The learning center / John Hathaway
A field guide to deal toys.
Straightforward explanations of design, materials and manufacturing, informed by the work of making custom commemoratives.
Ordering / Practical decisions
Plan a complete project.
Cost & quotes
Compare the complete cost.
Understand setup, quantity, finishing, packaging and delivery. Compare equivalent quotes with a practical checklist.
Read the guide →Prototype review
Review before production.
Check proportions, inscription, finish, assembly and stability. Consolidate feedback and state a clear approval.
Read the guide →Project timeline
Work back from delivery.
Allow for design, approvals, prototypes, production, inspection, packing and transit. Agree on a project-specific schedule.
Read the guide →Wording & proofing
Say the right thing.
Choose accurate wording, arrange a readable inscription and check the exact proof. Includes three clearly fictional examples.
Read the guide →01 / Design & materials
Develop a stronger idea.
Design
What makes a deal toy meaningful?
Start with the achievement and choose what deserves emphasis.
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Design process
From a building to a deal toy
Follow the decisions from reference material to a physical prototype.
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Materials
Materials that support the idea
Compare acrylic, crystal, resin, metal, wood and mixed constructions.
Read the guide →02 / Manufacturing
Understand how it is made.
Manufacturing
How Lucite deal toys are made
Casting, suitable embedments, curing and polished surfaces.
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Manufacturing
How crystal deal toys are made
Cutting, edgework, printing and internal laser engraving.
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Manufacturing
How metal deal toys are made
Casting, machining, surface finishes and assembly.
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Manufacturing
How resin deal toys are made
Models, molds, sculptural detail and painted finishes.
Read the guide →03 / History & recognition
Understand the occasion.
Recognition
Why the object can matter
Design for the recipient and the achievement being recognized.
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History
The financial tombstone story
The terminology and the expanding possibilities of the category.
Read the guide →Put the ideas to work
Have a deal worth remembering?
Share the achievement, audience, quantity, timing and budget. You do not need a finished concept.
Ask John a question →For commissioned projects, I work with the creative team at Polaris Custom Awards.