Mattel ThingMaker App and 3D Printer let kids 3D print toys at home

One of the world’s leading toy makers, Mattel has launched a new ThingMaker Design App and ThingMaker 3D Printer that will give children the tools to build their own toys at home. 

Built in collaboration with Autodesk, the new ThingMaker ecosystem is inspired by Mattel’s original at-home maker device first launched in the 1960s. Announced at the New York Toy Fair 2016, the new app and low-cost 3D printer gives families the power to design and create their own dolls, robots, dinosaurs and wearable accessories in a step-by-step process. Using the App, families can choose from a range of simple templates or build their own unique creations from hundreds of parts.

"In today's digital age, it's more important than ever for families to transcend the digital world and make their ideas real," Aslan Appleman, senior director, at Mattel, explained. "ThingMaker pushes the boundaries of imaginative play, giving families countless ways to customise their toys and let their creativity run wild. We're thrilled to work with the 3D design experts at Autodesk to bring this one-of-a-kind experience to life."

"We're excited to work with a storied company like Mattel to develop an app that bridges the digital and physical worlds and brings new forms of making to the next generation of designers and engineers," Samir Hanna, vice president and general manager, Digital Manufacturing Group, Autodesk, added. "Creativity begins with inspiring the individual. The ThingMaker eco-system makes building your own creations not only possible, but more intuitive for young creators than ever before."

Set for release in the U.S. later this year, families can already pre-order the ThingMaker 3D Printer at Amazon.com for $299.99. Mattel will supply a variety of filament colours with additional design content expected at a later date. Current desktop 3D printer owners can also benefit from the App which is compatible with other machines and available to download for free on iOS and Android devices.