Vanity Smurfette, simply gorgeous

Like many Smurfs, you may call this something different such as Smurfette with Mirror or Comb and Mirror Smurfette. For this piece I am going to call her Vanity Smurfette #20182 because it was used in the The Smurfs Official Collector’s Guide, published in 2013.

We first see Vanity Smurfette in the 1985 Schleich catalogue wearing a pink nightgown while brushing her golden blonde hair and admiring herself in a purple mirror. Schleich continued to sell it for another fifteen years.

In many ways, this is a classic Smurfette worth collecting. Not only is it Smurfette’s portrayal of her admiring herself, which is the kind of thing we expect from her. But it’s the slight colour differences of the nightgown and mirror. I also like that Smurfette’s eyelashes have been hand-painted onto the figurine. I am unsure if they still do this for newer versions of Smurfette.

The Smurfette’s Bedroom playset #40602 was available for a brief period in the USA from Applause in 1985. The Applause version was also quite different from the Schleich one.

Firstly, the Applause Smurfette’s Bedroom playset had hand-painted details on the furniture that the Schleich playset does not. Applause also used Vanity Smurfette. Some would say her nightgown and mirror match with the furniture. Schleich used the Smurfette from the Super Smurf Vanity Table #40234.

Vanity Smurfette’s markings

Please let me know if I have missed any markings for Vanity Smurfette.

Lastly I wanted to share with you one of the most strangest looking Smurfette’s I owe. You will see in one of the photographs that Vanity Smurfette’s pink nightgown has faded but nothing else. How bizarre!

Keep on Smurfin
Kath B

Smurfette with flower

If you have got time, I recommend that you sought through your Smurf collection. I am doing this right now and though it’s a little bit overwhelming, I am rediscovering some hidden gems. Such as Smurfette with Flower #20421, sold between 1993 to 2015 by Schleich.

The first thing I noticed about with Smurfette with Flower, was the lovely colours she was painted with. Wearing white sandles with a pink bow to match with her white dress with pink polka dots. On her right arm she carries a pink bag with white polka dots. In her left hand she holds a white flower with a yellow centre out. A very cute and simple designed Smurfette.

In the beginning, the stem on the flower was longer than others produced. The stem was about 6mm long but was later changed to 4mm. I should know as I measured it after staring at two versions of Smurfette with Flower for 10 minutes.

Typical of Smurfs released in the 1990s, the blue paint can vary slightly. However, apart from this there are very little differences to be found. Though this should not put you off from adding Smurfette with Flower to your collection. Compared to the more recent versions of Smurfette, this one looks like she should be. I have found in the last few years, Smurfette has looked really strange. One only has to look at the 2017 Smurfette Bride with her arms stretched out in front of her.

It can be easy to dismiss Smurfs made in certain era’s. I don’t have the nostalgia feeling for Smurfs made in the 1990s though I do like to collect them. This is because of the variety of colours that Schleich used on the figurines, especially their clothing and shoes. Some would say, that the Smurfs were dressed up to look like us.

What markings to look out for?

Germany Schleich S © 93 Peyo CE

Made in Germany Schleich S Germany © 93 Peyo CE

Made in Germany Am Limes 69 D-73527 Schw. Gmund Schleich S © 93 Peyo CE, date stamp

It can also be found with a black or blue paint dots.

What’s your favourite Smurfette from the 1990’s? Perhaps it’s Disco Smurfette, Snowboarder or Inline Skater, there are many great ones to choose from.

Keep on Smurfin
Kath B

What’s a Snik?

Help me! This week I purchased two Sniks but I have no idea what they are. The Covid-19 lockdown in Melbourne got the better of me and I thought I was being brave buying a new type of figurine. However I am now having some serious doubt as I don’t know what they are other than Sniks. Are they related to the Smurfs? Can anyone help me?

The one with the silver and red rocket on it’s back has the markings – Germany Bully 1982 CE. Snik13 under it’s feet.

