Maileg 101

Maileg may be one of our most popular brands at Yo. Kids love it, adults love it (sometimes more than the kids!), we have people drive from all over to see what mice we have, and, well, you get the point! It's very popular.

 

But what do you know about the brand that's become a staple for many playrooms? Who founded it? Where is it made? Are we even saying the name properly?! We decided it was time to give you the deep dive on Maileg, why we carry it, and why you'll fall in love with it - if you're not already.

Let's start with the basics. We've heard every version of the name in the shop (we've said a few ourselves!), but it's pronounced [My'Lye]. A combination of the founders' last name - Mailil- and the Danish word for 'play'- Leg. 

 

Founded in 1999 by Dorothy and Erik Mailil, Maileg is based in Denmark and is known for its charm, whimsy, and meticulous attention to detail. Every friend and creature is a perfect merging of nostalgia and modern Scandinavian design.

 

Born out of a college art class, Maileg started as a clay project that was well received by Dorothy's peers. Clay turned to felt, felt turned to fabric, and - as they say - the rest was history. Now, 25 years later, the Maileg family has grown beyond the beloved mice into all sorts of storybook creatures and friends.

 

One of our favorites is the Hiker Collection. Which was inspired by the founders' vacation in the Pacific Northwest. These little friends come with all the needed accessories for an adventure in the mountains, desert - or anywhere really! Plus they have magnets in their hands to hold onto their marshmallow stick or thermos. Very important during those cold nights spent outdoors.

 

Check out this cute blog post about the hikers summer adventure!

 

Pro tip: we love gifting a Hiker Mouse with a camping or outdoors related book. This and this are two great options!

 

When The Yo Store started in 2016, Maileg was one of the brands we opened with.  We love that the brand encourages imaginative play for a range of ages. Whether they are exploring depths unknown, royalty living in a castle, or setting up house with their little mouse family, Maileg is an excellent tool for building whatever their little minds can imagine!