Fast, Cheap and Under Control

Novelties Let Shoppers Grab and Go

KNOTBALL by TAMARA CORPORATION
This patent-pending toy is comprised of a ball and a rope. The ball is attached to one end of the rope. The challenge and fun is to, by holding the rope at one end and with a one-hand motion, cause a knot in the rope. Launch date: June 30, 2010. 2/4/2010 (Price: $2.99; Age: 6 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

BLINGKEEZ by TOOBEEZ LLC
Users can light up the day and night with BLINGKEEZ, a fun, multi-use light with 10 LED bulbs. The 2.5" sphere features three light settings (disco strobe, party flash, all on), an 18" lanyard with a breakaway safety clasp, and automatic shut-off. Launch date: February 14, 2010. 2/4/2010 (Price: $11.99; Age: 3 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Bug Eyes by INKOLOGY INC.
These fun pens will keep kids distracted during math class. 1/27/2010 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

GoGo's Crazy Bones - Hiraku by TOY CRAZE
GoGo's Crazy Bones have been a fav with kid collectors since the 1990s. They're inspired by an ancient Greek game called "Astragals," where children played with sheep knuckles. 1/14/2010 (Age: 4 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Mighty Beanz - 3 pack by SPIN MASTER TOYS
Mighty Beanz are collectible and playable versions of the old Mexican jumping beans. These little characters can do tricks, race each other down along and come in more than 100 fun characters with sports, ocean and zoo themes and more. Accessories are sold separately. 1/12/2010 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Bag O Dogz by ZANYBANDZ
Silicone Animal Rubber Bands began in Japan, designed by the award-winning team of Yumiko Ohashi and Masonar Haneda, but a few years after the bands zapped their way in to the States, other companies began producing similar or identical items. These Zanybandz are one of the lastest iterations of animal rubber bands and they come in a variety of shapes, including this bag of 24 dogs, divided evenly between breeds: baby girl the pug, pokey the greyhound, eva the yorkie, william the bulldog, adolf the schnauzer , and  roy the lab. Read more about how Animal Rubber Bands stretched into a nationwide fad in 2009. 1/12/2010 (Price: $4.95; Age: 6 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Star Wars Lightsaber Chopsticks Set by KOTOBUKIYA / KOTO INC.
An innovative and fun addition to Kotobukiya's Star Wars line of products: Lightsabers merge with Japanese culture and “Chop Sabers” emerge! Suitable for eating sushi or defending the galaxy, the Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader lightsabers measure over 9” long, with the blades cast in translucent material. The smaller “children’s size” Yoda saber measures approximately 8” long. As a special bonus each set includes translucent Star Wars logo chopstick rests. 12/23/2009 (Price: $19.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Tomiko Japanese Erasers by TOPTRENZ.COM
Tomiko Japanese Erasers feature colorful and fun erasers in the shape of items such as ice cream, cakes, pizza, etc. Over 90 different styles available. 12/23/2009 (Price: $0.40) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Fun Flashing Sippy Cup by ELECTROSTAR
Available in Fairy, Sports and Dino varieties, this battery-operated sippy cup features multicolor LEDs that light up when a child sips and then go off after approximately 20 seconds. They can also be manually turned on and off with the press of a button. The cups are free of BPA and come with batteries. The lid and cup can be washed in the dishwasher (remove base first). This product received 5 out of 5 stars from What the Stuff Toy Review. 12/2/2009 (Price: $7.49) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Animal Rubber Bands by EASTERN ACCENT INTERNATIONAL
Animal Rubber Bands were designed by Haneda & Ohashi of Passkey Design in Tokyo in 2002. They were awarded Best Design for 2003 at the Japanese National Competition; the Toyota Prius had won the previous year. "Ours are the original animal rubber bands and come in three styles: pet, zoo and dino," said Carol Shapanka of Eastern Accent International. " They're made of silicone and produced and packaged in Japan. Japanese products are produced under strict standards. Factory conditions and the welfare of the workers is just as important as the products coming out of the factory.” The boxed set comes with 24 pieces in a sturdy snap box. The cards have one of each of the pet, zoo or dino animals. Launch date for Animal Rubber Bands: 2002. Launch date for Dinos: 2007.
— TDmonthly Magazine first reported on Animal Rubber Bands by Eastern Accent on July 27, 2005; one store manager compared their popularity to that of Ty's Beanie Babies. They had also been featured in a 2002 New York Magazine "Best Bets" article. 11/25/2009 (Price: $10; Age: 3 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Rainbow Hokey Spoke by THE HOKEY SPOKES COMPANY
This transparent blade attaches to bicycle spokes and displays various design images prompted by an internal computer as the blades spin while the bike is moving. Hokey Spokes utilize LED lights and have waterproof keys to select the play mode. 11/9/2009 (Price: $32.95) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Z Windups - Eddie Elephant by CALIFORNIA CREATIONS
Once wound, this elephant spins around, drops down and spins the ball on his nose.
— Two of 38 retailers named wind-up toys as a best-selling novelty item during a fall 2009 TDmonthly survey. 10/30/2009 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Bendable Party Mustache by ACCOUTREMENTS
The flexible wire inside this 6.75" black mustaches allows it to be shaped in various styles, including the friendly barber, the stern general and the dapper dandy. It comes with a rubber piece that clips to the nose.
— Two of 38 specialty retailers mentioned mustaches as a best-selling novelty item in fall 2008. Michelle Bears, owner of The Toy Store in Highlands, N.C., told TDmonthly her store sells about 48 Accoutrements fake mustaches per month. ( Watch Video) 10/30/2009

