When you think of fun, personalized gifts, custom bobbleheads are probably high on the list. But have you ever wondered where these quirky little figures came from and how they evolved into the unique keepsakes we know today? Let’s take a quick journey through the history of custom bobbleheads!

The Early Beginnings: 18th Century Origins

The idea of a "bobblehead" actually dates back to the 18th century. Early forms of bobbleheads were found in Europe and Asia, particularly in Germany and China. These early figures were made of ceramic and often depicted animals or religious figures with oversized, wobbly heads that nodded with the slightest touch.

Bobbleheads in Pop Culture: The 1960s Boom

Fast forward to the 1960s, bobbleheads started gaining real popularity in the United States. Major League Baseball teams released bobbleheads of their most famous players as promotional stadium giveaways. These were mostly made from papier-mâché and later, plastic, making them more durable and affordable.

By the late 60s and 70s, bobbleheads became collectibles, featuring not just athletes but also celebrities, politicians, and cartoon characters.

The Rise of Custom Bobbleheads

The real game-changer came in the late 1990s and early 2000s, thanks to advancements in manufacturing and online shopping. For the first time, people could order fully customized bobbleheads—figures made to look like themselves, friends, or family members.

At JustBobble, we’ve embraced this evolution by offering high-quality, hand-sculpted custom bobbleheads for every occasion—weddings, birthdays, graduations, corporate gifts, and more.