Complete Guide to Volks and Dollfie | A Thorough Explanation for Beginners from the Differences Between SD and DD to Purchase Methods

If you have arrived at this page after hearing the term "Dollfie," you may be intrigued by this mysterious existence that is neither a figure nor just a doll.

Dollfie is a completely new doll hobby introduced to the world by Volks, Inc. in 1998. As the coined term "Doll + Figure = Dollfie" suggests, it was born as an innovative entity that overturns conventional wisdom by merging the beauty of figures with the customizability of dolls.

In this article, we will provide a comprehensive explanation of the overall picture of Volks and Dollfie for beginners. We will cover the differences between Super Dollfie (SD) and Dollfie Dream (DD), historical background, purchasing methods, and the global expansion of the doll culture that Dollfie has pioneered from Japan.

What is Dollfie? Innovation Born from the Fusion of Doll and Figure

The first step to understanding Dollfie is to know the meaning behind its name. In this section, we will explain why Volks created the coined term "Dollfie" and how it differs from traditional ball-jointed dolls and figures.

• Meaning Behind the Coined Term Doll + Figure = Dollfie
• The Best of Both Worlds: Ball-Jointed Dolls and Figures
• The World's First Customizable High-Quality Doll

Meaning Behind the Coined Term Doll + Figure = Dollfie

"Dollfie" is a coined term that combines the English words "Doll" and "Figure." This name was created when Volks, Inc. announced the Super Dollfie (abbreviated as SD) in 1998.

Why combine these two words? It is because Dollfie embodies both the "artistic beauty of figures" and the "fun of dolls." Traditionally, figures were seen as "beautiful models for display," while dolls were viewed as "toys for dressing up and playing with." However, Dollfie offers the enjoyment of customization while possessing high detail and artistic quality.

This coined term encapsulates Volks' ambitious idea of creating a new hobby that transcends the boundaries between dolls and figures.

The Best of Both Worlds: Ball-Jointed Dolls and Figures

The reason Dollfie was innovative is that it fused the advantages of the previously opposing entities of "ball-jointed dolls" and "figures."

Traditional Ball-Jointed Dolls (BJD) are movable dolls that use spheres at the joints, allowing for free posing. However, they are often provided as unpainted parts, requiring advanced skills and time for assembly and makeup (face painting). This posed a high barrier for beginners.

On the other hand, figures are highly finished and beautiful but have fixed poses with little to no mobility and almost no room for customization. They were specialized for "viewing."

Dollfie achieved the "best of both worlds." It offers high mobility through ball joints while providing completed models that beginners can enjoy. Furthermore, it is designed to allow for easy part exchanges and customizations, such as makeup, wigs, costumes, and eyes. A completely new doll hobby was born that balances the enjoyment of "viewing" and "interacting."

The World's First Customizable High-Quality Doll

Dollfie is regarded as the "world's first" not merely for creating ball-jointed dolls. It was groundbreaking in that it achieved a balance of high-quality sculpting and customizability while also establishing a system that is accessible for beginners.

At the time of the announcement of the first Super Dollfie in 1998, there were no ball-jointed dolls of such high quality that beginners could easily start with. Volks used friendly terms like "makeup" and "aesthetic (body customization)" to lower the barrier of specialized terminology. Additionally, they established a quality control system where artisans handcraft each doll at the Kyoto workshop, along with a "homecoming service" that supports maintenance after purchase, creating an environment where owners can enjoy their dolls with peace of mind for a long time.

This design philosophy of "customizable dolls that anyone can enjoy" became the reason why Dollfie is loved around the world.

Birth of Volks and Dollfie: The Revolution of 1998

When discussing Dollfie, one cannot overlook the existence of its creator, Volks Inc. In this section, we will unravel the historical background of how Volks became the company it is and why it produced the innovative Dollfie.

• History of Volks Inc. and the Sculptural Village Concept
• November 1998: The Shock of Super Dollfie (SD)
• Democratization of Doll Hobby: A Design Philosophy for Everyone to Enjoy

History of Volks Inc. and the Sculptural Village Concept

Volks Inc. is a hobby manufacturer established in 1972. Initially, it started with the sale of railway models and plastic models, but in the 1980s, it focused on the distribution of garage kits (resin model kits produced in small quantities by individual creators), becoming a leading presence in Japan's garage kit culture.

