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Paper Owl Toy
The concept for my paper toy owl design was developed from the old-fashioned “jumping jack” toys that are made up of articulated limbs that when the central string is pulled they appear to “jump”. It is a simple concept that has been adapted over the years into many forms. One aspect of the project that I found interesting was to use an old-fashioned toy concept and bring it into modern times by designing the toy with a non-traditional feel as well as the method of manufacturing (laser cutting).
Many traditions believe the owl symbolizes intelligence, brilliance, wisdom, power and knowledge. I chose the owl for this toy because of this symbolism and because the owl lends itself naturally to the “flapping” motion. I wanted to create a toy that would be pleasing to little children as well as adults and that could also be used as wall décor in the home (such as a child’s nursery). I choose to design the wings with an intricate feathered pattern for visual interest and also because research shows that infants respond positively to high-contrast shapes and colors.
The design is prepared using Adobe Illustrator and the document size is 11” x 8.5”. The Text and Assembly diagram layers will need to be turned off prior to laser-cutting. The preferred material for this toy would be a heavy, white card-stock/cardboard (100# or heavier) that could withstand the repeated movement from the joints and motion.
For the diagram I created a hand-cut version of my owl toy and also created a video showing the owl toy in motion. The video can be seen here: http://youtu.be/R1uIcxmXbJE
Many traditions believe the owl symbolizes intelligence, brilliance, wisdom, power and knowledge. I chose the owl for this toy because of this symbolism and because the owl lends itself naturally to the “flapping” motion. I wanted to create a toy that would be pleasing to little children as well as adults and that could also be used as wall décor in the home (such as a child’s nursery). I choose to design the wings with an intricate feathered pattern for visual interest and also because research shows that infants respond positively to high-contrast shapes and colors.
The design is prepared using Adobe Illustrator and the document size is 11” x 8.5”. The Text and Assembly diagram layers will need to be turned off prior to laser-cutting. The preferred material for this toy would be a heavy, white card-stock/cardboard (100# or heavier) that could withstand the repeated movement from the joints and motion.
For the diagram I created a hand-cut version of my owl toy and also created a video showing the owl toy in motion. The video can be seen here: http://youtu.be/R1uIcxmXbJE
