So! Tell me... (a survey for customers regarding clothing)

[Miwako]

Okay... How do I start this? I am a Future fashion student with a love for sewing... I've been doing it for about four or so years, and I really enjoy it. Because of this, I figure...Why not start a doll clothing business? I love my doll, I love making clothes, I consider myself to be a very good seamstress... Why the heck not?! :?

(Plus my friends have been pushing me, and it'd be a great way to support my addiction for Dolls which are obviously more expensive than crack...)

So, before I open my website I wanted to do a little consumer survey of sorts... Please read the below questions so that I can get a better idea of how to serve my future clients!

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?


Thank you guys for your time! I may add more questions in the future! :)

[KeiCai]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?

I mostly buy clothes for 60cm and 45cm size. Mostly for 60cm though. ^^

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?

I tend to buy clothes whenever money allows, but I buy all of my guys' wardrobes; I haven't gotten around to sewing for them yet.


3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)

My 60cm guy is more London Punk than anything, and my minis are both very casual and laid-back in style. I like to buy clothes that my dolls can move easily in though, and ones that are comfortable for me if I want to hold them or just play with them at random.

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?

Casual MSD clothes that are still stylish.

5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)

I tend to buy a lot of things from Hitasura as I love her style. Other than that I don't have a consistent place.


6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?

Offer a wide range of styles, sizes, and fit. It's also good if you find a personal style to impose on all your clothes, so that when someone sees a piece you've made they automatically know who's made it.


Hope this helped!

[Miwako]

^_^ Thank you!

[Tereya Chan]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
I only own 60cm dolls, but even amongst them there's a little bit of a range. I have a heck of a time finding things for SD10 boys.

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
If I had the time and space I'd probably sew, but right now I just buy everything.

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
Each doll tends to have their own style. I have a punk/goth boy, a t-shirt and cargos guy, a preppy boy, a funky loli-ish girl, a casual mod girl, and a something else wearing jeans and a green sweater thing. So basically, I like variety and I tend to seek that. I like buying clothes with lots of parts so I can trade them around my crew.

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
More authentic period clothes. If I ever could get the parts to do a steampunk set for my dolls I'd want to go with something that actually looked like it came from the late 1800s. Other than that, clothes for SD10 boys and more normal, casual and comfy clothes for girls.

5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
I own a few things from Doll Heart (http://dollheart.com/menu/mainframset_e.htm).
Most of my clothes, partly due to ease of access, are from Volks (http://www.volks.co.jp/jp/index.aspx).
And while I haven't purchased from them yet, I really enjoy what 4D (http://vier4d.com/) does.
And since a couple more companies are carrying their things, I'll probably buy some Another Space clothes in the future. I mean, who can resist a nice pair of goggles?

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
As KeiCai said, range helps a lot. As you can see by my problems, despite having a group all within the 60cm range, I've had trouble finding clothes for them. But I think for me communication helps A LOT. One of the reasons why I like the companies I do is because I either feel like a valued customer or simply that the person behind the dolls/clothes are excited about their work and the enjoyment others get from it.

Hope that helped~ Good luck!

[Miwako]

Thank you, thank you! This is really giving my a lot of information and we're only two replies in! :)

[Melaidhrin]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
I have a SD sized girl and two minis. And they all need clothes.

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
I usually buy in spurts. I don't sew myself, but I do harass one of my friends to do it for me. :XD

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
Primarily causal.

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
Decent looking casual clothes for all sizes/genders. It's hard to find good stuff.

5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
Aside from random DoA sellers, I use Dollheart (http://www.dollheart.com/), Dollmore (http://dollmore.net), Volks (http://volksusa.com).

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
Easy way of ordering/getting in touch. I might like someone's work but if they have a convoluted way of commissioning/placing an order I just move along.

[Miwako]

Meladhrin - You had mentioned the ordering process, and I do understand concerns with this. Can you give me an idea of what you've found the most easiest way of ordering?

Personally, I try to stay as far away from shopping carts as possible... But do you (and others) feel these are necessary? It seems like so much work for a site that doesn't have more than 50 different types of products.

Do you all feel that "Shopping Cart" scripts are most convenient? Or would you prefer emailing orders and receiving actual correspondence from someone? Or perhaps, a order form that, later on you'd receive invoice on? These are just some systems I've seen implemented before... not necessarily something I'd use, but I'd really like everyone's thought on this!

[Tereya Chan]

When I purchased from Softly She Walks they did a Shopping Cart combined with an invoice and that worked well. It was easy for me to do the shopping with and nice to have the confirmation on what I ordered.

[Melaidhrin]

Meladhrin - You had mentioned the ordering process, and I do understand concerns with this. Can you give me an idea of what you've found the most easiest way of ordering?

Personally, I try to stay as far away from shopping carts as possible... But do you (and others) feel these are necessary? It seems like so much work for a site that doesn't have more than 50 different types of products.

Do you all feel that "Shopping Cart" scripts are most convenient? Or would you prefer emailing orders and receiving actual correspondence from someone? Or perhaps, a order form that, later on you'd receive invoice on? These are just some systems I've seen implemented before... not necessarily something I'd use, but I'd really like everyone's thought on this!

The only time I think a shopping cart is really needed is if there are numerous items for sale. Otherwise a simple email order form is fine. The thing I was complaining about is when sellers want you to go through hoops just to say what you are interested in purchasing. Lack of clear labels on their clothing items is also annoying. Being able to just say "I want Item #XXX" is so much easier than trying to describe the random shirt you saw them selling.

[Miwako]

Thanks, both of you! I'll keep this in mind. :)

[lyrajean]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?

I have 8 bjd 2MSD sized, 1 orientdoll dae size, 5 58-60cm size

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?

I prefer to sew my own. I only buy stockings shoes and occassionally outfits. Usually when I buy clothes it really has to bowl me over. Either the person who made it is important, like buying a kimono or Japanese school outfit made by a Japanese person, or i want to see how it goes together so I can do something like it myself.

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)

Loli, casual, traditional Asian, period costume

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?

wide selection of hosery

5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)

Volks, poshdolls, random people selling used stuff on forums, ebay...

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?

Get yourself a really good sewing machine and serger. I figure if you'rea fashion student you probably already have these, but JIC... Do something different. Use different fabrics or develop your own style, a catchy name for your business... There are a lot of people selling BJD wear now and you ahve to stand out from the crowd. Good luck!

[alanna214]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
I own an MSD (Blue Fairy) and a Tiny (Bambicrony). I will likely keep it to mini's and tiny's.

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
I don't sew, but I do knit/crochet. I do a bit of both, buying & making.

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
Usually casual. But if I saw some really awesome outfits, I'd be sold.

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
Maybe I'm not looking hard enough, but outfits for MSD boys. The occasionaly OOAK outfit would be awesome, too.

5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
Seth has become a brand snob for Hitasura's stuff lately. LINK (http://www.abjds.com/forum/showthread.php?t=112) And I also buy from LindsaysCorner. LINK (http://www.lindsayscorner.com/) (I think she's updating her site, it doesn't seem to be working right now.)

