We sit down with M+W to trace the rise of Beefy Boy, from sketchbook idea to milk-carton-packaged art toy. A Singapore-based maker with global experience, Merick shares how American cartoons, gym culture, and He-Man proportions collided into a cow-themed character that actually moves units at shows. We talk first convention lessons, why larger figures outsold blind boxes, and what it takes to build confidence in a growing Southeast Asian toy scene. From packaging assembly with friends to future soft vinyl plans, international conventions, and 100-design ambitions, this episode is about betting on one strong character and building a world around it—intentionally and internationally.

On Instagram: @merthewiz

This Episode is Sponsored by: Empire Blisters – Your go-to source for blister packaging! With 19+ styles and bundle deals, they’ve got everything you need to make your toys shine. Use code TOYSONTAP10 at checkout for 10% off. Patreon members get 20% off another reason to join!

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We sit down with ELWA to talk about choosing creative freedom over turning passion into pressure. While holding a 9-to-5, ELWA builds toys on the side, by design and using that distance to protect experimentation and joy. We trace his path from drawing and video games to UX/UI, 3D modeling, and printing toys inspired by Astro Boy, music, and everyday objects. We dig into painting with intention, designing toys with real utility, and blending culture into cohesive characters. ELWA shares plans for his Lil Vamp line, limited-run art toys, coffin packaging, and a 2026 launch. This episode is about patience, process, and building a toy world on your own terms.

On Instagram: @elwa.psd

This Episode is Sponsored by: Empire Blisters – Your go-to source for blister packaging! With 19+ styles and bundle deals, they’ve got everything you need to make your toys shine. Use code TOYSONTAP10 at checkout for 10% off. Patreon members get 20% off another reason to join!

Support the Show on Patreon Unlock exclusive episodes, early access, and behind-the-scenes content: patreon.com/toysontap

Thanks to Our Supporters

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We sit down with John of Canary Customs to talk about finding art through action figures, resin, and doing things the hard way on purpose. From growing up on Star Wars toys with his dad to discovering custom figures during the pandemic, John shares how fine art, kitbashing, and analog mold-making collided into a new creative path. We dig into bootlegs, card backs, resin casting, and the tension between one-off art and scalable production. This episode gets honest about art school realities, privilege, affordability, and why DIY approaches still matter as mass-produced figures get more expensive. It’s a conversation about learning in public, experimenting without permission, and using action figures as a serious artistic medium.

On Instagram: @_canarycustoms_

This Episode is Sponsored by: Empire Blisters – Your go-to source for blister packaging! With 19+ styles and bundle deals, they’ve got everything you need to make your toys shine. Use code TOYSONTAP10 at checkout for 10% off. Patreon members get 20% off another reason to join!

Support the Show on Patreon Unlock exclusive episodes, early access, and behind-the-scenes content: patreon.com/toysontap

Thanks to Our Supporters: @dketoys | @massiveminihorse | @dimensionxtoys @bootlegtoyco | @pocket_salsa | @dirtyyetti @dan_overdorff_art | @zimotco | @barbarian_rage @mannycartoonstudios | Shaun C. Downey | @richiemanic | @recollectiontoys | @rubbercitytoys | @acid9toys | @teneki_toys | @angryhedgehog

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