Why go to the toy store when you can print your own toys at home?
Mattel is about to make every child’s dream come true with the launch of the ThingMaker 3D printer. Originally designed as the at-home maker device in the 1960s, Mattel has since partnered with Autodesk Inc. and reimagined the ThingMaker for 21st century kids. Now, all the tools to design, create, and print toys are right at kids’ fingertips.
By downloading the ThingMaker Design app, families can choose between easy-to-follow templates ranging from doll, robot, and dinosaur figures, to wearable accessories like bracelets and necklaces. Once kids finish their masterpiecea, designs are sent right to the ThingMaker 3D Printer, which prints individual parts in batches, for easy assembly via ball and socket joints.
The ThingMaker 3D Printer will be available this fall for $299, with pre-orders already available on Amazon.com. Mattel will have a variety of filament color options with additional design content, which is set to roll out later this year. The ThingMaker Design app also works with other printers and is available for free download on iOS and Android devices.
