Nellie-Belle Restoration!

 I recently, had a windfall of Rushton cuties the past two weeks. Next up, it's Nellie-belle, a Rushton Pony!

This is from an advertisement about her. Nellie-belle arrived to me early in February. But, I took some time to get her worked on, as I have been working on other things. I don't really collect too many of the other types of Rushton animals, and Nellie is one of them. I decided I will restore her and then resell her in my shop. So when she arrived, she was missing, her tail, her saddle, and reins as well. She also needed cleaning on her face.

So, as with all my plushies, I began with taking out the stuffing and washing them. Her ears are a bit rough on the edges, so I just cleaned them up a bit. After she dried, I restuffed her and began working on her face. There was a lot of caked on dirt and dust. I cleaned her hooves as well. By the time all that work was done. It was time for me to repaint her. I did have to repaint her irises, eyelashes, and eyebrows. Her mouth and tongue as well. I also added a bit of blush and she was complete.

I decided to make her reins and her saddle myself. A bit similar to the one in the ad, but I decided on my own coloring and use of the Japan Rushton fabric. If you look carefully, one side is a "Happy" face Rushton bear and on the other side is a "Baby" Rushton duck. I even added some pompoms, and felt fabric too! I placed brass buttons on the reins and used felt to make them with. It is not secured on her and can be removed. I then added some bells to the felt loop on the front of the saddle and there are snaps on the felt, for easy take off. I then, waited a week to work on her tail. Mostly because I wasn't sure how I want to attempt making it... Decisions, decisions...LOL

So, I added a blue satin bow to her and just today, finished the tail. You see on the Rushton ad, Nellie's tail is actually attached to the saddle. When she arrived to me, there was no hint that she had a tail. So, this is why I think it was attached to her saddle? I could be wrong. Ultimately, I made her one using off white felt fabric and sewed the tail onto her body. I couldn't find off white yarn to make her tail with, but I think the felt fabric was actually prettier on her! Now, she is ready to be loved again!!

Next, I found this lovely Totsy brand doll dress in pink for my Alice hybrid doll. I recently had my husband help me to modify her so that her head sits permanently into the Whimsie body. This dress was a perfect fit too! Now, to wait for some shoes to put on her...

I also found this lovely satin blue vtg Valentine's box, rare to find it in blue and in such lovely condition. I also won these adorable Demon baby figurines. They are already adopted and should be with their new Mommy soon. I love this version. I've seen them in an orange color and red, I believe. Made by Charmcraft, China.

Then, I also had some prints made of these two cuties! My Rushton crying bear and Betsy on a shelf! It took over a month to get to me. Ugh. I may need to find another company that can ship faster! I've already added this to my Etsy shop!

Last for today, is this lovely vtg Kanebo yarn doll hanger. I have been trying to win something like this since last year. I saw 2 others up for auction and both times, I lost last minute. So this time, I actually won it and Yay me!! It matches so well with my brooch. Love Kanebo made accessories. They are always too cute and they have that 50s vibe of Japan!

Enjoy your weekend all!

Thank you for looking! ~ ggsdolls

What is Fair in Collecting? Updated

 

Over 50 years of living this life, and sometimes things don't surprise me. But this recent experience did! I've posted before about what is fair in collecting back in 2018 in my original blog post here. Though it is out there in cyberspace, many have not read it or know of it. Especially, those who are new to collecting and don't read blogs much, because it's easier to youtube it or tiktok it. So, I will share it again!!

 - Do what is fair and right, when collecting. 

We are all looking for the same vintage items. As a collector you can't force others not to buy something because you want the same item. Guess what everyone does too! But, should someone else find it or win it instead of you, you should not hate the person, disrespect or bully them for it. Collecting is just that, we find great deals, great. If someone else beats us to the great deal, oh well, it wasn't meant to be yours, be happy for them! You will eventually find it yourself, in time. "Have patience young Padawan!"

