About
Ouistitine is a small Montreal company that makes stuffed animals, dolls, toys, accessories and more entirely by hand from reused natural fibers (pure wool, suede, recovered leather and furs, linen, cotton). It is therefore completely eco-responsible, natural, ethical and local.
Ouistitine is also a store that wants to offer simple, soft, warm and pleasant products to little ones while allowing them to exercise their imagination and creativity without hurting their senses. You will find a variety of wooden toys, books, greeting cards, illustrations... There is even a small "house" space with a selection of ceramics, foutas, handmade wool rugs, tea, bath salts and many other nice surprises. Come discover our little universe!
History and mission
Before the birth of her first daughter, Camille wanted to create a unique and natural soft toy with a simple and refined design for her. She asked her mother Sylvie, a Waldorf doll maker for many years in addition to being an accomplished seamstress, to help her make it. This is how the first marmoset was born in an old cashmere sweater belonging to his grandmother.
Ouistitine believes that all children should be able to benefit from toys and clothing made from noble and warm materials. Thanks to their simple, clean lines and their timeless quality, our creations appeal to all ages. Our animals are represented in their primitive and natural form, as much as possible. The child will thus be able to decide for himself what he will create from this toy. He will be able to explore through his imagination whatever transformation he wants to see.
We mainly used wool but also all natural fibers such as linen, cotton, leather and fur. In accordance with our ecodesign philosophy, our raw material comes from the reuse of natural fibers and/or scraps from the fashion industry, which limits the waste of very high quality reusable fibers destined for landfill. The padding is pure carded wool from New Brunswick.
Why wool?
Wool has extraordinary and very specific qualities.
Its fibers are longer than synthetic threads and retain their elasticity longer.
It breathes, retains heat but allows it to circulate without trapping it and gives this heat back to the child. Wool can also absorb moisture up to 1/3 of its weight.
Wool is a natural material and does not compromise the environment. It is less flammable and contains much less static electricity than synthetic materials.
Interview
Animals, dolls and other stuffed items
When only the surface is dirty, wipe with a towel dampened with cold water and a little soap designed specifically for wool (eg: Eucalan).
For a thorough wash, immerse in cold, soapy water and squeeze gently, without twisting or pulling to avoid felting of wool fill. If you use Eucalan soap, rinsing is not necessary; otherwise rinse in cold water until the water runs clear without twisting or pulling. Allow to dry in the open air.
Blankets and cushions
Wash the blankets by hand in cold or lukewarm water with a mild soap, ideally soap designed specifically for wool (e.g. Eucalan), which provides better protection against moths and does not require rinsing. Then, squeeze the blanket gently in a towel to remove excess water and then let it air dry flat.