weirdbuglady
Manchester, Connecticut ·
weirdbuglady
Handmade plush toys from across the tree of lifeManchester, Connecticut 544 Sales On Etsy since 2007
Announcement I have obtained my PhD in entomology, and I am now a science teacher! I will reopen August 2018.
Announcement
I have obtained my PhD in entomology, and I am now a science teacher! I will reopen August 2018.
Reviews
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tresahonaker on Dec 17, 2013
5 out of 5 starsThanks to the seller for great quality and fast shipping!
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Anonymous on Aug 9, 2013
5 out of 5 starsLovely fabric! Extremely quick shipping. Supporting a fellow grad student is always a plus, too!
About
"Is it the bugs that are weird, or you?"
There have been two constants in my life: my love for insects, and my desire to create.
By second grade I was selling my drawings to my friends for 25 cents each. In third grade I showed up to "career day" with my butterfly net. My science teachers all thought I would grow up to be a scientist. My art teachers all thought I would be an artist.
It wasn't until I reached college that I adopted my grandmother's sewing machine. Inspired by my zoology courses, I set out to combine my two passions.
I have achieved my dream of a PhD in entomology and evolutionary biology, and I am now a science teacher. With outreach and education on my mind, sewing is one more outlet for invertebrate education, joy, and wonder.
Shop members
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Brigette
Owner, Maker, Designer
I am an entomologist and artist. I make plush bugs, and study real ones.
Shop policies
Accepted payment methods
- Accepts Etsy Gift Cards and Etsy Credits
Returns and exchanges
I gladly accept returns and exchanges
I don't accept cancellations
The following items can't be returned or exchanged
- Custom or personalized orders
- Digital downloads
Returns and exchange details
Payment
I accept Paypal, credit cards, and Etsy gift cards through direct checkout.
Attention CONNECTICUT residents
6.35% Sales tax will be added automatically during checkout.
CUSTOM ORDER PAYMENTS
For custom orders I require the entire payment up front. This will occur after we discuss and agree upon the order.
Shipping
All orders are shipped first class with delivery confirmation and insurance. Priority shipping is also available at checkout.
INTERNATIONAL
I will ship anywhere in the world! I fill out customs forms truthfully (I will not put "gift"), and any customs fees incurred are your responsibility.
Additional policies and FAQs
Have limited availability. Please see my shop announcement (or look for the custom order button) to determine if I am currently accepting custom orders.
Pricing varies greatly depending on the size and complexity of the piece. Something small with a lot of details may take more time than something large and simple. I recommend looking at items currently in my shop to get an idea of prices - they range from $35 to $200+. I am happy to give a quote.
ALLERGENS
I own my home, where there is no smoking or use of scented cleaning products.
I do have furry pets: two rabbits, and two cats.
CPSIA (child safety testing)
While all my materials are CPSIA compliant, since each item is handmade, my plushies have not undergone testing as childrens' toys. I am a registered small-batch manufacturer. My plushies are not recommended for children 3 and under. Please use your best judgement when purchasing one of my pieces with the intention of giving it to a child. If you have any concerns over parts (such as safety eyes, or appendages) please send me a convo before purchasing.
More information
Frequently asked questions
Help! I need a plush of my favorite creature! Can you help?
Maybe! I take custom requests on a limited basis, and will announce on my shop page when they are available. Otherwise, I keep a Google Doc Suggestion Box, where you may write your request: http://tinyurl.com/PHYLAplushsuggestions I will not guarantee to make everything on the list, but I will use the list as I create more stock for the shop. If you provide your Etsy username (not required), I will contact you when your item is created, so you can have first dibs.
How do custom orders work?
If you see that I am currently accepting custom orders, please use the Etsy "Request Custom Order" button in my shop to initiate a conversation. Be prepared with the name of the organism and your preferred size, color(s), and price range. After we discuss and agree upon a quote, I will create a custom listing you can purchase. After purchase, I will create your plushie. I will send a photo of the completed plush for your approval, and then ship.
How tough are these plushies, anyway?
My plushies are made with a combination of hand and machine stitching. They are not recommended for rough play, or as dog chew toys. However, they should hold up to regular, gently play or as an office decoration.
I have not tested their performance in a washing machine. Currently, I recommend spot cleaning only.
How are they packaged?
All plushies are wrapped in colorful tissue paper, and sealed in a bubble-lined poly mailer.
Do you use any patterns?
I have a few self-designed patterns I use for my most popular plushies, but most are created entirely free-form.
Can I use your patterns to make my own plushies?
Sorry, but I will not give out any of my patterns. However, I draw my inspiration directly from nature, which is something that anyone can do!
What materials do you use?
Fleece fabric, felt fabric, polyfil stuffing, plastic safety eyes, thread, and satin tracking labels.