Tradition Meets Innovation: Toy Design Students Visit Channapatna

Students from the Toy Design course at the Department of Design, PES University recently visited the iconic Channapatna toy-making cluster, guided by Prof. Chinmay.

This enriching field visit offered a firsthand look at the traditional craft of wooden toy-making—from woodturning and shaping to natural dyeing and hand-painting. Students explored the entire production process, gaining insights into craftsmanship, sustainable materials, and heritage design practices.

By observing skilled artisans at work, students deepened their understanding of design rooted in culture, ecology, and community, while sparking fresh ideas for modern, meaningful toy innovation.

The experience was a reminder that great design can be playful, purposeful, and planet-friendly.