Peg dolls are a timeless craft shape used in DIY decorating, miniature figures, and imaginative projects.
This guide compares wooden peg dolls with spun paper peg dolls to help you decide which one suits your project style and technique best.
What Are Wooden Peg Dolls and Spun Paper Peg Dolls?
Wooden peg dolls are simple lathe-turned wooden figures that can be painted, decorated, or used in play. They have a solid surface and classic look that many crafters appreciate.
Spun paper peg dolls are made from soft, tissue-like paper spun tightly into a shape. They accept paint and decorations differently from wood because of their paper surface.
Sturdiness and Durability
Wooden peg dolls are generally more rigid and durable because of their solid wooden construction. This can make them ideal for projects where strength and handling are priorities.
Spun paper peg dolls are surprisingly sturdy for paper figures, but wood tends to hold up better under frequent handling.
Painting and Decorating Ease
Painting
Many crafters find spun paper peg dolls easier to paint because the paper surface can take acrylics quickly and dries fast. The paper shape may also be easier to hold with a skewer or stick while painting, making it convenient for detailed color work.
Wooden peg dolls are also paint-friendly, but paint may take slightly longer to dry on wood, and some techniques like holding the doll during painting require a careful grip.
Adding Details
Both shapes can be decorated with accessories like felt clothing, pipe cleaners, and other embellishments. Spun paper peg dolls may allow small details (like miniature ears or accessories) to be lightly inserted into the surface, while wood may require adhesive alone.
Transferring or Applying Images
Spun paper surfaces can be well suited for techniques like tissue image transfers, which adhere smoothly to the paper and allow for detailed features like facial images.
On wooden peg dolls, transferring images often involves more challenging techniques (e.g., wax paper transfer) because wood doesn’t absorb or bond imagery the same way paper does.
Which Peg Doll Should You Use?
Choose wooden peg dolls if:
- You prefer a traditional toy-like feel.
- Durability and solid construction are key.
- You want a classic surface for acrylic paint.
Choose spun paper peg dolls if:
- You want a smooth surface ideal for quick brush painting.
- You plan detailed decoration or image transfers.
- You like lightweight shapes that are comfortable to hold during craft work.
Both types of peg dolls are valid and fun craft tools; your choice depends on your project needs and creative style.
Final Thoughts
Wooden peg dolls and spun paper peg dolls each bring creative versatility to crafts. By understanding the difference in surface, handling, and decoration techniques, you can match the right peg doll to your project — whether that’s a simple painted figure, a decorated ornament, or a miniature collectible.
FAQ
What is a spun paper peg doll?
A spun paper peg doll is a craft figure made from soft tissue-like paper spun into a mold.
Are spun paper peg dolls easy to paint?
Yes — spun paper peg dolls have a surface that accepts acrylic paint well and dries quickly, making them a popular choice for detailed craft decorating.
Which peg dolls are better for adding tiny accessories?
Spun paper peg dolls can sometimes allow accessories to be inserted into the surface more easily than wood, but both types can be decorated creatively.