Expert: David Michael - 7/14/2009

Question
Hi there, I have some artwork and ideas that I'd like to use to create a line of limited run figures. What would be the best way to get something like this off the ground? Would I be advised to pitch the idea to a toy company? Do I need any things, skills or training aside from drawings to do something like this?

Answer
Hello back!  Not exactly my field but if I were you this is how I would approach it.  Depending on the nature of the item/s exactly, I would consider a patent.  This would help better protect my idea.  Then the sale or transfer to a company would be the patent rights and not necessarily an produced/shelf ready item.  Searching Google for patent companies produces plenty.  If it is 'patentable' I would then be in contact with a manufacturer if I had the $ to produce it myself.  If not I would present the idea to a company that does.  In such yes, some skills ie....speaking, presenting, selling...ect...would be very helpful.  If I could not I would hire someone who could.  Also, all of the major toy companies have web sites and almost all have contact information sites on them that address this exact issue.  Some even go so far as the have a link to the design/devel. dept. at the company.  This would at least give me a start and an idea if the idea/patent was worth pursuing further.  The main thing to remember is that most ideas can be 'tweaked' just enough to avoid paying you for your effort.  Protect yourself and your design.  Very few others will.  Legal advice is always a good idea.  Hope this helps.  Respectfully....Dave