Beanie Boo cats are a beloved line of plush toys that have captured the hearts of collectors and cat lovers alike. These cute and cuddly cats are made by the same company that created the famous Beanie Babies line, and they come in various sizes, designs, and colors. In this article, we will explore the world of Beanie boo cats, from their history and origins to the types available, and provide tips for collecting and crafting with them.
What are Beanie Boo Cats?
Beanie Boo cats are plush toys designed to look like cats, with soft fur, large round eyes, and a small beanbag inside that gives them a unique texture and feel. They are made by the Ty company, known for creating the Beanie Babies line of toys in the 1990s. Beanie cats are available in various sizes, from miniature keychain-sized versions to giant plushies up to 16 inches tall. They are made from various materials, including polyester fibers and plastic pellets, and come in various colors and designs.
The history of Beanie cats dates back to 2009 when the first Beanie Boo was released. Initially, they were only available in limited quantities and sold exclusively at Claire’s stores. However, their popularity quickly grew, and they are now available in stores worldwide.
It has become trendy among collectors and fans. Their cute and cuddly design makes them irresistible to cat lovers of all ages, and their unique texture and feel set them apart from other plush toys. In addition to being fun to play with and collect, they also make great gifts for birthdays, holidays, and other special occasions.
Types of Beanie Boo Cats
Several different types of Beanie cats are available, each with unique characteristics. Some of the most common types include:
Regular Beanie Boos: These are standard-sized Beanie cats, measuring approximately 6 inches tall. They come in various colors and designs, from classic tabby cats to more whimsical designs featuring unicorns and mermaids.
Miniature Beanie Boos: These are smaller versions of the regular Beanie Boo cats, measuring around 2 inches tall. They are often sold in sets or blind bags, making them a fun surprise for collectors.
Keychain Beanie Boos: These Beanie cats have a small keychain attached, making them easy to clip onto backpacks, purses, and keychains. They are often sold in sets or blind bags and are a popular choice for collectors who want to display their collections on the go.
Exclusive Beanie Boos: These Beanie cats are only available through certain retailers or as part of special promotions. They are often highly sought after by collectors and can be challenging to find.
Collecting Beanie Boo Cats
Collecting it can be a fun and rewarding hobby. Here are some tips for getting started and building your collection:
Start with the basics: Begin by collecting regular-sized Beanie cats in your favorite colors and designs. It will help you build a solid foundation for your collection.
Look for rare or discontinued Beanie Boos – Some Beanie Boos are more difficult to find than others because they were produced in limited quantities or discontinued. Watch for these rare finds to add extra value and interest to your collection.
Store and display your collection correctly – To keep your Beanie cats in good condition, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Display them on shelves or in a case where they won’t be exposed to dust or other potential damage.
Identify authentic Beanie Boos: Unfortunately, counterfeit Beanie Boos exist, so it’s essential to know how to identify the real thing. Look for the Ty logo on the toy’s tag and the name and birthday of the specific Beanie Boo. Additionally, check for any errors or misspellings on the tag, as these can signify a counterfeit product.
Connect with other collectors – Joining online groups or forums dedicated to Beanie Boo collecting can be a great way to connect with other fans, share tips and advice, and even trade or sell items from your collection.
Beanie Boo Cat Crafts
In addition to collecting Beanie cats, there are plenty of ways to incorporate them into fun and creative crafts. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Make a Beanie Boo cat plushie: Using some fabric, stuffing, and basic sewing skills, you can create your very own plushie. Plenty of tutorials and patterns are available online to guide you through the process.
Create Beanie cat-themed jewelry or accessories: You can create fun and whimsical accessories featuring your favorite with some basic jewelry-making supplies. Think necklaces, bracelets, and even hair clips.
Incorporate Beanie cats into other crafts or DIY projects – From scrapbooking to home decor, there are countless ways to use Beanie cats in crafting projects. Use them as accents on greeting cards or create a cute display for your bedroom or office.
Conclusion
Beanie Boo cats are more than just a fun and cute plush toy – they have become a beloved collectible and a source of inspiration for crafting and DIY projects. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering the world of Beanie Boo cats, there are endless possibilities for enjoyment and creativity.