The Toy 3D Printer That Prints Toys

Back in the 1960s, the company released the very first ThingMaker, which let kids create figurines by pouring liquid plastic into molds and then heating them up in an oven. Mattel will expand the availability of the device from other retailers in fall this year. Just like you have today’s films remaking classics from decades past, the new ThingMaker is a remake of the ’60s product of the same name, but using 3D printing technology for a modern twist. The classic toy will return as a 3D printer with apps for Android and iOS, allowing users to come up with myriads of designs for toys, jewelry and more.

Mattel is one of the biggest toy makers in the world.

Mattel, the same company which announced on Monday its upcoming Google Cardboard-based low-priced, virtual reality headset, has announced the launch of the ThingMaker 3D Printer.

Mattel says its ThingMaker 3D will use a hard PLA filament, but also hasn’t yet announced the colors that will be available.

The app will have both pre-loaded toy templates and hundreds of virtual “parts” for kids to build their own creations. “Partnering with an iconic brand like Mattel provides us with an opportunity to demonstrate how Spark, our open 3D printing platform, can help create unbelievable experiences that bridge the digital and physical worlds and push the boundaries of creative play”.

The $300 price tag on the ThingMaker makes it a novel entry into the 3D printer market for obvious reasons and that it’s coming from a toy maker is no surprise. ThingMaker Design files are optimized to work with the ThingMaker 3D printer, but are also compatible with other 3D printers. The app we are talking would be mostly be a software platform for 3D printing and will be expected to work with other 3D printers as well. It automatically locks the printer door while the printer is in use, to prevent burn injuries to children who may not know the dangers of a gadget in operation.

For more information on ThingMaker 3D Printer and ThingMaker 3D Design App please visit thingmaker.com.

According to TechCrunch, the spec of the ThingMaker is pretty standard for ones of its size with a small item taking about 30 minutes to print, or as much as eight hours for much larger items. However, Mattel says additional design content including branded options will roll out at a later date.