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
If you do commissions, then a concise price list would be a good idea. Obviously, good communication & competitive pricing (research other seller's prices).

[Sassie_L]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
I own two lati yellow, and have a Dollshe Saint 70cm on the way. I have bought clothes for all three and although I sew, I will always (when money permits) buy clothes for

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
See above answer.

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
Both my lati's wear age appropriate clothing. Pele's tend to be in monochrome with a bright colour accent such as hot pink or red shoes. Astrid tends to wear retro styled clothes in brighter colours. I'm not sure about Gentleman as he hasn't arrived yet - I think I will dress him in a mod meets dandy style.

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
I'd love to see jeans that aren't super skinny or baggy - just a nice stovepipe. And especially ones that don't have lots of straps or dangly flappy things. Just a nice clean line.

5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
I haven't bought enough to have regular sellers.

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
If you plan to sell on places like here or DOA the only thing I would recommend is that the keywords that you use in sale titles actually reflect what is being sold. I have been trying to find Hound sized clothes and I have noticed that a lot of sellers will list Hound in their heading, but don't make clothes for them. As there are so many sales posts, and bumped posts, I find that the search function makes it easier to shop when I'm pressed for time - ok, let's be honest, it makes it faster when I'm online at work shopping supposed to be working lol. Just an idea, but them I am a total newbie so maybe I'm missing something in these instances.

I look forward to seeing what you make.

[eveshka]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?

I've got almost all sizes, and I purchase for all of them when I find what I'm seeking!

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?

At this point, I prefer to buy.

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)

d. all of the above ?

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?

Socks, boy clothing for MSD boys. And I don't mean pink and lace... prep school stuff would be stellar.

5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)

Dollheart and Luts are my primary sources of clothing, I'm discovering. I have bought from various sellers on eBay and DoA, which makes it difficult to identify where something came from and who may have made what.

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?

Update your thread. Title is important. If you sell out of a certain something, don't leave it in the thread title, as nothing kills a buyer's interest as a misleading title.

Keep it simple. Some sellers have top links to break the thread posts to Tiny/MSD/SD... this is a really good thing if the buyer only wants to hit one post and see what's there instead of paging through myriads of photos.

Thumbnails are excellent, with a description of the item and a link to more photos. Just like Dollheart does it.

Try not to mislead. SD13 stuff is loose on CP boys and girls. Volks SD16 girl coats fit CP boys, but not girls.

Lastly, clean up your sales thread. Simple housekeeping such as moving sold items off to a different post can help keep prospective buyers from getting tired of fishing through all the sold/hold stuff to find what is still available!

Hope that helps!

[Se-chan]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?

I own one 70cm doll(DZ), four 60cm-64cm(SD13, Delf, Iple) dolls, four 40cm-46cm(Kid Delf, DoC, slim mini, DZ) dolls, and one super tiny(10cm).

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?

I commission more than I outright buy. I do some sewing of my own.

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)

A little of everything, but I'm looking for more period type clothing/outfits at the moment. And more casual than Loli/Punk/Goth. The latter three are a bit played out in this hobby and I usually try to find something different.

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?

If only someone would offer simple shirt/skirt/or pants options for the tinies and super tinies. It's very hard to find clothes for these.

5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)

Hitasura http://community.livejournal.com/snedesign/, Lindsayscorner http://www.lindsayscorner.com, Diverse Designs http://www.denofangels.com/forums/showthread.php?t=98543, Heise http://www.denofangels.com/forums/showthread.php?t=42422

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?

Keep detailed and frequent communication with your customers.

[AENEAS]

Since Im one of those friends that push :u

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
We have SD13, U-noa (slim mini), and a pipos Baha (tiny) only doll we won't be buying clothes for is the Baha, no reason he is a cat after all.
2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
Without having the space to sew, everything is bought
3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
SD:
Suit wearing boy
Stylish casual boy
Slim Mini:
tomboy casual
casual girl
Stylish casual boy
4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
BOY Slim mini clothes for BOY dolls. Updated versions of classic basics that mix and match well.
5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
Tanya Style (http://tanyastyle.com/)
6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
have a variety of fabric choices, I can't tell you how many time I wanted to order something but didn't because of lame color/fabric choices.
Maintain a website, I think Forum threads are a good way to get your name out but a bad way to maintain a business. And keep your product photos (old and new) in a good place you never know when you might need them again.

[Kyrie Arashi]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
OrientDoll So-type, YoSD, MSD, MNF, SD, long leg SD
Tend to buy clothes for the SDs and YoSD

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
I buy clothes for the SDs and YoSD most often. I tend to make most of my own clothes, though.

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
They vary, but mostly punk, casual, and formal.

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
Lab coats

5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
Diverse Designs (http://www.denofangels.com/forums/sh...ad.php?t=98543)
Dollmore (http://dollmore.net)
EdenDoll (http://edendoll.com/en)

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
Have competative prices, many different styles and sizes of clothing, unique items, and superb customer service.

[harlowe]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
Mature MSD's - so basically the more slender ones.
2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
I buy it.
3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
Victorian or Goth-victorian, think Moulin Rouge or Dresden Dolls
4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
More Victorian pieces for male MSD's
5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
Well I love the items by Mio, Melancholy Kitty, Bojangles & Pirate Wench, but I'm too lazy to get you links to everything
6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
Invest in doing "lines" or Pret-aPorter rather than taking commissions. Commissions will burn you out. People are way too picky and whiney about how well a seamstress reads their mind in order to truly capture their concept. That has burnt out more talented people, second only to being a talented customizer.

[koi]

1. 6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
Invest in doing "lines" or Pret-aPorter rather than taking commissions. Commissions will burn you out. People are way too picky and whiney about how well a seamstress reads their mind in order to truly capture their concept. That has burnt out more talented people, second only to being a talented customizer.

Truer words haven't been spoken! :)

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
SD sized dolls and one Unoa.

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
Both.

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
All of them but I love period outfits, especially English and French. I also like gothic outfits with a Victorian look to them.

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
More period pieces for male dolls.

5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
I don't have one seller that I purchase from. If I see something that I like, I try to get it.

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
What harlowe said! Also offer several lines of clothing, don't just stick with one style and period of clothing. And offer as much mix-and-match as you can. Versatility is the one thing that I think people like the most.

