An ingeniously simple and fully-illustrated book for crafting toys from objects found around the house. This clever guide focuses on fun, homemade projects using materials anyone can find around the house or that can be purchased for a fraction of what a commercially-produced toy can cost. Using everyday objects from cardboard tubing to paper to clothespins, readers will discover how to make such projects as: • A milk carton balloon boat • A rubber band banjo • A cardboard tube kaleidoscope • An embroidery hoop tambourine • And more Perfect for parents and teachers, these projects enable families to spend less while keeping entertained. Because fun doesn't always have to come in a box-sometimes, it's the box itself.

Clear instructions and illustrations show youngsters and adults how to create 38 delightful novelties: jumping jack, kaleidoscope, boomerang, pinwheel, parachute, bubble blowers, and much more. Each toy can be made with inexpensive materials found around the home, from cardboard and tape to string, scissors, and pins.

11 toy projects with step-by-step instructions. Includes metric measurements. 6-9 yrs.

You don't need to own a factory to make toys. Author and toymaker Bob Knetzger has been making fun stuff all his life with simple technology like vacuum forming and mold-making. In an age where makers are tantalized by the capabilities of 3d printers and other digital fab technology, this book takes you back to old-school hand tools, simple electronics, and working with metal and plastic to make toys every bit as good as those you can find in a big-box store. This book has something for everyone, from a marble maze to a talking booby trap; from custom cookie cutters to an "EZ Make" oven. Discover the basic principles of science, electronics, and engineering through hands-on projects that range from easy to more challenging... and are always fun!

This wonderful collection of handmade toys will delight children both young and old. The 25 projects, designed by expert craftsman Rob Merrett, take their inspiration from traditional playthings, including dolls, animals, and more. Begin with Baby’s First Soft Toy—delightful gifts for newborns designed in soft colors and gentle prints. Nursery Novelties is next, with easy patchwork and appliqué embellishments, followed by Activity Toys, where clever designs will stimulate young children’s minds. Creature Comforts has adorable animals that are perfect for little ones in a range of pretty fabrics. Finally, Divine Dollies is packed with trendy, vintage-looking rag dolls that you will love to make. Rob also develops the concept of “Kids Forever,” where designs should appeal not just to children, but also to adults who will appreciate his stylish, retro approach. Each toy comes with clear, step-by-step text and beautiful photography and artworks that will guide even a novice stitcher, helping them to produce gorgeous gifts with a charming, handcrafted feel.

The indie world is producing extraordinary toy characters but little is known about the designers creating them or the processes used to make them. We Are Indie Toys! profiles the most interesting toymakers and reveals how they turn their unique ideas into one-of-a-kind collectibles.

For over a year, the photographer and journal­ist Gabriele Galimberti visited more than 50 countries and created colorful images of boys and girls in their homes and neighborhoods with their most prized possessions: their toys. From Texas to India, Malawi to China, Iceland, Morocco, and Fiji, Galimberti recorded the spontaneous and natural joy that unites kids despite their diverse backgrounds. Whether the child owns a veritable fleet of miniature cars or a single stuffed monkey, the pride that Galimberti captures is moving, funny, and thought provoking.