Toymaking

Toymaking is the craft and industry of designing, producing, and selling toys. It encompasses handmade artisanal work as well as large-scale manufacturing, and covers a wide range of products for children and collectors, including dolls, action figures, vehicles, musical toys, soft toys, and learning aids.

Common materials include wood, fabric, plastic, metal, and foam. Techniques range from hand carving, turning on a lathe, sewing, and fabric shaping to molding and casting, as well as modern methods such as injection molding, vacuum forming, 3D printing, and computer numerical control milling. Safe finishing with non-toxic paints and coatings is a key concern.

Design usually follows safety guidelines and product testing. Prototyping, testing, and iteration are common steps. Toy safety standards vary by region; examples include ASTM F963 in the United States and EN71 in the European Union. Manufacturers may perform bite, choke, sharp edge tests, etc.

Historically, toymaking has roots in crafts such as carving wooden dolls and tops. In the modern era, it spans crafts studios and multinational companies; popular forms include wooden toys, plush toys, dolls, figures, puzzles, electronic and RC toys, and educational kits.

Careers include designers, engineers, pattern makers, model makers, and craftsmen. Education in toymaking may be through industrial design, mechanical engineering, textiles, or specific maker-space programs. There is growing emphasis on sustainability and ethical sourcing, recyclable materials, and safety through certifications.