Gift Guides
Petsies Alternative: A $69 Mini Plush of Your Pet's Face, Made from Photos
Quick answer: Petsies makes full-body custom plush of your pet starting at about $199, in sizes from 10 inches up, and its site says regular orders ship in about 6 weeks. If you want the likeness for much less, our handmade mini pet plush is $69.20: a needle-felted plush of your pet’s head and face, about 3.5 inches, on a key ring. You see previews before it is finished, and orders placed by November 16, 2026 arrive before Christmas with standard US shipping.
Petsies vs a Gifts Journey mini plush
Petsies figures come from its own website (mypetsies.com) as of October 2026. Prices vary by size and options, so check its site for the latest.
| Petsies custom plush | Gifts Journey mini pet plush | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | Full-body plush of your pet | Needle-felted plush of your pet’s head and face, on a key ring |
| Starting price | About $199 (larger sizes cost more) | $69.20 |
| Size | From about 10 inches | About 3.5 in (9 cm) tall and 2.4 in (6 cm) wide |
| Made from | Your photos | Your photos (front, sides and back) |
| Turnaround | About 6 weeks regular, about 4 weeks rush (per its site) | 10–15 business days, then 6–9 business days standard US shipping |
| Christmas 2026 | Check its site for holiday dates | Order by November 16, no rush fee |
| Shipping | See its site | Free standard US shipping on orders of $70+ ($7.99 under $70), express $15 |
Which one should you choose?
Choose a full-body plush if you want something to hug that looks like the whole pet. Petsies is one of the best-known makers and worth it if size matters to you.
Choose a mini face plush if you want the face you love at about a third of the price: something to carry on keys or a bag, keep on a desk or nightstand, tuck into a stocking, or give to each family member. It is also the easier pick if you are ordering late for Christmas.
How our mini plush is made
- Send photos: upload a clear face photo on the product page, then reply to your order email with photos of both sides and the back of the head.
- Preview: we email previews as it takes shape, and you can ask for changes to markings and colors.
- Handmade in 10–15 business days. Dogs, cats, horses, ducks and other animals are welcome.
- Delivery: standard tracked US delivery usually takes 6–9 business days after dispatch.
Before relaunching here, our workshop sold on Etsy as GiftsJourney, with nearly 20,000 orders and 3,900+ reviews averaging 5 stars (archived reviews). Comparing more options? See custom pet plush under $100 and our Cuddle Clones alternative comparison.
Just for fun, see your dog or cat as a 3D bobblehead with our free pet bobblehead maker.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a cheaper alternative to Petsies?
Yes. A mini plush of your pet’s face is the most affordable option. Ours is handmade from your photos for $69.20, about 3.5 inches, instead of a full-body plush from about $199.
Is it a full-body stuffed animal?
No. It recreates your pet’s head and face on a key ring. For a full-body plush, a maker like Petsies is the better fit.
Can I still get it for Christmas 2026?
Yes. Order by November 16 for standard US delivery before Christmas. Later than that, email support@giftsjourneyshop.com first and we will tell you honestly whether rush production can make it.
Are you affiliated with Petsies?
No. Petsies is a trademark of its owner. We are an independent workshop, and this page compares publicly listed information to help you choose.