Volks proposed the concept of a "Sculptural Village." This was a philosophy to create a space where people, both professionals and amateurs, who love sculpting could gather and enjoy creative activities. They poured their passion into "nurturing sculptural culture" through events like Wonder Festival, supporting sculptors, and planning original products.

This philosophy of the Sculptural Village later led to the birth of Dollfie. The desire to "let more people enjoy beautiful sculptural works" materialized in the form of customizable high-quality dolls. Volks was not just a product manufacturer but a company that nurtured hobby culture, launching Dollfie into the world.

November 1998: The Shock of Super Dollfie (SD)

In November 1998, Volks announced the "Super Dollfie (Super Dollfie, abbreviated as SD)." This was a revolutionary event in the history of Japanese doll hobby.

The first SD was a ball-jointed doll about 60 cm tall, with a body made of urethane resin. Its most significant feature was the design that allowed owners to freely customize it while being offered as a finished product. Changing the face makeup, swapping wigs, dressing in different outfits, and even exchanging body parts became enjoyable activities accessible to beginners.

At the time of its announcement, it made a significant impact on the industry. Traditional ball-jointed dolls were expensive and difficult to assemble, aimed at enthusiasts. However, the SD emerged as a "ball-jointed doll that anyone can enjoy." Moreover, targeting women was also groundbreaking. By creating an environment where female hobby fans could enjoy safely through beautiful sculpting, friendly language, and community support, it greatly expanded the base of doll culture.

The success of SD was not just a product hit but the beginning of the "democratization of doll hobby culture" in Japan.

Democratization of Doll Hobby: A Design Philosophy for Everyone to Enjoy

What Volks achieved with SD was the "democratization of doll hobby." They transformed the ball-jointed dolls that were previously enjoyed only by a select few enthusiasts into something more accessible to a broader audience.

The key symbol of this was the clever use of language. By calling face painting "makeup" and body customization "esthetics," they dispelled the image of being specialized and difficult. Using terms from beauty and fashion instead of model-making jargon like "sculpting," "painting," and "modification" made it more approachable for doll beginners and women.

Furthermore, by providing a finished model (standard model), they removed the barrier of "you can't enjoy it unless you can assemble or do makeup." At the same time, they offered a wealth of optional parts and official services for those who wanted to customize, creating a design that could be enjoyed by everyone from beginners to advanced users.

[Related Articles]: For a detailed history of Dollfie, please refer to Explaining the History of Dollfie | The New Doll Hobby Culture Pioneered by Volks.

This design philosophy of "anyone can enjoy" led to the birth of Dollfie Dream (DD) and the formation of a global Dollfie community.

The Charm of Super Dollfie (SD): The Ultimate Evolution of Traditional Ball-Jointed Dolls

Super Dollfie (SD) is the origin of Dollfie and is a series that inherits the aesthetics of traditional ball-jointed dolls. It features a heavy body made of urethane resin, realistic makeup expressions, and a wide range of sizes. In this section, we will explain the charm of SD from multiple perspectives.

• The Heaviness and Presence of Urethane Resin
• SD Size Variations: SDM/SD13/SD16/SD17/SDGr/SDGou
• The Beauty of Realistic Makeup Expressions
• SD Price Range and Purchase Considerations

The Heaviness and Presence of Urethane Resin

The biggest feature of SD is its body made of urethane resin (resin, polyurethane resin). This material has been used for many years as the traditional material for ball-jointed dolls.

The charm of a resin body is undoubtedly its heaviness. When you hold it, you can feel its substantial weight. This weight creates a "presence," and many owners experience the illusion that it feels as if a real person is there. The "hugging feel" when cradling it is a unique sensation that cannot be obtained with lightweight materials.

Additionally, the resin material has a smooth surface texture, allowing for beautiful skin expressions with transparency. The "Pure Skin" material developed by Volks excels particularly in transparency and color vibrancy, possessing an elegant texture akin to porcelain. Improvements have also been made to reduce color transfer, making it easier to maintain a beautiful condition over a long period.

