{"title":"Softies","description":"\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003eFrom hand-sewn felt African animals to hand-knitted bamboo yarn softies, our creations are lovingly crafted in South Africa — whimsical, tactile, and full of character. Each one makes a thoughtful gift or a charming addition to any room.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003eOur felt elephants and rhinos are handsewn by skilled artisans using vibrant, durable felt, while our knitted softies are crafted from soft bamboo yarn for a beautifully gentle finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlease note:\u003c\/strong\u003e Our softies are handcrafted felt and knitted animals made in South Africa. Due to EU and UK toy safety regulations (EN71\/UKCA), they are sold as decorative keepsakes and collector’s gifts rather than toys. They are not suitable for children under 14.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"handsewn-felt-crocodile-softie","title":"Handsewn Felt Crocodile Softie","description":"\u003cp\u003eMeet the crocodile that's bursting with personality. This Handsewn Felt Crocodile Softie is lovingly hand‑sewn by the talented artisans of The Heartfelt Project in Makapanstad, South Africa — bold, quirky, and full of character.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFrom its cheeky beady eyes to its wide toothy grin and bright colourful spikes along its back, this croc is made to bring a smile to any room. Each piece features detailed embroidery‑thread stitching throughout, firmly stuffed for shape and structure, and comes with a signed card from the crafter — creating a personal connection to the artisan who made it.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA wonderful gift for animal lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates unique, ethically made handcrafted pieces. Available in small and large, in a range of vibrant colours.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNot suitable for children under 14.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"African Gift Collection","offers":[{"title":"Small \/ Blue","offer_id":57413134254464,"sku":null,"price":9.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Small \/ Orange","offer_id":58801337729408,"sku":null,"price":9.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Small \/ Pink","offer_id":58801337762176,"sku":null,"price":9.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Small \/ Purple","offer_id":58842621018496,"sku":null,"price":9.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Large \/ Blue","offer_id":57413134287232,"sku":null,"price":19.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Large \/ Orange","offer_id":58801337794944,"sku":null,"price":19.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Large \/ Pink","offer_id":58801337827712,"sku":null,"price":19.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Large \/ Purple","offer_id":58842621051264,"sku":null,"price":19.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/2937\/2032\/files\/Large_Croc_Pink_and_orange_437cec86-6924-4236-959b-4d6b74082cbf.jpg?v=1771356140"},{"product_id":"handsewn-felt-rhino-softie","title":"Handsewn Felt Rhino Softie","description":"\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLovingly hand‑sewn by the talented women of The Heartfelt Project in Makapanstad, South Africa, each rhino is carefully stitched from soft felt with visible embroidery‑thread details that celebrate true craftsmanship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFirmly stuffed for shape and structure, with the signature Heartfelt heart motif stitched onto the side and a ribbon tail finished with a vibrant bead. With their bold colours and tactile felt finish, these rhinos look wonderful on shelves, mantelpieces or window sills — a little burst of African colour in any room.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA wonderful gift for animal lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone who appreciates unique, ethically made handcrafted pieces. Each rhino comes with a signed card from the crafter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"African Gift Collection","offers":[{"title":"Small \/ Green","offer_id":57412662264192,"sku":null,"price":9.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Small \/ Orange","offer_id":57415832371584,"sku":null,"price":9.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Small \/ Pink","offer_id":57415832306048,"sku":null,"price":9.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Small \/ Purple","offer_id":57415832338816,"sku":null,"price":9.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Large \/ Green","offer_id":57412662296960,"sku":null,"price":19.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Large \/ Orange","offer_id":57415832469888,"sku":null,"price":19.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Large \/ Pink","offer_id":57415832404352,"sku":null,"price":19.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Large \/ Purple","offer_id":57415832437120,"sku":null,"price":19.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/2937\/2032\/files\/Rhino-soft-toy-small-orange-and-purple.jpg?v=1759837377"},{"product_id":"handsewn-felt-elephant-softie","title":"Handsewn Felt Elephant Softie","description":"\u003cp\u003eBring a touch of African artistry into your home with this Handsewn Felt Elephant Softie, lovingly crafted by the talented women of The Heartfelt Project in Makapanstad, South Africa. Each elephant is carefully hand‑stitched from soft felt, using visible embroidery‑thread stitches that celebrate true craftsmanship and the beauty of handmade work.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis charming collectible piece features small felt details highlighting the elephant's expressive eyes and feet, giving every softie its own delightful personality. The signature Heartfelt heart motif is stitched proudly onto the side — an iconic symbol of the project's mission to create hope through creativity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAt the back, a ribbon tail finished with a vibrant bead adds a playful decorative touch. Firmly stuffed for shape and structure, this elephant makes a lovely addition to shelves, desks and display spaces around the home — perfect for adding character to living areas, home offices or bedside tables.