Apr 22, 2009

Madison Etsy explorations: Aunty K’s Crocheted GuyzBy Megan LarsonIsthmus.com

Recently I was shopping for a children’s gift and found it hard not to be overwhelmed by the vast number of branded toys reaching out to grab my attention. I am not a Barney fan and frankly, I’ve never seen Dora the Explorer. I understand the attachment children feel towards their favorite characters, I’m still fond of My Little Pony and Rainbow Brite, but there is a nice calm that exudes from toys that are just that, toys. No marketing scheme, just pure fun.

Aunty K’s Crocheted Guyz is an Etsy shop filled with adorable handmade dolls with no other agenda than to be cute playthings for kids aged 3 and up. Each doll is unique, unlike anything you’ll find at a big box toy store.

Shop owner Kathleen Ward brings cheer and amusement to her creations with bright and lively colors. Each character has a story, akin to the Cabbage Patch Kids of my own youth. This particular guyz, for instance, is a young thing ready for a night on the town. But don’t take my word for it, many more stories and personalities abound at Aunty K’s for you to peruse on your own.

Ward answered a few questions over email about her work and art.

Read complete article.