[BunnyChan]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
SD13, YO-SD
2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
Sew it myself.
3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
Normal, plain, casual (by normal I mean just an everyday plain teeshirt and pair of jeans like most humans walk around in)
4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
Plain good quality pants (so many of them have rips, or chains, bells wistles or patterns of some sort), Boyish YO-SD clothes that arent for babies. Ive been looking for tiny little boy clothes, striped shirts, teeshirts with kiddy characters on the chest, cargo shorts, socks, kiddy jeans...pajamas that have mature-kid patterns..not pastels bows and lace and 'chibi' animals regardless of the gender they're supposed to be for.
5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
Nobody really. I ADMIRE Small Packages (http://www.denofangels.com/forums/showthread.php?t=34826&highlight=small+packages%2A)...but I refuse to spend that much cash on a single peice of doll clothing.
6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
Dont cater to one style. Dont cater to YOUR style. Dont make just one peice of a certain style...For instance, dont make one gothic spider dress, one pair of cargo pants, and one frilly little yo-sd nightgown. You'll narrow your customers down so far that they wont bother to keep up with you. If my gothic doll is a BOY, then he cant wear a gothic spider dress....(at least mine dont. I'll leave the skirts to the Els) and if people tell you something like "oh these are wonderful! you could charge MORE for this" ......just because you CAN doesnt mean you should. Doll clothing sellers kinda control clothing prices to some degree...If somebody sells a $45 pair of SD jeans..then other people can do it too...

[Miwako]

I'm so excited to see all the response this has gotten so far, and that my pusher friends have found this as well too... (lawl, you guys know who you are! :P)

It's given me a lot of insight; And I will take this all into consideration when I get things going. So I'm really excited! And thank you guys all so much for your responses so far! :3

[Tuvie]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
I own slim MSDs (Narin & Narae); a slim, tiny Banji; and an SD10 sized boy. As someone else said, it's terribly hard to find nice SD10 sized clothing. I tend to buy for my Narae more than the others, simply because there is an abundance of clothing available for her.

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
I do buy clothing pretty often- I don't have very good sewing skills.

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
I like to buy them simple clothing with unique details- things that look classic and elegant, but I'm also always on the lookout for Victorian-esque pieces.

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
Clothing besides jeans and T-shirts for slim mini boys.

5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
No one in particular, really. I'm particularly fond of Ajumapama's clothing, however.

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
Establish a personal style and maintain good, professional quality. I've gotten to where I won't buy clothing that isn't top-notch just because it's at a lower price and still looks ok. I want to see more high-quality clothing from individual seamstresses that goes beyond worn, torn jeans and graphic t-shirts.
I also think what other people have said about offering versatility is a great point.

[CHISATO]

1.What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
I have SD13 dolls, but I spoil my unoas
2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
I buy doll clothing everytime I get paid ^^;;
3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
SD13 boy: classy, refined, suits and dress clothes
Unoa, boys: simple, casual clothes
Unoa, girls: girly, frilly, hime-gyaru style
4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
fabric choices for the same style :/ well done basics (again with fabric choices)
5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
tanya style, and airee (who is closed atm)

[Dark Chocolat]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?

Buy clothes for what I own, which is currently an Elfdoll girl (60cm). I'll soon have a 63cm boy body from Iplehouse.

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?

Currently I have a friend who sews most of it. This is mostly because I can't find clothes in the style I like in the proper sizes. Everything seems to be aimed at Volks or CP dolls, which doesn't fit everyone.

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)

Casual and dress casual.

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?

Well fit and affordable casual clothing in more than just 'SD/SD13' type sizes. Things that are more fit.

5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)

N/A

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?

Pay attention to fit and details. The more 'human' the clothes look, the better they are often recieved.

[chibaraki]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?

A mature minis and yosd sized.

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?

I tend to buy most things, but I'll make my own if it's something simple and I don't want to pay a bunch for it (e.g. tshirts/baseball shirts, sometimes socks and underwear if I can't find what I want, and I'm currently trying to find a pattern I can use to make bloomers for my bambicrony).

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)

Mostly casual.

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?

A few sellers already do this in the mature mini size range, but I'm always looking for more well-made casual but stylish clothes. Brennil/bojangles does this (and I've bought from her before and plan to do it again), as does Mio (but she's out of my price range). I see a lot of poorly fitted clothes, or clothes made in tacky fabrics, and I won't buy those -- I'm looking for doll-sized equivalents of stuff people would wear.

5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)

Her Delicate Strength/Brennil/bojangles (http://brennil.com/) is actually the only seamstress I've bought from more than once, which should tell you something. My tiny has outfits from Volks and Luts.

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?

Focus on quality and on making clothes that fit well, which includes using fabrics of an appropriate weight to doll scale.

[Vega]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
SD13/60cm boys. XD

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
I usually buy my boys' wardrobe. I'm not much of a seamstress... :oops

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
Mostly casual and punk.

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
Mostly Basics... Like... tshirts etc. And a nice blend between punky and casual. I actually find it ridiculously hard to find punk clothing that isn't black. *cries* I like colour!

5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
Mostly Cheerydoll (http://www.cheerydollusa.com/) and random Y!J and DoA users

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
Good Advertising. (It works miracles) and a reliable and easy method of ordering/paying.

:heart:heart
-V

[rattimoth]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?

Everything from 20cm tinies up to 80cm mecha angels - and all sizes in between

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?

about 50/50 if I see something in a style I like at a reasonable price, I buy it.. if I am in the mood to be creative, I tend to sew for the dolls..

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)

Pretty much everything, as I have a wide range of dolls... the let me know if they don't like something!

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?

STEAMPUNK BOYS!

5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)

Moggies Toyshop, various ebay sellers

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?

try for colours.. black and white is SO boring after a while.

Hope it helps :>

Seek peace

Carol

[washi]

Don't know if you still want responses, but hey!

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
I own Bambicrony through to SD, but I tend to purchase clothing for the Tiny and Mini sizes. Most of my minis are either slimmer or taller.

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
I prefer to sew it on my own, but sometimes time doesn't allow for that. I have been known to buy clothes for dolls - more so recently, as time is against me and I have MANY dolls.

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
They all have diferent styles - most are casual or punk, one is very much a hippy flowing goth sort of vibe, some are more dificult to describe. The tiny is very much casual boy style, so shorts, cargos, t-shirts, that sort of thing.

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
Tiny boy clothes that aren't ridiculously cute, is probably top of the list... after that, longer legged pants. Most of my boys are quite tall - 44 to 45 cm, and they have long legs. Normal length MSD clothes are just too short on them.

5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
Most recently, Dollmore (http://dollmore.net/) and DollHeart. Although I do get stuff from Moggie's as well - accessories, socks, sexy items :D.

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
If you've got your own website, Make sure the ordering process is simple and clear, including how much shipping is likely to be, and make sure it works on both Firefox and IE. I get annoyed when I have to switch browsers to shop.

For stock, just make sure everything is well made and, especially, well photographed. If people can't see the quality, or if the photos are grainy and hard to make out details on, they're going to be less likely to buy.

[Miwako]

^_^ Again, such great responses. Thank you everyone and feel free to continue posting these up! Hopefully I will be putting up my website soon, but no exact idea on when business will officially commence.

So far I'm looking to offer pretty much any style. I've worked with people before who were so into their respective styles that they only catered to that. Myself, I tend to design what is cute. Personally, my doll is really casual but again -- I love fashion and tend to like lots of aspects of different styles.