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThoughtful and meaningful, it makes a wonderful gift for animal lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, collectors of handmade décor, or anyone who appreciates unique, ethically made handcrafted pieces. Each elephant comes with a signed card from the crafter, creating a personal connection to the artisan who made your one‑of‑a‑kind keepsake.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNot suitable for children under 14.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"African Gift Collection","offers":[{"title":"Green \/ Small","offer_id":57412770857344,"sku":null,"price":9.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Green \/ Large","offer_id":57412770890112,"sku":null,"price":19.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Orange \/ Small","offer_id":58840827789696,"sku":null,"price":9.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Orange \/ Large","offer_id":58840827888000,"sku":null,"price":19.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Pink \/ Small","offer_id":58840827822464,"sku":null,"price":9.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Pink \/ Large","offer_id":58840827920768,"sku":null,"price":19.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Purple \/ Small","offer_id":58840827855232,"sku":null,"price":9.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Purple \/ Large","offer_id":58840827953536,"sku":null,"price":19.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/2937\/2032\/files\/Large-Ellie-orange-and-purple-2023-04-19-001-002.jpg?v=1759837485"},{"product_id":"hand-knitted-bunny-ellen","title":"Hand-Knitted Bunny Ellen","description":"\u003cp\u003eMeet Ellen — a beautifully hand‑knitted ballerina bunny with her own unique charm and character. Lovingly crafted by a single maker at Handmade Karoo in Prince Albert, South Africa, each Ellen is individually knitted, signed, and truly one of a kind.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDressed in a fixed pink body suit and slippers decorated with satin ribbons, and a removable wrap top and tutu, Ellen has the graceful look of a prima ballerina. Her embroidered eyes and nose give her a gentle, expressive face that makes her instantly loveable.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA thoughtful keepsake for ballet lovers, bunny enthusiasts, or anyone who appreciates the beauty of handmade craftsmanship. She makes a wonderful gift for all ages — and comes signed by her maker.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNot suitable for children under 14.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"African Gift Collection","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56650131177856,"sku":null,"price":24.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/2937\/2032\/files\/Ballet-Bunny-Ellen.jpg?v=1759837526"},{"product_id":"hand-knitted-ballerina-mouse","title":"Hand-Knitted Ballerina Mouse","description":"\u003cp\u003eMeet this charming hand‑knitted ballerina mouse, dressed in a beautifully sparkly tutu and poised to twirl with timeless elegance. Lovingly crafted by a single maker at Handmade Karoo in Prince Albert, South Africa, each mouse is individually knitted, signed, and truly one of a kind.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWith a fixed lilac bodysuit and satin ribbon‑trimmed slippers, a removable wrap top and tutu, and delicate embroidered eyes, nose, and whiskers, she has all the grace of a prima ballerina. A delightful keepsake and a thoughtful gift for anyone who loves ballet, fine craftsmanship, and a touch of sparkle.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNot suitable for children under 14.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"African Gift Collection","offers":[{"title":"Pink","offer_id":57413596021120,"sku":null,"price":24.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"White","offer_id":57413596053888,"sku":null,"price":24.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/2937\/2032\/files\/Ballerina-Mouse-Lilac.jpg?v=1759837536"},{"product_id":"hand-knitted-bunny-merinda","title":"Hand-Knitted Bunny Merinda","description":"\u003cp\u003eMeet Bunny Merinda — a beautifully hand‑knitted bunny with her own unique charm and character. Lovingly crafted from 100% hand‑dyed cotton yarn by a single artisan at Handmade Karoo in Prince Albert, South Africa, each Merinda is individually made, signed, and truly one of a kind.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHer sweet expression is brought to life with carefully embroidered eyes and nose. She comes dressed in a fixed top and adorable red shoes, with a removable dress fastened with tiny buttons — and a hidden fluffy bunny tail tucked underneath. A delightful keepsake and a thoughtful gift for anyone who appreciates fine handmade craftsmanship.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNot suitable for children under 14.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"African Gift Collection","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56650131276160,"sku":null,"price":24.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/2937\/2032\/files\/Bunny-Merinda.jpg?v=1759837546"},{"product_id":"hand-knitted-bunny-rob","title":"Hand-Knitted Bunny Rob","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis handsome, cheeky bunny is full of character and charm, guaranteed to raise a smile wherever he is placed. Expertly hand‑knitted with great care, each bunny is individually crafted and personally signed by a single maker, making every piece truly one of a kind.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBunny Rob makes a meaningful handmade keepsake, an original gift for collectors, or a charming addition to a home, studio, decorative nursery shelf, or reading nook.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"African Gift Collection","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56650131636608,"sku":null,"price":24.