Plush LOL Rollovers - Brown Monkey by YMC TRADING CORPORATION
The LOL Rollover Monkey rolls around back and forth on the floor laughing hysterically. It starts laughing with a wave of your hand (motion activated). Launch date: November 15, 2009. 10/29/2009 (Price: $29.95; Age: 3 to 3) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Ice Cream Punch Cone by TOYSMITH
Available in various “flavors” of ice cream, this 7” cone has a button that, when pressed, pops out the soft, spongy ice cream ball that’s connected to the cone by a string. 10/29/2009 (Price: $1.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Pocket Laser Light Show™ by CAN YOU IMAGINE
The Pocket Laser Light Show has been designed for home use or take it outdoors — it's wireless. It's so portable it fits into the palm of your hand. Simply turn it on and watch as a spectacular array of laser light designs perform on your walls or ceilings. The most portable laser light show ever, the Pocket Laser Light Show is so small it can fit in your pocket. But don't let its size fool you; the Pocket Laser Light Show™ creates giant-sized light shows. 10/28/2009 (Price: $15.99; Age: All Ages) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Little RasCools™ Eye-Poppin Crazy Critters - Series 4 by CoolZips
These 2" rubber animals have hard plastic eyes that pop out when the character's head is squeezed. The eyes then go back to their normal position. This series includes Holly the Hippo, Mickey the Monkey, Bobby the Bear and Parker the Penguin. Launch date: 2009. ( Watch Video) 10/23/2009 (Price: $4.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Grass - Countertop Drying Rack by BOON INC.
This two-piece, dishwasher-safe drying rack features a flexible grass top to hold baby utensils and accessories and a lower tray to catch water as it drains. It is free of BPA, PVC and phthalates. 10/12/2009 (Price: $19.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Shock Gum by MAGIQUE NOVELTIES LLC
Shocking gum appears to be a regular packet of gum with one piece sticking out. When someone grabs the piece of gum, they get a real shock.
— The Toy Store in Highlands, N.C., sells about four dozen per month of this item, Owner Michelle Bears told TDmonthly in fall 2009. 10/6/2009 (Price: $4.50; Age: 14 to 50) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Retro Tags - Scooter by FLAPJACK TOYS
This cool retro scooter is designed to add a little flair to any suitcase or other bag. It measures about 5.75" x 5". 10/5/2009 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