I do want to focus on making clothing that people would wear; This doesn't mean I'll exclude other styles but I think a majority of my pieces would be something you'd find in any human fashion magazine. I also really like cosplay (I do that myself!) So I probably will make quite a few different types of styles in the long run. The first thing I really want to make is a customizable Kimono where you can pick your own fabric from a selection (my fabric stash? About 5 extra large Christmas decoration sized tuperwear boxes) and they're custom made to the size of your own doll.

I may make nearly everything "Custom ordered". It's easy to resize patterns and I could easily make one item for any size with some exceptions (some pieces would be hard to replicate, say from SD to Tiny as exact). I also really, really want to offer the ability to pick most pieces in different colours and prints. (More choice, more ability to mix and match.)

And of course there will also be Prêt à Porter designs which usually will be sample items, "Costumes", etc. All items will be made as carefully as I would make my own clothing, making careful detail to the quality of sewing and serging all of the edges to prevent fraying. (unless the style calls for it! You never know...)

There's a lot to come, I'm sure...so hopefully all turns out as expected and I'm able to offer all of my future clients the best ! :3


Thank you all for your response thus far and please feel free to continue responding to the main question list and if you have any questions of your own either PM them or post them here on the thread! :)

[lyrajean]

Oh, I just remembered I forgot something.

One thing I would like to see is more clothes for Orientdoll Dae types...

Orientdoll has a very limited range for clothes and the dolls are a unique scale onto themselves.

[Kittybee]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
I own both 60cm and 45cm. I would most likely be interested in purchasing for SD girls, and I'm also very interested in accessories (scarves, handkerchiefs, ties, hats...etc)
2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
I buy all my clothes since I know I can't sew very well. And I'm quite picky and like quality items, so I have to buy them (I won't dare sew myself).
3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
Dressy casual?
4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
I would love to see casual pieces with a vintage quality. For instance 20's/30's/40's/50' style dresses. And, I would love to see designs they sell in actual people-stores and things you see in fashion magazines. Little capelets, mod-style dresses; casual items that still have some style (i.e. casual doesn't have to mean jeans and a t-shirt)
5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
Mio: http://www.m2kdolls.com/mio_shop.htm
4D: http://vier4d.com/
Musedoll: http://www.musedoll.com/
6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
Be original in your designs (well, that's hard to do in fashion, I just mean don't copy anything EXACTLY...I'm sure you wouldn't though, you seem to know how to do things), really concentrate on quality of fabric, set up shop with a few example fashions then take orders for those designs (nothing is worse than finding something you like, then seeing a "sold out" sign)

[hydeist]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
One 70cm, 6 60cm, and a 45 cm.

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
I would if I could ever find things I like.

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
70cm is Victorian, 60cms are mostly a mix of punk and casual.

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
More 'fitted' clothing for boy dolls.

5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
http://dollmore.net

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
Try and stick with a theme. :\

[omichao]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
All of my planned dolls, with the exception of one, will be between 60cm and 67cm. Half of them will be modded to be taller than normal, so I'll probably end up getting them custom clothing often.

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
I don't sew at all. I don't buy clothes often either, since money is a bit tight lately.

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
Definitely casual for the most part, but all slightly different. Some more mature, some a little more punk and a couple a little more high-fashion, but nothing too extreme.

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
A wider variety of casual clothing. I'd love some logo-tees and shirts that real people would actually wear instead of just plain ones or super custom ones.

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
1) Have a simple system for buying. 2) Have good, clear photos, not ones that are just pretty and artsy, but ones that actually SHOW the product as well and 3) Definitely make your own "look" for your line. Not saying everything should look the same, but it's great to be able to look at a gallery post and be able to tell and say "Oh! That's Miwako! I love all of her stuff!"

[Taco]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
I have 60cm girls, 60cm boys, a 57 or 58 (can't remember which. Roughly SD10 sized) boy, and msd boys.

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
I usually buy clothes--it saves me from having to murder the sewing machine.

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
My 60cm girls wear punky stuff and msd boys dress more on the funky side. My 60 cm boys dress very casual.

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
More casual clothes--especially sold as seperates instead of outfits. I like to mix and match.

5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
http://www.cheerydollusa.com/index.html
http://www.volksusa.com/
I've also bought clothes off the DoA marketplace.

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
Have a website that is easy to navigate with good pictures of your clothes. Good pictures are really important.

[Gelfling]

Here's the part I think I can say something meaningful on:

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?

Boy clothes for tinies.
Fantasy/period clothes.

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?

Don't overextend yourself. I would do what Zolala does and create one-off outfits and auction them on eBay rather than do what Mio does which is have pret-a-porter stuff too. When you get a popular item or two I reckon it'll make your head spin to make the same thing time after time, month after month. At the very least have a limited ordering period each month so you don't get too behind.

Something to consider, at any rate. :)

[saraquill]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
DoC, DoT, DIM Happy and 43cm Narae

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
Bits and pieces of my girl's clothes have been purchased, but mostly I sew their things.

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style?
Most of mine dress rather girly, though my DoT swings from girly to feminine formal, and my Narae is a casual tomboy.

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
Business suits and other formal clothes for the SD and SD13 sized girls! They're nearly impossible to find.

5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
Most often, I buy my girls things from Friends 2B Made (http://www.friends2bmade.com/) for basics like shirts, and clothes for my tomboy.

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
Press your fabric before and after sewing, finish the raw edges, and don't be afraid to handsew if the seam or hem would be tough to do, or just plain ugly, on a machine.

[Voodoo]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?

I have a few different kinds of doll, but tend to buy for SD13 boys and girls and MSD boy.

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?

I must buy, for I cannot sew to save my life!

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)

Punk mostly, with some casual bits. Nadezha tends to wear pretty frocks in pale colours, but not too young and girly. Cornelius and Remy tend to dress a bit more flashy/fancy.

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?

More stuff for MSD boys that isn't either too goth or too casual. My boy tends to like EGA stuff but its really hard to get for MSD boys. I'd also like to see more SD13 (and MSD) boy shirts in nice prints rather than just plain black or white. I have a lot of boys and I like to try and dress them differently.

For SD13 girls, I'd like to see some classier dresses as many people seem to make EGL outfits or ballgowns which are not very wearable (for my girl).

5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)

One of my favourite shops is Sunny's Wonderful World (http://stores.ebay.co.uk/Sunnys-Wonderful-World_W0QQssPageNameZstrkQ3amefsQ3amesstQQtZkm) as everything is very well made but for great prices. I especially like their shirts (the different prints). And pants, those are very good too.

I like Marsh's (http://marshpants.com/) fabulous pants because they fit nice and there are a lot of options.

Brennil (http://www.brennil.com/) is good for the Unoa sized stuff I need. Its nice because its not too casual and not too goth-y and all very well made.

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?

To take all of the shops I've listed as an example, you may only need one or two shirt patterns and one or two pants patterns, but if you offer them in a wide range of materials then it gives people more choice.

