The past several weeks I have seen some giant stuffed animals in a couple of stores I frequent. I keep remembering that a little girl had taken one and set it on the floor and was sitting inside the legs of this giant bear and leaning back into its arms.  It was a “Kodak Moment” I should have taken advantage of.

Back in the 1830’s plush stuffed animals were first introduced, or so it is said.  People who lived in this era did not have factories that had the variety and quality of stuffing’s that are used nowadays. Stuffed animals in the 1800’s tended to be made at home and with materials such as cloth and straw.

Luckily for our children’s safety new materials became the norm including cotton and various types of synthetic fibers.  Stuffed animals could now be quickly and inexpensively produced.

It may surprise you to learn that stuffed animals actually evolved from stuffing real animals that had been killed.  Hunters are great fans of stuffing the deer, fish and other animals they have hunted and killed.  Many homes have a den where these “trophies” are displayed.

Although popular children’s toys include many different electronic gadgets kids still need many open-ended toys that come with no rules. Besides blocks and puzzles stuffed toys are a staple in any child’s toy arsenal.

Classic plush animals such as Raggedy Anne and Andy, teddy bears and many Disney characters are still quite popular and are considered collector’s items that many people search for on the Internet.  If found in good shape these stuffed animals can demand a great deal of money.  If you have some of these in your attic or basement it is a good idea to make sure they are kept in airtight and water-tight packaging.

Kids Crafts: Make Your Own Stuffed Animal From A Pattern

Visit All I Can Imagine to see our selection of plush toys and giant classic teddy bears. If you want an unusual stuffed animals you may enjoy viewing our giant orangutan and gibbon in our Jungle Stuffed Animal Category.