DIY Toy Display Ideas: Showcase Your Treasures with Style and Flair!

Are you a proud toy collector looking for creative ways to show off your cherished treasures? Look no further! We’ve got you covered with some fantastic DIY toy display ideas that will make your collection shine. Let’s get started!

1) Floating Shelves

Floating shelves are a sleek and modern way to display your toys while keeping them safely out of reach. Simply install some shelves at different heights, then arrange your toys by color, size, or theme. This will create a stunning visual effect that’s sure to impress your guests.

2) Shadow Boxes

For a more dramatic display, consider using shadow boxes. These enclosed frames allow you to showcase your toys in a museum-like setting, protecting them from dust and damage. You can even add a personal touch by creating custom backdrops or including small props to bring your toy scene to life.

3) Custom Built-In Cabinets

If you’re handy with tools or have access to a skilled carpenter, consider designing custom built-in cabinets to house your collection.

These cabinets can be tailored to fit your space and accommodate various toy sizes. Here are a few ideas:

  • Include glass doors to keep your toys visible yet protected.
  • Add interior lighting to highlight your toys and create a striking display.
  • Incorporate adjustable shelves to accommodate different toy heights and allow for easy rearranging.

4) Repurposed Furniture

Vintage or thrifted furniture can be a budget-friendly way to create unique toy displays. Look for pieces like old bookcases, dressers, or china cabinets that can be transformed with a fresh coat of paint and some creative staging.

5) Magnetic Boards

For smaller toys or action figures, magnetic boards can be a fun and interactive display solution. Simply attach magnets to the back of your toys and arrange them on a magnetic board. This makes it easy to change up your display whenever inspiration strikes!

6) Themed Dioramas

Get creative by crafting themed dioramas to showcase your toys in action. For example, build a miniature cityscape for your superhero figures or a whimsical forest for your fairy tale characters. You can use materials like foam core, cardboard, or craft supplies to bring your vision to life.

7) Hanging Displays

Make use of vertical space by creating hanging displays for lightweight toys. You can use fishing line, ribbon, or clear plastic cords to suspend toys from the ceiling, creating a floating effect. Just be sure to secure them safely to avoid any accidents!

8) Rotating Displays

If you have a large collection and limited space, consider rotating your displays periodically. This will keep your collection fresh and give each toy its moment in the spotlight. You can even create themed displays based on seasons, holidays, or special events.

9) Display Cases

For fragile or rare toys, display cases can provide the ultimate protection. Look for cases with built-in lighting and adjustable shelves to create a stunning focal point in your home.

10) Mix It Up!

Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with different display methods to find what works best for your collection. Mix and match these ideas to create a dynamic and engaging showcase that reflects your unique style and personality.

In conclusion, displaying your toy collection should be as fun and creative as the toys themselves. With these DIY display ideas, you’ll be well on your way to transforming your home into a toy collector’s paradise. Happy displaying!

New Strawberry Shortcake 5 1/2” doll by The Loyal Subjects

1980’s nostalgia comes to store shelves with a new release of The World of Strawberry Shortcake toys from The Loyal Subjects.

Excited to have added the new 5 1/2” Strawberry Shortcake doll to The Toybox Collection! Scented like strawberry she is dressed in her classic strawberry shortcake dress, apron, hat, leggings and shoes. She has 29 points of articulation, Strawberry Shortcake is fully poseable, elevating the play experience and allowing kids to unleash their creativity.

The doll comes with 10x stickers, and 4x surprise accessories that may include combinations of the iconic comb, strawberry purse, beloved animal friends, cakes and fruit baskets, lunchboxes, and super rare finds too. All packaged in a classic red window-style gift box with 4 punch-out surprise reveal boxes on the back. Her clothes and accessories are also interchangeable between other dolls in this series.

We found this doll at Walmart Canada for under $30. A fun and adorable addition to Mrs Toybox’s doll collection.

DC Comics Batman Adventure Batman Vs Bane Action Figures Review

Shoutout to our friends @spinmaster toys for hooking us up with this sweet DC Batman Adventures: Batman vs Bane Action Figures set!

Whether you’re a collector or looking for a gift for a younger fan, this DC Batman Adventures: Batman Vs Bane double action hero set is a must have! With comic style detailing, these 12-inch figures have an impressive 17 points of articulation and they are customizable with 14 unique and interchangeable armor accessories! Mix and match these armor pieces to create endless looks!

