I was thinking about rewatching some of my favourite Studio Ghibli films recently as many of them are perfect for summertime. If you’re also feeling nostalgic, or even a brand new fan, here’s some of the cutest new shopping picks and crafts to enjoy.
I love seeing all the new releases at Donguri Republic, the official Japanese online store, as they often recreate things from the films so you can feel like you’re living in one. I especially love the cheerful new Osono’s Tableware set inspired by Kiki’s Delivery Service and the Ponyo collection with underwater-themed jewellery, Ponyo’s bucket and even a ham sandwich pouch! There’s something for every movie though so have a browse for your favourites. You’ll need to use a forwarding service outside Japan, or many items are available through Maison Ghibli (EU) and Japan Trend Shop (US). There’s a pop-up Donguri Republic store in Los Angeles this summer too!
There are all kinds of cute plushies available but I’m very happy to see the warawara from The Boy and the Heron included in this bean bag toy collection at Meccha Japan (JP) alongside characters from My Neighbour Totoro and Spirited Away. I love their faces.
BoxLunch (US) have a lot of Ghibli exclusives including clothing, accessories and homeware. The bags & wallet are not just cute but practical too, with lots of pockets, features and fun details.
For stationery, head to ARTBOX (UK) for lots of notebooks inspired by the movies and this set of pop up greeting cards with 5 designs to share with friends.
The same notebooks are available from JetPens (US) who also have rubber stamps packaged in matching fabric drawstring bags.
Plaza Japan (JP) stock a lot of Ghibli-themed jigsaw puzzles, model kits and craft supplies to keep you busy. I’d love to have a go at this miniature papercraft version of Gutiokipanja Bakery from Kiki’s Delivery Service. All the little details are amazing.
I like when creators add their own style and personality to character designs and Beary_Bearnita_’s take on Mei and Totoro is so sweet. The crochet tutorials are in 2 parts and suitable for beginners, plus there’s general how-to videos to get you started.
We’ve often featured AmiguruMEI‘s crochet patterns and you can download all her Ghibli character patterns by joining her Patreon for a small fee. If you prefer freebies, her Instagram is full of Ghibli crafts and simple recipes to try including soot sprite rice balls, Ponyo’s ramen, Arriety’s cream stew and apple ‘herring’ pies from Kiki’s Delivery Service.
Ghibli make some incredibly detailed perpetual calendars but they’re super expensive! Instead, head to oyasumicharms’s channel and learn how to make your own Mini Totoro Calendar with air dry clay and wooden blocks. You could also use this for inspiration and make another character.
おもちゃ箱 (origami omotyabako) has a lot of Totoro origami tutorials with many different seasonal decorations. The latest one is a summer wreath with watermelon and sunflowers.
If you want more Ghibli, we have lots of posts in the archives including crafts and recipes, and Emma’s visits to The Ghibli Museum & Ghibli Park in Japan.
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