 - Be courteous with one another. When you ask another collector if they are or aren't interested in an item, that you may want for yourself. Be honest, you can kindly ask that other collector. Whether it's between friends or just a fellow collector, let one another know. That way in the end, your friend and on a future item find, you'll both get the best price for that vintage find. I think this is a bit of a give an take situation between mostly close collector friends and it can be helpful and nice. But, I'm sure there is the opposite and things can get nasty too. If that happens, then the earlier rule is the best way to go.

  -  Share your knowledge about things you find. I'm an advocate for sharing what I find. It is my hope that from what I share, if it can help others in their pursuit of finding the same item or have more knowledge about that item, then I'm for it! This one has changed a bit for me, because some of the younger collectors feel you "NEED" to tell them where you bought it or how you got the item. For those of us who have been doing this for years, honestly, we don't owe 'anyone', an explanation. You need to learn what to do and how to, that's what we have done. We didn't just ask someone for the answers. We did the years of searching and research and worked at it. So, with that being said, Yes, share the knowledge about an item is fine, but we are not obligated too, and there should be no pressure.

 - Be mindful of others feelings and have respect for one another as collectors. Though I may have said, all is fair in our love of collecting. Still be mindful of others, and don't say or share things that may hurt them, just to get back at them or for whatever reason. It's just plain wrong. Okay, so you won that item. Don't show off, and don't brag about it either. I'm a firm believer of Karma, and what you put out into the world, is exactly what you will get back. Just think first, "Would I want something like that done to me?"

 - Don't burn your bridges. When you become close to other collectors, that's great and you've made a good friend. They probably helped you find an ISO, or even directed you to one they had in their collection themselves and are offering it to you. Having a person you can relate to helps, and having one that loves the same things you do, is even better and a blessing! You have to remember, everyone is different and the way we all communicate with one another is different too. It's okay, if your not social, nothing wrong with that. But please don't force yourself on others either. We have many talents, gifts, and knowledge we can share or gain from one another. If there was a minor misunderstanding try your best to work it out. Most often it is just miscommunication. But, if that person, won't forgive or forget. Let it be and move on. It is a lesson learned, and that's life. One thing I've learned is that you can forgive, and talk it out with one another. Sometimes that works too, so try, it doesn't hurt!

 - Collectors as sellers.  As collectors we all want the best deals, doesn't everyone? But, you also have to remember that we were not sellers at first, we are buyers just like you. Please be courteous to the seller you are buying from. Asking for a cheaper deal or questioning their items or prices, is just an insult. Come on guys, if you were at a Gap Store or Walmart, do you go up to the cashier and barter for a cheaper price? The person you are buying from is a small business, at most, a collector themselves trying to make back what they spent on that item, and the work they put into getting it or fixing it. Please read some of the examples given on, "11 Etiquette to observe when buying from a dealer." Numbers 1, 4, 5, 8, and 9." (Sadly, the website needs renewing and is currently down.)

- Collectors as Buyers. Updated. Do not ask or force a seller to tell you who bought that item you missed out on and where they are from. That is none of your business and sellers shouldn't be giving out buyers information either. It's in your agreement with the selling website not too. That's the reason certain places do not show who the winner is or buyers names. Buyers should not bully or try to guilt trip other buyers because they missed out on an item.  It's sold, let it go and move on. You can't tell a seller who not to sell too! Just because, you don't want that person to buy it, because they have the money for that item and you don't. That's wrong too! How would you like someone doing that to you? Please, think before you say or do things. Sometimes when you are upset, angry things get said or done and honestly it hurts everyone, in the end.

- For the love of collecting, Be kind. It makes a difference in our world nowadays, where there is so much violence, hate, bullying, and lies. Being kind matters... Kindness, matters. We all love, what we love and collect, what we collect. Enjoy it and be kind to others when you are collecting. It makes for a better world, a better people, better community and life...

Just my take. If I find other points to add, I will update it here. Just remember, let's make collecting fun and safe. I'd love to hear your thoughts on what you feel is 'Fair in Collecting'? Comment below.

 Thank you again for reading my little blog! ~ ggsdolls

Did You Know?

