Frequently Asked Questions
I have a plush toy idea, can you make it for me?
It depends on what you're looking for. I do plush toy development work and make samples and patterns. I don't have access to a factory, so I can make a limited amount of pieces myself, typically under 100 pieces.
If you're looking to develop a toy idea but you only want a couple samples to get the concept going I may be the person for you. I can develop the prototype, create the pattern that can be taken to another company for mass production. Or if you just want a single toy made for yourself, I can make that happen.
What is the process for making a custom plush toy?
Here are a couple posts that I've done about making toys from other peoples ideas:
It starts with an idea, some images or sketches. I make my own sketches with multiple views of the concept. Once the sketches are approved, I get started with the rough pattern shaping. I'll make a version in muslin that can be further revised. Once the muslin version looks right, I'll pick out the materials and fabrics for approval. Once that looks right I'll make the final version out of the approved fabrics. This is the first prototype. If it looks right, then I'll make more pieces of the toy as needed.
How much does it cost to make a custom plush toy?
Each project is different and I can give you a unique quote based on the specific design. Typically things that are simpler in design cost less to create, with more complicated designs taking more thing therefore costing more. A general range is $200-$800 for concept development. Then the price per piece after initial development is often between $15-$50+.
I want more than 100 pieces of my toy
If you are looking to make a larger amount of your toys, here are a couple of companies that will make low runs (the typical factory run is 2000-5000 pieces minimum, so comparatively these are low runs.) I cannot compete with these companies, so if you do want more pieces they will give you a much better price than I can.
Make My Toy Minimum order 750 pieces, made overseas
Custom Plush Minimum order is 500 pieces, made in China
I haven't worked with any of these companies personally (nor am I affiliated with them), but they will give you a quote and they all have lots of examples of previous work on their sites.