As Canadians celebrate everything red, white, and maple leaf, we cheer for Canada Day and the proud Canadian success story stitched into every Embroider Buddy product we create.

Embroider Buddy® is more than just a line of adorable plush toys. It’s a reflection of Canadian innovation, creativity, and heart. What began as a spark of imagination from our founder, Donna Kotzer Jacobs, has grown into an internationally recognized brand that continues to bring joy to children, families, and embroidery lovers worldwide.

And like so many great Canadian stories, it all started with family.

From Toy Shelves to Plush Perfection

Before Embroider Buddy, Donna was deeply rooted in Canada’s toy industry. Her family’s business, Parkdale Novelty, opened its doors in 1944, bringing fun, joy, and fuzzy teddy bears to shelves across the country. With her father at the helm, Donna grew up surrounded by entrepreneurial passion and a dedication to making people smile.

She brought fresh ideas and a creative spirit when she joined the family business. In 2005, inspiration struck while at a trade show in Hong Kong. Donna dreamed of a cuddly plush animal designed specifically for embroidery. It would be easy to personalize and high quality, with a great selection of fun animals.

By 2009, that dream became a reality, and Embroider Buddy® was born.

Proudly Canadian, Globally Loved

From our base in Toronto, Embroider Buddy has become a favourite among small businesses, hobbyists, and embroidery professionals worldwide. Our Buddies are thoughtfully designed with removable stuffing pods to make embroidery a breeze – no seam-ripping, no hassle, just pure creative fun.

And while our Buddies travel far and wide, their heart is undeniably Canadian. Every product is infused with the values that define our country: care, quality, creativity, and community.

80 Years of Giving Back

Last year marked an incredible milestone: 80 years of selling fun stuff and giving back through our family business legacy. From fundraising with custom plush toys to supporting children’s programs, giving back is part of our DNA. As Donna puts it:

“We’ve always been a family business that cares – about our customers, our community, and the smiles we help create.”

A Canada Day Toast to You

So, this Canada Day, we want to thank our amazing customers, creative partners, and embroidery enthusiasts who help us keep the spirit of joy alive in every stitch. Whether you’re spending the day watching fireworks, enjoying a picnic, or cozying up with your favourite Buddy, we’re grateful to be part of your celebrations.

From all of us at Embroider Buddy…

Happy Canada Day!