 I made this quick vid to talk about "Plastic Degradation" also called, "Vinyl Plague" from a fellow collector. Basically, it's rubber/plastic degrading over time. Some say it's not a disease and can't be passed on to other dolls or toys, but from my experience, it can!

As with everything, time, temperature, and sunlight can degrade vintage items. Rubber/Plastic is one of them. So, it may not be a disease, and can't be caught by other dolls or toys, but, it can affect them if they are stored in the same plastic container or enclosed container. 

Thanks to "Wakarimasen" on Instagram who shared her knowledge about what can happen to Furga Dolls. "They develop darker spots that grow over time. It can be temporarily cured by exposure to sun with a mixture of oxy cream, but will come back eventually. They say it's an additive that degrades due to the lack of airflow, (typically dolls stored in closed containers.)"

From my experience, I left a vintage German made rubber doll in the same bin as the same type of rubber doll in perfect condition. One was a bit darker, but that was before I knew what was happening to it. After about a year, I took them out because I decided to sell one of them. Upon inspection, the other doll that was perfect, had soiling on her clothes, and her face and body started to become dark just as the other doll was before. So, does this mean the "Plastic Disease" can be a disease? Possibly or perhaps, because they were in the same container and in close proximity to each other, the degradation of one doll possibly contaminated or increased degradation of the other doll in the process as well.

Maybe someone in our community can experiment and tell us what their results wield. But ultimately, don't store degrading dolls with perfect ones, is the answer from my experience! Haha!

As with all things in time, they degrade. So enjoy them while you can! Generally, they should last your lifetime!

Thank you for watching! ~ ggsdolls

A Great Many Things...

 It has been a busy month and a blessing I must say. Truly it is. Today, is a special day and after turning another age, I am blessed to have the things I have, the family I have and the life I am living. For that, I thank God, my family and my dear friends...

Here are some of the finds I got the past month!

I found this huge tiger cutie from Canada. A fellow collector friend helped me to acquire him. Definitely a good luck charm for the Chinese New Year of the Tiger!! He is made by Allied Toys, Canada. I also found this adorable pink bunny by Arnart. I listed in my shop and he sold a week later. This adorable clown rattle toy I couldn't resist buying. I love his painted features too!

Another Canadian find, this pajama bag is a furry cat named, "Doodles"! He is already listed in my shop! Love the fabric at the back side too!! Below, this adorable plastic duck rattle safety pin. I've seen often, but only just got myself one. I added a pink satin bow and he will be great in my vintage doll scenes!! I caved and got myself one of those blow mold ice cream cones! Yup, it's a lot bigger than I thought, but just like the duck rattle, they will make good props in my photos!!

Another previous find, was this lovely vintage plush musical baby doll. She is also animated!! When her musical box plays, she moves her head ever so slightly. Just too precious too! One of my fave finds so far!! Ken Elephant, released a set of Roly Poly dolls in other colors similar to the ones from the Nostalgia set. I have a few in my shop already and I plan to get more in soon!!

This adorable wall decor is by the lovely Lepetitcherie shop on Etsy. Alvina gifted this cuteness to me!! I love it A!! I was in shock to find this adorable Miss Priss tea pot!! Missing her lid, she is still in amazing condition! Even with her manufacturer's flaws, like the missing paint area above her left eye. Talk about windfall, I found another two Roaring 20s Mattel Talking dolls!! I listed one and the other with the blue satin wrap I will keep. In pretty awesome condition considering their age.

Lovely, wall decor of Rushton advertisements! I added satin bows to them and now, they are up and looking gorgeous in my room! Meyercord decal from Candybunnytoy! Here are the Rushtons I found and restored...

The red bunny was adopted back in January. The bunny above, I only recently gave a whole makeover too Last, the one below, restored her and she is already adopted! I am trying to convince myself that the bunny with the hat needs attention, that I can not give her!! So, she will be available soon too!! Haha!

Found this adorable white Trudy Co. plush kitty! Another plushy I am trying to tell myself I don't need!! LOL Below, an adorable sad bear that is also a musical and animated one. I adopted from Icecreambear shop on IG!! She is quite unique and she moves too!!

