This FAQ is designed to answer questions about my series of Zombuki, art dolls which include Pullip, Dal, Byul, Blythe, Hujoo, and kokeshi. If you have a question for me that isn’t answered below please leave a comment and I’ll do my best to answer it!
What are Zombuki dolls?
Zombuki dolls, as a concept, are my own invention, a combination of the words “zombie” and “kabuki” named with the help of a friend, they are meant to represent a hybrid of many different styles and cultures. Each one is made to be truly unique with its own, strong personality. The first Zombuki was made using Pullip, a type of Japanese fashion doll, but now Zombuki are made on many different doll forms, including kokeshi.
What are all these dolls?
A Pullip is a type of fashion doll made by Groove Inc. (formerly Jun Planning) in Japan and launched in July of 2003. Pullip dolls stand about a foot tall, are relatively articulated (moreso than a Barbie), and can move and blink their eyes. Dal and Byul are slightly shorter than Pullips and are made by the same company, they can move their eyes but cannot blink.
Blythe dolls were originally made by Kenner is 1972 and started being manufactured by Takara again in 2001, their bodies have very little articulation, but they have four pairs of eyes that switch each time you make the doll “blink” (via a string); their heads are very large.
Hujoo and Berry are BJD (ball jointed dolls) from Korea, they have the most articulation and are about the same size as Dal and Byul, but with a proportionally smaller head. They cannot blink and their eyes can only be moved by opening the head and repositioning them manually.
Kokeshi are a type of traditional wooden Japanese doll with a head that is similar in proportion to the other dolls above. All of my kokeshi are initialed on the bottom as a part of the kokeshi tradition.
How did you start customizing dolls?
Technically I made my first custom dolls in High School when I mangled some generic Barbie dolls that I bought at the grocery store. Peebles, the first doll I ever altered, was so creepy that I can’t believe my parents didn’t sent me to therapy! (Luckily my Dad was already a psychologist and I’m pretty sure he somehow verified that I wasn’t turning down the serial killer path, lol!) I didn’t touch dolls again until I started buying Pullips after I graduated from college, eventually I ended up with some that I didn’t want anymore and my natural desire to tinker took over …
The designs for the first two Pullip dolls that I customized were fan works based off an America’s Next Top Model photo shoot from Cycle 3. I made Eva (named after the model who inspired her), my first custom, on a lark and assumed that no one would like her. Six months later I made Kaikai and then I realized that people really seemed to like them for more than just their novelty. After that I began to make my own designs. Please note that, because I did not design them, the first two dolls are not found on the site.
Where do you get your ideas from?
I pull my inspiration from a numerous sources, everything from Chinese Vogue to billboards to nature, anything in my way, I don’t turn any source of inspiration down. Mythology, folk tales, and literature are some favorite places to pull inspiration from.
Do you accept commissions?
Yes and no. For my traditional line of Zombuki dolls I don’t accept commissions in the traditional sense of the word, but I will allow people to order designs before their creation and see sketches/wigs/etc, that way they can get a girl that is their style and see it come to life as it is created. I am more than happy to keep preferences in mind, such as color(s), hair style, inspiration point, etc. in order to find a Zombuki that is the perfect match for you.
For the Sinister Sweets line of Zombuki and the kokeshi dolls I am happy to take commissions in so much as colors and hair styles are concerned. However, as each Zombuki is one of a kind I will not replicate the dolls exactly.
How do I get a Zombuki of my own?
There are a few Zombuki Dolls that are currently available for immediate purchase. Additionally, you can add your name and preferences to the Zombuki Doll Commission List if you are interested in getting a Zombuki specially made for you.
What do Zombuki dolls come with?
This is always in flux, it is best to inquire on a design-by-design basis. Generally, a Zombuki will come with coordinated clothing and a plush/felt companion and/or accessories.
Where did you get your wig/clothes/etc. on Zombuki X/Y/Z?
I try to post where I got things on specific photo posts in the blog, but if it doesn’t say please feel free to ask in the post/photo comments section and I will answer as soon as I can.
How long does it take to make a Zombuki?
It varies depending on my schedule, but they generally take 8-12 weeks to make, photograph, and send out. If you are getting a Zombuki on a three-month installment plan (see Commission List) your doll will ship, at the latest, by the last day in the month of your final installment. If you pay in a lump sum I will do my best to get your girl to you as soon as I can and can give you a more solid idea at the time of purchase based on my schedule.
What do Zombukis cost?
It varies depending on a number of factors so it’s best to ask when contacting me. They currently range from $550-$950. Sinister Sweets Zombuki dolls are less expensive than the traditional Zombuki line. Kokeshi dolls range from $25-$250 depending on the size and detail.
Do you offer discounts?
On occasion I will offer discounts if the base doll is provided, however it varies from doll to doll, but please feel free to ask!
I want to change X/Y/Z in your design, is that okay?
Sorry, it’s not! I want to retain complete artistic control over the final Zombuki. If you’re unsure about a design or would like a slightly different one then it’s probably best to hold off until a completed doll comes along that you like. Many times I will post progress photos of Zombuki dolls in the studio that are “up for grabs” and do not yet have a set patron, that way people can see the doll before committing to it.
I want to reserve a Zombuki but I can’t pay right away, is that okay?
To reserve a Zombuki requires a deposit – if you choose to pay with a “lump sum” it will be the entire price up front, and if you choose a “2-3 month installment” plan it will be the first month’s installment, which will range from $200-$300, that reserves the design.
I want to start the process, how do I contact you?
Just fill out the Commission List form to give me an idea of what you’re looking for and we can get the process started.
How do I sign up for the mailing list?
To subscribe to the Zombuki mailing list fill out the form. You will be sent a confirmation email to verify that you actually signed yourself up. Ah, the modern age!
Still have questions? Just leave a comment or contact me and I’ll do my best to answer it!