3-D Bookmark – Waterworld by MAGNETIC BOOKMARKS, INC
This bookmark features a colorful palette of the world under the sea, with an eye-catching three-dimensional effect.
— Gary Green of Toy Box of Asheville in North Carolina told TDmonthly in summer 2009 that his store sells 60 to 70 of these bookmarks per month. “It seems to me we do a reorder once a month with them. It's not something people come to the store for, but it's so eye-catching that it stands out,” he said. 9/30/2009 (Price: $4.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Iwako Japanese Erasers – Cupcakes by BC INDUSTRIES
These small cupcake erasers with removable parts are available as a trio and in single packs.
— Three of 38 specialty retailers named Iwako erasers as a best-selling novelty item in late summer 2009. Going into the holiday season 2009 (late fall), two of 44 retailers named the erasers among their absolute best sellers. 9/30/2009 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Toy Story Talking Pens by KAMHI WORLD
The Toy Story pens come in three styles: Woody, Buzz Lightyear and Little Green Men. "Toy Story Talking Pens will be launching just in time for the re-release of 'Toy Story' 1 & 2 and the release of 'Toy Story 3' in 2010. Launch date: December 2009. 8/28/2009 (Price: $7.95; Age: 3 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

QT Charm - Bar Gymnast by QT CHARMS
This interchangeable charm features a full-color image and a round clasp. Full length including clasp is 1.5". Launch date: March 2004. 8/13/2009 (Price: $2.95) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

BoogieBOTS Edge Series: GeishaBot by Bigatron LLC
This wind-up character is designed to dance for 15 seconds and comes in "try me" packaging. It does not require batteries. ( Watch Video) 8/5/2009 (Age: 6 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

DrinKlip™ by BEEEEN.COM
Designed by Been KIM, the DrinKlip is designed to clip right onto tables or desks in order to hold drinks securely without requiring surface space. It is available in a several different colors. 7/30/2009 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

My Bloody Finger™ Glow-in-the-Dark Molding Kit by EMPIRE LABORATORIES INC.
This novelty kit lets individuals make a glow-in-the-dark rubber copy of their finger that can then be covered in fake blood for extra visual effect. The kit includes a molding mixture, liquid skin and rubber, and fake blood. The mixture must set in the mold overnight before it can be used. This product is made in the USA. ( Watch Video) 6/19/2009 (Age: 12 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

3-D Anaglyphic Glasses for DVD movies by AMERICAN PAPER OPTICS
Three-dimensional anaglyphic glasses are used for viewing print, movies, Web sites, games and computer applications in 3-D, defined as two views of the same subject (either moving or still) in contrasting colors and slightly offset for two different perspectives. These IYF (In Your Face) 3-D anaglyphic glasses are re-formulated and supercharged with red and cyan filters, designed to punch full four-color 3-D with depth-defying clarity without compromising colors, flesh tones and light. "With the phenomenon of 3-D movies and with all the new movies planned to be released in the next two years, you need to be prepared for the rush. More and more children are having 3-D movie-watching parties. Most DVD rentals only come with two glasses and only four are packed in a DVD when you purchase them," Mark Nidzgorski, director of retail for American Paper Optics, told TDmonthly. Launch date: June 2009. 5/19/2009 (Price: $0.99; Age: 8 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Fart Machine by WORLD TEC
This remote-controlled gadget offers five different fart sounds that are said to be very realistic. 5/12/2009 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Come Back Roller Wheel by SCHYLLING
When rolled gently, this colorful tin wheel returns to the user. It is available in a variety of designs.
— Schylling products were listed as top sellers at Melody’s Choices in Fayetteville, Ark., by Owner Steve Melody in spring 2009. He likes that the vendor has small toys that sell consistently. 5/8/2009 (Price: $3.99; Age: 3 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Cthulhu Plush Wreath by TOY VAULT
Those who like their Christmas with a bit of science fiction will appreciate this plush Cthulhu Wreath. And yes, if the desire's strong enough, it could be worn as a hat. ( Watch Video) 4/22/2009 (Price: $34.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Marshmallow Cross Bow by MARSHMALLOW FUN COMPANY
This cross-bow shoots large marshmallows up to 40 feet. Launch date: 4Q 2009. 4/14/2009 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Onionhead® Shield Pins by ONIONHEAD & COMPANY
( Watch Video) 3/18/2009 (Price: $3.00; Age: All Ages) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

When Pigs Fly? by JACK RABBIT CREATIONS INC.
All it takes is a twist of the top of the can, and these two colorful piggies go flying. 3/17/2009 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

