Katy Haile lives in Apex, NC, and has been creating websites since 1997, and still runs her favorite one – RainbowBrite.net. Okay, now I typically limit the collections on Cool & Collected to the more male-oriented audience, but Katy has a pretty sweet collection of Masters of the Universe figures lumped in among all those rainbows, so she gets a pass. (Plus, I am just a sucker for a great collection!)
How did your collection start? What was the first item in your collection?
Technically, it started back in 1984 when I received my first 12″ Rainbow Brite doll as a birthday present. But I only had 4 of the dolls as a child (which I still have). My true collection began in 1995 when I started driving and could spend as much time at thrift stores as I wanted. I recall buying Rainbow Brite bed sheets, a record player, more dolls and anything else Rainbow Brite related that I could get my hands on.
Approximately how many items are in your collection?
Over 1000. I keep an updated list here:
http://www.rainbowbrite.net/KatyHaileCollection.pdf
Do you have a favorite item in your collection?
Yes – my prototype 12″ Dress Up Rainbow Brite doll. She’s beautiful and one of a kind!
How do you store/display your collection?
I have two and a half rooms dedicated to my collection. I’ve dubbed it The Rainbow Land Museum 🙂 Practically all of my collection is on display. The few items that are still in crates are items that would be very difficult to display. But perhaps one day I will find a way. Until then, they stay in closets so as not to be damaged by high/low temperatures.
Is there a “holy grail” item that you would love to add to your collection?
That would definitely be a prototype Stormy doll. I’m pretty sure that’s the holy grail of every Rainbow Brite collector. But so far nobody has come across one.
Do you collect other things?
Yes. I collect the new Masters of the Universe Classics line (to go along with my small vintage He-Man collection). I collect all sorts of rainbow items. I also have a lot of various 80’s cartoon books and VHS tapes from when I used to collect all 80’s cartoon items. I’ve also got a few Strawberry Shortcake figures, My Little Ponies and Harry Potter items thrown in for good measure 😉
Do you have a favorite collecting story or experience?
That would probably be the day I won my MIB Hard Bodied Starlite doll off of Ebay. I remember sitting at a friend’s house, using his computer while he and my [then] boyfriend played a video game. The bid kept going up and up, but I got one last bid in in time to win the auction. I started laughing and when my friends asked me why I giddily replied, “I just paid over $300 for a Rainbow Brite doll!” LOL. They couldn’t believe I’d pay that much for a collectible, but he’s worth much more than that now.
Do you have any advice for new collectors who are just starting a collection?
My advice would be to set goals for yourself. I made the mistake of trying to collect EVERY SINGLE Rainbow Brite item ever produced and it’s just not possible (or next to impossible). Start with a category, such as dolls or books or figurines and complete one category at a time. That way, you can stop once you’ve reached your goal or you can set a new goal and continue on. I get a lot more satisfaction from having all of one category than having a little of a lot of categories.
(NOTE: This Collector Profile has been updated with new information and photos. Article originally published in April 2011.)
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Now, I want a “Rainbow Room.” Anyway, you can connect with Katy at her web site, http://www.rainbowbrite.net, or you can see some more of her photos on Flickr. Thanks, Katy!
If you want to share your collection with other like-minded collectors, fill out the Collector Profile and I’ll help you spread the word!
[All images are the property of Katy Haile]
Oh wow. That Rainbow Brite movie poster is gorgeous. Love it. What a great collection.
Go Katy! She’s a great friend of mine! Gotta love this girl and her passion for Rainbow Brite. I’m setting her as my inspiration for my bourgeoning Transformers collection. 😀
A Transformers collection, you say? Maybe we’ll see you profiled here some day. 🙂
Thanks Paxton! *waves at Claudia* 😀
I have two 12″ inch 3-d wall decorations from decorettes master of the universe original series im looking to prob sell them do you collect those as well ? How much do you think they go for its sealed in original box never opend but the case has bended marks since its so old and been locked away in the garage for so many years ! Is that worth anything ??? If so do you know any where i can take it to get priced! Anyone know you can get a hold of me at israelangulo80@gmail.com
not a collector but I hav a rare rbb kitchen set that I enherited..this set is in good condition and im sure would be a great addition to a collecters collection..its for sale so if you are io ntersted let me know need to get rid of it..make.an offer.
I am intrested in the rainbowbrite kitchen set. Please contact me
i was just wondering if anyone knew of the value of a mint condition rainbow brite fridge and stove. (Mint Condition: No dents, dings, scratches or anything else.) i had the sink also but it is gone some how. if any one could reply to me i would really appreciate it. countryboy6882@yahoo.com
I have a rainbow brite kitchen set to sell if you’re interested. Contact me per email I have pics. Thanks.
Is this still available???
Hello, my mother recently passed away & in going through her things, I found that she kept my Rainbow Brite Violet doll all these years. She’s in excellent condition, still has her dress, but, not her Sprite, no tears or stains. I don’t have a daughter & I’m not a collector and was wondering if there is someone out there that is a collector that may in interested in purchasing her? I know somewhere she probably has my Rainbow Brite & her horse also along w/ my My Little Ponies & who knows what else, lol! If anyone is interested in Violet please drop me an email & an offer! :0) Thanks, Jess
Oh, I’m sorry, for anyone interested my email is: lovemypups80@gmail.com
I have an original rainbow brite kitchen set. It includes all three pieces stove,fridge and sink. It is in decent condition…Looking to sell to someone at a reasonable price. Contact me at cynthiacooper1982@gmail.com if you are interested.
I have a vintage Rainbow Brite sleeping bag, good condition. If anyone is interested.
Wow, what a beautifully presented collection. Love the wall colors, they accent everything perfectly!
Thanks for sharing it!
Wow, that is the dream house for any collector. I love the way you have things set up. Not crammed into a basement like all my stuff is. But I like the clutter.
Those photos seem to be taken from inside a toy store! Amazing!
But what I spy is the Bow action figure in the photo with the pink Hello Kitty. I always liked Bow and his gorgeous moustache!!!
OMG!! This collection is a dream!! I just love everything! I wish I had this collection. The bed set and curtains are to die for!!
Sweet collection. I definitely need a bigger room.
I have a Rainbow Brite Record player and it is in mint condition and has needle. I always took care of my toys. What is it worth, I saw one on eBay for $99
Recent prices show that record player selling for $25-35.
I have a Rainbow Brite Kitchen set (fridge & stove). Im downsizing and selling it. Anyone interested, please contact me.
Do you still have these and how much are they?
I have a Rainbow Brite Record Player missing the needle and the back hinges for the lid are broken. Record player works if only had a needle to hear the audio. Email me if anyone is interested. Thank you and happy hunting.
hi how i can get or buy the rainbow brite blanket in the room Image ty
I have a rainbow brite record player . What is it worth? Thanks Linda
Are you still collecting
I have rainbow brite curtains from the 80’s. Trying to find out how much they are worth. Any suggestions? Having a hard time finding out this info.
Thanks,