CONTACT: Elaine Kollias

800-654-8922

Elaine@folkmanis.com

Folkmanis’ Gift for Puppet Design

Shines Through in 2008

Puppets are fun, educational, and timeless

(EMERYVILLE, CA – February 1, 2008) A gift of a puppet encourages imaginative, open-ended play, endearing hugs, and snuggly companionship. Multi-award-winning puppet maker FOLKMANIS – the most innovative, creative puppet maker in the world – introduces another stellar lineup of puppet gifts for spring 2008. From the award-winning GIFT BOX PUPPY and KITTY to the domesticated CHIHUAHUA to the ANGORA RABBIT, the creations are very diverse. The line debuts in spring and can be seen at all major shows, including the American International Toy Fair February 17-20, 2008 in Manhattan at the Folkmanis booth #1833 at Jacob K. Javits Convention Center.

GIFT BOX PUPPY and GIFT BOX KITTY – Every child’s wish for a pet is easily answered as Folkmanis has cleverly combined the excitement and anticipation of a gift with an adorable pet – puppet that is. Gift Box Puppy and Gift Box Kitty are the newest additions to Folkmanis’ award-winning peek-a-boo puppets. Each comes attached to its own 5-by-5-inch box – elegant gold tones for the kitty, festive blue design for the puppy. Already an iParenting award-winner, these are the purrfect size for little hands to relive the excitement of opening a present and finding a cuddly little furry friend inside. (s.r.p. $22)

CHIHUAUA – How much is that doggie in the window? Priceless when it’s a puppet from award-winning Folkmanis. This replica of a well-recognized “toy” dog is a winning breed with its smooth fabric coat, stout legs, apple-shaped face, and upright ears. Standing slightly larger than life at 14-inches tall, this puppet is not just another celebrity accessory, but a little bundle of cute energy when propelled by your hand! Chihuahua comes with a removable pink collar. (s.r.p. $20)

ANGORA RABBIT – This fabulous Folkmanis rabbit is irresistibly snuggle-able. True to its breed, the Folkmanis creation has long, silky, white plush. Realistic details on the 14-inch Angora Rabbit Puppet will make you think it’s about to spring into your lap, but fear not—this puppet is pure sweet fluff! (s.r.p. $25)

STAGE PUPPETS – As a new line extension introduced by Folkmanis in 2007, these puppets quickly became multi-award-winners. For 2008, Folkmanis adds to the collection with the SHEEPDOG, RABBIT, FOX, RACCOON, MONKEY, TOUCAN, BEAR and BIG BAD WOLF. As with all Folkmanis creations, these new Stage Puppets have amazing, ultra-soft, heirloom-quality fabrics that help bring each particular animal to life. (s.r.p. $14-$20)

Folkmanis believes imagination is the key to a healthy childhood, encouraging play and discovery to develop the skills necessary in life. The company has been making the most innovative and engaging specialty puppets in the world since 1976, delighting imaginations and winning nearly every industry, child development, and kid-tested award – many repeatedly. Most Folkmanis® Puppets are recommended for ages 3 and up and are available at specialty stores, including: science/nature museums, zoo and aquarium gift shops, thousands of independent toy and gift stores nationwide, and in over 15 countries around the world. You can also find Folkmanis® Puppets online at Amazon.com. For more information contact Teresa Klein at 415-377-8557, email media@folkmanis.com or go to www.folkmanis.com.

####