SplatBack Egg by DJDS INTERNATIONAL LLC
Do you like your eggs hard-boiled or sunny-side up? Well you can have both with this egg. Have it whole or make it SPLAT sunny-side up! When thrown onto the ground, SplatBacks splat into a flat, liquid-looking mess, then morph back into their original shape. ( Watch Video) 3/11/2009 (Price: $5.00) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

The Original Gas-O-Matic® Fart Toy by GASSUN LIMITED INC.
The Original Gas-O-Matic® is a mechanical wind-up fart toy with an amazing repertoire of fart sounds sure to turn heads and disgust innocent bystanders! No batteries necessary. Simply wind the center spinning device (aka the "Sphincter") of the Original Gas-O-Matic®, hide it under your leg, then give that umistakeable "fart lean" and "rip it". The Original Gas-O-Matic® is proudly made in the USA using safe, high quality and durable materials for long lasting fun! ( Watch Video) 3/5/2009 (Price: $7.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Grow Turtle in Egg by ESCO TOYS
Drop the 3" turtle egg into water, and watch the gradual hatching process of a baby turtle. Great educational fun. Each egg comes in its own box. 9"x9" display box. 3/5/2009 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

ZING AIR ZARTZ by ZING
Ideal for both indoor and outdoor play, ZARTZ feature a safe, SOFTEK foam suction cup that sticks to windows, metal, walls, asphalt or nearly anything with a smooth surface. The self-releasing suction cup allows the ZARTZ to fall just a few seconds after adhering to a ceiling or other hard-to-reach place. ZARTZ are available in 7" and 9" forms, and come packaged in a durable carry case. There's also a Fun Pack that includes two hand-target catchers and a 9" ZART, which can be launched as far as 100'. Launch date: 2009.
— “The Zing Air Zartz are really good right now,” Emily Bieritz, manager of My Favorite Toy Store in Downers Grove, Ill., told TDmonthly in June 2009 when asked about her best-selling gift for boys. ( Watch Video) 2/27/2009 (Age: 6 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Ecotronic Farm Torches by Russimco Limited
These small flashlights provide light without the use of batteries. They are powered by pressing the handle that pops out from one side, and come in four designs: chicken, pig, dog and cow. 2/18/2009 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

PakNak™ - Pinky by PAKNAK
PakNaks are decorative accessories that transform plain backpacks, bags and other stuff into personalized, ever-changing, colorful works of art. With more than 40 designs that are interchangeable, weather resistant and quickly and easily adhere (no ironing, sewing or pinning!), PakNak makes changing style easy, especially since they stick on with super-strong, custom, self-adhesive Velcro. PakNaks make terrific birthday party giveaways, tooth fairy leave-behinds, incentives, gifts, luggage identifiers and more. The newest designs are made from recycled plastic and are phthalate free. Launch date: January 8, 2007. 12/12/2008 (Price: $3.99; Age: 3 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Glow-in-the-Dark Halloween Tattoos by DOVER PUBLICATIONS
Ghosts, pumpkins and black cats can be found in this spooky collection of six glow-in-the-dark tattoos.
— Three of 52 retailers named items by Dover when asked by TDmonthly about best-selling Halloween items in fall 2008. 12/10/2008 (Price: $1.50; Age: 5 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Bottle Lamp by STREAMLINE INC.
Mix and match your empty favorite beverage bottles to make this personalized lamp. Your glass recyclables will be glowing in no time. The lamp is packaged in a gift box. 12/2/2008 (Price: $40.00) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Mugen Pop Pop by BANDAI AMERICA INC.
Those tempted to reach for the nearest sheet of plastic bubbles need look no further than Mugen Pop Pop.  Mugen Pop Pop is a highly addictive handheld keychain device that stimulates the strangely satisfying experience of popping plastic bubble packaging. Launch date: October 27, 2008, 11/14/2008 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Message Marquee by LISA LELEU STUDIOS! INC.
The durable, reusable light up “Message Marquee” measures 2” by 10” and features a white write-on/wipe-off surface for messages, an included wipe-off marker that stores inside the marquee and two installed AA batteries. The marquee can be hung up or around the neck with an attached nylon cord. For safety, the cord has a toggle switch that separates the cord under slight pressure. “When you flip a switch on the marquee’s side, blinking red LED lights make the marquee hard to miss,” describes LeLeu, who says the batteries power the marquee for about 720 hours (1 month) of continuous use. The Travel Marquee is designed to be used by both kids and adult, said LeLeu: “Teachers love it for reminding students of upcoming tests, and people purchase it for elderly parents as medication reminders.”  Launch date: 11/14/2008 (Price: $14.99; Age: All Ages) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Bounce & Pounce Balls by COPERNICUS TOYS
These animal-print bouncy balls measure 2.4" in diameter. There are six styles. 11/11/2008 (Price: $2.25) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Stretchy Mice and Cheese by PLAY VISIONS INC.
Made of stretchy material, this 2" block of cheese is home to two mice that can be moved around to the different holes. 10/30/2008 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Lulu Kooky Klicker Pen by COURAGE BRANDS INC.
Each hand-painted Kooky Klicker features a distintive personality and fun design. The 5" characters have rubbery strands of hair and a metal clip. ( Watch Video) 10/30/2008 (Price: $3.49) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Boinks Buddies Fish by ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES INC
Made of durable plastic, this "pocket rocket" flies when launched from the hand. The user simply presses down on the tip of the Boink with his or her index finger, holds it securely without restraining the top, and then lets in go. 9/22/2008 (Age: 5 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

