Meet the Maker: Allison of Very Happy Toys
When my daughter was two, we bought her a puppet. She named that puppet Hayworth and they did everything together. He talked. A lot. Or more accurately, I talked a lot as him. Hayworth made that little girl very happy which might be why Hayworth’s maker decided on the company name of, you guessed it, Very Happy Toys. That maker’s name is Allison and today I have the pleasure of introducing you to this Saskatoon talent whose work is something you NEED on your radar this Christmas. Without further ado, let’s get very happy!
Me: Tell me about what inspired you to make puppets and plush! Did you have a favorite as a child and try to emulate it? Or was it an idea that came to you later in life? It's such a unique thing to decide to do!
Allison: I've always been a maker of one sort or another, however the love of puppets grabbed me when I worked for a small environmental arts theatre company in Scotland. We performed in many elementary schools and I saw how engaged the kids were with the puppets and their silly songs. They listened, laughed, sang and learned - it was magical. Puppets are powerful tools for storytelling, education and connection. But you know, they are mainly just hilarious and good fun. Fast forward many years and a three children later. I reeally needed a creative outlet and a way to 'be myself' whilst caring for my kids when they were small. I remember having one day and night to myself. I decided to use that time to make a puppet and haven't looked back since. I've always got an idea for another character begging to be let out of my head. It's an exciting process.
Me: Do you have any favourites that you just can't part with?
Allison: I have had many favourites over the years but have never had a hard time letting any of them go. I love that these things I dream up are played with and bring joy to families. I'm only really attached to my family, friends and two cats. :)
Me: I picture your workshop being like Santa's but I'm guessing you don't have as many little helpers. Can you tell me about your process?
Allison: I often have ideas for characters or toys at when I should be sleeping or when I'm out for a bike ride. I tend to visualize them and then head down to the workroom and look at my materials for a more solid idea of how to bring it about. It's a bit of creative soup but it seems to work for me.
Me: Where do you sell your toys right now and how would you like to see your business grow?
Allison: Right now I'm selling on Etsy and through Instagram. In terms of growth I am mainly focused on gaining new skills and pushing myself further. There is an amazing puppet building community out there which is a great source of information and inspiration.
You can find Alliston at @veryhappytoys on instagram and VeryHappyToys on Etsy. Thanks to her for sharing some behind the scenes... and for doing what she does!
xo