SD Size Variations: SDM/SD13/SD16/SD17/SDGr/SDGou

The SD series offers a wide range of size variations. The ability to choose according to the owner's preferences, display space, and budget is appealing. The main sizes are as follows:

• SDM (Super Dollfie Mini): Approximately 40cm. The smallest and lightest size, making it easy for beginners to handle. It is relatively affordable and popular as an entry model for SD.

• SD13: Approximately 60cm. A standard size that inherits the size of the original SD. It is suitable for expressing beautiful girl and boy characters.

• SD16/SD17: Approximately in the 60cm range. With a more mature body type than SD13, it allows for the expression of adult women and men. SD16 is more common for female bodies, while SD17 is more common for male bodies.

• SDGr (Super Dollfie Graffiti): Approximately 65cm. A series that pursues a more adult-like body type with realistic human proportions.

• SDGou (Super Dollfie Gourmandise): A series that recreates a toddler body type, characterized by its cute expressions.

Each size has a different price range, generally between 80,000 to 500,000 yen. Limited models and custom orders can be even more expensive.

The Beauty of Realistic Makeup Expressions

The makeup on SD's face is characterized by its realistic beauty. Realistic shading, delicate gradients, and three-dimensional makeup create expressions that seem almost alive.

Particularly, the expression of eye makeup (around the eyes) is the true essence of SD. Every single eyelash, the depth of the pupils, and the shadows of the eyelids are carefully depicted in detail. The finishing touches by official makeup artists can truly be called works of art.

Owners can also customize the makeup themselves. Volks provides "makeup courses" and dedicated makeup supplies, creating an environment that is easy for beginners to challenge themselves. By applying their own unique makeup, they can enjoy creating a one-of-a-kind doll in the world.

SD Price Range and Purchase Considerations

The price range for SD varies significantly depending on the size and model. Standard models range from about 80,000 to 150,000 yen, while limited models and made-to-order models can exceed 200,000 to 500,000 yen.

When purchasing, it is important to consider not only the base price but also additional costs for outfits, wigs, eyes, stands, and more. It is advisable to anticipate an initial investment of around 100,000 to 200,000 yen. Additionally, purchasing from the secondary market (used market) may not come with official guarantees, so it is recommended for beginners to buy through official channels.

Dollfie Dream (DD) Features: A New Dimension of Soft Vinyl × Movable Frame

The Dollfie Dream (Dollfie Dream, abbreviated as DD), which debuted in 2001, is a series that expanded the possibilities of Dollfie with a different approach than SD. By combining soft vinyl material with a high-performance frame, it has realized the dollification of anime and game characters. This section will explain the features of DD in detail.

• Soft Vinyl Material's Softness and Mobility
• DD-f³ Frame: Innovative Internal Skeleton Structure
• DD Size Variations: Chibi DD/MDD/DDP/DDS/DD/DDdy
• Dollification of Anime and Game Characters

Soft Vinyl Material's Softness and Mobility

The biggest feature of DD is the use of soft vinyl (Sofubi) material. This choice of material has created a charm that is completely different from SD.

The greatest advantage of Sofubi material is its softness and lightness. Compared to the resin body of SD, it is very lightweight and easy to carry, reducing the risk of damage when dropped. It is appealing because even beginners can handle it with confidence.

Moreover, the flexibility of Sofubi expands the range of posing. Not only the joints but the entire body bends gracefully, allowing for more natural postures. Changing clothes is also easy, making it particularly convenient for owners who frequently change outfits.

Furthermore, Sofubi material offers a rich variety of colors, making it easy to reproduce the skin tones unique to anime characters (such as tanned skin, fair skin, etc.). This material characteristic greatly contributes to the dollification of anime and game characters, as discussed later.

DD-f³ Frame: Innovative Internal Skeleton Structure

Supporting the mobility of DD is the internal skeleton frame. In particular, the latest "DD-f³ (F Cube)" frame can be said to be the crystallization of Volks' technological innovation.

The DD-f³ frame has significantly improved mobility compared to conventional frames. The movements of major joints such as shoulders, elbows, waist, and knees have become smoother, allowing for more human-like natural poses. In particular, complex movements such as shoulder forward/backward and side-to-side motion, waist twisting, and knee bending and straightening can be achieved.

Additionally, the pose-holding ability has been enhanced. Despite being a lightweight Sofubi body, it can maintain poses for extended periods, making it suitable for display and photography. The range of expression has expanded, allowing for display while standing or taking action poses.

