Shine marks are inevitable. They occur when the doll takes a hard fall and leaves behind a little mark that shines in the light. You may also have purchased a doll online secondhand that has shine marks and scuffs that were not noticeable in the listing photos.
What you will need:
- Micro-Mesh Sanding pads (1500, 1800, 2400 and 3200 grit)
I purchased a Cecile doll secondhand. Her hair needed to be re-curled and she had several shine marks on her face and a small scuff on the forehead.
To begin, start with the 1800 grit sanding pad and working in circular motions, lightly sand the affected spot. The higher the grit of the sanding pad, the finer it will be. If you have a particularly bad scuff, you may need to start with the 1500 grit. If you have just a surface blemish, the 2400 grit may be all you need. Once you start sanding adjust the sand paper as needed whether is seems to be too much or too little sanding.
Continue to sand in circular, even motions until the spot is gone. A surface spot will be removed quickly, whereas a spot with a gash may take a little more time. Keep in mind you are sanding away the doll vinyl so be aware of how it appears as you sand. Circular sanding motions keep the area evenly sanded. Buff the finished area with the 3200 grit sanding pad to smooth the finished area.
After you have finished sanding and buffing the spots, wipe down the area with a damp cloth to remove any residue. After I cleaned up my Cecile doll, I tightened her limbs and re-curled her hair and she is looking practically new again.
Doll is American Girl Cecile, dress and shoes are American Girl.
