Worm on a string – [Folktoy | Critter]

Description

Worm On A String – [Folktoy] – [latin name: “Wormicus Stringacus”]

• About: a Worm or Caterpillar-like novelty toy with google-eyes, fuzzy bodies, and a transparent string run straight through it, used to imitate a live worm. Sometimes used in part of magic tricks and popularly repurposed as bait in fly fishing, occasionally used as cat-toys! – [Though they should not be confused with the similarly novelty weasel ball.] – You never know when/if your girlfriend could turn into a worm, so this sticker serves as a reminder that you will still love them forever regardless if they are a worm or not. they are an invasive species in the united states*

• History: The world was first introduced to the novelty toy in the early 1970s by the illfelder importing company after which it became a popular party favour. – The concept was soon and very frequently often ripped off, renamed and used repeatedly, as the toy is cheap to make and presumably affordable to mass produce.) – As such the toys name varies, and it is also known as: Squirmles (‘the original’) Wigglees, Frizzles, Wormees, Snoots, Magic Twisty Worms, etc.) rubber versions where also created recently as part of the “fidget toys” fad

[Illfelders New York HQ image source (w more info about the company.)]

[the original squirmel packaging.]

Similar to “Furby” & other niche toys like it from the early 70′s- 80‘s they have recently gained nostalgic meme relevance online with some artists & crafters exaggerating them to gigantic sizes sometimes with occasional eldritch (horror) themes as well as claims that they’re an invasive species. –

* worm on a string

in addition to arts & crafts the toy is also often repurposed and decorated as bait in fly fishing repurposed as “Dragon tail bait”  the name dragon tail is a pun. Because they are “dragged on” across the water

[various decorated “dragon tail” baits]

Sticker art by Samkalensky part of my “nostalgic novelty toys” sticker collection. – *PLEASE NOTE: Only orange is available for the moment, buy one you get both together in a set. if they sell, I’ll consider making other colours available 🙂 – This was also a patreon requested sticker and was brought to you, by readers like you! – thank you for your support!