We literally scoured the internet trying to find where in Canada to get this. We couldn’t even find it on Amazon or eBay so our best advice is to check out the Spinmaster toys website to find a retailer near you!

We received this gift courtesy of @thisisbutterly & @spinmaster toys

10 Gift Ideas for The Adult Toy Collector

‘Tis the season for joy, laughter, secret Santa, and of course, the arduous task of gift searching. If you’ve got a beloved toy collector in your life, don’t sweat it, for Santa’s very own content marketing specialist is here to gift you with ten fantastic Christmas gift ideas.

  1. Pinch of Pixar: This season, add some whimsy to their collection with a limited edition Pixar figurine. These high-quality replicas add a sprinkle of childhood nostalgia to any collection and are a sure-shot hit for every Toy Story, Cars, or WALL-E fanatic.
  2. Masterly Miniatures: If your toy-enthusiast appreciates craftsmanship, miniature architectural models are calling your name. From the intricate towers of Hogwarts to the majestic Titanic, these sets will provide both hobbyist joy and a delightful display piece.
  3. LEGO Lovers’ Delight: The iconic plastic bricks aren’t just for kids. The recent LEGO releases cater to adult collectors, including intricate replicas of famous city skylines. And if they’re Star Wars fans? The Millennium Falcon set will make their Christmas truly out of this world!
  4. A Piece of Pop: Funko Pop’s charming figurines are a great pick for a modern collector. With a vast range to choose from, including iconic characters from movies, TV series, and comic books, you’d be hard-pressed not to find a figurine that tickles their fandom!
  5. Tactile Tinkerer: 3D wooden puzzle models like the UGears collection are fantastic for a hands-on collector. The mix of building, artistry, and mechanics make every piece a memorable keepsake that channels the spirit of childhood in every adult!
  6. Action Figure Fervour: An action figure of their favorite superhero or anime character is a timeless gift. With beautifully detailed designs and interchangeable accessories, these figures will help your collector recreate epic battle scenes from their favorite franchises!
  7. Modeling Magic: Airfix model kits offer an exciting journey from a box of plastic components to an astonishingly authentic display piece. A Spitfire or a Lamborghini, perhaps?
  8. Time-Honoured Trains: For a more traditional touch, consider a vintage-inspired model train set. With an old-world charm, these sets delicately blur the line between toy and treasure, making it an excellent pick for those who cherish history and artistry.
  9. Box of Board Games: A deluxe version of a classic board game like chess, scrabble, or monopoly could be a fantastic pick for those collectors who love a bit of social interaction with their collecting!
  10. Gift Cards for Collectors: Undeniably, choosing for a collector can be strenuous. For a no-fail option, a gift card to their favorite toy store or an online marketplace is a great choice. It allows them to hunt down that elusive piece they’ve been stalking for months!

With these gifting gems, we guarantee your presents will be serving up some happy, toy-filled memories these holidays! Remember, elves, in the world of adult toy collecting, it’s not just the thought that counts, it’s also the fun of unwrapping a gift that adds a quirky, enjoyable chapter to their unique collecting journey.

Don’t forget: while you’re shopping for your toy collecting loved one, why not pick up something extra and drop it off at your local malls toy drive for kids in need? ‘Tis the season to give!

So, let’s step into Santa’s boots, tip-toe down the chimney, and deliver that festive joy, one perfect gift at a time. Merry (toy-filled) Christmas!

Unleashing Your Inner Superhero: 10 Fun Comic Book Costumes for This Halloween

Hello, fabulous readers!

Are you tired of the traditional ghost, witch, and vampire Halloween getups? Well this year, you deserve a transformation that is bolder, brighter, and super fun. Bring your favorite comic book superheroes to life with these exuberant costume ideas! Pulling off a superhero disguise has never been easier.

