Within the toy industry, there are a multitude of roles available for aspiring toy lovers. One of these is becoming a toy designer. You might be wondering, Azhelle, how did you do it? How did you become a toy designer? How can I become one?

Becoming a toy designer is a rewarding and fun career for creative individuals who also happen to love toys. Keep on reading to discover the traditional route to getting into toy design, an overview of some of the most important skills a toy designer should possess and land a job as a toy designer if you don't follow this traditional route.

For many years, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) has been debated among artists in and outside of the toy industry. However, as AI continues to evolve, major players in the industry are starting to see its potential.

Earlier this year, Hasbro faced a wave of scrutiny following their job listing seeking AI concept artists. This was after users had found that in some of their loved games such as Dungeons and Dragons (D&D) and Magic: The Gathering, there seemed to be a continuous use of AI, something end users were not happy with. However, in June of 2024, Hasbro's CEO Chris Cocks stated that Wizards of the Coast will be utilizing AI for "campaign development or character development or story ideas" (Linward) and that they will be utilizing AI in their future video game projects, not tabletop games. 

Another major player in the industry, Mattel, revealed that they would be joining hands with Adobe's Firefly Generative AI to create packaging for their hit brand, Barbie. They had been working to make strides in AI, offering support to their designers in a more understated way before.

With toy industry giants like Mattel and Hasbro openly embracing AI in their toy development processes, is the toy industry finally ready to leap to embrace the tool?

Have you ever wondered what it takes to write and illustrate a children's book? Maybe you have a few ideas but you’re not sure if they’re good. Or maybe your book is complete but you don’t know what to do next. How do you find a talented editor, agent, or publisher? Most people have a great idea to create something but they get caught up in the little things, which stops them in their tracks. Instead they watch other people’s ideas come to life.