about

Hi there, have you self care today? 

Welcome to our tiny cosy space! ikibean is all about the concept of ikigai, the Japanese concept of finding purpose and joy in everyday - a reason for being. Each item is designed and handmade, produced in small batches at our little home studio.

For many years, I have been a handmade plush designer, before I stopped this passion to become a full time caregiver a few years ago. Still, I was constantly thinking about my customers smiling faces when they received their lovingly handmade items from me.

Fast forward to last year, I met with very difficult situations in my life. On one fateful night, in order to cheer myself up, I began to handstitch a mini bean baby. I added a tiny sprout on its head to symbolise personal growth, and stitched a smiling face to remind myself to take tiny steps towards self care. I set it up on my work desk to accompany me through my happy and sad days. 
 
ikigai
this is the first ikibean baby that started it all ◡̈

After showing the ikibean desk friend to some friends, they said - Why not spread this tiny joy to others too? May ikibean accompany you on your journey to find inner joy. 

 

What's your ikigai?

🌱 our ikigai journey through the years

  • chia xun an

    Penn the Penguin

    Handsewn mascot merch for local author

  • tea in pajamas rachel tey

    Tea in Pajamas book

    Bean babies handsewn merch for local author

  • plushie bouquet

    Customised Bouquet

    Handsewn warmth for valentine's day

  • Precious Memories

    Mum's love, Transforming child's romper to plushie

  • violin brooches

    Violin Bean Babies

    Bulk customisation for professional violinist

  • wedding plushies

    Wedding Couple

    Handsewn customised plushies for wedding day

  • cat plushie

    Therapeutic Gifts

    Emotional support plush, no two are the same

  • purple rabbit

    Gifts for Ocassions

    Graduation handsewn meaningful gifts

🌻 what we are passionate about

  • covid masks

    Reuseable Masks for Migrant workers

    Doing Good - Sewing masks for migrant workers when masks were scarce during Covid pandemic

  • singapore merlion plushie

    Conducting DIY craft workshops

    Activities - Family and friends fun bonding sessions through DIY plush creation workshops

  • Catnip Pillows for Fund Raising

    Animals - Sewing handmade catnip pillows to raise funds for animal welfare groups

  • Sewing Pouches for Australia Rescue

    Doing Good - Sewing pouches to warm marsupials, wombats and joeys during Australia fire in 2020

🌱 trivia

  • I am 70% lefthanded

    I mainly use my left hand for daily chores but I trained myself to use the computer mouse with my right.

  • I used to create music

    Singing and creating music were big parts of my life. I used to perform even though I get stage frights often.

  • cat butler to two cats

    I have two elderly cats and they are the source of inspiration to most of my cat related items.

  • tea and coffee lover

    I enjoy learning about specialty tea and coffee, from gongfu tea preparation to pourover coffee brewing.

Do you know?

Ikigai (pronounced ee-key-guy) is a Japanese concept referring to something that gives a person a sense of purpose, a reason for being. It describes the things that make your life worthwhile, the things that give you a deep sense of purpose, satisfaction, and joy.