  1. The Classic Superman: One of the most recognizable comic book characters of all time, Superman’s gear includes a blue bodysuit with his iconic red cape waving behind. Recreate those childhood intensified moments with your very own Superman Halloween costume.
  2. The Marvelous Wonder Woman: Make a bold yet elegant statement as the Amazonian princess. Don your gold tiara, red bustier, blue shorts, and don’t forget the “Lasso of Truth” to capture your Halloween spirit!
  3. The Guardians of the Galaxy’s Star-Lord: Steer your Halloween in a cosmic direction. The Star-Lord costume, complete with a burgundy jacket and mask, is both cool and unusual.
  4. The Invincible Iron Man: Blast into action with a crimson and gold suit! Halloween isn’t complete without the high-tech hero–bonus points if you add LED lights for the eyes and hands.
  5. The Mysterious Batman: Nostalgic of the golden age of comic books and Batman movies? Step into the dark night with a bat-themed ensemble. Keeping it captivating with black from head to toe.
  6. Captain America, The First Avenger: Salute this Halloween with the red, white and blue. Captain America’s uniform, with distinctive shield, is always a favorite pick.
  7. The Enchanting Scarlet Witch: Capitalize on the ‘WandaVision’ trend with a Scarlet Witch superhero Halloween costume. The red leather jacket, black bottom, boots and the crucial accessories – gloves with red energy emblems will make a hit for sure.
  8. The Mighty Thor: Reward yourself with the mantle of the God of Thunder. A muscular bodysuit combined with the renowned hammer, Mjölnir, will give you a god-like presence on Halloween night.
  9. Black Widow’s Power Packed Combat Suit: Unravel the mystery of Black Widow in her black stealth suit. Dare to be different, and keep it sleek with her signature weapon, the Widow’s Bite.
  10. The Indomitable Black Panther: Become the undefeated King of Wakanda, costumed in a sleek black bodysuit. This not only brings an icon to life but pays tribute to the legendary Chadwick Boseman.

These superheroes aren’t just for the comic books; they’re mighty personas waiting to be unleashed by you! This Halloween, step beyond the fantasy and become the hero you were always meant to, even if just for a night. You are never too old for some comic book magic, and hey, who says adults can’t have all the fun!

After all, Halloween is not just about adding a chilling factor. It’s about exploring your style, celebrating creativity, reliving childhood memories, and making new ones. So whip out the Halloween candy, string up the spooky decorations, and most importantly, indulge in becoming your favorite comic book superhero for a night to remember.

Whatever you end up choosing, make sure it’s a character you love and feel comfortable portraying. Remember, superheroes may have superpowers, but their greatest power is their human spirit, just like ours. So here’s to an epic Halloween filled with adventure, fantasy, comic books, and unforgettable superhero costumes. Let the transformation begin!

Harnessing Nostalgia: The 5 Most Adored Transformers in Collectible Circles!

Welcome to your source for all things antiquated and action-packed!

Whether you’re a die-hard aficionado or a dabbler looking to dive deeper into the awe-inspiring world of Transformers, you’re going to enjoy this nostalgic journey back to the Golden Age of Saturday morning cartoons.

So, buckle up and prepare for an enthralling ride, as we explore the five most popular Transformers ever to grace your living room floor!

  1. Optimus Prime: The Unquestioned Leader

Let’s kick off this list of awesome with the iconic Optimus Prime. This Autobot leader embodies majesty, strength, and noble charisma. It’s no wonder he stands as one of the most coveted Transformers in the toy collecting world.

G1 Optimus Prime source: Transformers Wiki

This venerated leader isn’t just a top-rank in the collectible sphere; Optimus Prime transcends generations, acting as the epitome of the Transformers brand. His formidable truck mode and suave robot form, paired with memorable G1 quotes, make him irresistible to collectors worldwide.

  1. Bumblebee: The Lovable Hero

Can we discuss popularity without mentioning our universally adored “little buddy”, Bumblebee? This Autobot is nothing short of a crowd charming phenomenon. Blending steadfast loyalty with credible versatility, Bumblebee’s Volkswagen Beetle and contemporary Camaro incarnations have consistently soared in the popularity charts.

G1 Bumblebee source: Transformers Wiki

Beyond the trench warfare between the Autobots and the Decepticons, Bumblebee shows us the importance of courage, determination, and friendship in every episode – qualities that every collector treasures.

  1. Grimlock: The Fearsome yet ENDARING DINOSAUR

Ask anyone about Transformers, and there’s one Dinobot that they won’t leave out – Grimlock! The charismatic T-Rex captures fans’ hearts with his unique blend of brain and brawn, mixed with a child-like naivety.

His G1 design remains etched in the memories of many collectors, as it perfectly encapsulates the magic that Transformers brought into our lives. Grimlock’s articulated jaw and the radiant dino-form make him a hot favorite among seasoned toy collectors.