The 'Aberrant Quadrator Boggart' Kaleidoscope by ALIVAN'S
Designed by artist Kari Makoutz, this handmade kaleidoscope entraps the Aberrant Quadrator, a friendly boggart known to reside in closets, ruining fine clothing by creating stains, wrinkles and tears. The kaleidoscope is 6.5" long, and the glass globe has diameter of 1.75". 9/16/2008 (Price: $68.00) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Posers: Bliss Bliss by ALLENTOWN TOY
Given the proper name of Cheerful McBliss when born, Bliss Bliss quickly earned his nickname because he was always so...well. blissful; even when inappropriate. Like the time when his Grandfather passed away. Bliss' eulogy was comprised of a string of off-color jokes followed by hysterical laughter; or during his first job interview when he cracked jokes about the owner's toupee. While sometimes outlandish, Bliss has something that many people strive for...to always have a smile on his face...but then again, that's probably because he's laughing at you. 9/16/2008 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Googly Giggler™ by IMPERIAL TOY LLC
Googly Giggler is available in four different personalities. When one shakes him, he bounces, wiggles and sings a wacky tune. Launch date: June 2008. 8/27/2008 (Price: $7.99; Age: 5 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Beantown Toys Spoon Racers by BEANTOWN TOYS
Spoon Racers have four-part assembly (spoon, handle and two wheels) that is fully interchangeable with all other Beantown Spoon Racers for full customization. Each set comes with a distinctive Bean, Spoon Racer and mini-catalog, all packed on a blister card. Beantown fans can collect their favorite characters and designs, then customize their Spoon Racers and race them with their friends. Launch date: February 17, 2008. Display ideas: Beantown Toys work best when displayed as a concept. The company has a pre-loaded countertop display unit that holds 12 Bean figures and 12 Spoon Racer packs. 8/27/2008 (Price: $5.99; Age: 4 to Adult) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Halloween Dust by MAGIC DUSTS
The ghouls and goblins are on their way... Halloween Dust will keep them at bay! Halloween Dust will add a little sparkle to your trick or treating and is sure to keep you safe along the way. 8/20/2008 (Price: $10.00; Age: 5 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Wheel Runner Hamster by TOY WONDERS INC.
Kids and adults who like varmints, but not the care they require, will appreciate this scurrying hamster on a wheel that runs on battery power. Realistic movements make the hamster almost as good as the real thing. The toy uses 2 "AAA" batteries that are not included. 7/8/2008 (Age: 3 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Fart Alert by PLAYMAKER TOYS
This motion-activated fart alert broadcasts eight verbal warnings while flashing its light. Phrases include "Fart detected; maintain safe distance" and "Warning! Dangerous gases emitted." It comes with two AA batteries. 7/2/2008 (Age: 4 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Resin Chocolate With Sign Ornaments by KURT S. ADLER INC.

