"Design Happens"

When it comes to gifts, I’m a firm believer in going big or going home. This can often super-suck each holiday season when trying to one-up the previous year’s mega-present. A self-proclaimed procrastinator when it comes to shopping, last year was an exception as I was able to order my that’s-so-clever-I-must-have-it showstopper online weeks, even months before the big day. So just what did I get for both that top drawer individual and myself? Custom Muppets from the Muppet Whatnot Workshop. Whatchutawkinbowtwillis?

Yep, I said Muppet. This brilliant concept is housed on FAO Schwarz. With a few clicks, you can create your very own Jim Henson style doppelganger through an assortment of characteristic categories; they even arrive in vinyl drawstring bags, which eliminate the need for gift-wrapping.

There’s noses, eyes, glasses, hair, skin tones and mouths certain to fit any personality—or alter ego—should you decide to create a monster version of your beloved. May not be the BEST option when it comes to your in-laws. Just sayin.

Inside the book, you’ll find a paper doll-style selection of ways to change up your new creation with fashion accessories. Perhaps the monster version of Mom is in need for a doctor’s uniform and stethoscope, Mad Men style glasses and a hot pink boa—you never know.

Whatnots don’t just LOOK cool, they’re fully functioning puppets complete with a user-friendly wand, which creates fluid, human-like movement.

Perhaps my significant other will replace the real me with my Whatnot, a better version of myself that doesn’t argue; nor does it require food, water or sleep. But I will tell you one thing a Muppet Whatnot cannot do—top himself with this year’s gift. For more information on Whatnots, check out FAO Schwarz. And for a complete rundown on my dynamic duo of Henson hams, check out the article on Decor Demon.

Brian Patrick Flynn is (a) a self-taught interior designer (b) very tall (c) the owner of a small dog that looks more like a baby pig mixed with a deer. In addition to these accomplishments, he produces, writes and designs all the original content on his editorial decorating site, Decor Demon.