This frame technology continues to evolve, and with each new frame announcement, the expressive power of DD improves.

DD Size Variations: Chibi DD/MDD/DDP/DDS/DD/DDdy

Like SD, DD also has a rich variety of size options. The ability to choose according to the character's age and body type is a key feature.

• Chibi DD: Approximately 23cm. The smallest size, suitable for toddler characters or cute expressions.

• MDD (Mini Dollfie Dream): Approximately 43cm. The ideal size for reproducing petite girl characters.

• DDP (Dollfie Dream Petite): Approximately 46cm. Suitable for petite to standard body type girl characters.

• DDS (Dollfie Dream Sister): Approximately 50cm. A standard girl body type, the most versatile size.

• DD (Dollfie Dream): Approximately 60cm. The basic size of DD that can reproduce a mature female body type.

• DDdy (Dollfie Dream Dynamite): Approximately 60cm. A body type that can express a voluptuous figure.

The price range for each size is approximately 30,000 to 150,000 yen, making it relatively affordable compared to SD. This accessibility is one of the reasons for DD's popularity.

[Related Articles]: For a detailed purchasing guide for beginners, please refer to Dollfie Beginner's Guide | Thorough Explanation from Differences between SD and DD to Purchasing Methods.

Dollification of Anime and Game Characters

A major feature of DD is the official dollification of anime and game characters. Volks collaborates with many works to commercialize popular characters as DD.

For example, characters from numerous anime and game works such as the "Idolmaster" series, the "Love Live!" series, and the "Fate" series have been transformed into DD. The "illustration-style makeup expression" that recreates the atmosphere of illustrations in three dimensions is a strong point of DD. The technology that brings two-dimensional characters to life as three-dimensional dolls has received high praise from fans.

Official collaboration models faithfully reproduce the character's costumes and accessories, making them enjoyable to display as they are. Furthermore, by utilizing DD's customization capabilities, it is possible to create a unique character expression by dressing them in different outfits or changing their poses.

Crossing the Boundary Between Figures and Dolls: The Culture of Customization

The essence of Dollfie lies not merely in being a product but in creating a "culture of customization." In this section, we will explain the unique customization culture of Dollfie that transcends the traditional boundaries between figures and dolls.

• The Traditional Boundary Between Figures and Dolls
• The Fusion of "Viewing" and "Touching" Achieved by Dollfie
• Infinite Customization Possibilities: Makeup/Wigs/Costumes/Parts

The Traditional Boundary Between Figures and Dolls

Before the birth of Dollfie, there was a clear boundary between figures and dolls.

Figures were positioned as "display models," with a focus on high levels of completion. The basic enjoyment was to appreciate the sculpting created by professional sculptors as is. The poses were fixed, leaving little room for customization. Figures were beautiful but "untouchable" entities.

On the other hand, dolls had a strong aspect of being "toys," with changing outfits and hairstyles being the center of enjoyment. However, the quality of the sculpting did not reach that of figures, and there was a strong image of being "toys for children." As a serious hobby for adults, they tended to be somewhat undervalued.

These two worlds were divided as mutually exclusive entities. It was considered difficult to balance "beautiful sculpting" with "the fun of customization."

The Fusion of "Viewing" and "Touching" Achieved by Dollfie

Dollfie broke this fixed notion. It fused "the joy of viewing" and "the joy of touching" at a high level.

First, the quality of the sculpting. Dollfie has beautiful sculpting by professional sculptors. The facial expressions, body proportions, and details are of a quality that rivals figures. Even just displaying it in a glass case provides enough beauty to be thoroughly satisfying.

At the same time, it has also achieved advanced customization capabilities. Changing makeup, swapping wigs, dressing in different outfits, and replacing body parts. All of these are designed to be enjoyable even for beginners. With the owner's involvement, the doll becomes an object to "nurture," deepening the attachment.

Through this fusion, Dollfie offers a completely new hobby experience that is neither just "viewing" nor just "touching." The joy of ownership, the fun of customization, and the creativity of photography have all become multi-layered ways to enjoy.

Infinite Customization Possibilities: Makeup/Wigs/Costumes/Parts

Dollfie's customization is astonishingly diverse. Here are the main customization elements.

