In this international twist on the Handmade Kids Series, Mandi Gunsberger of Babyology.com.au shares her favorite picks from Australian sellers.

We call them ankle biters, you call them rugrats; either way, the little darlings that run around your feet, take up your time and demand all your love and attention require a lot of stuff! When motherhood called my name, I wanted to do it with a bit of style. The look-a-like furniture that was available at most of the big name stores didn’t thrill me, and I wanted toys that were not only fun, but lasted (and that weren’t going to be recalled due to high levels of lead in the paint). Watching my daughters navigate the slippery-dip (slide), and chatting with other mums, revealed that we all had the same concerns.

I knew Australia was chock-full of quality designers and creative types. I knew unique toys and kids furniture and clothing had to exist. But where?



I started babyology.com.au to answer that question.  I try to bring together fun, good quality, stylish kids’ products that you’ve been dying to find. Here are some of my favourite Aussie products…well, at least for now!



Frock Up!
Made by blackeyedsusie, these little girls’ dresses are vintage-chic with a modern twist. The A-line design is comfy and easy for playing. Pair it with tights and a long-sleeve jumper (sweater) for winter or sandals for summer—either way, your little girl will be the belle of the sandpit. Red Polka Dot Dress, USD$42.



Brekkie Table
If you’re like me and you’ve got the kids’ table and chairs in the same room as the kitchen, living room, dining room (yes, open plan living has its flaws), you want it to look nice. I wasn’t willing to settle for plastic, primary-coloured furniture that would clash with the rest of the house. So when I came across Small One Table and Chairs by Left Hand Make, I was blown away. The curves are so appealing (no sharp edges for kids to bump into), and made from ethically produced Scandinavian Birch plywood, with the pegs made from Aussie timber. It’s the perfect place to munch on a piece of vegemite toast. Table and Chairs, AUD$450, from Mellimoomoo. Contact them for a shipping quote as they now ship internationally.



An Under Down Under Designer
I couldn’t leave LucysPlace off this list (even though not strictly true-blue Aussie!), as this New Zealander makes exquisite clothing. Not all little girls love frills and flowers, and at Lucy’s Place you’ll find perfectly durable, gorgeous French-inspired clothing for your little moppet. All designs inspired, modeled and tested by Lucy, the designer’s daughter. Madras Summer/Fall Shirt, USD$38.



Peace of Mind Linen
This Bholu bed linen is irresistible. The animal designs are so unique and the story behind it even better. After a two-year residency in India, Australian designer Jodie Fried was so impressed by the intricacy of the local women's embroidery, that a company was born. Designed in Australia, but made by Gujarati women in India, these products give them an income and independence. In addition, some of the proceeds go to the women and their communities. Bholu is a climate neutral company that operates to the ten standards of Fair Trade. You (and your children) can sleep in peace, knowing you’ve made a socially and environmentally responsible purchase.  Log onto www.bholu.com to find a store near you (available worldwide).



Knickers for that Nappy
It doesn’t get much more adorable than a little nappy-covered bottom crawling around the house. That is, until you cover it in one of NaomiTerblanche’s bloomers or knickers. These are the perfect way to dress your darling on a hot summer day.  Heart Bloomers, USD$15.



A Doll for All Ages
There’s something so endearing about a handmade toy, and these Raggidy-Rag Dolls are sure to pull at your heart-strings. Made in Australia by sourced vintage fabric cut-offs, each doll is unique. Every little girl (and boy!) needs a doll and these will last through many hugs for generations to come.  By raggidyragdolls, USD$84.95.




If the Shoe Fits…
Little shoes on a baby just seem to complete the outfit (not to mention help keep socks on). And the shoes made by JoliBebe are to-die-for delightful. The Mary-Janes are too cute for words, while the White Wool Felt Booties are super cozy and comfy. Little Sparrow Shoes, USD$20.



Clip those Curls
No, not with scissors! These hair clips made by MiniLaLa are the perfect solution for unruly curls. If your little miss always seems to have hair in her eyes, but is too busy to keep still for pigtails, these Clippy-Grippys could be the solution. Made in gorgeous patterns or solid colours, and at a price you can’t beat.  Choose any 6 for USD$6.



A Perfect First Friend
The dolls made by littlejennywren are an ideal first toy and make a thoughtful baby shower gift. All handmade, it is obvious that hours of love went into each toy. Designed with no buttons or loose ribbons, the Waldorf style cushion doll is safe for babies under three years old.  Custom Waldorf style Doll, USD$115.



A Twist on Aussie Animals
When’s the last time you saw a yellow platypus or a paisley wombat? At neverenoughhours, that’s the norm. There’s something about beautiful fabrics that makes great toys, and the native Aussie animals (echidna, platypus and wombats) made by neverenoughhours are my faves. The bright patterns look great on a shelf, or cuddled up tight in little arms.  Brown and Orange Wombat, USD$35.


When it comes to my kids, I know I can go overboard! But for me, unique, safe, quality products make the world of difference. I love finding great products, especially when they’re handmade and full of love. And I hope you like them, too.

Further Resources:
Babyology.com.au
Evielala.com.au
Minifashionista.com.au
Monkeytailandwellington.com.au
Mellimoomoo.com.au
Monkeycaboose.com.au
Jivebaby.com.au

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