Adorable wood Valentine's conversation pieces, I bought for my props in photos and besides Valentine's is coming up too!!

I hope you all find your dream goodies too! Happy Hunting!

Thank you for reading! ~ ggsdolls

Restoring a Rushton Valentine Happy Bear...

 I had the amazing opportunity to adopt a fellow collector's vtg Rushton Valentine's Happy Bear! She was an early birthday gift to myself and I am so thrilled that he arrived safely to me last week!! He arrived with so many cute extras, I was very touched by my dearest friend, Alvina. My heart is definitely full and her kindness was just truly amazing. I feel so blessed to have her and her family in my life! Along with some really amazing collector friends via Etsy and Instagram, you know who you guys are! 

ILY always. ~ ggsdolls

Now onto the restoration!! I actually didn't have to do anything to him as far as his fur or washing him. Alvina kept him as is and she is one I know that is very good at making sure her plushies or any vintage item is clean and safe. At first, I thought I may try to wash him still. Mostly because, I wanted to refresh his fur. But, that would mean me having to undo his seams, take off his wings which are delicate as it is, remove his felt feet, his stuffing, etc. Ugh. I didn't want to do that. At least for now. So, instead I just simply wiped him down and used Mr. Clean eraser on his face, just to take off a bit of the aging. His facepaint was immaculate underneath. He only needed a touch up to his nose and hair. I did add some blush to him!

After sealing his face, I simply allowed him to dry and he sat for the past week. I was trying to decide, how to move forward with the other items he iss missing. He was missing the bow and arrow, and of course his felt heart with the message, "H-O-N-E-Y, I Love You." Hmmm, how is one to create something like that... I went to my local School and Office Supply Store, and picked up some foam sheets in colors, and also found a gold poster paper sheet! Yay!

The idea was to take the foam sheet and cut out a bow and arrow shape. Then, take the gold poster paper and glue that onto the foam sheet cutouts. I began that work yesterday and within just an hour, I was done with making his bow and arrow. I basically printed out a bow and arrow printable from online images. Then, cutout the shape, used that to cutout the shapes onto the foam sheet, and also the gold poster paper and glued both together.

I added a foam loop so that both the arrow and bow can be placed onto his paws without me having to staple or sew them onto him. You see, Rushton Co. either glued the props onto their plushies or stapled them on. I didn't want to do that. Staples will eventually rust and cause spots on the fur, and glue, just damages it. That's a No-no to me! So, now the task was to create the felt heart that is stapled onto his red satin bow... hmmm. In the end, I basically took a screen shot of a Valentine's Rushton online and cropped and enhanced the felt heart photo. Next, I printed it out, and blue the image onto the foam sheet I already had. I could've made it using felt, but that would take me way too long to do. Sorry, I was lazy, and then I sealed the heart with gloss spray paint. I sewed the heart onto the rest satin bow I had on him.

On a side note, sadly, I could not find a thicker red satin ribbon roll, ugh. Mostly were only 1 inch or smaller and sold out because of yup, you guessed it Valentine's coming up. The ones they did have were in white with red words. Ugh. Oh well. Next time. In the end, he turned out just lovely. His bow and arrow may not look exactly like the version the original bears had, but hey they are decent enough! Haha!

 

 

 

Now, he's ready for Valentine's Day! I hope to upload some spam pics when I do a set up scene with him soon!! He has the same face as my pink Happy bear, just taller and in red and white. He is a huge bear too. Not as huge as Papa bear, but definitely the largest I own now in my collection!

 

 Thanks again to Alvina for allowing me to adopt him! Have a wonderful weekend my friends!

 

 Thank you for reading! ~ ggsdolls

Check This Out!!

 My dear friend Kewtkitsch on IG was interviewed by Themothballpropheciess!! Yeah, don't ask, just listen!! You're welcome! Haha ~ ggsdolls

New Cuties and Finds!

 It has been a decent start to the week! A few goodies I found through out the end of December into January and her they are...

