Unpainted Blank
Nesting Dolls
Your Canvas Awaits
Discover the magic of blank matryoshka dolls — the perfect foundation for your most personal artwork, keepsakes, and handcrafted gifts.
Shop Blank Nesting DollsWhat are they?
A Centuries-Old Tradition, Reinvented for Makers
Nesting dolls — known as Matryoshka in Russian — have been crafted since the 1890s. Each set comprises a series of hollow wooden figures that fit one inside another, from the tiniest seed to the grandest outer shell.
Unpainted blank versions give artists, crafters, and hobbyists a pristine wooden canvas. No lines to follow, no existing design to navigate — just smooth, sanded timber and limitless creative potential.
Whether you’re a seasoned folk artist or picking up a paintbrush for the first time, blank nesting dolls are endlessly forgiving and deeply rewarding.
Browse the Collection
“Every blank doll holds a story that hasn’t been told yet. The painter’s job is simply to listen.”
— Folk Craft TraditionThe Process
How to Paint Your Blank Nesting Dolls
Follow these steps to go from smooth bare wood to a stunning hand-painted masterpiece. No experience required — just patience and a little paint.
Prepare the Surface
Lightly sand your blank dolls with 220-grit sandpaper to remove any minor imperfections. Wipe clean with a barely damp cloth and let dry fully. This step ensures paint adhesion and a silky finish.
Apply a Base Coat
Brush on a thin, even layer of white gesso or acrylic primer. This seals the wood grain and gives your colours a vivid, true-to-tube brightness. Allow to dry for 30–60 minutes before painting.
Sketch Your Design
Use a soft pencil (2B) to lightly sketch your design directly onto the doll. Think about themes — florals, geometric patterns, family portraits, fairy tales, animals, or abstract colour fields.
Paint in Layers
Work from background to foreground — fill large areas first, then add detail. Acrylic paints work beautifully on wood. Use thin washes to build up depth, and allow each layer to dry before adding the next.
Add Fine Details
Use a fine liner brush or a paint pen to add outlines, facial features, folk patterns, and decorative borders. This is where your doll truly comes alive — take your time and enjoy the process.
Seal & Protect
Once completely dry, apply 2–3 coats of water-based varnish or Mod Podge to protect your artwork. Satin finish is traditional; gloss gives vivid colours extra pop; matte is subtle and refined.
Choose Your Set
Finding the Right Blank Dolls for Your Project
Blank nesting dolls come in a variety of sizes and configurations. Click any option to explore the range at Dolls in Dolls.
3-Piece Starter Sets
Perfect for beginners and children’s craft projects. Three nested dolls give you plenty of canvas without overwhelming complexity. Great for family portraits or simple folk designs.
5-Piece Classic Sets
The most beloved configuration. Five dolls offer a satisfying narrative arc — ideal for storytelling designs, seasonal themes, or showcasing a progression of patterns.
7-Piece Artist Sets
For serious crafters and professional artists. Seven pieces allow elaborate, evolving designs with intricate detail. A stunning display piece and a genuine creative challenge.
Gift & Keepsake Singles
A single large blank doll — ideal for a personalised gift, wedding favour, or commemorative keepsake. Paint a name, date, or portrait for something truly one-of-a-kind.
Pro Advice
Painter’s Tips for Stunning Results
🎨 Stick to Acrylic Paints
Acrylics are water-based, fast-drying, and adhere brilliantly to wood. They’re also easy to layer and correct. Avoid oil paints — they take too long to dry and can warp the wood over time.
🌸 Draw Inspiration from Folk Art
Traditional Russian Khokhloma, Ukrainian Petrykivka, and Polish Wycinanki patterns are breathtaking on nesting dolls. Study these traditions for colour combinations, motifs, and composition ideas.
👨👩👧👦 Try a Family Portrait Set
Paint each doll as a family member from youngest to oldest — the largest doll for grandparents, the tiniest for a baby or pet. It makes an unforgettable personalised gift or heirloom.
🖊️ Use a Light Box for Symmetry
Place a sketch on a light box beneath the doll to trace symmetrical elements like faces and eyes onto the curved surface. This tricks-of-the-trade tip gives beginners professional-looking results.
🌿 Match Your Palette Across Pieces
Limit yourself to 4–6 colours across the entire set. Using the same palette for every doll creates visual harmony and makes the set feel intentionally designed rather than random.
🏆 Seal, Don’t Skip
Varnishing is non-negotiable. Two coats of water-based varnish protect your work from UV fading, moisture, and handling. Sand lightly between coats with 400-grit paper for a glass-smooth finish.