I also find it off-putting when you look at websites with only 3 or so outfits, and they're all sold out/never updated or have never even been properly launched with lots of 'coming soon' pages.

[Magickat]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
I own a DZ Megi, 47 cms tall I believe. So, I purchase usually from the direct site.
2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
No, it is hard to find the correct size. I have no sewing skills n.n;
3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
Classic punk, oldworld.
4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
More clothing sets that are easily mix and matched, or customizable.
5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
Dollzone, I lost the link (needs to find it again) or ebay ( http://www.ebay.com )
6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
Practice practice practice. The sooner you get your work out there, the more it will spread! Take photos alot, in work progress, and after.

[Tonboko]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
I currently have a CP Mature Girl Delf and an Elfdoll Catsy, my CP Delf boy is waiting for a body at the moment.
I mostly buy stuff for my Delf girl simply because I cannot find stuff that fits my Catsy.

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own? I mostly buy, though I keep telling myself I will get to sewing someday.

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual) My Delf girl wears casual, punk, and fantasy wear.

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
Jeans to fit a CP girls wider hips! There are jeans and outfits out there I would love to get for my girl, but they wont fit her.

I also miss the older style of clothes that Luts used to have, things like the Lizzard and Armidillo King and Queen sets, the Dusty Wind. I adore armory looking, semi gothic, leather look style of clothes.

I am also interested in elven fantasy wear.

Finaly, I really want someone to make clothes for the old Elfdoll slender tinies!

(my wishlists tend to be big :sweat)

5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links) Dollheart (http://www.dollheart.com/), Dollmore (http://www.dollmore.net/), Nightfall (http://nightfallwalker.web.fc2.com/), Luts (www.eluts.com) (their older styles... I dont like the new clothes they have been putting out as much.. all the girl's stuff is too bland and girly)

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
Offer outfits in multiple sizes. I hate finding the perfect outfit only to realize it's made for a doll I don't have. (then it makes me want to buy another doll, and I cannot afford to do that! :oops)

[Miwako]

Thank you for all the fabulous replies so far, everyone! *grateful*

[april]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
SD sized--
Volks SD-13 boy and girl
CP Delf boy and girl

Tiny/Petite sized--
Bambicrony boy and girl (about same size as Volks Yo)

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?

I LOVE buying clothing. I will commission clothing, too, if I see that a seamstress/designer can make clothes that I need and can't find from other sources.

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)

I can find lots of Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual in shops, on ebay and in various BJD Marketplaces... but of course, if you have a special kind of style, I'm sure that would help.

Personally, I am always looking for historical and fantasy clothing. Aside from prince and princess clothes, historical is pretty hard to find (although lately there have been some Marie Antoinette outfits--not many boy outfits, though!)

Fantasy outfits are hard to find for any dolls.

Boy outfits are harder to find than girls in historical and fantasy.

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?

Cosplay, fantasy, historical... particularly for boys.

I was just looking about for some to do a frock coat for the Volks Dolpa this November and I only know of maybe two people who could do a decent one on commission and they tend to be busy...

I was looking for someone to make pirate hats or other hats... Goddess Virage used to make some nice ones, but she's disappeared from DoA. Featherfall makes some, but I prefer a different construction style...

I have a mess of elves and they only have a few princess dresses and maybe some pseudo-historical clothing items to wear. It's tough to do fantasy, since people have their own ideas of what they want, but that's what commissions are GREAT for... you can get someone to try and do something particular...

Even looking for pirate/poet shirts or simple renaissance chemises (peasant blouses) is amazingly hard.

5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)

Too many to mention!!!
Lots of DollHeart outfits, Luts outfits, Dollmore outfits, tons off of ebay(big fancy oriental outfits, kimono-japan kimonos, mini-orient)... tons off the Marketplace (Heisejinyao, Kuina, Marsh)...

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
Be good (technically) and be versatile. (Also--doing some of your own designs is very good!)

[aisy]

I have SD boys and would love to see some unique dramatic clothes for the 63 to 65cm boys

[organicsands]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for? SD/SD13
2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own? Generally I buy it but I really want to start sewing more ^^'
3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual) Casual with some punk influences?
4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer? More hats ^^
5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links) Mio www.m2kdolls.com
6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business? I always find if everything is packaged nicely, it makes the buyer feel more spoilt XD personal touches are always good too, like including a note that just says "thanks *INSERT NAME HERE* "
As for styling and actually products - make stuff that you want to make - give everything your own personal kick

[Kaeru]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
DIM Love - SD 13ish size
Dollshe Bernard 70cm

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
I buy complicated clothing from talented people that I couldn't pull off myself :)
I sew my own more casual lounge wear for the kids as there just doesn't seem to be a lot of it available for sale.

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
Casual goth :)

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
More good quality casual clothing - vneck long sleeve shirts without writing or patches on them. The basics for wearing under jackets or hoodies. Pants that are just decent pants instead of hanging with ties and chains. Knit sweaters! Coats for winter!

5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
Dollmore, Dollheart, and Diverse Designs and general sellers on the forums who have used clothing

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
Good pics, easy ordering, quick turn around. The best ways to make your ecustomers happy :)

[Em]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
SD13 Boy/Delf Boy (long leg)
SD13 Girl
Yo-SD/Tiny
Unoa
2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
I buy all my doll clothes (I'm a rubbish at sewing!) Both premade & commissions
3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
None of my dolls really fit specifically within one style of clothing. Though most of them have an 'edge' in how they dress. The only styles I really steer clear of would be overly girly (Sweet Lolita) and fantasy clothing purely because it doesn't fit my characters. The only exception would be my tinies who lean more towards traditional outfits and/or steam punk clothing.
4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
I'd love to see more well executed fashion forward clothing. I know that's really vague :oops Or perhaps clothing inspired by top designers etc or clothing inspired by fashion though out the 20's - 60's...umm, clothing that doesn't necessarily fit within a sub-culture but can but can be different in it's own right. Also, funky, different fabrics :)
5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
I love Mio for great casual clothes, Musedoll for a punky edge, Leigh's (Hitasura) stuff is awesome! I also have a bunch of clothing from Japanese sellers but I'll need to double check names & links! I have heaps more links at home which I'll post later ;)
6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
Attention to detail! Using fabrics, patterns & finishes that are in scale. Well-cut clothing. Quality!

[Songblade]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
SD13 size :) That's all I really want for now

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
I thought I could sew my own, but I lost time to do so... so I buy clothing. Not VERY often, only when I get a new doll... otherwise I couldn't eat ;)

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
Casual and fantasy. All my peeps love casual, hip clothing but I can't afford them just now. Otherwise, their fantasy clothing is designed by me ^^;;

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
Other than cheaper prices (which I know won't happen) ... Hmmm... A little more unique-ness to their t-shirts, a bit more FRUITS in their style. Nothing is worse than a white T-shirt. Even a V-neck seems exotic sometimes :/

5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
I shop around and buy second hand :( Especially for clothes...