The second wearing a purple tracksuit and appears to be jogging – Germany Bully 1982 CE. Snik24 under it’s feet.

I am happy to provide you with any other details about the figurines if required. Any information would be really appreciated as it may inspire me to collect more Sniks or even other different types of figurines. Who knows this could be just the beginning…….

Keep on Smurfin
Kath B

Azrael the cat

If you like collecting variants of Smurfs, Azrael the cat is one for your collection. Sold between 1992 to 2014 by Schleich Azrael #20411 can take collectors by surprise when looking for variations.

At a glance, Azrael is an orange cat with a white stomach and inner ears. He is licking his lips and appears to be on the prowl. But just like any Smurf made over 20 years, Schleich progressively made changes.

The most obvious one is the orange pvc material used for Azrael. From a dark orange-red colour to a light orange colour. There is also a rare variant with its fur painted.

The next most noted difference is to do with Azrael’s ear. Some have a notch in the right ear. In my opinion, this version is fairly common and is easier to find comapred to one without a notch in its ear. Another thing to look out for is whether Azrael has a blue paint dot on the end of its nose. Some also refer to the thickness of Azarel’s whiskers or the red colour of the tongue. Again both are not always to identify in photos.

Variants of markings

Some collectors like to collect Smurfs with different markings. The markings on Azrael are on its stomach and back left leg. For example, with the one made out of China, it has the China mark twice on the leg. Also the size of the CE mark can vary due to toy specifications.

Though Azrael was also made out of Germany, paint dots were also used for quality assurance measures. The black paint was added to Smurfs between 1988 to 1999 to indicate that it was painted in Portugal or Tunisia. The blue paint dot was used between 2001 to 2004 for Smurfs mostly made out of China. After 2009 a date stamp was also added to the markings.

Despite the changes made to this version of Azrael, the characteristics of the figurine did not change which is a good thing. In my opinion the more recent versions of Azarel have taken away the beauty of this evil character. One only has to look at the 2020 Azrael to see the difference.

Keep on Smurfin
Kath B

2020 Smurfs collector review

What do you think about 2020 Smurfs? It’s only taken me until to August 2021 to get mine but I am glad I did. There are eight in the series, all made out of Romania which is a first. The reaction has been mixed by collectors, however I am just grateful that Schleich are still making Smurfs.

The first thing I noticed is the paint work. The quality is there, but I doubt they are still being hand painted. It has the tradtional Smurf look unlike past series, such as the Halloween ones from 2006. Similar to past years, the eyes are joined together and the eybrows sit below their hat. These Smurfs have a hard firm texture, which I dislike. In my opinion, I prefer a softer PVC material because it gives the figurine more character.

Smurf with Butterfly #20818

The Smurf is admiring a red and yellow butterfly on his outstetched left hand and has his right hand behind his back. The Smurf has a wide smile showing us his red tongue and his pupils sit at the bottom of his eyes.

Smurf with Good Luck Charm #20819

The Smurf is carrying a red and white mushroom across his body. I am more confused by its name more than anything else because I had never heard of lucky mushrooms before. There is some similarity with Umbrella Smurf #20118 but this one is not as cute.

Smurf with Tooth #20820

Smurf is carrying a large tooth with both hands in front of him. The Smurf has a big smile on his face showing off his red tongue. You have all heard of the tooth fairy but this is the tooth Smurf!

Smurf with Bottle #20821

The Smurf is hugging a bottle of Champagne to celebrate an occasion. Again it’s very similar to Champagne Bottle #20708 which is disappointing. When it was first released, some reported that there were two variations of the label on the bottle. Some labels showing as The Smurfs and others showing as Smurfs. Upon closer inspection of both this is more likely because of bad printing on the label.