Makeup Customization: You can apply makeup to the face yourself. By using official makeup products and courses from Volks, even beginners can take on the challenge. You can finish details like eyeliner, lips, cheeks, and eyeshadow to your liking.

Wig Swapping: You can freely change hairstyles and hair colors. Not only are there official Volks wigs, but there is also a wealth of third-party wigs available. Long, short, twin tails, ponytails, the styles are endless.

Costume Customization: From official outfits (OF: Official Outfit) to custom outfits made by individual creators, the options are vast. There are costumes from all genres, including gothic, lolita, casual, and traditional Japanese clothing. Many owners also sew their own costumes.

Part Replacement: It is possible to replace the head (head part) and body parts. By attaching a head from a different model to another body or swapping hand and foot parts, you can create your own original character.

Supporting this customization culture is the "dealer culture." Individual creators and manufacturers produce and sell custom parts and costumes for Dollfie, which are distributed at events such as Doll Party. This rich ecosystem infinitely expands the ways to enjoy Dollfie.

【Related Articles】: For detailed differences between ball-jointed dolls and figures, please check What is different about Dollfie? A comparative explanation with ball-jointed dolls and figures.

Democratization of Doll Hobby: Design Philosophy That Anyone Can Enjoy

What Volks has achieved with Dollfie is a "doll hobby that anyone can enjoy." In this section, we will explain the systems that Volks has established to allow beginners to enter the world of Dollfie with confidence.

• Standard Models and D'CORD: Easy to Welcome with Completed Products
• Homecoming Service: Enhanced Official Maintenance System
• Community Culture That Is Safe for Beginners

Standard Models and D'CORD: Easy to Welcome with Completed Products

Many beginners who want to start with Dollfie worry that they "can't do makeup or assembly." To alleviate such concerns, Volks offers completed model products.

Standard Models are completed products that come with makeup, wig, costume, and eyes. They arrive in a state ready to be displayed as soon as you open the box, allowing beginners to welcome them with peace of mind. Standard models are available for both SD and DD, and the prices are relatively affordable.

D'CORD is a lineup of completed products for DD, featuring models that can be welcomed on the same day. You can see the actual products in-store and purchase them on the spot, making it ideal for beginners who are unsure about which doll to choose. There are also many collaboration models of popular characters, providing a gateway for anime fans to start with Dollfie.

These completed model products dispel the misconception that "you can't enjoy it unless you customize" and support beginners' first steps. Of course, it is also possible to enjoy customization later on.

Homecoming Service: Enhanced Official Maintenance System

Dollfie has an official maintenance system in place to ensure long-term enjoyment. The representative of this is the "Homecoming Service."

The Homecoming Service is a service where you send your doll to Volks, and official craftsmen perform maintenance and repairs. Cleaning of body yellowing and dirt, replacement of rubber strings (tension), and repair of broken parts are among the wide range of services available.

Particularly popular is the "Face Beauty Up" service. This is a service where official makeup artists apply new makeup to the face, making it look as good as new. Even dolls that have had their makeup worn off after years of use can be restored to a beautiful condition.

Thanks to this official support system, Dollfie owners can enjoy their dolls with peace of mind for a long time. It is not a hobby where "once you buy it, it's over," but rather one where you can "nurture it," fostering a deep attachment.

Community Culture That Is Safe for Beginners

One of the charms of Dollfie is its warm community culture. There is a welcoming atmosphere for beginners, and if you have questions, senior owners will kindly teach you.

Owner's Tea Party is an owner exchange event regularly held by Volks. It is a place where you can bring your own doll, take photos, and exchange information, and beginners can participate easily. Meeting others who share the same hobby makes the Dollfie life even more enjoyable.

On social media, the Dollfie owner community is also active. By searching hashtags like "#ドルフィー," "#SD," and "#DD" on Twitter and Instagram, you can find beautiful doll photos and useful information. Many owners are kind enough to answer questions, making them a reassuring presence for beginners.

This community culture alleviates the anxiety of beginners and supports the continuation of the Dollfie hobby.

The Artisan Techniques of the Kyoto Workshop: The Value of Handmade Dolls

The quality of Dollfie is supported by handmade production at Volks' workshop "Angel's Grove" in Kyoto. In this section, we will explain the source of Dollfie's value from both the artisan techniques and material development perspectives.