  1. Megatron: THE UBIQUITOUS Villain

Behind every great story is an equally great villain. This statement holds true with Megatron, the treacherous leader of the Decepticons! Portrayed as the arch-nemesis of Optimus Prime, Megatron’s wickedly impressive robot form and his notable transformation into a handheld weapon make him a must-have addition to any Transformers collection.

  1. Soundwave: THE SPY AMONG US

Rounding off our list is Soundwave, the Decepticon’s master of espionage. What makes Soundwave stand out, is his unique ability to transform into a microcassette recorder, as well as the smaller Decepticons hidden within his tape-deck! This cloaked complexity contributes to his charm, making Soundwave a compelling collectible for Transformer enthusiasts.

And there we have it! The top five Transformers figures, ranked in all their bot glory.

Each one of them holds a special place in the toy collecting world, representing the epitome of imaginative transformation, lovable characters, and narratives that have hooked us over the years!

Whether you’re tracking down these icons for the love of toy collecting or are enchanted by the realm of Transformers, remember: The magic of these seminal heroes isn’t just in how they transform, but in how they’ve transformed us along the way.

Happy collecting, Autobots and Decepticons!

All About Doll Collecting

Dolls have captured the hearts of children and adults alike for centuries. From antique bisque dolls to the latest fashion dolls, collecting these little works of art is a fun hobby that allows you to surround yourself with beauty, revisit childhood memories, and connect with other enthusiasts.

Mrs. Toybox has been collecting different dolls over the years from fashion Barbie’s to porcelain dollhouse dolls and articulate ball jointed princess dolls! Her collection continues to grow and it’s one of her favourite hobbies today!

Mrs Toybox BJD collection

If you’re thinking about starting your own doll collection, here are some tips to help you get started.

Choose a Focus

With so many types of dolls out there, it helps to pick a particular kind to collect. Do you love the artistry of porcelain dolls? Are you nostalgic for the Barbie dolls of your childhood? Do the big eyes and colorful fashions of Bratz dolls appeal to you? Decide on a focus before you start buying, as this will help build a cohesive collection.

Start Slowly

It’s easy to get carried away when you discover all the dolls out there you’d love to own. But collecting takes time and budgeting. Start small with just a few special pieces, like a doll from your childhood or one that speaks to your interests. Add to your collection gradually so you can really treasure each new addition.

Display with Care

One of the joys of collecting dolls is creating lovely displays so you can fully appreciate each one. Choose an area with indirect sunlight and minimal humidity to avoid damage. Glass cabinets are ideal for protecting antique bisque or porcelain dolls. For vinyl fashion dolls, open shelving works well. Elevate dolls away from dust and arrange them attractively.

Join Other Enthusiasts

Connecting with fellow doll lovers adds so much fun to this hobby. You can get advice, share finds, and just enjoy talking dolls! Check for local doll clubs in your area that meet for events and shows. Online groups like ones on Facebook are ideal for connecting with collectors in your local area.

2023 Barbie Movie Barbie and Ken are her in box treasures!

From selecting that first special doll to creating dazzling displays, doll collecting is a rewarding hobby.

Follow these tips and you’ll be well on your way to starting your own fabulous collection. What doll will you add next? The possibilities are endless!

The Super Fun Guide to Comic Book Collecting

Whether you’re a lifelong fan of caped crusaders and webslingers or just getting started in the world of comics, collecting these classic stories and characters can be an incredibly rewarding hobby. Comic books allow us to escape into fantastic worlds and go on thrilling adventures with our favorite heroes.

Starting and curating your own comic book collection is easier than you might think. Here are some helpful tips to get you going on this super fun hobby:

  • Start with what you love. Are you a Marvel fanboy or fangirl? Can’t get enough of Batman and DC titles? Build your initial collection around your most beloved characters and series. It helps when you’re passionate about what you’re collecting.
  • Go for quality over quantity. Comics in pristine or near-mint condition will always hold their value better. Be selective and focus on titles that are important to you rather than grabbing up every comic you can find.
  • Decide if you want to collect runs or key issues. Some collectors try to get full runs of certain titles or characters. Others focus on landmark “key” issues like first appearances and origin stories. Figure out your preference as that will inform what you look for.
  • Find a local comic shop you like. Having a go-to shop you’re comfortable with makes collecting much easier. The owner and staff can get to know you and help you find titles you’ll love. Many shops also have back issue sections rich for discovering new books.
  • Check out comic cons and shows. These events (like Comic-con or Fanaticcon) allow you to browse through a huge selection of vendors and sellers. You can often find rare issues as well as excellent backstock condition comics.
  • Store your collection properly. Invest in protective sleeves, boards, and boxes. You can purchase these online or in your local comic book shops. Remember, it’s an investment. Keep your books away from moisture, sunlight, and anything that could damage them. Handle them carefully.
  • Catalog and document your collection. Use an app or database to keep track of what you own. Note important details like publishers, issue numbers, condition, etc. This will help you follow and value your collection.
  • Enjoy the hunt! Seek out online sellers, garage sales, thrift shops and more to uncover hidden gem issues. The thrill of finding a coveted book for your collection is part of the fun.

