My name is Stacey, and I’ve been making custom plush pets since 2005. Between the experiences I’ve had working for companies like Disney and Hallmark, along with a lifelong passion for character design and love for animals of all kinds, I’ve developed a special process for capturing your pet like no one else can.
Furkid Studio began as "Original Sock Dogs" when I created two "sock dogs" for a Humane Society fundraiser back in 2006. After seeing the joyful reaction to them at the event, I decided to keep sewing, keep creating more characters and donating to my local rescues. I have expanded from using socks as a primary material and am now also using high quality faux fur, wool felt and other fabrics to create stunningly realistic (but super cute) replicas.
One day, about a year in, a customer asked if I could make her tripaw pup for her. Of course, I was thrilled to help her out and I added custom replicas to my shop. Eventually, I had so many requests for custom pieces that I focused most of my attention on plush lookalikes!
I get “pet people”. I’m one myself--with an assortment of rescue dogs and cats and a revolving door of foster animals. (And two human kids, too.)
The love you have for your pet and the grief that comes from losing them is profound. You treasure each moment and memory you have with them. Share those memories and photos with me, and you will receive a keepsake unlike (and better than) any other available. I'll make sure of it!
The inspiration behind Furkid Studio and Original Sock Dogs
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In 2004, I traveled to Taiwan. On one afternoon, I took the train out to Hualien. I noticed a small black lab-type dog with a limp being chased away from food scraps by the other strays who roamed the sidewalks. She hopped up to me and was glued to my side for the entire hour I was there. My heart was seriously breaking for this sweet girl. I desperately wanted to take her back to the US with me, but it wasn't possible at the time. I bought a small meal from a street vendor for her, and stayed with her until she finished it, protecting her and her food from the other dogs. I thought about her the whole way back on the train and for days afterward. I still do.
When I got back to the States, I wanted to do something in her honor. I became a volunteer at the Humane Society of Greater Kansas City. For the shelter's annual art auction, I made and donated two sock dogs.
After they were purchased for over $100 apiece and I almost passed out from the shock, I decided to keep going and make some more. They've evolved a lot since then but I still make each Original Sock Dog and custom plush myself and $10 of every custom sale is donated directly to rescue. Currently, I am sponsoring Meowy Matchmakers, a small rescue helping Kansas City's abandoned and neglected kitties.
I believe strongly in artful creations that tell a story and are made with care, ingenuity and love.