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
I agree with a lot of people here, a unique "branding" of clothes, a signature style! I'm kind of tired of Lolli and leather, I wish there was a mix of casual and that special kind of flare :)

[torimiko]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
I own 3 60cm, two guys one girl. I have a 45 cm boy that likes to dress as a girl, and a chubby demon tiny, who I don't know how tall he is. He wears bratz boyz clothes.

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?

There are somethings I'd rather buy, complicated bits that I don't have time to do myself, however price makes me make the time to do it myself.



3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)

Dark is 70's punk for off duty and rather Mod for on. Hael is slightly victorian/ military because she is a dom. Icarus like loli, but I have problems finding him stuff, and Bub my tiny is always in suits looking mobbed up.

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
REAL clothes, like I would buy for myself or my son. Tshirts, jeans, cargo pants. Interchangeable seperates that you can buy in a set or as pieces. now that would be cool.

[slrphebos]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for? Present and future dolls will almost all be mature MSDs, a couple of SDs, and a tiny maybe.

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own? I don't often buy for the soul purpose I have yet to see something that I would fail at making myself. I prefer sewing on my own due to the seemingly odd measurements of my DZ Shoyo.

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual) Right now it's Loli/Casual, but Loli because those are the patterns I am finding. Casual I am forced to make on my own cause I don't want to see my girl in only black and white and leather (not that I hate the leather).

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer? Different school uniforms. Companies offer either sailor or blazer and no one tackles this at all. School uniforms can be used for casual business wear and create several pieces that can be mixed for other outfit looks. Like the others have said casual everyday clothes. I make more casual clothes than anything else because no one offers plain clothes without some lace or other extra that I don't want to see. What ever happened to light wash jeans and nice dressy casual tops I don't know, but it obvious the doll companies haven't discovered it yet.

ETA: Coats. Dumb as it sounds I want actual coats for my dolls. Leather, raincoat, trench, just anything. Dusters as well. Add a couple of layers to help add to more looks.

5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links) Currently none as I stated in my answer to question #2.

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business? Details that would otherwise get missed. Like on a pair of jeans put a tiny zipper (doesn't have to operate) for the fly. Use fabrics that sometimes make you go :o when you see it in the store.

[Lunasa]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
- SD girls, Unoa, Narae

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
- I always buy, can't sew

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
- Mostly casual, but like to try other styles, like loli, punk

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
- More vintage!

5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
- Dollmore

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
- Good pictures, definitely!

[Daggerchan]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
I own mature minis, or will, so I buy clothes for them. I also have one tiny, but there aren't a lot of BJD oriented clothes available for her.

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
I buy things like pants, coats and stuff that'd be too complicated for a beginner to make, but I'd definately love to develop my own styles and sew myself.

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
It depends. One character will be into very uniformal clothing, vests, shirts, earthy colors and perhaps vintage or mod to dress up, one likes frilly things and historically inspired, and one is a kind of colorful summer-girl type with shorts and see-through shirts, bead jewelry.

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
.. um, more realistic styles, like actual people clothes in miniature. Coats, lingerie, boots!

5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
I've done business with Brennil (her clothes are high quality and very cute), Dollheart seperates on ebay (they're all MSD size, but they can sometimes be modified slightly to fit slimmer minis), Flonne, and I'm going to put in an order with Mio come next month.

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
Make different kinds of seperates and then maybe limited outfit sets to auction.

[Kalani]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
I have a 60 cm and a 68 cm (Unidoll) on the way
2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
While I'd like to sew my own all the time, I dont have much time to sew usually.
3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
I like Lolita, but I also love Fantasy clothes (other then the stretch velvet you see everywhere)
4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
I'd like to see some fantasy styles....shift, skirt, and corset (not strapless)....and clothing for Unidoll Jace/Ark/Feanor. I cant seem to find clothing for him yet.
5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
I have ordered from Volks and Soom recently, as well as the American companies (so far Denver Doll and DollsandFriends)
6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
really detailed photos...

[Kit]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
I have/will have 60cm, and plan on having a 45cm in the future.
2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
I like to sew on my own, but I'm awfully slow. I would buy clothing that was very intricate, or on occasion if it was especially cute. :blush
3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
Period, including Steam Punk, and Casual.
4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
I'd like to see some more casual age appropriate clothes for msd boys. :)
5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
I plan to buy from 4D (http://vier4d.com/) in the future. Would buy from Dollheart (http://dollheart.com/menu/mainframset_e.htm) too.
6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
Updated information and a simple way of ordering with well labeled pictures. A variety of different styles in whatever amount you can reasonably make without burning yourself out in different colors.

[keirx7]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
- A DOC, so that'll be 43cm and maybe a Honey Delf (26cm) in the future.
2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
- I'll buy when I have the money to. And I can't sew so I'll buy.
3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
- For my DOC, something like what Momiji from Fruits Basket will wear.
4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
- Some sellers offer this but I'm happy to see them. Like being able to choose the color of the clothings. Being able to modify the clothings slightly from the original design is also an advantage. :D
5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
- I'm having trouble looking for the style of clothes that i want to get for my doll so i do not have a frequent shop that i'll visit.
6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
- Nice photoes! It's a good way of advertising. :nod And, smile? :D

[Doctor Cesare]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
Currently have a 63 cm kid, and next I'm planning on a couple of Dollshe boys. So 60 - 70 cm range.

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
A mixture. For things like pants and such I buy, as well as certain shirts, but those other shirts, hats, accessories and other little things I just make myself as it's easier to get things perfect.

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
Casual islander? (: Long shorts, sandals, tank tops, wifebeaters, or no shirts at all. x3 With a tribal twist, but that comes more in the form of tattoos and jewelry, which I don't have a problem with. x3

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
I'm going to echo what others have said. More boy clothes and more just plain casual, realistic clothes. Things are too extravagant in the doll world. x3

5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
Uhm, I don't. There are certain sites I look at more, but as far as doing business with, there's no one place that gets more of my money than the other.

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
Little details, good photos for advertising, simple ordering systems . . once again, mostly echos.

[gothchics]

As for answering your questions, I Really wouldn't be much help :) but I can give you some information that you might find useful.

I highly suggest looking at the styles for people on the fun sites aimed at the younger crowd, they are full of inspiration and are invaluable for reference.

keep an inspiration file on your computer full of the people styles you plan to re-create doll size, when you hit a roadblock open up the folder of images and you are sure to find something that relights your fire. I've kept my inspiration file for 3 years now and it's guaranteed that I can glance over and find something to rekindle my desire to sit and sew.

[mclamm7]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?

I have 2 SD16s and they are fashion fiends so I purchase an article of clothing about once a month for them.

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?

I can't sew worth a darn so all I do is buy, buy, buy!

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)

My 2 girls love modern clothes, Sci-Fi clothes, and Haute Coutour stuff that is really edgy.

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?

More futuristic Sci-Fi based styles. Edgier mor risky designs

5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)

Anyone and everyone who does something really different and creative using high quality materials and impecable construction.