Smurf with Medal #20822

Admiring his gold medal around his neck and in his right hand, the Smurf seems rather pleased with his efforts. Not sure why he has his left arm outstretched. Also wearing green pants and a white top, so its unclear what sport he represents. The idea is similar to the one used for Winner #20745 from 2012 Olympic series.

Smurf with Sign #20823

The Smurf is carrying a sign with the words “I Love You” displayed on it. Love is displayed as a big red heart. It is kind of cute though there are other Smurfs I would buy before this one for my husband.

Gargamel with Net #20825

With a raised large net over his shoulder, Gargamel appears to be hunting for Smurfs. Wearing a black gown with white patches along with red tights and shoes. The atttention to detail given to Gargamel is spot on, everything from his facial expression to his hands. Without a doubt this is my favourite from 2020.

Azrael #20826

There is very little personality with this version of Azrael, one only needs to look at its tail to see that. Comparsionments with Kinder Surprise or Albert Heijn Supermarket versions of Azrael, are not far off the mark which is a pity. After such a good version of Gargamel, Azrael seems to be lacklustre.

In conclusion, I am happy that I have purchased the 2020 Smurfs. It was the highlight of my week considering I am currently in lockdown due to Covid-19 restrictions in Melbourne. Smurfs regardless they are old or new still bring a joy to my life and an interest by others who are also in lockdown. Thank you Schleich.

Keep on Smurfin
Kath B

P.S – For some reason there is no Smurf with the article number #20824. If someone knows the back story of what happened to this, I would love it if you could share this with us.

Nostalgia Alert! Hiker Smurf

One of my favourite Smurfs is Hiker, first produced in 1978. There are two Schleich versions of Hiker though I am really familour with only one. Wearing a yellow jackey with a green backpack but most notably has a red flower attached to his hat.

I have fond memories from childhood of Hiker. Playing in a sandpit and going on pretend adventures with Hiker. Back then I didn’t care too much for colour or marking variations. This fascination came later when I rediscovered the Smurfs as an adult.

In the late 1970s through to the early 1980s, the demand for Smurfs globally was massive. For example, Hiker was made in four different countries by Schleich; West Germany/Germany, Hong Kong, Sri Lanka and Portugal. I can’t think of any toys in 2021 that are made in four different countries.

In addition, due to the high demand for Smurfs counterfeit versions were also made. Some of these Hiker Smurfs are worth more than the Schleich ones. Such as the Comic no Toxico (CNT) with the soft matte paint colours or the Polish ones with a red stick.

I am a big fan or recycling and use this as an excuse when buying vintage Smurfs. Nieces and nephews are bemused by my collection of 60+ Hikers. I recall trying to explain that each Hiker was different. If I was child, I would have been excited just to see so many Hikers. Or that someone else appeciated going on the adventures with Hiker Smurf.

Possibly the other reason I adored Hiker was a mini story book called The Wandering Smurf. It’s about a Smurf who decided to go on adventure outside the Smurf Village. Papa Smurf also gave him a magic whistle to bring home again. Nostalgia is a powerful feeling that is never far away with Hiker Smurf.

Keep on Smurfin
Kath B

Who was Gutsy Smurf?

Gutsy Smurf first appeared in the 2011 The Smurfs 3D movie. Created solely for the movie and does not appear in the comics or cartoon series. Wearing a blue kilt over his white trousers and a white smurf hat with matching blue pompom. He also sports bushy orange sideburns and eyebrows.

To begin with I was confused by Gutsy Smurf #20732. Like the other Smurfs released for the movie it was clear these were not your ordinary Schleich figurines. By the time I saw the movie it made more sense who Gutsy was. A tough guy who had a kind heart type of character.

Just like the other Smurf figurines made for The Smurfs movie, each one was larger than the average Smurf. Each one has large feet and is striking their own stance/pose. Gutsy is no different with both hands on his hips.

