Frequently Asked Questions

Hegekia dolls are little miracles born from passion and precision. Each doll is a universe unto itself, handcrafted with meticulous attention to the smallest details—from the delicate curve of an eyelash to the subtle blush of a cheek. Unlike mass-produced toys, our dolls carry the warmth of human touch and artistic vision, making each piece uniquely soulful and one-of-a-kind. They're not merely dolls but heirlooms designed to be treasured across generations.

We believe in beauty that doesn't compromise ethics or quality. Our dolls feature a symphony of premium materials—textile bodies filled with natural cotton, limbs sculpted from polymer clay, and faces painted with non-toxic, child-safe paints. The clothing is crafted from the finest fabrics: silk that whispers against the skin, cotton that breathes with timeless comfort, and delicate lace that tells stories of old-world craftsmanship. Each material is selected not just for its aesthetic appeal but for its durability and safety, ensuring your Hegekia doll remains a steadfast companion for years to come.

While our dolls are crafted with non-toxic materials and meet safety standards, they are primarily designed as art pieces rather than everyday toys. For children under 12, we recommend parental supervision due to the delicate nature of certain features and small accessories that could pose a choking hazard. Our collectible dolls are perfect for gentle play with older children or as display pieces that spark imagination from afar. For younger children seeking a playmate, we offer a special "Children's Collection" specifically designed with sturdier construction and simplified details for daily adventures.

Commissioning a Hegekia doll is like planting a seed for a magical collaboration. Begin by submitting an inquiry through our "Custom Orders" page, where you'll outline your vision—personality traits, physical features, and the story you imagine for your doll. Within 48 hours, our artisans will reach out to dance through the details with you. We'll provide sketches for your approval before the physical creation begins. Throughout the 4-6 week crafting process, you'll receive progress updates as your vision materializes into a tangible treasure. It's not just a purchase; it's a journey we embark on together.

Our dolls are investments in artistry, with prices reflecting the 20-60 hours of meticulous handwork poured into each creation. Ready-made dolls in our gallery range from $180 for simpler designs to $550 for our most elaborate masterpieces. Custom commissions typically start at $300, with final pricing determined by the complexity of your vision—intricate costumes, detailed accessories, and specialized features will influence the investment required. Rather than seeing the price tag, we invite you to consider the value: a completely unique piece of art that carries both the skill of our craftspeople and the essence of your imagination.

Life is fluid, and we understand that inspiration may strike after your initial order. For ready-made dolls, modifications can be made within 24 hours of purchase with no additional fee. For custom commissions, we welcome adjustments during the design phase at no extra cost. Once production begins, minor changes can still be accommodated for a modest adjustment fee, depending on the stage of creation. Significant revisions after production has commenced may require additional time and investment, as each doll is a carefully orchestrated creation. We strive to be flexible while maintaining the integrity of our artistic process and delivery timelines.

Your Hegekia doll deserves tender care to preserve its enchantment. For regular maintenance, a gentle dusting with a soft, dry artist's brush will keep your doll looking pristine. Fabric elements can be spot-cleaned with a barely damp cloth and mild soap if necessary, but always test in an inconspicuous area first. Avoid direct sunlight, which can fade colors over time, and extreme temperatures that might affect the clay components. Handle your doll primarily by the body, avoiding pressure on delicate facial features. Each doll arrives with a personalized care guide tailored to its specific materials, but remember—these treasures thrive most when treated with the same gentle affection they were created with.

Most Hegekia dolls wear garments designed for occasional, careful wardrobe changes—a delightful aspect of their interactive nature. Our standard collection features clothing secured with tiny hidden fasteners or delicate ties, allowing for gentle removal. Some limited edition or specialized dolls may have permanently affixed ensembles that are integral to their artistic concept. When undressing or redressing your doll, move with the patience of a butterfly collector, avoiding quick movements that might stress the fabric or doll joints. We offer separate clothing collections to expand your doll's wardrobe, each piece crafted with the same attention to detail as our dolls themselves. This transformative aspect adds another layer of storytelling to your treasured companion.

