|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
It became apparent, by the number of requests, that we needed to make them available in other forms. We produced the first calendar for the 1987 year. A mere 6" x 9" folded and stitched calendar was produced. The calendar was so successful, it became an annual project for the mission. The size grew to 8 1/2" x 11" folded and the sales soared to 100,000 sales by 1990. Requests for cards and cross stitch prompted manufacturing some small Thank You and Thinking of You cards. 7 counted cross stitch designs were developed by 1989 and printed. It was in doing the detail work on the cross stitch leaflets which found Tom in bi-focals by the end of that summer. Mugs, shirts, magnets and other products continued to be produced. Our first license was signed with Messenger of Indiana for a spiral bound calendar for retail. ENESCO signed a contract to design and produce a series of figurines and other 3-D products and gifts. The figurines have a special place in the Friendly Kritters' history. Unfortunately, they were sold out of the product shortly after producing them and are no longer in production. Bob Allen, Tom's father and greatest fan, had been a full-time salesman for the Kritters for a number of years in the South-eastern United States. In the early days, his mother and father put together the thousands of cross stitch kits. There was always a kritter project in progress, not to mention DMC floss just about everywhere at the Allen household. Tom's father and mother went home to meet their Creator and they leave behind a legacy of love, kindness and generousity. Today, the Friendly Kritters™ touch lives
on every continent. We have received pictures, notes and greetings
from dozens of countries. It is our desire to continue to produce
quality products that will lift hearts and touch lives for eternity. |
|