Whether you're just discovering ball-jointed dolls or you've been in the hobby for over a decade, every collector experiences a unique but oddly familiar path. These phases don’t always happen in the same order, and some people cycle through them multiple times—but most of us have been there, one way or another.
So here’s a lighthearted (and painfully accurate) breakdown of the common phases in the BJD hobby:
1. The “Ooooh Shiny” Phase (a.k.a. Discovery
Mode)
This is the magical start. You’ve just stumbled upon BJDs and you’re hooked. You’re following every Instagram account, binge-watching box openings, discovering forums and websites (maybe even this one!), and obsessively scrolling through doll company photos.
You gasp at the prices, cringe at shipping times… but you take the plunge. That first doll is on its way—and your heart hasn’t beat the same since.
2. The Spend Phase (a.k.a. The Wallet Crying Era)
Your first doll arrives and suddenly you need everything: wigs, eyes, outfits, props, furniture, new heads, new bodies, new dolls entirely. You’ve rationalized that you’ll stop after one, but now you’ve got a crew of four (or ten).
Your room is a mini studio, your wishlist is a mile long, and every spare dollar has a doll's name on it. This phase can last 1 to 3 years (or longer if unchecked!).
3. The End of the Honeymoon Phase
You’ve hit your goals your grail doll is home, your crew has personality, you’ve dabbled in stories or photography… and now what?
Suddenly, the thrill dulls. You’re not as excited about new releases. You’ve stopped checking Instagram daily. This is the moment that separates long-term collectors from dopamine-chasers. You either find a deeper connection with the hobby or you slowly drift away.
4. The Limbo Phase
The dolls are still here, but the spark flickers. You've made friends, maybe lost some. You’ve figured out your niche whether that’s sewing, storytelling, photography, modding, or just quiet appreciation.
The hobby is now a part of your life, not your whole identity. Some weeks you’re obsessed, other months you forget they’re even on the shelf. And that’s okay.
5. The Respark Phase
Then it happens, something pulls you back in. Maybe you start a website, a YouTube channel, a new doll project, or host a local meet.
Suddenly you remember why you fell in love with the hobby. It may not be as intense as that first “ooooh shiny” moment, but it’s just as fulfilling. These bursts of energy will come and go, and they’re beautiful when they land.
6. The Veteran Phase
You’ve been around. You’ve seen trends rise and fall, companies come and go, and you've become a recognizable face in the community. Maybe people know your iconic dolls, or your photography style, or your thoughtful advice.
You start supporting newcomers, sharing your knowledge, and connecting more deeply with other long-time collectors. There’s a quiet confidence in this phase—you know what you like, and you're no longer chasing the hype.
7. The Rebuilding Phase (optional but common)
Sometimes, life forces you to step back. Maybe you sell your dolls, or take a long break. But then, later, you return—and you rebuild. This can be a humbling, grounding experience that helps you reconnect with the why behind the hobby. Your new collection might look nothing like the first, but it reflects who you are now.
So What’s Next?
Who knows? Even after 13 years in the hobby, I’m still learning, still creating, and still finding joy in unexpected places.
Whether you’re brand new or deep into your veteran era, this hobby evolves with you—and that’s what makes it special.
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