I want to create some dolls, action figures

[RinpooChu]

I have this idea for dolls/actionfigures but I need to get to know the mechanics better, I've looked at some howtos like the stringing method but before I start I'd like to buy some old dolls / action figures or parts to get to know the mechanics better. I'd like to be able to make negatives without having to do everything from scratch. If I had a 3d printer this would be much easier but sadly it's currently too expensive for me to buy one.

I have no idea where to start. I bought 2 dolls in ebay but they were cheap china products with no joints. I'm sending those back, other than that I only find very expensive dolls and no doll parts that can be assembled.

I would love it if I could get some tips where to start.

[catlover51]

http://www.madehow.com/Volume-6/Action-Figure.html