It’s a good day on the internet, because something wholesome has gone viral: these outrageously cute, “Shark Tank”-approved Woobles crochet kits — and they’d make an adorable stocking stuffer.
The kits, which enable you to make your own crochet plushie, have amassed a true cult following, with 1.5 million TikTokers singing their praises.
The crocket critters are particularly excellent gifts for stressed loved ones. Studies show that crocheting helps to reduce stress and anxiety, increase self-esteem and calmness, and boost dopamine and serotonin, according to the American Counseling Association.
A 2021 public health study also showed that crocheting is a powerful tool for other facets of mental health and wellbeing: The practice can help with processing grief, managing chronic pain and even reducing insomnia. The craft’s portability is an added benefit, researchers added.
Crocheting’s litany of advantages make it something of a no-brainer gift for creative folks and people in need of a stress-relieving hobby.
Woobles makes it easy and extra-fun to learn the craft, which was exactly founder Justine Tiu’s intention. “When I made my very first crochet plushie … I spent a lot of time piecing together a hodge podge of tutorials,” she wrote on the site. “All I could think was — what’s a girl gotta do to crochet a cute penguin[?!]”
Now, Woobles fills that gap, with your pick of adorable animals (from foxes and bunnies to dinosaurs and dragons), pop culture characters (including from Harry Potterand Hello Kitty) and sweet food pieces (like a coffee mug and a birthday cake!). They also frequently release limited edition and collaboration kits for extra-unique, fresh options — like their current holiday offerings!
They have offerings for beginners and seasoned crocheters alike, with skill levels assigned to every kit. Each one also includes actually-helpful, step-by-step video instructions.
You can grab single kits should a particular critter catch your eye, or a thoughtfully compiled multi-project bundle that’ll provide more characters for cheaper. All beginner kits come with a crochet needle (and a pre-started piece) so you’ll be ready to start right away.
Read on for some of our favorite Woobles picks to gift this holiday.
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