what are reborn dolls

Reborn dolls are hand-made art dolls that are created to resemble human infants with as much realism as possible. They are also known as lifelike dolls or reborn baby dolls. The process of creating a reborn doll is referred to as reborning and the doll artists are referred to as reborners. Reborn dolls are weighted baby and toddler-sized figurines, sculpted from silicone or vinyl and hand-painted with attention to details like skin. The appearance of the doll depends on the creator, and certain reborn artists have gained a reputation for their unique styles. The art of making reborn dolls began in the United States in the 1990s, and the internet has allowed doll artists and collectors to create an online society focused on reborn dolls. Reborn dolls are sold online, and some artists have opened online stores that function as nurseries. Reborn dolls are enjoyed and collected by anyone who pleases, and studies suggest that doll therapy can reinforce feelings of attachment and emotional wellbeing in some patients with dementia.