- 1). Obtain the necessary training. There are many courses of study that can be applied to toy making. Mechanical skills are a large part of toy design. You must be able to create original toys that will be safe and enjoyable for users. There are also degrees in toy design at schools across the country. Parsons School and the Fashion Institute of Technology both have programs where you can learn the complete toy design and manufacturing process.
- 2). Improve your computer skills. Good toy makers are constantly readjusting their mental picture of a toy they are designing, to make it more marketable and appealing. Many toy makers have a background in graphic design and enjoy working on the computer. If you are new to graphic design, you can take an entry-level course at a local community college.
- 3). Become familiar with the toy marketing process, which differs somewhat from how other products are marketed yet shares many similarities. You must learn how to sell your ideas to toy manufacturing companies and then market the toy to its intended target group. You will have to convince the manufacturer that your toy will surely be a top seller.
- 4). Learn how to complete a cost-benefit analysis -- a key business element that incorporates the cost of production, supplies and any other expenses related to producing the toy versus the amount you can sell it for. Once you have an idea what the toy can retail for, you can subtract manufacturing and production costs to give you an idea of what your profit will be. After doing all the calculations, you can make an educated decision for pursuing production or discontinuing the project.
- 5). Find a company to create a model of your concept toy. You must have a model to present to potential manufacturers, in order for them to determine if the idea is viable.
- 6). Contact a manufacturer that you can contract with. It is a good idea to contact several manufacturers and choose the one that can offer the best price and turnaround time.
- 7). Organize a focus group to help you evaluate your idea. Your group should consist of children in the age range your toy is aimed at. You can present several toys to the group, if its age range is wide.
- 8). Produce toys. Once it has been determined your idea is marketable, work with the manufacturing company you selected to get the toys made and distributed.
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