For many mothers, the journey of motherhood begins long before the arrival of their little one. For one mother, it blossomed into a passion project called Hands2Hugs PH, a business creating hand-crocheted stuffed animals.
Hands2Hugs is more than just a business; it’s a labor of love. Its founder began crocheting at 18, but it wasn’t until her first pregnancy that the craft truly became a part of her life.
She recalls, “It was a delicate pregnancy, so I had to stay in bed for the first trimester. It was the perfect opportunity to rekindle my love for the hook again, but this time I had a person to crochet for.” The birth of her child then not only marked the start of motherhood but also ignited the creation of something beautiful—crocheted baby blankets, clothes, and stuffed animals.
During the pandemic, with friends starting small businesses online, she felt inspired to turn this personal passion into a venture that could spread joy to others.
And thus, Hands2Hugs was born, built on the foundation of love, family, and creativity.
Handmade, Heartfelt, and Safe
What makes Hands2Hugs unique is the handcrafted touch that goes into every toy. Unlike commercially produced stuffed animals, which are often machine-made, each Hands2Hugs piece is crocheted by skilled local artisans.
They’re safe, too—details are embroidered instead of using buttons or safety eyes to prevent any loose pieces from becoming a hazard.
But beyond just safety, these animals come with a story. “With our premium hugs, I really wanted the customers to have a complete unboxing experience,” the founder shares. When customers receive their crocheted companion, they open a beautifully packaged box to find an adorable animal with a special booklet introducing itself—a small touch that makes each toy feel like more than just a product, but a new friend.
The Creative Process: Where Inspiration Meets Craftsmanship
The founder’s creative process is both spontaneous and thoughtful. Sometimes, she follows the rhythm of the seasons to decide which animals to craft. Other times, ideas that have been lingering in her mind take shape, guided by inspiration from children’s books and kids’ fashion.
She explains her approach to design: “I don’t go too crazy when it comes to yarn selection. I use the same type of yarn for most of the stuffed toys we make. I tend to stick to natural colors and add a splash of color through their outfits.” Each toy starts with a rough sketch, carefully planned for proportions and size. From there, she begins crocheting, paying close attention to every stitch, and documents her patterns for her production team to follow.
The magic lies in the details—from the choice of materials to the adorable outfits that bring each animal to life. Every stuffed animal is a blend of skill, care, and a touch of whimsy.
Building a Connection with Customers: Stories That Warm the Heart
Through social media, Hands2Hugs stays connected with its customers, sharing behind-the-scenes moments and updates. The founder cherishes these interactions, especially when a toy finds a special place in a child’s life.
One memorable story involves a little girl who admired a crocheted koala at a bazaar. After purchasing it, her mother requested a small dress to be made for the koala. Later, the founder received a photo of the girl at school with her koala.
Such moments remind the founder of the lasting bond her creations form with their owners, reinforcing the true purpose behind her brand—to craft more than just toys, but cherished companions that create lasting connections.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Hands2Hugs
In the next five years, the founder dreams of expanding Hands2Hugs PH across the country, with its products available in stores throughout Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
The collection will continue to grow, with new animals like tarsiers, frogs, mice, and sloths in the works, offering even more delightful companions for children and collectors alike.
Advice for Aspiring Artisans
For those looking to start their own handcrafted business, the founder has simple but powerful advice: “Take small steps, but take them often. Believe in yourself.” It’s a reminder that success doesn’t happen overnight, but with passion and persistence, anything is possible.
Hands2Hugs PH is not just a business—it’s a testament to the power of love, creativity, and the joy that comes from creating something by hand. From a mother’s heart to the hands of skilled artisans, every toy tells a story that begins long before the yarn is ever picked up.
Photography Kyrra Kho