The process of transforming Ball-Jointed Doll (BJD) creation into ball-jointed animals presents a significant increase in difficulty due to the structural changes inherent in different species. Through continuous research and production, from drafting 1:1 construction plans to final completion, it took two years to finally finish the first fully handmade ball-jointed dog piece, "Bony".
During the initial conceptualization, I briefly considered using popular dog breeds as a template. The reason for this thought was simple: higher public acceptance.
But is creation solely for the purpose of pleasing the masses? Such a work wouldn't excite me, so I ultimately decided to create based on the dogs that grew up with me.
Having grown up with dogs since childhood, and still being accompanied by six dogs today, I am very adept at understanding canine forms, so the stone clay sculpting phase was completed very smoothly. The greatest difficulty lay in the subsequent design and production of the joint structure. Because ball joints are based on the concept of spheres and use elastic cords to connect all body parts, transitioning from human joint structures to animal joint structures is extremely challenging. The articulation angles, connections, and number of joints, as well as the completely different limb structures compared to humans, all required a complete re-conception.
The photo below shows the trial assembly of joint articulation during the production process.
After overcoming the challenge of joint production, the next step was to cover the surface of all parts with gray liquid putty, repeatedly filling and sanding fine lines and pits. Only after this was completed could mold making and subsequent replication and casting proceed.
After all parts were cast, the mold lines and sprues were sanded smooth for painting. Following this were the creation of the eyeballs and accessories, leading to the final assembly.
Although many difficulties were encountered during the production process, and it was even put aside for a period, the completed work after overcoming numerous challenges truly brings a great sense of accomplishment!
This concludes the sharing of the work. We hope you enjoy it.