Displaying your Hegekia doll is an art form itself—a chance to create a stage for your silent storyteller. Consider a glass cabinet for ultimate protection while maintaining visibility, or a specially designed doll stand for dynamic positioning. Place your doll away from heating vents, fireplaces, and windows that receive direct sunlight to prevent material deterioration. Rotating the display position occasionally prevents fabric stress and dust accumulation. For collectors with multiple dolls, themed vignettes create captivating narratives—perhaps a tea party scene or a woodland gathering. Remember that these artistic creations are conversation pieces; position them where their intricate details can be appreciated, yet safely out of reach of curious pets or very young children.

We treat the journey of your doll as seriously as its creation. Each Hegekia treasure is cradled in acid-free tissue paper, with delicate features individually wrapped and secured. This precious cargo is then nestled in a bed of biodegradable packing materials inside a sturdy box-within-a-box configuration to absorb any transit shocks. Accompanying your doll is a hand-signed certificate of authenticity, care instructions, and often a small surprise gift—perhaps a miniature accessory or a pressed flower from our studio garden. The outer packaging remains discreet with minimal labeling for security, while being adorned with our signature wax seal, transforming the unboxing into the first chapter of your doll's story in your home.

Our dolls are global travelers, and we proudly ship to virtually every corner of the world where artistic expression is welcomed. International shipping is available to most countries via DHL Express or FedEx International Priority, with typical transit times of 3-7 business days depending on destination. Each international package includes fully insured shipping, detailed customs documentation, and our guidance in navigating any potential import duties or taxes specific to your country. While these customs fees are the responsibility of the recipient, we provide estimated calculations during checkout to avoid surprises. For collectors in remote locations, we offer specialized shipping solutions—our dolls have made their way to Antarctic research stations and remote Himalayan villages. Art knows no borders, and neither do our shipping capabilities.

While our dolls rarely return to their birthplace once they've found a home, we understand that sometimes circumstances change. For ready-made dolls, we offer a 14-day inspection period, during which you may initiate a return if your doll arrives damaged or significantly different from its description. The doll must be returned in its original packaging, unaltered and unworn. Custom commissions, being unique creations specifically designed for you, are non-returnable except in cases of significant craftsmanship flaws. In all cases, we prioritize resolving concerns through conversation and care—perhaps a repair service or exchange may better address the situation than a return. Our ultimate goal is your lasting happiness with your artistic investment.

The Art of Handcrafted Wonder

Where Dreams Take Shape

In a world of mass production, Hegekia was born from a whispered dream—a vision to create dolls that capture the essence of human expression. Our journey began in a humble studio, where threads of imagination first wove themselves into tangible marvels of craftsmanship.

Each Hegekia doll emerges from the dance between skilled fingers and premium materials. We don't merely craft dolls; we breathe life into silent companions who carry stories in their stitches and emotions in their carefully painted expressions. Our artisans pour countless hours into every creation, ensuring each doll possesses its own unique soul and character.

What started as a passion project has blossomed into a sanctuary for doll enthusiasts seeking authentic, handcrafted treasures that stand as testament to the enduring power of traditional artistry in our digital age.

Hegekia artisan crafting a doll

Our Mission & Values

At Hegekia, we believe that every doll carries a fragment of its creator's soul. Our mission transcends mere doll-making—we strive to preserve the ancient art of handcrafting while infusing it with contemporary aesthetic sensibilities.

We are guided by unwavering principles: uncompromising quality, sustainable practices, and the celebration of individuality. Each Hegekia creation serves as a bridge between generations, connecting the timeless tradition of doll-making with modern artistic expression.

Collection of handcrafted Hegekia dolls

The Hegekia Difference

What separates a Hegekia doll from others is not merely visible—it's felt. The weight in your hands, the intricate details that reveal themselves upon closer inspection, the carefully selected fabrics that invite touch—these elements combine to create not just dolls, but heirlooms.

Our workshop is a symphony of creation where master craftspeople work alongside apprentices, ensuring ancient techniques continue to thrive through new generations. We source our materials ethically, favoring natural fibers, organic cotton, and sustainable practices that honor both our art and our planet.

Beyond mere objects of beauty, Hegekia dolls serve as companions on life's journey. Our collectors often tell us how their dolls become silent witnesses to their lives—present during moments of joy, offering comfort during times of sorrow, and standing as constant reminders of the beauty that human hands can create when guided by passion and precision.

In a world that moves ever faster, a Hegekia doll invites you to pause, to appreciate, and to remember the timeless value of handcrafted treasures that carry stories woven into their very fabric.