SPUNGE WORTHY

Organic-modern tots everywhere are snuggling up to Spunge designer Preeti Ayyangar’s eco-friendly blankets

Produced, written and styled by Brian Patrick Flynn with photography by Sarah Dorio

Jack and Jill went up the hill to (A) steal expensive sports cars, then sell them on the black market (B) fetch a pail of water (C) enjoy an organic picnic lunch beneath the old apple tree. Those who chose A are modern-minded but too pessimistic. Folks in favor of B [as in BORING] shouldn’t choose such a safe, unimaginative answer. If you opted for C, then Spunge is right up your alley.

Graphic designer slash design school instructor Preeti Ayyangar made the leap from logos, emblems and typefont to textiles by way of her new project, Spunge. With an overall mission encouraging mini-me’s to make eco-responsible choices, Spunge offers graphically embroidered blankets designed with certified organic cotton and earth-friendly dyes. Colorful appliques in shapes of trees, clouds and flowers keep little ones interactively engaged and snuggled up with imagery of nature. SNUGGLED UP + NAP TIME = HAPPY PARENTS. From Preeti’s original designs to her seven-year-old son’s product testing, Spungeworthy buyers will be happy to know that Spunge products are kid-tested and mother approved.

Preeti Woman

We spent an afternoon with the modern mom to get the scoop on her cozy creations. Preeti, born in India, does a balancing act between teaching graphic design at Portfolio Center and designing Spunge products from her home studio. The Ayyangar’s modern bungalow is a testament to Spunge’s own style: simple, mid-century and organically sweet.

Collective efforts

Between the boldly colored embroidery and the three-dimensional leaf flaps, each blanket aims to please both parents and kids alike. Boys and girls are kept happily engaged while mommies and daddies get some time to themselves.

Biggie smalls

Though only 18″ X 24″, Preeti’s stroller and lap blankets are big fun for babies and toddlers at a price point of only $27.

All in the family

Preeti’s smartypants son, Nikhel, gives her creations a trial run before they make their way out to vendors. Large size blankets such as the yellow flower and electric green tree above are 36″ X 40″ and run $80.

Afternoon showers

Spunge is becoming a colorful hit with the gift market for both boys and girls. Green, blue and yellow blankets are gender-neutral: girls are more of a fit for versions in salmon and magenta. Wish lists are proving Spunge to be a must-have for baby showers and first birthdays. For walkers and talkers, Spunge is an eco-conscious alternative to the humdrum security blanket.

Coming around again

Change up the look! On the flipside of every Spunge blanket is a bold solid color. Sticky fingers and messy little feet? No problem. Spunge products are machine washable and come clean after a simple run through the rinse cycle. Getting the blankets out of your little one’s hands? That’s a different story.

Become Spungeworthy online with a simple visit to Spunge Design. Atlantans can swaddle themselves with Spunge in person at Beehive Co-op.