Reborn accessories can change the look of a reborn without changing the doll itself. Start with fit and construction, whether you are choosing a magnetic dummy, a display bottle or a blanket for photographs.
Reborn accessories are for collector dolls. A familiar baby-product shape does not make an altered or display-only item suitable for a real baby or child.
Choosing a magnetic dummy
A magnetic dummy needs a compatible magnet already fitted inside the doll. The position, direction and distance between the magnets affect whether it will sit properly. Do not assume that a dummy will fit because it is labelled for reborns.
Moon & Milk’s Honeybug Sweetheart Newborn Plus dummies are approximately 51 mm and have a reversible 9 × 3 mm magnet. Turning the magnet can match its direction to the doll’s magnet, but cannot guarantee a fit on every sculpt. Check the individual listing before choosing.
Bring the dummy straight towards the mouth and lift it straight away. Avoid sliding it across painted lips or pressing it into place. If it does not sit properly, stop rather than forcing it.
Strong magnets can be dangerous. These dummies are for reborn dolls only and are not suitable for children or anyone with a pacemaker. Store them securely away from children and pets.
See the magnetic dummy range for the available colours and each item’s compatibility details.
Using sealed display bottles
Moon & Milk’s bottles contain a water-based display formula. They are handmade and sealed with aquarium-grade silicone and a bonded closure. They are props, not feeding bottles, and the contents are not for drinking.
- Keep the bottle upright, away from heat and children.
- Do not squeeze the teat or attempt to open the sealed closure.
- Check for leaks before placing it near the doll.
- Keep liquid away from vinyl, hair and the cloth body.
- Wipe the outside with a soft cloth and store separately from the doll.
The sealed formula bottle listings describe the individual bottles. Do not put real milk or other perishable liquids into a photography prop.
Blankets, hats and clothing props
Choose clean, soft fabric and check for rough seams, sharp decorations and tight elastic. Light-coloured cotton or muslin is useful as a layer between the doll and a basket or other surface.
Dark fabric can transfer dye. Wash garments before use, check them during wear and avoid leaving dark or tight items on for long periods. See the dressing guide for how to handle clothes without pulling on limbs.
Keep hook-and-loop fastenings away from rooted hair and eyelashes. Fold nappy adhesive tabs back onto themselves so they cannot stick to vinyl. Remove pins and sharp clips from the setup.
Setting up photographs and displays
Use a stable surface with support for the head and body. Check that a basket, chair or pram is large enough for the doll and does not force its limbs into position. Keep the setup away from edges, direct sunlight, heat and damp.
Move props that press against painted surfaces once the photograph is finished. Remove bottles and loose accessories before longer storage. For a permanent display, follow the storage guidance.
Simple ideas for a doll photograph
A sleeping portrait: use a clean pale blanket on a supported surface, with one coordinated fabric detail. Keep the face and hands visible and move hard ornaments outside the doll’s resting space.
A nursery scene: place a cot card or certificate beside the doll, where it can be seen without resting a frame or clipboard against the paint. Support the doll fully before arranging the paperwork.
A bottle or dummy photograph: choose a prop proportionate to the doll and check compatibility first. Hold or position a sealed bottle without squeezing the teat or pushing it into the mouth. A dummy that does not sit comfortably should stay beside the doll rather than being forced into position.
After the photograph, check for snagged hair or clothing and remove loose props. A setup that works for a brief supervised photograph is not automatically suitable for long-term display.
Scents and mohair products are separate
A scent spray and a mohair conditioner have different uses. Check the directions for the particular product rather than treating either as a general freshening spray. Do not apply fragrance directly to the doll or hair.
The Scents & mohair care range gives each product’s intended use. For rooted mohair, follow the brushing and conditioning guide. Painted hair needs dry dusting only.
Accessories for your collection
