Toy Design
In Toy Design, girls explore the concepts of play, toy, and design using a variety of materials to create their own line of toys. Each girl starts by making a design journal, and developing their company name and logo. The photo below features the design journal for Etc. Toys, and a felt food set complete with tags!
In each project, girls are introduced to basic aspects of design like material choice, color palette, visual and physical balance, audience and packaging. Girls learn about designing soft toys, figures, and miniatures using hard and soft materials, while developing specific skills like pattern-making, hand stitching, and sculpting with clay. They learn about character development and how to express personality traits using specific shapes, colors, and materials. They also have an opportunity to design with small powered components, such as incorporating simple moving or light-up elements. They learn about designing a set; planning which parts of the objects are unique, and which parts tie them together as a family of objects.
The instructor shares lots of tips and techniques for building, fastening and creating. Girls are encouraged to experiment widely in the form and function of their toys; then they channel their explorations into surprising results. Favorite projects include scale environments, amoeba pillows, mini-bots, game design and more!
