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About ShiniGami
Expertise
I can answer any question about Action Figure and Toy Design, Prototyping, Manufacturing and Production Management. Over 20 years in the Toy business with clients including Bandai US/Japan/Europe, Hasbro, Kenner, Mattel, McFarlane Toys, Playmates, etc., and also specialty companies including Toy Tokyo, The Showroom NYC, Kid Robot, Wheaty Wheat and many others.

NOTE: I travel A LOT, so during overseas travel (Japan, Hong Kong, China), I do not check for questions. Thanks.

Experience

Past/Present Clients:
Designers including : Gary Baseman, Ron English, Frank Kozik, Pete Fowler, Futura, Stash, David Horvath. Companies including : Bandai Japan, Bandai US, Dark Horse, Hasbro, Kenner, Lucas Films, Maharishi, Marvel, Mattel, McFarlane Toys, MTV, NIKE, Playmates, Reebok, Sony, etc.

You are here: Experts > Kids > Kid's Toys and Games > Action Figures > design and production

Topic: Action Figures

Expert: ShiniGami
Date: 1/6/2007
Subject: design and production

Question
Hi, my name is Tyler, I’m 10. I am working on models that are a fusion between 2 animals like shark-bat etc. I have lots of ideas but I don’t know how to draw or make them. I need an artist to draw them for me. I would like to have a model. If I can get them made I would sell them. I was looking on the internet for ideas and found your website. You know a lot about these things. I want to know if you can give me advice about these kinds of things. Thank you. Tyler

[The above was written by my son. He's bursting with ideas but we lack the know-how to steer him along. This is his first attempt at soliciting guidance. We're trying to help him understand the (considerable) steps needed to progress from conception through IPO. Your words of wisdom for our budding entrepreneur at this early stage would be appreciated. Thanks!]

Answer
If you can't draw them, you need to hire an artist, and then act as art director to get what you want. But since you're just starting out, maybe try a community college, or even friends or relatives.

When you get drawings, you can then get a sculptor to sculpt it.

Getting them made is another expensive step. Tooling alone can cost from several thousands to tens of thousands of $US, and then you have to have them made.

There is a movement called "Designer Vinyl", and this is the cheapest route to go, but still, about $10,000 to make 1,000 pieces. These pieces are usually larger (8 inches) and sell for $40 and more.

Thanks

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