American workers are devoting their efforts to making safe, beautiful items for baby. Here’s a list of baby and child items under $85.00. (www.afmphoto.com)
Pewter Frame
Made in Fall River, Mass., by Beehive Kitchenware, this pewter frame is inspired by heirloom baby quilts. Hand cast in pewter, the frame is lead free and has an opening measuring 2x3 inches for baby’s first photo. Cost: $64.00
Coastal Crib Baby blanket
Douglasville, Ga.,-based Carousel Designs is owned by former West Point classmates Jonathan Hartley and Allan Sicat, who were inspired to create handmade bedding for their own children. This pictured crib blanket has a gray lining and measures 34" x 43." Cost: $54.00
Baby Giraffe Bottle Holder
Designed by parents who wanted a way to keep their child’s items in arms reach, the baby giraffe holds it all—from bottles to sunshades. The baby giraffe has a flexible spine, and attaches to strollers, high chairs and car seats. At bedtime, it can also be used to suspend a mobile. Cost: $24.95
SweetSeat High Chair
The SweetSeat is a handmade “mini-chair” that is a cut above the traditional plastic booster seats found in restaurants and movie theatres. SweetSeats are made of laminate cotton and each seat can be wiped clean after mealtime and fit all dining chairs. Parents can choose from more than 10 different patterns to suit their child’s personality. Cost: $84
Deluxe Vanity by American Plastic Toys
American Plastic Toys has been manufacturing and assembling its playsets in the U.S since 1962. The “Deluxe Vanity” set comes with a hair dryer and comb, and is suitable for children ages 3 and up as no parts are painted. The vanity stands 35.5 inches high. Cost: $74.99
Cherub Shoes “Birthstone Booties”
Hand-knit booties are this Chicago company’s specialty. The shoes are mix of cashmere and merino wool, and come embellished with baby’s birthstone and a satin ribbon. The booties fit children from birth to 6 months, and come with a short verse related to the child’s birth month. Cost: $42
Disney Tumbler
From Marvel superheroes to Disney characters and Muppets, Tervis makes tumblers that are easy to hold for even the tiniest of fingers. The 16-ounce cups can be purchased with a travel lid and are microwave, freezer, and dishwasher safe. Tervis’ insulated design also cuts down on condensation with cold drinks—and hopefully spills. Cost: $16.00
Piggy Bank
Produced by Grove City, Penn.,-based pewter company Wendell August, this hand-painted aluminum piggy bank can be engraved on its belly and comes in a floral design for girls and a baseball design for boys. Cost: $35.00