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'Ilrid Viking' characters honor Scandinavian heritage

The little mythological creatures have names and personalities like Lars Gunnar and Inga Britta (named after Richards' grandparents) and their troublemaking friend Ragnar Rolf.

MINNEAPOLIS - Inspired by her Swedish grandparents - and their hand-me-downs - Ilrid Richards has found a creative way to honor her Scandinavian heritage.

Ilrid Richards spent many summers growing up in Sweden with her family, where she gained an affinity for Scandinavia and everything "Viking."

Inspired by that upbringing, Richards began making Christmas ornaments using sheepskin, repurposed mink, wool, Scandinavian ribbon and buttons. The little "tomte Vikings," mythological creatures, have names and personalities like Lars Gunnar and Inga Britta (named after Richards' grandparents) and their troublemaking friend Ragnar Rolf. Now the clan has grown to include some crazy cousins.

The Ilrid Vikings are available at Ingebretsen's, American Swedish Institute, The Scandinavian Gift Shop in Alexandri, and D.Nolo in downtown Minneapolis. More information is available on the Ilrid Vikings Facebook page.

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