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?

Do not be afraid to take commissions and expiriment. Be inspired to create something and buck the trend. Don't sell it if you don't love it. Be creative and read peopel fashion magazines for inspiration. Develop your own style but remember ther eis nothing wrong with a nod to the past. Be different and fearless!

[Cassanova]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
SD.

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
I do sew it myself, but somethings are too complicated for me such as jackets; which i would contemplate buying.

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
Valentine is a Scene kid, and Daai Feng weres traditional Chinese clothing...Though I havent found any for him yet..:/ Its very hard to find simple chinese outfits.

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
More of the traditional chinese clothing, and tube socks would be cuttee.

5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
Tata, but I dont have the link.

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
Really take into mind suggestions, and ask about colors people prefer as well as patterns.

[Nuku]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
I own a Dollshe Hound and when I can I buy clothes for him

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
I try to sew my own because I can never find anything in his style

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
Semi-casual raver, He likes wearing anything from Skinny jeans modified into Bellbottoms and a shirt that can be tied up around the neck to a T-shirt and a pair of UFO pants.

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
Regular Clothes for Hounds. Not Every Hound out there is based on an 'Adult' character. Some Hound characters are Teens.

5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
Iplehouse (http://iplehouse.net/)

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
Make more casual non-gothy clothes for Hounds

[Carolyn.S]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?

I own tinies (various sizes) and slim mature minis. I mostly by slim mini clothing unless I just bought a tiny.

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?

I buy fairly often for slim mature minis (Unoa/Narae size).

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)

Punk/Mod/Casual with a bit of Decora/Fruits

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?

Shabby Chic - look like you got dressed from an attic in the trunk or a junk shop, simple Edwardian white/colors that would double as boho

5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)

Friends2BMade - I get a lot of tops here (not made for BJD's)
http://www.friends2bmade.com/shop/browsecategory.aspx?Category=f2bmC

The others are not very frequent but they are where I like to shop...
Mio
http://www.m2kdolls.com/mio_shop.htm
Atelier Momomi's Unoa/Narae section
http://www.lolaart.net/shop/index.php?act=viewCat&catId=3
Her Delicate Strength
http://www.brennil.com/
Tanya Style
http://tanyastyle.com/
Softly She Walks
http://amymal.iclaro.com/s_46.asp
Sewaddictd
http://www.thedollpage.com/marketplace/store.php?login=sewaddictd

For wigs, stockings, leggings, and shoes:
http://www.denverdoll.com/
http://www.leekeworld.us/
http://www.dollga.com/

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?

Know your market - the dolls, their sizes, what they cost, what their owners spend and buy, and the styles as they evolve.

Carolyn

[sister cuervo]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
From ultra-tinys to slim-bodies 43cm to Hound; currently purchasing mainly for 43cm
2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
Yes, I buy often, but I also sew

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
Modern casual to historical costuming (c. 1900's)
4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
Gentlemen's clothing, tailored and stylish; long trenchcoat in several colours; top hats
5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
Marsh pants; Crivens studio
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5401459
http://www.marshpants.com/

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
Take on no more work than you can finish; Sell finished pieces only to make it wasy on yourself.

[Loki's Mom]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
I own 60cm, 43/44cm, 26-28cm, & 12-14cm. Basically, I have most sizes accounted for, but not quite all. XD
2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
I suck in the biggest way at sewing so I buy all my clothes. Period. some day I'd like to learn to sew (better).
3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
60cm: Bran is mostly grundge, Arundel is more or less punk(y), Illya is my drama queen/thespian and wears almost anything.
43/44cm: Laika is a tomboy and wears typical kid/boy clothes, Tolly (not here yet) will wear about the same thing (they share clothes.. XD)
26/28cm: Widget wears anything (right now he's in footie jammies) and Nukeya is a centaur so she only has one outfit so far. :sweat She needs more outfits for her centaur version. Her human version will be street urchin (whatever found thrown together).
12/14cm: I've been pilfering Kelly/Tommy clothes and anything I can find/pilfer off of. They don't have much of anything to wear.
4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
Firstly, while there are some who do clothes for teenies (9-20cm) and maybe even tinies (20-30cm), there aren't enough out there. I'd love to see more. And I don't *think* I've seen anyone do much in the fantasy or punk realm for them. Mostly plain normal clothes (for boys) and frilly dresses (for girls). for the others, plain, normal casual/(dare I say) preppy clothes. Punk and frills seems to be the big thing. *shrugs* I'm picky. I see ten different shirts that are all plain and casual but may only like one or none of them. Guess I'm hard to please? XD
5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
Oh, waaay too many to list all. Dollmore (www.dollmore.net), Luts (www.eluts.com), various eBay sellers are probably the sites I frequent most.
6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
Definitely to be able to do multiple sizes. It's a pity to go to someone's site and find a wonderful outfit only to discover it doesn't come in the size you need/want. Being able to do individual commissions would be nice too, but might end up being too much to handle, especially at first.

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
Fantasy outfits are hard to find for any dolls.
Boy outfits are harder to find than girls in historical and fantasy.
4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
Cosplay, fantasy, historical... particularly for boys.
QFE
Cosplay is a great idea. There are costumes I'd love to have for my dolls but will have to commission.
And period outfits for boys. That definitely needs to be emphasized.

LM

[jinjur]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
MSD minifee, really hard to find nice outfits for her
2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own? I do but she is an elf so she needs more period style clothes

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)She does wear casual, goth and fruits style but...romantic
is what she wants
4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
romantic/elf in the correct weight fabrics many seem to heavy and
don't have the drape I would like
5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)Luts, ebay, Doa
6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
Do what you love, if you love a style of clothes make those. It will show
in your designs

[nightmarenurse]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
SD/SD13
2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
I prefer to buy, as I don't have the proper materials or tools to make clothing.
3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
Probably a mix between loli and punk.
4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
More fantasy-ish clothing that doesn't look like a napkin wrapped around the doll.
5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
No one in particular.
6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
Observe the trends of doll clothing, see whats in, and what isn't.

[allurose]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
Tiny Size, 27cm mature clothing
2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
Buy clothing only
3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
Historical: Regency, Civil War, Victorian, Edwardian, 18th century. Mostly Victorian bustle era & 18th century.
4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
Victorian bustle era clothing for 27-28cm mature dolls, including corsets, wire bustles, bustle pads, shoes, dresses, hats... :D
5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
These guys are currently top on my list: http://arcadiadolls.com/blog/shop/shop_index_eng.html Otherwise I'm trying to recruit commisioners to the Mature Tiny Cause.
6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
Sell a wide range of sizes, and learn to sell well for them all. I know that can be hard because then you have to buy many different bodies to model on, but it's always the first thing I look for in a shop.

