Composition Doll Issues: Easy Step by Step Guide to Control minor cracking and crazing 1930’s doll

Crazing on composition dolls is inevitable but can be controlled. Nipping it in the bud is key to a long lasting doll. Featured is my depression era Effanbee Patsy Baby 12 inch doll I have had since 1990. This is my 3rd round of maintenance on this doll. Protect them now to prevent need of repaint or restoration.

[@chouchoue]

Is this limited to composition dolls and are the composition dolls that craze hollow? Are dolls carved in wood less likely to do this?

[@FolkandFashionDolls]

Most compo dolls are hollow. Only the very early ones made circa 1910-1918 may have solid limbs. Heads are hollow with a removable pate that usually disintegrates over the years.
For wood carved dolls, I would think that wax or mineral oil will protect them if you see the finish starting to rub off.

[@angelitavillalba8913]

Siempre soñé con tener un bebotito como este 😢ojalá algunas vez se me cumpla mi sueño ❤😊

[@FolkandFashionDolls]

Le deseamos todo bien

[@cavehag999]

I know this is about crack prevention and fixing but if left alone is it safe? I can’t find any info on if this doll has lead in the paint and I really like the creepy crackling look 😅 I’ve been looking for effanbee dolls from 20’s and 30’s. Even if you could direct me to somewhere I can learn more that’d be super helpful as I don’t know much about vintage dolls. Thank you!

[@FolkandFashionDolls]

Sorry for late reply. Yes, you have to assume all painted objects prior to 1970 has lead in the paint. As long as not frequently handled and displayed in well vented area should not give off toxic fumes. The dust particles inside the composition can be dangerous to the lungs if you are restoring. Wear mask and gloves with frequent handling. Just do a Google search and lots of Effanbee compo dolls should come up for sale. Hope that helps, thank you!

[@dorisbrinkerhoff8124]

my mother had this Doll mama passed at 88 years old

[@ambershepherd2838]

Where can I buy craze control?

[@FolkandFashionDolls]

It’s available on EBay, or you can do a Google search for “ compo doll craze control products “. Hope that helps!

[@dodo-ur5tq]

You havnt fixed crazing at all apart from putting some out of skin colour looks like paint. Looks terrible.

[@annielafage8806]

J ai un poupon comme celui ci son visage a fonce date de 1950 comment faire