Handmade toys by Kristin Loffer Theiss spark young imaginations

Who says your child's favorite characters have to be created by Disney? Local artist Kristin Loffer Theiss' playful creations could certainly give "Bambi" and "The Little Mermaid" a run for their money.

Using several mediums to create her characters – including watercolor illustrations, wool felt, cutout paper and silkscreen – Theiss makes everything by hand. The result? Illustrations, cards and stuffed toys like "Ollie the Dotted Owl," "Dewey Long Legs" and "Kiki the Kitty" ($39 each).

KRISTIN LOFFER THEISS

Her wool felt and cotton plush mobiles are a bit pricier ($180), but compare them to the boring variety found at the mall, and you'll see why. My favorite is the "Mobile with Nest" – complete with colorful birds and a nest, all held together by a turquoise wooden egg. Theiss' products are available on her Web site or at Seattle retailers Jaywalk and Lucca Great Finds.

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