The collaboration brings two of the world’s most recognisable character brands together for a limited-edition creative festive launch
Craft Buddy is bringing two of the world’s most recognisable character brands together this Christmas with the launch of the limited-edition Hello Kitty and Friends x Care Bears Crystal Art Advent Calendar on 22 October.
The innovative reveal, create, and cherish design brings well-known Hello Kitty and Friends x Care Bears together in one Crystal Art collection. Behind each of the 24 push- and-reveal doors is a different Crystal Art magnetic character design waiting to be revealed and decorated with crystals.
The format brings together several major collecting trends in one product: limited edition collaborations, character fandom, crafting, and collectible display pieces. Familiar faces from both brands appear individually and together across the calendar. The crossover makes the calendar as much a proposition for adult collectors and kidults as it is a screen-free Christmas activity for younger fans
Gary Wadhwani, Co-Founder of Craft Buddy, said: “The Hello Kitty and Friends x Care Bears Advent Calendar is an exciting collaboration. Both brands have fans across generations, and we wanted to create something special that combines crafting, collecting and the magic of Christmas, with a keepsake that can be enjoyed long after December.”
The framed magnetic board (35cm x 48cm) provides a backdrop for all 24 completed Crystal Art magnets, allowing fans to arrange and rearrange the characters throughout December. Rather than disappearing once Christmas Eve arrives, the calendar has been designed to remain as a finished display. Each crystal piece becomes a multi-use magnet, ideal for fridge decor and year-round mementos.
Charlotte Payne, Vice President Brand Management, Entertainment, Authentic Brands Group, added: “Care Bears has always celebrated the power of sharing, caring, and friendship, and this collaboration with Hello Kitty and Friends brings those values together in a wonderfully creative way. It’s a fun way for fans of all ages to connect with the characters they love, make memories together, and share a little extra care throughout the holiday season.”
The launch will be backed by a teaser and early-access campaign, social media posts, collaborations and competitions, with additional support across the official Care Bears and Hello Kitty social channels. Trade and consumer email campaigns, in-parcel leaflets, and wider outreach will support the launch ahead of the Christmas season. Retailer interest in the limited-edition collaboration is already building, with early orders reflecting strong anticipation ahead of the festive shopping season.
