Background
The Gravescabs are a plush toy line (and podcast) from the mind of M. Amanuensis Sharkchild. The line consists of a base Skell character and several reversible plush covers – each one specific to a podcast episode.
“The Gravescabs' story takes place in a land called The Peel. Here these whimsical entities heal wounded spirit creatures called Skells. By wearing the Gravescabs, the Skells can return to the worlds of spirits where they belong.”
We got ahold of the three items that currently make up the series – the Skell, the Stoneway Cover (Episode 1), and the Nervesale Cover (Episode 2).
The Facts
Gravescabs
Manufacturer: Happy Worker Inc.
Artist: M. Amanuensis Sharkchild
Material: Plush
Dimensions: 5” tall
Designs: Skell (base plush)
Outfit: Stoneway (Episode 1) and Nervesale (Episode 2)
Pricing: Skell - $9.99; Covers - $7.99 each
Packaging
The Skell plush comes with a swing tag attached to it. There's an illustration of the character on the front and a little biographical info on the inside.
The reversible plush covers (sold separately) are packaged in a rectangular box. There's the Gravescabs logo on the front, as well as an illustrated version of the cover you purchased. Also, the back of the box features a fun, little bio card and instructions on how to “heal the Skell”.
Our Opinion
My initial reaction to seeing the Skell plush was “This looks like Gloop and Gleep!” For those of you who don't remember them, go search for Hanna-Barbera's The Herculoids cartoon. The 5-inch tall plush has plenty of embroidered features: eyes, a mouth with four nails through it, and a little square design on the front.
The plush covers are easy to slide over the Skell. They look pretty natural...like you have a brand new plush. And like the Skell, the covers also have embroidered aspects: eyes, nose, mouth, and little emblem on the front. Remember, these are reversible and become “Dirtscabs” when reversed.
As far as quality, I didn't find any complaints as far as stitching or stuffing. Both the plush and the covers use extremely soft materials. The embroidered features are also well presented.
I really like the concept behind the Gravescabs. There's so much going on here: reversible plush covers, background stories, accompanying podcasts. (Although the podcasts sort of scared me) The covers make this line really unique. They're the most interesting part of the Gravescabs, offering up the ability to easily swap out characters. Basically, for under $35, you could pick up five different plush characters (Skell and two reversible Gravescabs).
You can pick one up at the following:
Gravescabs: Skell - $9.99 Covers - $7.99 each