• Dolls Born in Kyoto's Angel's Grove
• Development and Evolution of Pure Skin Material
• The Value of Artisans Finishing Each Doll

Dolls Born in Kyoto's Angel's Grove

Volks' production base "Angel's Grove" is located in Kyoto. Here, both SD and DD dolls are carefully crafted one by one by artisans.

At Angel's Grove, all processes from prototype creation to part molding, assembly, makeup, and quality checks are carried out. Particularly important are the molding and finishing of parts. Specialized techniques vary by material, such as urethane resin molding and soft vinyl shaping, and are handled by artisans with many years of experience.

Moreover, Angel's Grove is not just a factory; it also has a showroom function. Visitors can view doll displays and purchase limited edition products. By feeling the atmosphere of the manufacturing site, the attachment to Dollfie deepens even further.

By being handmade by artisans in Kyoto rather than mass-produced in overseas factories, each doll possesses individuality and maintains stable quality. This "Made in Japan" value supports Dollfie's strong brand power.

Development and Evolution of Pure Skin Material

The "Pure Skin" used as material for SD is a urethane resin uniquely developed by Volks. The evolution of this material supports the beauty of SD.

The most significant feature of Pure Skin is its translucency. It allows light to pass through more easily than conventional resin materials, possessing a soft texture akin to human skin. Particularly, the way it subtly changes expression depending on the light is truly a beauty that can be called a work of art.

Additionally, measures against color transfer have also evolved. Early Dollfie dolls sometimes experienced color transfer to the body when wearing dark-colored outfits for extended periods. However, due to improvements in Pure Skin material, it has become less prone to color transfer. Furthermore, protective items such as body tights and head caps have been enhanced, creating an environment where owners can enjoy their dolls with peace of mind.

Volks continues to conduct material research, working on the development of new color variations (such as tan skin and white skin) and improving durability. This technological innovation continues to enhance the value of Dollfie.

The Value of Artisans Finishing Each Doll

Unlike mass-produced figures and dolls, Dollfie is finished by artisans one by one by hand. This value of "handmade" creates a sense of specialness for Dollfie.

For example, in makeup. Official makeup artists carefully paint each face one by one. Even the same model has subtly different expressions, precisely because they are hand-painted. This "individual difference" strengthens the feeling of having "your own unique doll".

Assembly is also done by hand. The tension of the elastic cord in the ball joints, the joining of parts, and the movement checks are all confirmed by hand down to the details. The low occurrence of defective products and the maintenance of quality that can be used stably for a long time is thanks to this handwork quality control.

The value of craftsmanship that cannot be obtained through mass production. That is reflected in the price of Dollfie. While it is certainly not cheap, the skills and thoughts of artisans embedded in each doll are the reasons why they are loved for a long time.

Formation of the Doll Community: Doll Party and Cultural Expansion

One reason Dollfie has transcended being just a product to become a "culture" is the existence of a strong community. In this section, we will explain the formation of the community centered around Doll Party and the culture that has emerged from it.

• Doll Party (dolpa): One of the Largest Doll Events in the World
• The Warmth of the Owners' Community
• The Birth of Custom Dealer Culture
• Doll Photography Culture: The Art of Photographic Expression

Doll Party (dolpa): One of the Largest Doll Events in the World

"Dolls Party (Dolls Party, abbreviated as dolpa)" is one of the largest doll events in the world, organized by Volks. It is held several times a year in Tokyo and Kyoto, attracting thousands of doll owners each time.

The biggest appeal of dolpa is the sale of limited dolls and parts. Event-exclusive models are specially designed and not available through regular channels, leading many fans to line up early in the morning. Additionally, numerous dealer booths offering custom parts, costumes, wigs, and more create an event that can truly be called a festival of dolls.

Furthermore, it serves as a venue for interaction among owners. By bringing their own dolls, they can take photos and exchange information, connecting with others who share the same hobby. For beginners, it is also a valuable opportunity to receive direct advice from experienced owners.

The existence of dolpa strengthens the cohesion of the Dollfie community and enhances its sustainability as a culture.

The Warmth of the Owners' Community

A characteristic of the Dollfie community is its culture of warmly welcoming beginners. Whether on social media or at real events, mutual support among owners is actively practiced.