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/2937\/2032\/files\/Bunny-Rob.jpg?v=1759837558"},{"product_id":"hand-knitted-elephant-william","title":"Hand-Knitted Elephant William","description":"\u003cp\u003eMeet William — a charming hand‑knitted elephant with a long trunk and a warm, characterful presence that will steal hearts, young and old. Lovingly crafted from 100% hand‑dyed cotton yarn by a single artisan at Handmade Karoo in Prince Albert, South Africa, each William is individually knitted, signed, and truly one of a kind.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWith his expressive embroidered face and softly stuffed body, William has a gentle, timeless appeal that makes him a wonderful addition to any home, studio, or shelf. A thoughtful handmade keepsake and a distinctive gift for elephant lovers and admirers of the skilled hands of Karoo artisans.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNot suitable for children under 14.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"African Gift Collection","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56650132160896,"sku":null,"price":24.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/2937\/2032\/files\/Elephant-William.jpg?v=1759837568"},{"product_id":"hand-knitted-elephant-louise","title":"Hand-Knitted Elephant Louise","description":"\u003cp\u003eMeet Louise — an adorable lady elephant with a long trunk, a delightful outfit, and a character full of warmth that will steal hearts, young and old. Lovingly crafted from 100% hand‑dyed cotton yarn by a single artisan at Handmade Karoo in Prince Albert, South Africa, each Louise is individually knitted, signed, and truly one of a kind.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eShe wears a fitted knitted top with striped leggings and purple shoes, with a removable dress fastened with purple buttons so her outfit can be changed. A plaited tail and embroidered eyes complete her charming look. A very special handmade keepsake and a distinctive gift for elephant lovers and admirers of the skilled hands of Karoo artisans.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNot suitable for children under 14.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"African Gift Collection","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56650132324736,"sku":null,"price":24.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/2937\/2032\/files\/Elephant-Louise.jpg?v=1759837580"},{"product_id":"hand-knitted-rhino-adam","title":"Hand-Knitted Rhino Adam","description":"\u003cp\u003eMeet Adam — a characterful hand‑knitted rhino with softly shaped horns and a sense of adventure in his design. Lovingly hand‑knitted with great care by Karoo Handmade in South Africa, each Adam is individually crafted and personally signed by a single maker, giving every piece its own unique identity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDesigned as a decorative keepsake, Adam makes a thoughtful handmade gift, a distinctive collectable, or a charming addition to a home, studio, or shelf in a reading nook. A timeless piece that celebrates craftsmanship, individuality, and the enduring appeal of handmade design.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNot suitable for children. Decorative item only.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"African Gift Collection","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56650132455808,"sku":null,"price":24.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/2937\/2032\/files\/Rhino-Adam.jpg?v=1759837592"},{"product_id":"hand-knitted-rhino-helen","title":"Hand-Knitted Rhino Helen","description":"\u003cp\u003eMeet Helen — a characterful hand‑knitted rhino with softly shaped horns and a confident, adventurous presence. Lovingly hand‑knitted with great care by Karoo Handmade in South Africa, each Helen is individually crafted and personally signed by a single maker, ensuring every piece is truly one of a kind.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDesigned as a decorative keepsake, Helen makes a thoughtful handmade gift, a distinctive collectable, or a charming addition to a home, studio, or shelf in a reading nook. A timeless piece that highlights traditional craftsmanship, individuality, and the enduring appeal of handmade design.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNot suitable for children. Decorative item only.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"African Gift Collection","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56650132849024,"sku":null,"price":24.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/2937\/2032\/files\/Rhino-Helen.jpg?v=1759837604"},{"product_id":"safari-animal-finger-puppets","title":"Safari Animal Finger Puppets","description":"\u003cp\u003eIntroducing our delightful Safari Animal Finger Puppets — a hand‑sewn set of five charming characters your children will love. Each puppet is lovingly crafted from soft felt by the talented women of the Heartfelt Project in Makapanstad, South Africa.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMeet the gang:\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGerry the Giraffe\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eZebby the Zebra\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLeo the Lion\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHippy the Hippopotamus\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMinky the Monkey\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eSized to fit little fingers, these puppets are perfect for creative play and storytelling, encouraging children to develop language skills, learn about African wildlife, and spark their imagination. They also make a wonderful gift for teachers, making classroom learning about animals and habitats more interactive and fun.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSuitable for ages 3 and up. Adult supervision recommended.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"African Gift Collection","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56650180559232,"sku":null,"price":14.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/2937\/2032\/files\/HF-Angels-014.jpg?v=1759839198"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/2937\/2032\/collections\/Large-Elephants-orange-and-pink.jpg?v=1788362698","url":"https:\/\/africangiftcollection.com\/collections\/softies.oembed","provider":"African Gift Collection","version":"1.0","type":"link"}