An Australian brand with a big heart and passion to make a difference.

Flat Friends® are friendly, lovable animal and children characters who come to life in a positive, fun and engaging way.

Each Flat Friends Character has;

A story that is told in the voice of a child or animal. An educational toy, to aid development, engagement and empower children with love, respect and a can-do attitude.

Our stories are fun, positive, well researched and written for children based on life today. The stories educate while they entertain. We believe that children learn best through play.

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People Hand Puppets

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Animal Hand Puppets

These animal hand puppets are more than just adorable playtime companions—they’re powerful tools for connection, learning, and emotional expression. Our hand puppets support children in developing communication skills, creativity, and confidence through imaginative storytelling and role play. Whether used in therapy, education, or at home, these puppets help create safe, engaging spaces for children to explore their feelings, build relationships, and make sense of the world around them—one playful conversation at a time.

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Flat Friends History

In 1996, born of a childhood memory of making an elephant soft toy, Flat Friends® sought to create industry leading natural-material soft toys. Determined to use high-quality Australian lambskin, a premium fleece was sourced and with an environmentally friendly tanning process. These unique, natural toys became popular gifts and were sold at markets, boutique shops, and later, major retailers like Australian Geographic and Qantas In-Flight Catalogue. 

By 2000, the brand expanded with cartoon character designs on gift cards and cotton drawstring bags, solidifying the identity of Flat Friends®—where animals are friends, stories are endless, and earth-toned colours reflect Australia.

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