On Twitter and Instagram, beautiful doll photos are posted daily under hashtags like "#ドルフィー", "#SD", "#DD", and "#dolpa". When beginners post questions, experienced owners often respond kindly, allowing them to obtain information with peace of mind.

Moreover, there are plenty of opportunities for real-life interaction, such as the "Owners' Tea Party" hosted by Volks and local meetups, providing ample chances for face-to-face交流. These community activities greatly enhance the enjoyment of the Dollfie hobby.

This warmth is the reason why Dollfie has grown from being a "hobby enjoyed alone" to a "hobby shared with friends".

The Birth of Custom Dealer Culture

One of the cultures that emerged from the Dollfie community is the "custom dealer". This refers to a culture where individual creators and small manufacturers produce and sell custom parts and costumes for Dollfie.

At dolpa and various doll events, many dealers set up booths. Unique items such as original design costumes, handmade wigs, accessories, and small items that cannot be obtained through official channels are available.

The quality of costume dealers is particularly high, with authentic gothic costumes, lolita fashion, and traditional Japanese clothing crafted by professional costume makers being popular. This dealer culture further expands the customization possibilities of Dollfie and stimulates the creativity of owners.

Additionally, many dealers are also Dollfie owners themselves, and there is active sharing of skills and mutual support within the community. This cultural depth supports the richness of the Dollfie hobby.

Doll Photography Culture: The Art of Photographic Expression

Another significant feature of the Dollfie community is its "photography culture". Many owners express the beauty of their dolls through photography and share it on social media.

Doll photography goes beyond mere record-keeping. Many owners creatively manipulate lighting, backgrounds, composition, and posing to achieve a quality akin to professional photographic works. Techniques vary widely, including outdoor natural light photography, studio lighting photography, and diorama photography using miniature backgrounds.

Furthermore, "storytelling expression" using dolls is also popular. Works that create scenes with multiple dolls and narrate stories through photographs have reached the realm of photographic art.

This photography culture further broadens the ways to enjoy Dollfie. The joy of owning a doll, the creativity of customization, and the freedom of expression through photography combine to give the Dollfie hobby a multi-layered appeal.

Global Expansion of Doll Culture Originating from Japan: Volks USA and Overseas Markets

Dollfie has grown into a doll brand loved not only in Japan but around the world. This section explains Volks' overseas expansion and the significance of Japanese-origin doll culture spreading globally.

• Entry into the North American Market: Establishment of Volks USA
• Expansion of Popularity in Asia and Europe
• Significance of Japanese-Origin Doll Culture as Cultural Export

Entry into the North American Market: Establishment of Volks USA

As the popularity of Dollfie increased, Volks began to expand into overseas markets, with North America being the focal point.

Volks USA is the local subsidiary of Volks established in the United States, with a direct store called "Volks USA Los Angeles Showroom" located in Los Angeles. Here, exhibitions and sales of SD and DD are held, making it a sacred place for Dollfie fans in North America.

In the North American market, Dollfie has gained popularity, especially among anime and game fans. DDs that bring Japanese anime characters to life have resonated well with North American otaku culture, attracting many fans. Additionally, the artistic nature of ball-jointed dolls has been recognized, leading to an increase in collectors who enjoy Dollfie as art pieces.

Volks USA also hosts events similar to dolpa in North America, supporting the formation of local communities. This steady effort is enhancing the global brand power of Dollfie.

Expansion of Popularity in Asia and Europe

Not only in North America, but the popularity of Dollfie is also rising in Asia and Europe.

In Asia, there are particularly many fans in South Korea, Taiwan, and Hong Kong. South Korea has its own unique ball-jointed doll culture, but the brand power and quality of Dollfie are highly regarded. In Taiwan and Hong Kong, influenced by Japanese anime and game culture, the popularity of DDs tends to be particularly high.

In Europe, there are Dollfie fans in countries like France, Germany, and the UK. Europe has a long-standing doll culture, and particularly the history of French bisque dolls (ceramic dolls) is ancient. Dollfie is accepted as a fusion of this traditional doll culture and Japanese pop culture, forming its own unique fan base.

Volks is also advancing the hosting of events and the expansion of sales channels in these regions, nurturing a global Dollfie community.

Significance as Cultural Export of Japanese Doll Culture

The global expansion of Dollfie is not merely an export of products but holds significance as a "cultural export of Japanese doll culture."