The other Smurfs made for The Smurfs 3D movie included Papa Smurf, Clumsy, Dreamy Smurfette, Brainy and Grouchy. In addition to being sold individually a special scenery display box which included all six was released. Made Between 2010 to 2012 this was quite common by Schleich to sell Smurfs in these display boxes. Was this aimed for children or collectors? I will let you be the judge.

Even though some collectors didn’t like them at thee time, most were happy to have new Smurfs. Some preferred the older cuter cartoon look rather than the new ones. Comments like ugly or gnome looking were common. However once collectors received them, the comments were less negative.

Facts on Gutsy

Gutsy was a popular movie character. Possibly because of his Scottish ascent and jokes about wind blowing up his kilt. Gutsy also made a small appearance in the second Smurfs movie. Other merchandise sold at the same time also jumped on the Gutsy Smurf band wagon.

Schleich sold Gutsy from 2011 to 2015, just like the other movie Smurfs. If you adore the Smurf movies, Gutsy is worth collecting. In contrast if you are traditionist Smurf collector best to stick to the authentic Smurf figurines. For me, I have grown to like Gutsy but he definetly not one of my favourites.

Did you know the German name for Gutsy was Mc Tapfer.
Do you also know the French name for Gutsy was Costaud which roughly translates as strong.

Keep on Smurfin
Kath B

Kayak Super Smurf

I recall when I collected my first Kayak Super Smurf, it only came with a single paddle blade. Being new to collecting, I didn’t know any better and never questioned it. Later I discovered that Kayak Super Smurf comes with a double-sided blade.

I also learnt that Kayak Super Smurf had no markings on the figurine but was genuine. My understanding back then was if the Smurf hasn’t got a marking under under the foot it’s not real. However Kayak Super Smurf had no feet only a square plug to fit inside the kayak.

*The concentration is intense, it’s like he is going for an Olympic gold medal.*

First sold in 1979 until 1998 then in 2010, Kayak Super Smurf #40502 has always been popular with collectors. Wearing a red helmet with white spaces and a yellow kayaking jacket. The yellow jacket also has a white bib holder on its back. Some bib holders display the number 4 whereas others are just blank. The kayak should be green. The kayaks can vary slightly in length and colour. The kayak’s brown paddles can also vary in length and colour. Again nothing major but a slight difference.

Similarly the paint colours can vary, from lemon to darker yellow on the jacket and bright to dark red for the helmet.

Kayak Markings

The markings can be found on the side of the kayak. From my understanding there are five different markings to be found on the kayak. Earlier I mentioned that the figurine has no markings, however it does have a cavity number. Some early ones also came with a mustard or red paint dots.

Made in China CE Schleich S Am Limes D-73527 Schw. Gmund with a date stamp

I have also been told there is a Portugal made kayak which has no markings.

Kayak Super Smurf Boxes

During its production the Kayak Super Smurf came in a variety boxes. You can open the box that your Kayak Super Smurf comes in without destroying its value. The boxes are not sealed like other blister packaged boxes. Some collectors display their Super Smurfs on top of their respective empty boxes, while others display them as a background display.

Olympia Schlumpf with the Olympic rings
Olympia Schlumpf with Olympic rings blacked out
Olympian Smurf – Ages 3 and up
Schtroumpfiade Schlumpfiade
Super Sport Smurf
Smurf head logo with dancing Smurfs pattern
Peyo Creations with dancing Smurfs pattern

As with anything you may decide to collect, you want to consider the reasons why you want to add Kayak Super Smurf to your collection. Is it because of the different bib holder’s or is it the variety of boxes. Regardless of your reasons, I hope you enjoyed reading about Kayak Super Smurf.

Keep on Smurfin
Kath B

Woodcutter Smurf now known as Axe Smurf

When did Woodcutter Smurf become known as Axe Smurf? Trying to find the origins of a Smurf can be a challenge but also a lot of fun. Especially when you look back at old catalogues and what names we gave particular Smurfs. Same Smurf but different names depending where you lived in the world. Woodcutter Smurf is a perfect example or should that be Axe Smurf #20087?

