I stopped playing with dolls when I turned 18 years old. I know, you probably think that’s pretty old to have still had toys. Many people, my friends and family, teased me for being an adult who played with toys. I didn’t want to, but I gave my dolls away because adults don’t play with toys. I’ll never forget holding back tears as I sold my favourite Monster High doll, Clawdeen.

Two years later, I was scrolling through TikTok and came across a video that totally reignited my love for dolls. In the clip, an artist, Chad the Diamond, showed us how he removed the make up from an original Bratz doll and then painted on a new face, to transform the doll into the character Starfire from Teen Titans.

This art form is known as “doll repaints.” Doll repaints require a blend of artistry, patience, and meticulous attention to detail. This process transforms standard, mass-produced dolls into one-of-a-kind (OOAK) masterpieces with new hair, clothing, and accessories.

Many creators in this community have even turned their passion into careers. One well-known doll repaint artist who has collaborated with major doll brands is Noel Cruz. He is famous for his realistic repaints of dolls to resemble celebrities and characters from movies and TV shows.

Cruz has garnered significant attention for his detailed work, which has led him to collaborate with high-profile companies in the doll industry. His repainted dolls are sought after by collectors and have been featured in various media outlets.

Once I started following Cruz and other content creators who are as obsessed with dolls as I am, I finally felt like I had found my people. This community taught me that playing isn’t just for children; it is a fundamental, joyful part of life that we shouldn’t abandon.

The doll community has different expressions. You can be creative and make fan art, where you draw your own pictures, or write your own stories about your favourite dolls and characters. Or you can cosplay, where you dress up as your favourite doll and bring them to life.

You could also be a doll collector, and keep your dolls in their packaging, then resell them years later when they become a collectors item. for more money. Playing with dolls can be a serious business.

The most expensive Barbie, the Stefani Canturi barbie, is worth over five and a half million rand! Or there are people like me in the doll community, the type who actually just plays with the dolls.

I like to take them out of the box, brush their hair, and dress them up, just like I did when I was a child.

I think everyone should explore their playful side, regardless of age. For me, buying new toys (I got myself a new Clawdeen doll) and connecting with the doll community has been liberating. There will come a point when you will feel pushed by society to give up stuff you love just because these things are seen as childish or not “grown-up.”

But just know that there is a community out there where you can share your passion and find acceptance, no matter your age. Play is an essential part of life, offering a break from the routine and stresses of adult responsibilities. Play fuels our creativity and brings us joy. Never ever stop playing, especially when you’re all grown up; the world needs more joyful grown ups.