Firstly, as part of "Cool Japan," Dollfie represents Japan's creativity and technological prowess to the world. The craftsmanship of Kyoto, the culture of customization, and the mechanisms of community formation embedded in Dollfie are being appreciated worldwide.

Moreover, it contributes to the cultural elevation of the doll hobby. Traditionally, dolls were often seen as "toys for children," but Dollfie has established its status as "artworks enjoyed by adults". This change in perception is uplifting the entire doll culture globally.

Furthermore, the formation of a global community is fostering cross-border cultural exchange. Dollfie owners from various countries connect on social media, share their works, and inspire each other. This cultural dialogue is expanding the richness of the doll hobby on a global scale.

Dollfie, as a cultural asset born from Japan, will continue to be loved around the world.

Conclusion: The Future of Dollfie and the New Horizons of Doll Hobby Shaped by Technological Innovation

In this article, we have explained the overall picture of Dollfie created by Volks. Finally, we will discuss the future of Dollfie and the next steps beginners should take.

Ongoing Technological Innovation: Development of New Materials and New Frames

Volks continues to pursue technological innovation for Dollfie without pause. This continuous evolution is the driving force that keeps enhancing the charm of Dollfie.

In frame technology, the development of a new generation frame following DD-f³ is underway. They continue to tackle technical challenges such as further expanding the range of motion, improving pose retention, and enhancing joint durability. In the future, a frame that achieves more natural movements closer to human motion may emerge.

Material development is also ongoing. The pure skin material for SD has further evolved to balance transparency and durability. The soft vinyl material for DD is undergoing improvements in texture and color development. Additionally, the development of new color variations (such as brown skin and tanned skin) has made it possible to express a wider variety of characters.

Through such technological innovations, Dollfie continues to be the "cutting-edge ball-jointed doll." This attitude keeps long-time fans engaged and attracts new fans.

Dollfie has greatly enhanced the cultural status of the entire doll hobby. Its contributions will continue in the future.

First, the recognition of dolls as a "hobby for adults" has spread. Traditionally, dolls were strongly associated with children's toys, but with the advent of Dollfie, they have been established as an adult hobby with artistic and customizable qualities. This change in perception has led to an overall elevation of the status of the doll hobby.

Additionally, the concept of "raising" dolls has also been popularized. It is not just about purchasing; it involves changing makeup, dressing them up, photographing, and sharing within the community. This entire process is the joy of "raising" and deepens the attachment to the dolls. This culture creates sustainability and depth in the doll hobby.

Furthermore, it has contributed to the formation of a global doll community. Dollfie owners from around the world connect and engage in cultural exchange. This international community is expanding the richness of doll culture on a global scale.

Dollfie will continue to play an important role as a presence that nurtures not just a product, but the very culture of the doll hobby itself.

Next Steps for Beginners to Start with Dollfie

If you have read this article and are interested in Dollfie, here are some recommended actions for the next steps.

Step 1: Gather Information
First, check the latest models and event information on the Volks official website. Also, search for the hashtags "#ドルフィー", "#SD", and "#DD" on social media to see actual owner photos and posts, which will help you form a concrete image.

Step 2: See the Real Thing
If possible, visit Volks' direct stores (Doll Point Akihabara, Doll Point Osaka, Angel's Village, etc.). By seeing the real thing, you can experience textures and presence that photos cannot convey. If you ask the staff questions, they will kindly assist you.

Step 3: Welcome Your First Doll
If you are unsure between SD and DD, it is recommended to start with the DD standard model or D'CORD, which are reasonably priced and easy to handle. If there is a collaboration model of your favorite anime character, choosing that is also a good idea. Selecting a doll you can be attached to is the secret to enjoying it for a long time.

Step 4: Join the Community
Once you have welcomed your doll, be sure to post photos on social media. If you use tags like "#初ドルフィー", senior owners will warmly welcome you. Additionally, participating in events like dolpa or owner tea parties will allow you to meet others who share the same hobby.

Dollfie stimulates your creativity, connects you with new communities, and is a presence you can love for a long time. I hope this article serves as your first step into the world of Dollfie.

The world of doll culture originating from Japan, pioneered by Volks and Dollfie, is now open before you.