Handmade toys get another year...
It's been a very passionate time in the world of toys, especially the handmade variety. This year the CPSIA (Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act) decided to start imposing mandatory, heavy test regulations on childrens' products with hopes of reducing lead content levels. The intentions are well and good, but it could potentially force small childrens' businesses and handmade crafters to close their doors due to exorbitant testing fees. And not just toy makers. Any goods intended for children could be affected.
The power of the internet and the amazing handmade community found on Etsy and other craft venues banded together to make their voice heard at this crucial time. February 10th was the looming deadline, but thankfully the voices were heard – at least for now. The CPSIA suspended their initial date for one year to reevaluate the new testing laws and hopefully come to a solution that considers the little guys. To celebrate this first step toward saving handmade children's goods, I've chosen some amazing toy sellers to showcase today. Enjoy!
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Morninglori has created a magical, unique toy line that is not only adorable to look at, but brings you along to their whimsical world. These plush dolls are infused with artistry, imagination and fantasy. They are lovable creatures and so different from anything in the mainstream. I encourage you to visit MorningGlori's shop and read the bios of the different "softies" the artist, Lori Brown, has created. Then after you've been thoroughly captivated, go on and visit her amazing blog, to see her sculptures, inspirations and more incredible creations. (Softie "Leigh" is pictured above)
ManicMuffinTotes creates these adorable owl pillows called Lil Hoots. Fanciful and fun, they are sure to get lots of hugs in any child's room (or grown-up's too!). This shop also creates yummy cupcake and ice cream cone pillows that are sure to bring you delicious dreams.
Moving on to even more yumminess… Here are some toys that look good enough to eat. Mommy24cs (or The Fakery Bakery) creates playful, felt foods such as this sinful looking dessert platter and this delicious mint chocolate cake and brownie plate. It's unbelievable that these decadant creations are made out of felt and the best part of all, they are zero calories!
And last but not least, here is a bit of my fascination with amigurumi animals. Amigurumi is a Japanese style of crocheting or knitting (ami means crochet or knit and nuigurumi means stuffed doll). They have a unique, lovable look and MadisonsCraftNook creates an adorable variety to choose from. My favorite is this sweet little lamb named Pita. I just want to cuddle her.
MadisonsCraftNook.etsy.com
And these are just some of the many examples of why we need the CPSIA law redesigned. It truly would be a crime to lose these amazing artists.
constellations and a discovery booklet is included to help you locate them. We haven't tried this yet, but we do have a good time moving the "mooo-nah" around the room for Ava to find and excitedly point out. 
