description: "How I built a privacy-first iOS app for BJD doll enthusiasts using SwiftUI, CoreData, and local notifications."

published: false

tags: swiftui, ios, indiedev, appdev

cover_image: /assets/bjd-cover.jpg

As an iOS developer and BJD (Ball-Jointed Doll) collector, I found myself managing my growing doll collection with spreadsheets, random notes, and calendar reminders. It was messy.

So I built BJD Doll Archive — a dedicated app that understands the specific needs of BJD collectors.

The Problem

BJD collecting involves a lot of tracking:

Doll details : brand, sculpt, model, face-up artist, purchase date

Care schedules : MSC coating refreshes, stain checks, light protection

Vendor experiences : which face-up artists deliver quality work, which shops are reliable

Photos : documenting customization progress

Generic inventory apps don't understand BJD-specific concepts like "face-up refresh cycle" or "resin yellowing prevention."

The Solution: SwiftUI + Local-First Architecture

SwiftUI for…