The big polka dot elephant in the middle of the room

Leave it to the darn CPSIA to help us discover a ton of wonderful artisans thinking about calling it quits on February 10th thanks to the new toy testing regulations. Such is the case for Kristen Dirmeier, musician and artist, who hand c…

The big polka dot elephant in the middle of the room
Leave it to the darn CPSIA to help us discover a ton of wonderful artisans thinking about calling it quits on February 10th thanks to the new toy testing regulations.

Such is the case for Kristen Dirmeier, musician and artist, who hand creates the most adorable stuffed elephants. Using sweet, colorful fabrics, each elephant's tail can be personalized really beautifully for your little one. It's a subtle touch that makes giving or getting a stuffed animal extra special.

Sadly, Kristen is closing shop soon (unless we can convince her not to) so make sure to snag one of these beautiful handmade toys while you can. And let's hope that Congress comes to their senses, we'll bring her right back into business. -Kristen

Adopt one of these cute stuffed animals over at Peaslee. And check out our Save Handmade resource page to find what you can do to protect small toymakers and others from the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act.

More in KidsView all picks →

Q&A with children's book creator LeUyen Pham

Q&A with children's book creator LeUyen Pham

If you've been following us lately, you know how excited we are about our new Q&A books series. The chance to chat with authors like Sophie Blackall , LeUyen Pham, and the others coming up soon has been thrilling and delightful. And we'r…

Hanna Andersson: The pajamas we splurge on because they last forever

Hanna Andersson: The pajamas we splurge on because they last forever

Some kids’ pajamas are cute for approximately five minutes—and then they’re stretched out, faded, or covered in breakfast and stained forever. If you’re going to spend a little more on children’s sleepwear, it makes sense to choose somet…

Cool clothes for stylish kids

Cool clothes for stylish kids

Some kids’ shopping feels like a treasure hunt—in the best possible way. Maisonette is the online destination for moms who want children’s clothes, toys, accessories, and home finds that feel a little more special than the usual lineup. …