This lovely Artist Bunka doll from Japan. I found for my shop. She is a lovely version of Bunka and even has saran hair. She is already listed in my Etsy shop. I have been wanting this lovely pin caddy, mostly because of the colors. So, I found one with its original box!! It came with 3 safety pins too! I will be using mostly to display the bead pin dolls I've been making. More on the bead dolls later in this post!

Shaped like a rooster, the pin caddy is cute! You push down on his crown and his beak releases the safety pins. Its tail part can be used to undo the pin or redo the pin with one hand. Helpful when you are changing a diaper. You might've seen it often. I know I do. Haha! Next, this lovely Lucite jewelry box, I found recently, is from Japan. In Japan auctions they can cost a lot, but outside of Japan, they are very nicely priced, and it still works too! I may keep this one? Haha.

Then, this vintage Toho Bussan pink plush bunny, is similar to Sekiguchi plushies. She has sleep eyes with eyelashes and just reminds me a lot of Twin Stars or maybe Joan Anglund children? I was going to keep her, but she's big and I just don't have the room! Already listed in my Etsy shop! Back in September, I found out that a these adorable Rune Naito mascots were going to be released in December. So, I was able to preorder one set. It arrived safely and they are just like the ceramic versions!! Smaller to the ceramic ones, they can also twist their heads! A set of six and all are available in my Etsy shop!

While doing my usual searches, I found this lovely art print. The seller listed it as a silhouette of girl with bird cage. It reminded me of something whimsical. I bought it straight away! Now, to find a companion! A doll collector via IG announced the release of her porcelain doll Sleeping Sylvy!! I was fortunate to snag one and she arrived to me safely. Oh my goodness, she is just the sweetest artist doll. If you love Frozen Charlotte dolls, Leledolls are perfect! Made in S. Korea by Leledolls.

I was able to snag this rare "Ooh Bunny" girl Rushton in red and white dots. Definitely worth it. I originally got her to sell, but oh my goodness, I fell in love with her! She is just too cute! All original and still has her original tag. I only added a red ribbon, and the daisy in her hand. Back in October, I found this lovely Rushton "Crying" Kitty too! I lovely condition as well. I will add her to my Etsy shop sometime soon! So be on the look out or keep your notifications for Etsy on!

This Rushton "Cuddle" bunny needed help. I snagged her for a good price, and knew I could probably restore her. So, it took me about 2 weeks. I had to wash her twice. Sadly, the stains couldn't completely come off. But, most did get removed. Her face had caked on dirt and dust. As soon as I used the Mr. Clean eraser, I was so happy to know that it would work. Because at first, I thought I would have to repaint her whole face. But after using the eraser, I found she just needed a touch up of her eyes, eyebrows, nose, and mouth only! Yay! I found a vtg doll skirt in red and added a satin red bow. She is just too cute and would be lovely for Valentine's Day. I hope to add her to my Etsy shop soon too! Just check out the before and afters...

Okay and now to talk about my recent handmade cuties... I decided to try my hand at making bead dollies. I made them to be similar to nursery rattle dolls. But, these versions you can wear as a pin, on a necklace or even a key chain and take them anywhere with you! The first batch I made below, sold in one day!! I was thrilled and so thankful!! I decided to make more in other colors.

2nd Batch of bead dollies above, are listed in my shop! I worked on a 3rd batch, and this time used "Swarovski" crystal beads at the center of the flower. I literally paint their tiny bead faces similar to the vintage Japan wood beads you see in craft supplies, and then pick and choose certain colored beads to make them look like doll rattles. My favorite colors of course are the pastels. Haha, can't get enough of em'!! I add a colored safety pin and TADA! A brooch to wear!

Above, are flower brooches which are a work in progress. I was testing out the beads, a bit heavy so I need to figure out a way to put the pin at the back side, so that it will be stable. Sadly, my first attempt, they want to fall to one side or the other. Still needs work for sure... Last, these pics Taby sent me while she was out Thrifting. She found me a cute Posedoll. But sadly, it has stains, so I will not be able to fix her. So I told her I'll pass. It's nice to know that my local thrift might have some gems like this though! Yippee!!

I hope your January is off to a good start! Hugs all around!

Thank you for looking! ~ ggsdolls