Wood toys in France, a long-standing story.

The history and culture of wooden toy in France have a long tradition that dates back to centuries. Wood toys have always occupied a special place in French culture because of their artisanal quality, durability and aesthetics.

In the Middle Ages, handmade wooden toys were common in France. The children had simple toys such as wooden dolls, rock horses and wooden wagons. From the 18th century, carved wooden toys were popular, including animals, soldiers, and dolls. The 19th century was a pivotal period for the wood toy industry in France. Cities like Montbéliard and Moirans-en-Montagne have become renowned wood toys manufacturing centres. French artisans have created a whole wooden toys catalogue with different shapes and colors. It was the advent of this environment that often made a whole city live.

From the 20th century, plastic toys began to dominate the market. Wood toys remained popular in France. And although some French companies have continued produce high quality wooden toys, including puzzles, educational toys and building games, most manufacturers turned to off-localization to lower production costs.

Today, most brands of historic wooden toys have kept a tiny share of their real production in France. Although the brand image remains well French, it has become increasingly difficult in this area to find true ‘Made in France’. It is not uncommon to see under the toys an original formulation: ‘imagined in France, made in China’. Economic reality has recovered part of the sector. Yet, new actors are taking a place in the market with strong values. This is our case home Fraise & Bois, it is by taking inspiration from this rich history of the toy that we make every effort to make a craft know-how persist. All our toys, all our furniture, are entirely made in our carpentry. More than a strategic choice, it is part of our core values.

Wood toys remain associated withtraditional french handicraft. They make it possible to perpetuate a traditional craftsmanship and to have the know-how lost. The educational value of wooden toys is no longer to prove, they are an integral part of the French cultural heritage as considered timeless.

In short, the history and culture of wood toy in France are imprints of tradition, craftsmanship and lasting appreciation for these classic toys. They continue to play an important role in the education and entertainment of French children, while being appreciated for their beauty and quality.