll Makers are skilled in crafting various parts of the doll, such as the body, face, and hair, often using a variety of materials like porcelain, plastic, cloth, wood, or clay.
They meticulously paint facial features, design and sew clothing, and may even implant hair strand by strand.
Many Doll Makers also design and create miniature accessories, such as shoes, hats, and furniture, to accompany the dolls.
They may use sewing, sculpting, and painting techniques to achieve the desired effect.
Some Doll Makers specialize in creating replicas of real people, while others create entirely unique characters.
They may also restore and repair vintage or damaged dolls.
Doll Makers interact with customers, collectors, and retailers, understanding their requirements and preferences to create customized dolls.
They are responsible for ensuring the final product aligns with the customer’s expectations, whether it’s a special order or a mass-produced item.
In addition, they continuously learn new techniques, follow trends in the doll-making industry, and stay updated about safety standards and regulations.
Doll Maker Qualifications and Skills
A proficient doll maker should have skills and qualifications that fit the scope of the job, including:
- Artistic talent and creativity to design unique and appealing dolls.
- Detail-oriented skills to ensure that each doll is made to the highest standard.
- Manual dexterity and strong hand-eye coordination to handle small parts and use tools effectively.
- Technical skills and knowledge in various crafting techniques such as sewing, sculpting, painting, and more.
- Strong visualization and design skills to create dolls based on sketches, prototypes or descriptions.
- Patient and persistent in order to handle time-consuming and delicate tasks.
- Knowledge of different materials and their properties to choose the best ones for each doll.
- Interpersonal skills to connect with customers, understand their needs, and provide them with satisfactory products.
- Business and marketing skills if self-employed to promote and sell the dolls.
Doll Maker Experience Requirements
Doll Makers typically start their careers with a foundation in the arts, often through a degree or coursework in fine arts, design, or related fields.
Practical experience in art or craft-related roles is usually essential and can be gained through internships, part-time roles, or self-directed projects.
Entry-level Doll Makers often have 1 to 2 years of experience, usually gained through an apprenticeship under an experienced doll maker, or through hands-on experience in crafting, painting, and designing.
Experience with materials like clay, fabric, plastic, and porcelain can be particularly beneficial.
Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have developed their skills in doll making, including sculpting, painting, designing clothes, and creating accessories for dolls.
They may also have experience in repairing and restoring antique dolls.
Those with more than 5 years of experience may have had exposure to managing the entire doll-making process, from conceptualization and design to manufacturing and distribution.
They may have also led workshops or classes in doll-making, showcasing their technical expertise and leadership skills.
Such professionals are usually ready for senior positions or roles that involve managing a team of doll makers.
Doll Maker Education and Training Requirements
Doll Makers may not have a formal education requirement, but a high school diploma or equivalent is often preferred.
Many Doll Makers learn their craft through on-the-job training, apprenticeships, or self-study.
Some may choose to pursue a degree in fine arts, sculpture, or a related field to gain a comprehensive understanding of design principles, materials, and techniques.
Doll makers should have a strong familiarity with different materials such as fabric, clay, wood, and plastic.
They may also need skills in painting and sewing, depending on the type of dolls they make.
There are also specialized courses and workshops available for those interested in specific types of doll making.
These include porcelain doll making, cloth doll making, and puppet making among others.
While not necessary, certification from a doll-making institute or organization can be advantageous as it validates the Doll Maker’s skills and commitment to the craft.
A successful Doll Maker is not only skilled in crafting but also needs a good understanding of child safety regulations and guidelines if the dolls are intended for use by children.
Doll Maker Salary Expectations
The average wage for a Doll Maker is around $35,600 (USD) per year.
Actual earnings can fluctuate based on experience, location, the type of dolls being made, and the size of the company or business for which the doll maker works.
Doll Maker Job Description FAQs
What skills does a Doll Maker need?
A Doll Maker should possess a high level of creativity, fine motor skills, and attention to detail.
They should be proficient in various techniques such as sewing, sculpting, and painting.
Knowledge of different types of materials including fabrics, plastics, and ceramics is also important.
Lastly, they should have good problem-solving skills to troubleshoot any issues that might arise during the doll-making process.
Do Doll Makers need a degree?
While no formal degree is required to become a Doll Maker, a background in fine arts, fashion, or design can be beneficial.
There are also specific courses and workshops available that teach doll-making skills.
Moreover, a Doll Maker should have a portfolio of their work to showcase their skills and creativity.
What should you look for in a Doll Maker’s resume?
Look for experience in craft-making or art-related fields.
Candidates should also have a strong portfolio showcasing their work.
Skills in sewing, sculpting, and painting are essential.
Experience with different materials and techniques is also a plus.
Finally, consider if they have any experience selling their dolls, as this shows they understand the market and what consumers want.
What qualities make a good Doll Maker?
A good Doll Maker is highly creative with a strong attention to detail, ensuring each doll is made to a high standard.
They are patient and dedicated, as creating dolls can be a time-consuming process.
Good Doll Makers also stay up to-date with the latest trends and techniques in doll-making to keep their designs fresh and appealing.
They should also possess good business sense if they plan to sell their creations.
Is it difficult to hire a Doll Maker?
Hiring a Doll Maker can be challenging due to the unique combination of skills required.
The candidate needs to have not just the technical skills, but also a strong sense of creativity and attention to detail.
Since it’s a niche profession, finding candidates with the right mix of skills and experience can take time.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Today, we’ve unraveled the intricate artistry that defines a doll maker.
And guess what?
It’s not just about sewing and stuffing.
It’s about weaving dreams into reality, one stitch at a time.
With our comprehensive doll maker job description template and real-life examples, you’re perfectly prepared to make your mark.
But why end the journey here?
Go a step further with our job description generator. It’s your next stop for detailed job listings or fine-tuning your resume to excellence.
Remember:
Every stitch contributes to the grand design.
Let’s shape those dreams. Together.
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