Collecting comics is a wonderful hobby full of nostalgia, adventure, and excitement.

The wall of transformers g1 comics!

Whether you treasure Marvel’s mighty heroes or DC’s iconic superheroes, let your passion guide you as you build your perfect comic book collection. Excelsior!

Fanaticcon 4 (Ottawa) 2023

We have been and done, Fanaticcon 4 in Ottawa!

This was our third time attending this local comic, game and toy convention. It’s always great to see how hard everyone worked and how it all came together. It was great to get out and mingle with some familiar face and meet some new ones.

We did our rounds and checked out all the amazing vendors. We brought our two youngest kids this year. It was fun and both of them (plus the Mr.) left very happy shoppers having found some treasured comics and must have video games.

I think the highlight for all of us this year (aside from going to begin with) were the cosplayers walking around. Incredible jobs done on their costumes and being in character just put the cherry on top. They’re always also so friendly and welcoming to take a picture! We ran into a Jawa, Darth Maul, and we also saw the capital ghostbusters among many other characters. So fun!

Thanks to the team at Fanaticcon for hosting us! We had a great time! A day well spent! Stay tuned for future announcements about Fanaticcon 2024!

What to bring to an event (besides your smile)

We will be attending Fanaticcon 4 (Ottawa) and Ottawa Comiccon is happening in September plus we also have the Toys, Dolls and Teddys show in October, so many events I don’t know if we can make them all but we will try!

All these events got me thinking about something I could share with our readers, people like us who either participate or attend their favourite collectors events; how to prepare for a fun time and avoid unnecessary stress.

Going to events is always exciting but they can also be costly and overwhelming if you just walk in blindfolded. There are so many people to see and things to look at or do, where do we start?

First off, get tickets early. Don’t wait until the day of the event. Even if tickets are available at the door you don’t want to stand in line and have to wait. Plus, sometimes advance tickets come with perks and a discount.

Dress appropriately, unless you’re in costume. It can get pretty hot even in a well ventilated or laid out area. Lots of bodies in one space heats things up. Luckily, most events have wristbands or stamps or ticket stubs of some kind which allow attendees to go out for fresh air, grab a beverage or whatever and come back to enjoy the rest of the show. Also, wear comfy shoes because you will walk, a lot.

Charge your phone the night before (or if it’s an evening event charge it during the day beforehand) and bring your charger in your car. I once attended an event and had my phone die during a really awesome moment I attempted and failed to capture on video because SOMEONE (me) didn’t think to charge their phone before the event. Don’t do what I did. Don’t miss the moment.

Bring drinks and snacks in a cooler. If the event allows you to leave and come back, you’ll already have some things to munch on from the comfort of your cooler and save on spending at a cafeteria or worse have nothing if the venue doesn’t have any food sources.

Bring a bag. Reusable shopping bags can be found anywhere, usually we keep them in the trunk of our vehicle since you prettymuch need them wherever you shop. This goes for conventions too! You don’t want to walk around with your arms full of goodies (trust me it’s easy to get carried away with buying the things). A simple reusable shopping bag can come in very handy.

If you carry a purse or wallet, bring the bare minimum. I suggest paying cash for any items just to avoid any issues with disloyal currency and maybe theft at a bigger venue with more people. Carrying a heavy wallet or purse is just annoying imo.

Bring your best attitude and have fun! Take your time to look around(maybe you’ll see something and take a trip down memory lane), don’t be shy to talk to the vendors and artists, cosplayers love when you admire their costumes. Even if you don’t plan to buy anything, you can still have a full and fun day at an event if you prepare.

Have any tips to add? Leave a comment below this post!