With a sewing needle in one hand and a large yellow cloth a black patch over his lap, Tailor Smurf is hard at work. But also thoroughly enjoying himself at the same time. One only has to look at the broad smile across his face.
Tailor #20063 was sold between 1980 to 1986, 1995 and 1998 by Schleich. There are two variations of Tailor, with or without red thread attached to the sewing needle. There are also at least five different marking variations and three different paint dots.
Markings and Paint Dots
- W.Germany Schleich S © Peyo 1979
- W.Germany Schleich S © Peyo 1980
- Made in Portugal Schleich S © Peyo 1979
- Made in Hong Kong Wallace Berrie & Co Schleich S © 1979 Peyo
- Germany Schleich S © Peyo 1979 CE
- Mustard paint dot
- Red paint dot
- Black paint dot
The majority of Smurf collectors who prefer the older figurines will seek out colour or mould variations. I enjoy both of these aspects of collecting but finding a rare marking is the ultimate. I like to collect Smurfs based on their markings. It can be hard work but very rewarding. Recently I was lucky enough to find a Tailor smurf that was on my ‘most wanted’ list. You can tell a lot about a Smurf by it’s markings.
Before last year I never knew this existed. Only sold for one year in 1984 by Applause (formerly known as Wallace Berrie). Painted with shiny darker colours, this variant looks like the other Tailor Smurfs. However by understanding the importance of it’s markings tells a different story.
Another Tailor Smurf on my ‘most wanted list’ is Tailor sitting on top of a pin cushion #53030. Finding this one is going to take a lot longer and patience.
Keep on Smurfin
Kath B
Always been a favourite figure of mine. Thanks for posting.
Have you seen the CNT version with the orange cloth? Very cute and very rare!