Popterror Studio
Guides to designing and making custom figures
We designed, prototyped, produced and sold our own art toys before working for brands. These guides share what we learned: the steps, the costs, the materials, the lead times and the pitfalls to avoid. They are written by Romain, 3D artist, and Fred, graphic designer and art director.
The complete guide
How to make custom figures: the complete guide, from idea to factory
How to make custom figures in series: character design, 3D modelling, prototype, materials, moulds, production, quality control, packaging and shipping.
Read the complete guideMaking a figure
Vinyl vs PVC vs resin figures: which material should you choose?
Vinyl or resin figure? Rotocast vinyl, injected PVC and resin compared (finish, quantity, cost, lead time) to help you choose the right material.
Figure moulds (molds): steel, metal or silicone, how to choose?
Figure moulds explained: steel for injection, metal for vinyl, silicone for resin. How each toy mold works, its lifespan, its cost and the right run size.
Manufacturing figures in China or Europe: an honest comparison
Should you manufacture figures in China or Europe? Know-how, prices, quantities, lead times, shipping, duties and quality control: a studio’s honest view.
Budget, quantities and lead times
How much does it cost to make a custom figure? Every cost explained
Custom figure cost explained: fixed costs (design, 3D, moulds), cost per piece, how quantity changes the unit price, and tips to keep your budget in check.
Minimum order quantity for custom figures: understanding MOQ
What is the minimum order quantity to make a custom figure? MOQ by technique (resin, vinyl, PVC), why it exists and how to choose the right quantity.
How long does it take to make a custom figure? Lead times step by step
How long does it take to make a custom figure? Lead time for each step (design, 3D, prototype, moulds, production, shipping) and planning tips.
Blind boxes and compliance
How to make a blind box: the mechanic, chase figures and odds
How to make a blind box: number of characters, chase figure, odds, mystery packaging and a duplicate-free display. The method behind our EQSO blind box.
Figure safety standards: EN 71, CE, UKCA and ASTM F963 explained
EN 71 and CE in Europe, UKCA in Great Britain, ASTM F963 and CPSIA in the US: what a figure must meet to be sold, as a toy or an adult collectible.
Mascots and brands
How to create a brand mascot that lasts (and sells)
How to create a brand mascot: goals, personality, character design, variations, usage guidelines, mistakes to avoid and what great mascots share.
Turn your mascot into a figure: from 2D drawing to object
Turn your mascot into a custom figure: adapting the drawing to volume, 3D, prototype, material and packaging. Make your mascot premium merch people keep.
Premium brands and collectible figures: why art toys appeal to luxury
Why premium and luxury brands invest in collectible figures and art toys: scarcity, drops, artist collaborations, packaging and storytelling.
Not sure what a word means? Check our glossary of art toys and figure manufacturing, or estimate your project right away with the custom figure cost estimator.