Knitted toys safe, washable

Artistic and talented, 21-year-old Reshma D'Silva has been exploring different forms of art which have caught her interest, be it theatre, singing or working in production. She is a part of Rafiki, which has directed some interesting plays for the past few of a choir called Glorious for about four years during college," she says.

"Soft toys are every child’s favourite toy and children seem to like them in whatever sizes and shapes they come in," says Reshma. Knitting is traditionally associated with sweaters and woollen wear. But soft toys? "Knitting was a small time hobby which I cultivated when I was just 10 years old. My mother and aunts were all into knitting, but surprisingly, I could never complete one whole sweater. I guess it was just way too big for my comfort. I used to often come across books which gave instructions on how to knit stuff toys. I kept trying out each and every thing which I thought I could possibly make. I guess the fact that it was small and much less taxing than making a big sweater appealed to me."

"Knitted soft toys come with a lot of advantages too," says Reshma.

"While there is always a fear of the fur on regular soft toys getting into the child’s eyes or mouth, here there is no need to fear, as it is made of wool," she continues, Moreover, these toys can be just put into the washing machine for a good clean up.

The toys have a polyester filling which is also washing-machine friendly. From those initial days of experimentation, she soon learnt to make adorable little boys and girls, and then went on to try making real-life animals such as bears, parrots, hedgehogs, and pigs.

"It’s a long trial and error game by the time I get confident about making a piece. I would also like to teach people and help them spend their holidays or free time usefully," she says.

She plans to start a workshop on May 8, which is open to anyone above the age of 12 and which will continue for 10 days spread out over two weeks.

The classes are held between 10 am and continue up to 11.30 am.

Registrations are open at the venue, Alliance Francise, on May 10 from l0 am to 7 pm.

The workshop costs Rs 650 and all material are provided by Reshma herself.

Those interested can contact Reshma at 2270411 or at reshma_dsilva@operamail.com.

Republished from Asian Age