Collection

Shader’s China Doll

In 1976, Ken and Stephanie Shader began making dolls in iowa as a hobby.  The first dolls were made for their six year old daughter, Pam, but soon they were making dolls for both friends and relatives as their hobby was becoming more and more appreciated. After the Shaders moved to Delaware in 1978 they started selling dolls to local toy and gift stores.

By early 1979, Ken left his position with a major chemical company and Shader's China Doll was formed.  The Shaders soon learned that Stephanie's talent for painting and costume design coupled with Ken's ambition and industrial experience was an unbeatable combination. Even more than these assets, the Shader's success can be attributed to a basic philosophy that is drummed into every one of their employess. "No matter how fast or big Shader's gets, each doll will be made with the same detail and quality that were put into the dolls made by the Shader's themselves in their basement.  Every slip, dress, and hat will by styled with only one idea in mind-make the best. Cost will only be considered when pricing the product, not during the design process."