Our Story
Our story begins with Jan Ruddle, a talented seamstress whose love for sewing first blossomed when she made clothing for her children. This early passion led her to a career in the sewing industry, where she honed her skills and developed an eye for quality and detail. Eventually, Jan’s creativity inspired her to start making her own items—her first big hit was a canvas tote bag, a must-have accessory at the time.
In the early 2000s, Jan decided to shift away from larger projects and try something new. With her daughters’ cats as her muses, she began experimenting with handcrafted cat toys, using fabric from her husband Norm’s old pants and shirts. What started as a playful experiment quickly turned into a beloved collection, as her thoughtful designs and careful craftsmanship won the hearts of both cats and their owners. Her customers cherished her unique creations, and Jan’s reputation for quality grew throughout the community.
The Next Generation
When Jan passed away, her son Todd chose to continue her legacy, ensuring that people could still enjoy the cat toys that brought so much joy to their pets. Now known as TailTales and handcrafted in Hershey, the business remains a family endeavor, dedicated to upholding Jan’s high standards and creative spirit. Todd and the next generation are proud to carry on her tradition, making toys that honor her memory and delight cats everywhere.