Bully and Schleich versions

In 1975 Bully released six new Smurfs. One of these was Holzhacker which in German roughly translates to Lumberjack in English. However I have never seen this Smurf referred to as Lumberjack. The first variant is quite different to the other variations. For example, the axe blade is thick and is not as sharp. The pvc material is also softer compared to the other variants. It also has the Bully © Peyo hand etched markings.

After this, Bully changed the mould and markings on Axe Smurf. For instance the axe blade was sharper and the Smurf appears to be slightly taller. Adding a © Peyo marking to the back of the Axe blade and printed markings under its feet.

Schleich also sold Axe Smurf, from 1980 to 1986. Only two of these years with their own Schleich markings. Like other Smurfs Schleich would just block out the Bully marking and replace it with their own. Unless you really examine your Smurfs for differences I cannot see any between the Bully and Schleich marked ones.

Wallace Berrie and Schleich

BP also sold Axe Smurf in New Zealand, calling this Woodcutter. This version is made out of hard pvc material and is painted with darker colours, most notebly the red axe handle. From my understanding this was sold around 1981 because of it’s markings – Made in Hong Kong Schleich S © 1976 Peyo markings.

Also in 1981 Wallace Berrie sold Axe Smurf, with and without their own markings. It was in their 1982 Smurf Collectables Booklet that I have found the first reference to this Smurf as Axe Smurf. Though Schleich continued to call this Hozhacker in Germany and Woodcutter in English speaking countries in their 1986 catalogue. This was the last time we saw Axe Smurf in any Schleich catalogues.

Jubilee Smurf

However Axe Smurf is possibly best known for being part of the Jubilee Smurfs released in 1985. Axe Smurf was representing the year 1975. Each Jubilee Smurf was sold in a special blister display cardboard package that also included four stamps. Along with this each figurine was stamped on the back of their head with the year of issue and a gold leaf design. Highly collectible and highly sought after by collectors.

I hope you’ve enjoyed reading my blog but if you feel something is not quite right let me know.

Keep on Smurfin
Kath B

Handstand Smurf

Every collector hopes one day to find a rare Smurf ignored and forgotten in the bottom of a box. My discovery was in a snap lock bag with other unloved Smurfs in a collectible shop. Furthermore, it was the Handstand Smurf with red shorts.

As soon as I could I purchased the bag and hurried away to open the bag. I was like a kid with a bag of lollies. But it was the Handstand Smurf that I was most interested in. Even though I had seen photographs of this Smurf I was now pinching myself that I had my own. At the same time I was concerned it was repaint or possibly a fake. Fortunately this was not the case.

Things to Look For When Buying Handstand Smurf

In 1975 Bully started selling Smurfs with hand etched markings – Bully © Peyo. For Handstand Smurf #20084 these are under the hands. Yellow shorts is more common and easier to find compared to red shorts.

It was made between 1975 to 1979 by Bully. Then until 1984 by Schleich lastly it was made by Maia Borges in 1985. Some say there is a larger or small variation. For example we are talking about the difference in millimetres.

In 1984 Schleich removed the Bully marking and added their own. Instead of adding this under the hands, the marking is on the front of the shoe. Therefore a more prominent position than previously. Schleich only sold it with their marking for possibly one year collectors consider this rare. Maia Borges added Made in Portugal marking to the other shoe and a mustard paint dot. Again it’s considered rare due to its short production time.

From my understanding, the Handstand Smurf with red shorts was only sold with Bully © Peyo hand etched markings. However, I have seen it with other markings but the paintwork looked too perfect. Which makes me think that the shorts had been repainted.

The interest in HandStand Smurf Shows no signs of letting up; they are as popular as ever. Most likely because of the Smurf’s big smile and the ability to display it without the Smurf falling over. They just don’t make Smurfs like they used to.

Keep on Smurfin
Kath B