11.27.2011

The Island of Handmade Toys

Are you in the thick of shopping for the perfect holiday toys? I've been wading through the unfamiliar territory of boys toys for my four nephews, feeling very out of my element. Coming from a family of four girls, I am far more comfortable in the pink glow of the Barbie section, but am learning more about Wii accessories, Transformers, and Thomas the Train.

Walking through the aisles, everything starts to look the same. In the sea of licensed toys it's become a rare phenomenon to find unique gifts for children that exhibit true design and artistry. When I was little my grandmother made me a beautiful handmade doll which I treasured for years. The art of handmade children's toys may seem all but lost, but wait! Enter Rachel Linquist, creator of Hen and Chick. Rachel's handmade children's toys and soft sculptures range from cuddly to art sculpture, utilizing recycled materials in creative and unexpected ways. Here are some of my favorites from her Etsy shop:

Rachel's heirloom dolls stand out, each doll is unique, each face is hand-painted. This is her favorite part of the process, when the dolls really come to life!
Handmade Cloth Doll, Heirloom

Hen and Chick's robot collection is a long time favorite, each face is unique, and the zippers are a great touch!
Robot Plushie with Big Red Heart

For the animal lovers, these large plushies are made from vintage and recycled materials. They look great sitting on a bed or sofa:
Big Plush Raccoon in Tweed

Think dolls are just for kids? Hen and Chick specializes in Art Dolls, from Hansel and Gretel, to Amelie, and Edgar Allen Poe!
Hansel and Gretel Costume Art Dolls

Are you inspired to find that perfect handmade gift for the kiddos in your life? A handcrafted doll or soft sculpture from artists like Hen and Chick will be a unique and unforgettable present for your little one to open on Christmas morning!


1 comment:

Rachel L. said...

Thanks so much for the feature, my dear, and for your kind praise!