From the Formland Prize in 2003 to Ugly Duckli today
arrow_backTo the overview11 August 2026 | Ugly Duckli
In 2003, Ugly Duckli received the Formland Prize. It was an important early recognition of a small Danish design universe that is still very much alive more than 20 years later.
Ugly Duckli was created by Rikke, with Danish woven Christmas hearts at the heart of its universe. The inspiration comes from one of Denmark's most beloved Christmas traditions, where strips of paper are woven together to create hearts for the Christmas tree.
Today, Ugly Duckli continues to bring this tradition to life. Original designs, Danish materials, DIY gift boxes and free weaving guides help pass the tradition on to new generations, both in Denmark and internationally.
The tradition has also become the Ugly Duckli Private Paper Heart Experience in Copenhagen, where guests are welcomed into Rikke's home for a couple of hours filled with Danish Christmas hearts, Hans Christian Andersen, storytelling, creativity and hygge.
Much has changed since Formland in 2003. But the heart of Ugly Duckli remains the same: a love of Danish design and traditions, and the joy of creating something that brings people together.
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Ugly Duckli
Ugly Duckli brings the Danish tradition of woven Christmas hearts to life through original Danish design, creativity and storytelling.
Ugly Duckli's story goes back more than 20 years. In 2003, Ugly Duckli received the Formland Prize, an important early recognition of our design and creative universe.
Since then, woven Christmas hearts have remained at the heart of Ugly Duckli. The woven paper heart is a small piece of Danish cultural heritage, made by generations of families around kitchen tables, in schools and during the Christmas season. At Ugly Duckli, the tradition continues through or