ThingMaker was the name of Mattel's DIY toy-making machine from the 1960's. They've brought it back with a contemporary new twist. Instead of just heating your toys in molds you'll now be able to 3D print them in conjunction with their app (available now for
iOS and
Android). The app offers customizable templates that early reviewers are calling easy to use and intuitive. The ThingMaker uses spools of hard PLA filament to create parts and pieces that can be used to build just about anything little creative minds can come up with.
This is a great start for Mattel, and 3D printing industry as a whole, as the simple to use app may attract a broader audience of users. Some similarly priced 3D printers have a fairly steep learning curve. The release date is October 15, 2016 but
Amazon is taking preorders now. The price tag is $299.99 with free shipping.
