Blythe was designed at the famous Marvin Glass toy design studios, by Allison Katzman. Very little is known about Blythe pre-production days; initially Kenner was planning 4 different dolls for the Blythe line, each with a different name: Blythe, Karess, Willow and Skye. Their eyes would open, close and change direction but not color.

This rare Blythe prototype, showing the early stages of the Blythe design. It only has green eyes which change by way of turning a small lever at the back, she must have had lashes and hair, hence the glue residue on the eyelids and head top.

 

Production design notes dated 21st October 1971.

Tags: Dolls