Founded by Vienna-born textile designer and fashion illustrator Anja Kroencke, Of Unusual Kind creates illustrated paper dolls and creative play sets. What began as a crafting project with her daughter is now made in the United States, with each doll and wardrobe hand assembled in the company’s Brooklyn studio. Its collections celebrate women and girls through vivid color, individuality, and imaginative play.
Hazel VillageFounded in 2010 by Jane Van Cleef, Hazel Village creates soft woodland animals and dolls for imaginative play, along with handmade clothing for them and matching children’s accessories. Its Brooklyn workshop has a 15-person team, while social-enterprise artisan partners around the world make the toys, including hand-embroidered faces that give each one natural variation. The women-run business also designs limited-edition collections and emphasizes fair work, lower-waste production, and recycled or low-impact packaging.BROOKLYN, NY
Forage Paper CoFounded in 2015 by illustrator Christina Chun, Forage Paper Co. creates whimsical stationery and paper goods that turn hand-painted scenes of nature and everyday life into cards and thoughtful gifts. Rooted in the New York metropolitan area, the company prints and hand-assembles every product in its U.S. studio, and its work is now carried by more than 250 retailers worldwide. Chun’s illustration background includes work for The New York Times, the Los Angeles Times, Stanford University, and two published children’s books.
Annalee DollsFor more than 90 years, Annalee Dolls has been known for handcrafted seasonal collectibles with whimsical, storybook character. From its Meredith, New Hampshire home, the company creates holiday decorations and dolls for collectors who use them to add warmth and personality to seasonal displays.NEW YORK, NY
Madame Alexander Doll CompanyFounded in 1923 by pioneering designer Madame Beatrice Alexander, Madame Alexander Doll Company makes dolls for imaginative play and collecting. Its long-running legacy includes turning literary characters and notable people into dolls, popularizing sleep eyes, and introducing Cissy, described as America’s first fashion doll. Nearly a century later, the company continues that tradition with dolls intended to encourage creativity, empathy, and responsibility.NEW YORK, NY