Shopping for a Stuffed Creature: The Decision to Buy

Welcome back to The Stuffed Animal Review; a publication dedicated to the analysis of stuffed creature design and their larger worlds.  You can read a fuller explanation of The Review’s purpose on the “Philosophy” page.  If you really want to get caught up, you can find The Review’s ten-part guide to high-quality stuffed animal design on the “Core Principles” page.  If you prefer to dive right in…

This Saturday’s post offers some thoughts on Shopping for a Stuffed Creature.  At first blush, a simple process, but one deserving of thought and attention.

Do not feel pressure to buy when looking for a stuffed creature.  You are, after all, adding to a family of sorts; committing to a relationship and a responsibility to animate and love. 

You must spend time in the store squishing, smushing, testing fur, and exploring the possibilities of animation.  You might attract curious stares from other customers; don’t let that distract you.  When the store employees turn concerned glances in your direction; don’t short change your exploration.  And yes, even when the security guards are closing in; persevere.  You have a right to make an informed decision.

Do not hesitate to go home empty-handed.  You might need a few days to think things over and you might need to return multiple times for additional fondling and inspection, provided you are not banned from the store after your first visit.

Warning: you can wait too long.  The Review once found the perfect stuffed pig at a university’s bookstore.  The connection was immediate; there was no need to ponder or pause.  In an attempt to be conservative, however, the pig was not purchased and a return visit to the bookstore did not happen.  The Review found the pig twice more, once at a Walgreen’s in St. George, Utah, and once at a gas station in southern Illinois.  Both opportunities were squandered.  The Review has not seen this stuffed pig since.  An internet search represented a desperate, last-ditch attempt to find the furry pink creature.  And there he was, Piggy, on Ty’s list of retired stuffed animals.  Piggy was also found on Amazon.com, priced at $50.00.  Piggy, the one that got away…

 

Next Saturday The Review tackles another shopping-related topic: where to find high-quality stuffed creatures?