Retro Dolls US hosts a group swap for custom dolls (and occassionaly other custom toys). It is mainly run through Instagram on my feature account- RetroDollsUSFeature, however, you don't have to have an instagram account to participate. I will post new swap photos/info and people comment to participate. Once a determined number of participants have been reached, I will sent you a form via email. This is a survey of your likes and dislikes in relation to the theme of the swap. For example- the swap's theme that just ended two months ago was: Twisted Fairytales. You would fill your form stating your favorite fairy tales, what type of style you like (ie- scary, strange, goth, etc), what type of doll base you prefer, etc.  Once I receive all the forms, I will determine who you will receive as your partner. The person who you are making for may not necessarily be the person who is making for you. When you receive your partner's form, this will tell you what kind of custom they would like- things they don't like, etc. 

             This is a secret swap- like a "Secret Santa", do not let the other members of the group know who you have. You may not share pictures until your partner has received their doll and let us know. Once that happens you are welcome to share pictures of the doll you made, YouTube videos are welcome as well, etc. Please also share pictures of the doll you received. 

             All customs must use hair from Retro Dolls. If you already have hair from Retro Dolls, you may use that instead of purchasing new hair. There are three Retro Dolls stores you can purchase from- US, UK and EU. If you purchase from the US, you will receive a 20% off discount.

 

The links to the stores are:
US- www.etsy.com/shop/retrodollsus
UK- www.retrodolls.uk   or www.etsy.com/shop/retrodollsuk
EU- www.retrodollseurope.com

             You may check in with me as often as you like to share your progress or discuss ideas. There will be official check-ins with pictures at the end of each month until it is time to ship. Customs will be shipped the first week of a determined month. 

VERY IMPORTANT- If for whatever reason you need to drop out or cannot finish your doll on time, PLEASE let me know as far in advance as you can. If anyone drops out, I will make a replacement doll for the person they had- and the person who drops out will not receive a doll- it will be sent to me since I will be making a replacement. If you receive your doll and do not like it, please do not say anything to the group or to the person who made it, contact me privately. Everyone works hard on their customs and I don't want there to be any hurt feelings or fighting/drama.

           I have made a facebook group for all swap members (past/present/future). Here is the link:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/248652558970939/

           Each swap has a theme. Past themes have been: Magic, Twisted Fairytales, Lolita, Halloween, Holidays/Seasons. There are some requirements- most swaps, you need to have completed a certain number of Monster High Customs. I do also host Beginner Swaps for people just starting out, this usually has a requirement of having at least 1-3 custom monster high dolls finished. If you are under the age of 18, you must have a parent/guardian's permission to join, because you have to give out your address. If you are under the requirement number, but I feel your art is up to the more advanced levels, I will allow you to join in the regular swaps. 

 

            Swaps are open to everyone internationally- while it is preferred that you are open to shipping internationally, it is not required and I do try to take into account if you'd prefer to ship locally.
 

             Last but not least- Have fun! Don't stress yourselves, and remember that everyone is also excited and nervous. This is a drama free zone.