You should know why you might be paying a little bit extra for Kleynimals. Kleynimals toy keys and flatware are always made in the USA from USA sourced stainless steel. While going through the process of creating the toy keys, I knew that I could probably have them manufactured in China (like the other metal keys on the market) and save some money. However, it is important to me (and hopefully to you too) to have toys and products that are American made for a number of reasons. I want to ensure that high quality, safe materials and fair labor practices are used in the manufacturing process. I also want to support the American economy.
From inception, Kleynimals has sourced small, independent, American companies to help with manufacturing. For the first four years of existence, I “piecemealed” the manufacturing out of my home. I received parts from two family owned companies. I then drove the American made parts back and forth between assembly, welding and cleaning in small batches. Kleynimals were assembled and washed by a local non-profit organization that supports people with developmental and intellectual disabilities living self-directed lives (Providence). They were welded and polished by a talented man (also a proud Veteran and a good friend) in Baltimore, often times with the assistance of his daughter. This process was truly a Labor of Love.
Starting in 2015, I was fortunate to find an American company that could do all of the manufacturing under one roof, thus saving me a lot of driving and sorting, and allowing me to meet a larger demand. Kleynimals are now made in upstate New York by Sherrill Manufacturing, another independently owned company with a strong commitment to creating American jobs. You can read a great article about their story here: NY Times – Setting a Made-in-the-USA Table
Making toys in the USA has not been easy. I encountered another hurdle in 2023 that led to more evolutions in my manufacturing. Now I am happy to say that Kleynimals toys are made in combination with the very first company that manufactured for me in Evanston, IL and Sherrill. It feels like I have come full circle.
I am proud to say that I figured out a way to make sure that my friends from Providence are still helping with the process… I now credit them with tying the tag onto our reusable packaging.
My commitment to manufacturing in America comes at a cost to my business and to me, and has limited my company’s growth. But, I will continue on this mission because I think it is important. I appreciate the customers that find my made in the USA toys and baby silverware and feel the same kind of loyalty. Thank you! ~Kirsten