Site of the Month for August 2011 is about Handcraft Information. Handcraft Portal provides links and resources related to handicrafts, handmade craft, handmade arts, handmade jewelry, handmade ceramics, leather, wooden crafts, handmade necklaces, pottery, textiles, wood and more.

First, always be certain that the Disney porcelain dolls you purchase are true Disney products. The incredible popularity of Disney characters and the insatiable demand for any product related to them has spurred an epidemic of fakes and knock-offs. When you buy an unauthorized Disney product, you’re hurting yourself in multiple ways. Initially, you’re diluting the value of the actual Disney brand–and that’s not good for your collection! Additionally, you’re actively supporting someone who is willfully breaking trademark and other intellectual property laws. Finally, you’re adding items to your collection that are unlikely to have any real lasting values to true collectors in the field.

Second, look for limited run Disney porcelain dolls. There’s nothing wrong with the mass-produced products if you’re a casual collector or simply love the featured character. However, those who collect with an interest in the long-term value of the dolls will tell you that limited edition dolls and figurines are far more likely to appreciate in value than the more common models. Make your buying decisions with that fact in mind and, when you have a choice, defer to the less commonplace dolls.

Third, remember that no matter how careful you are in your buying decisions, collectibles are not guaranteed to increase in value. Don’t think of Disney dolls strictly as an investment. Instead, seek out the dolls that appeal to you on a personal level and that will bring you some satisfaction regardless of their eventual monetary value. That way, you’ll be happy with your doll collection no matter what happens in the marketplace. For many people, there’s nothing more uplifting or fun than an item featuring Mickey Mouse, Goofy, Donald Duck or any of the hundreds of other famous Disney characters. For others, nothing can compare to the elegance and attractiveness of a well-made porcelain figurine. Disney porcelain dolls really are an outstanding collectible.