Frequently Asked Questions
What are playsilks for?
Children have always used found items to create toys and props for imaginative play. Around the world they have used their mother’s scarves and pieces of cloth to make toys. Picking up a piece of cloth, a piece of wood, or a common housebound object allows children to use their imagination in a different way than giving them already formed objects. Putting their creative forces to work is important for creative thinking in adulthood.
A basket of colored playsilks is one of the best additions to a child’s playroom. It is amazing to see what children create with them.
Some children make costumes like capes, skirts, pants, hats, veils, animal tails and more. The next day the same silks become green grass for their toy animals to live on, blue water to sail the boats, or a rainbow can appear in the sky above them. Many children wrap their dolls in them or tie them on as a sling to carry a favorite animal or doll around in. They can be used to build forts with the sofa cushions, for a puppet show curtain, and for magic tricks.
Why do we use silk?
Silk is a natural fiber that shimmers and shines beautifully when dyed. It also feels good to touch and is the best for non-itch dress-ups. Silk is remarkably durable and can withstand years of play. It is also a renewable resource and an ancient product of China.
How can I wash my silks?
We recommend hand washing with warm water and a mild soap. Children often enjoy washing their play silks and hanging them outside to dry. It is fine to dry them in a dryer set on low for a few minutes to restore the softness and remove wrinkle. To restore the beauty and shine the silk can be ironed on a medium steam setting.
Are your toys safe?
Our dyes and paints have been tested by an independent laboratory and have been found to be free of lead and other heavy metals.
We recommend our playsilks, dress-ups, canopies and toys for children over 3.
Where can I read more about creative play and playsilks?
- Toymaking With Children by Freya Jaffke
- The Children’s Year by Cooper, Fynes-Clinton, and Rowling
- The Nature Corner by Leeuwen and Moeskops
- Mothering Magazine has had many articles on creative play over the years.
Where can I find Sarah’s Silks products?
Please ask your local independent toy store or local waldorf school store. Our products are also available on line. See our links to online retailers above.
For wholesale customers:
How do I open an account with Sarah's Silks?
The simplest way is to fax us (707) 887-1395 your sales tax license issued by your state. If you are located in a state that does not collect sales tax, another document such as the issuing letter of your EIN or copy of your business license will suffice.
Once I have an account, how do I place an order?
You can call us at (888) 814-7455, fax us (707) 887-1395, or email orders@sarahssilks.com