[errinreynolds]

What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
The only doll I have (on the way mind you) Is a 60 cm.
2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
I have already bought about four outfits, but making things sounds interesting compared to the price of clothes >.<
3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
She's a Casual Punk I suppose...it has to wait till I really get to see her.
4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
Plain and simple clothing from different time eras, Not soo many bells and whistles...
5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
I've mostly bought from E-bay and DOD recently.
6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
Basically you should listen to everyone else, variety and price are the one thing that will set you apart from people.

[Mellybeans]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
SD, and occasionally MSD.
2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
I sew a lot of my own shirts, but as far as pants/shoes/elaborate tops (e.g. coats, sweaters, button downs) go, I purchase them. I don't buy them that often though, no.
3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
It depends on the character. Most often casual, but a few of my dolls have had more of a darker fashion sense.^^
4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
Moccasin boots (Seriously can't find those futhermuckers anywhere). :p But seriously, hmm. I see a lot more fantasy/lolita outfits than anything. It's occasionally hard to find more modern, "chic" clothes that fit correctly or are as detailed as I would like.
5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
Sellers off of the DoA marketplace, ebay, and companies like Tata's Paradise, Sadol, 4D, Cheerydoll, etc. *too lazy to post links*
6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
Well, some BJD owners are stingy when it comes to accessories for the dolls, understandably so, since the dolls themselves cost so much. So I would avoid overpricing. Also, the more work you put into your clothes, the better! People love to see every aspect of their dollies looking as real as possible.^.^

[Luxuria]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
I have 1/3 and 1/4 sized dolls. I purchase more clothing for my 1/3, though.

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
As I prefer to sew for humans, I primarily purchase my clothes.

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
Lolita Aristocrat for one 1/3 - imagine the Mary Magdelene lolita line on a 1/3. I like punky stuff for the other 1/3, and I prefer feminine and mature for my adult mini.

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
More mature lolita-esque styles for the 1/3 sized dolls and cute, casual stuff for 1/4 size. It's so hard to find nice-looking stuff for mature minis that doesn't result in instant fug. Fitted blouses and pencil skirts, feminine blazers for 1/3.

5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
Dollheart, Volks, Luts, Mio, Her Delicate Strength, Softly She Walks.

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
Have some premade items in ready-to-go condition; sometimes someone knowing they can buy something and have it shipped right out is enough to net a sale. Being able to sew for a wide variety of bodies (rather than a few) doesn't hurt.

[CherryChansGifts]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
I have a 65cm male, a 60cm female, a 28cm female, as well as 2 14cm dolls one male and one female. ^_^ I tend to buy clothes for my 28cm female and my 60cm female.
2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
Well I don't buy clothes often unless I am feeling lazy and I don't want to sew. Or if there is an outfit that I absolutely love then I will buy it. I do sew some...but I do get tired from time to time.
3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
My dolls wear a bunch of different styles...I love loli style for my girls or modern, and punk and modern for my boys.
4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
I'd like to see something like this:
http://blackcorset.files.wordpress.com/2009/09/black-underbust-corset.jpg
Or this for my larger girl:
http://img.alibaba.com/photo/10665040/Evening_Dress_Evening_Gown_Or_Ball_Gown_Black.jpg
OOO! or this:
http://fc01.deviantart.net/fs71/f/2010/013/4/d/BEAUTIFUL_NIGHTGOWN_WANT_by_CherryChansGifts.jpg
5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
I have only done business with Spampy and random ebayers no one else...but I would love to commission someone to make the above outfits.
6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
Well I know that this survey is a start...and also, looking for cheap yet still high quality fabrics will help. And getting measurements of all the dolls that you possibly can. And it would help to make something that the customer would like but charge extra for customizations.
^_^ I hope this helps!

[pbrennan42]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?

On order: Bobobie 1/4 girl Mei (Slim MSD)

Interested in getting: 65-70cm scale

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?

I tend to buy, but would do basic stuff from time to time as I get my sewing skills up.

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)

Sensual but not overtly sexual. Very smartly dressed, some nice undies.

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?

Whole wardrobes? Like a set of a couple of trousers, a couple of skirts, a couple of dresses and a few tops in one big set that can all be mixed and matched with each other.

5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)

Mimiwoo: http://www.mimiwoo.com/
Dollmore: http://www.dollmore.net/index.php
Bobobie: http://www.bobobie.com/index.php

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?

A very professional looking web site powered with WordPress or another CMA that can handle web stores. Failing that, a basic but nice looking web site with the products linking back to your eBay pages.

Phil.

[toshirodragon]

Miwako Are you still making clothes? And still looking for info?

[Saryn]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
I presently own 3 MSD-sized dolls and 1 Puki-sized doll!

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
I prefer to buy clothing, since I can't sew worth a damn.

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
Casual, with maybe a dash of punk. ^_^

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
Really well-crafted articles.

5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
Just Dollmore, so far. (http://www.dollmore.com)

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
Keep orders timely and keep the quality high.

(EDIT: OH didn't see that this was a necro! ^_^;;)

[lolkat]

I'm late to the party but since this has been necro'd I might as well add my responses. Good luck with getting your business going, I love to see new doll clothes retailers. :clap

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
52 cm and I'm waiting for a 65cm.
2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
I'd like to save my money and make my own stuff but I keep seeing things I love and end up buying them. :oops
3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
Urban/grunge/casual/alternative.
4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
More separates rather than full outfits.
5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
Mimiwoo.com and ebay, mostly. I've just ordered from ajumapama, too.
6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
Make things in a variety of sizes and perhaps have offers which encourage people to spend more - I'm a sucker for those "spend $xxx and get free shipping" offers.

[gelfling21]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?

I own a Luts Delf (60.5 cm) and am going to purchase a 70 cm doll in the near future.

2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?

I do because working full time and being involved in other outside interests, I don't usually have much time to learn to sew and make clothing myself.

3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)

Well, my doll is a model by profession, LOL! So he wears all styles of clothing and wigs. But in his off hours, he enjoys dressing casually in jeans and t's and is leaning toward punk.

4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?

Cowboy outfit complete with boots, hat, gun and holster, rope, chaps, jeans, bandana, western shirt, etc.

5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)

Dollmore, Luts, Mimiwoo, Sunny's World, Leekeworld

6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?

Exactly what you have done here -- ask your customers what they want and need. It's great to be able to say what I am looking for instead of hunting to see if anyone is offering it.

[mellaney]

1. What sized dolls do you own / Tend to purchase clothing for?
70cm's, Msd and SD's
2. Do you buy doll clothing often? Or do you prefer to sew it on your own?
For starters i buy them a set and then i sew the rest of their clothes
3. What would you say is your/your doll's style? (Loli, Punk, Mod, Casual)
my doll's style is very variable, where one of them is the "ganster" style and my other sweet style
4. What is something you'd love to see that other sellers don't offer?
Wig's. Mostly the items i was looking for is sold out, so it's difficult to find the perfect wig to a cheap price.
5. Who do you currently do frequent business with? (Please include links)
Here is very variable, so is always a different shop i buy at^^
6. What is one thing you think I could do to benefit my own business?
wigs, diffently something would easily be sold out if the price suit to the item.