Experience requirements vary for doll designers and makers depending on their specific employment situation. Self-employed individuals may simply design and create some dolls and go sell them at a craft fair. They need business and marketing skills to succeed. Those seeking jobs at toy or doll manufactures need some experience, whether as an apprentice or assistant doll designer. In many cases, education will be accepted in lieu of experience. A portfolio of designs will be especially helpful. Get experience by arranging an internship while you are still in school. An internship will help you to learn about various design careers and help you to develop your professional network.
Successful doll designers and makers need to be artistic, creative, imaginative people with the ability to conceptualize the finished product. Individuals should like working with their hands and have good manual dexterity. Doll designers should have a good sense of color, style, and trends. Sewing skills are helpful as are those in sculpting and woodworking. Designers and makers also need good drawing and sketching skills, as well as familiarity with design software. The ability to effectively work both alone and as part of a team is necessary. Communication and interpersonal skills are also essential.
It is important that those who are interested in creating dolls that will be used as toys like children and understand how they play and develop.
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