These three 6.5" hanging ornaments feature three different sayings with assorted chocolates and sweets dangling below.  Sayings include “Chocoholic,” “Chocolate Queen” and “Chocolate Lover”. 6/25/2008 (Price: $5.00; Age: All Ages) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

The Self-Inflating Whoopee Cushion by WESTMINSTER INTERNATIONAL CO.
This whoopee cushion self-inflates and comes in a “Try Me!” package. It is available in yellow, orange or pink.
— “The whoopie cushion — that's your perennial novelty item,” Tye Steinbach of Thinker Toys in Portland, Ore., told TDmonthly in May 2008.
—  According to Thea Brown, buyer and general manager at World of Mirth LLC in Richmond, Va., whoopee cushions are best-sellers, running out the door at a rate of “10 per month.”
— In May 2008, three of 55 retailers surveyed by TDmonthly singled out prank products as best-sellers in the novelty category. 6/9/2008 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Spectrix Glow Laser Visors by Ekos USA
Double the fun of the Spectrix Laser Visor in Glow-In-The Dark!  Special frame glows in the dark while unique cross star holographic film lenses lets you discover the spectral colors of light by displaying a myriad of rainbow pattern. 5/2/2008

CAPerz - Ladybug by PERFECT CURVE INC.
Fill in hat holes with a variety of designs. Each piece is designed to easily attach through the air holes in any baseball cap to add a little personality. Launch date: February 2008. 3/28/2008 (Price: $2.49) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Boxing Grannies by BLUW
Each granny stands 11-1/2 cm tall. Simply press the buttons and watch the grannies throw jabs, right hooks and uppercuts at each other. Each figure comes with articulated arms and is controlled by separate buttons. ( Watch Video) 3/17/2008 (Price: $18.95) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Catalog by WESTLAND GIFTWARE INC.
Based on the Revilo cartoon series, this figure depicts a woman standing on a base that reads, “This outfit looked so cute in the catalog." The figure stands 6-1/2” tall. Launch date: January 2008. 2/18/2008 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

DEBO Superheroes – Maru-bo by KAMIBASHI
This tiny vinyl character is the "hero of gettin' around" and has travel-related powers, such as ensuring that you always get a good parking spot. It was designed in Thailand by the DEBO (Do-Everything-By-Ourselves-) group of four artists – Byb, Beer, Noi and Ning – and then sewn together. The Maru-bo shape can be repeated in other dolls, but this particular design is only available in a limited edition of 50. 2/18/2008 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Circus Stage Club by HIGGINS BROTHERS
The 20.5”Circus Stage Club has a silver-wrapped handle that makes the club a bit heavier and can improve its responsiveness. 2/12/2008 (Price: $32.00) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

LED Necklace w/LED Flashing Stick by LIGHTUP TOYS
The necklace and flashing stick set function separately, each equipped with multiple modes. Users can set the necklace to flash continuously with all the colors, flash while alternating colors or flash only in red, blue, green or white. The stick can be set to flash continuously, flash up and down, flash blinking lights and more. Launch date: February 2007. 1/18/2008 (Price: $2.25) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Prismatic Key Holders - KPR by ZIPADEEDODAH
Glittery colored glass micro-spheres in the shapes of stars and moons float gently in clear oil. The entirely handmade item is encased in tough acrylic. 1/18/2008

FunFlyStick - Magic Levitation Wand by Unitech Toys Inc/Toys i.e., LLC

The wand is designed to look like a true wizard’s magic wand. The patented magic wand allows levitating objects indoors to go as high as the ceiling allows. With or without a magic spell, just press the button and watch how toy objects included with the set expand and fly up as high as you can make them go. Awards: TDmonthly Innovations 2008.
— The wand demonstrates “real levitation,” Olga Ousherovitch, president and co-owner of Toysie LLC, told TDmonthly.

Where to Buy: Escapade Direct; Berkira ( Watch Video) 1/2/2008 (Price: $27.00; Age: 5 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Stretchable 1” Frog by FUL FINEWELL UNIVERSAL LIMITED
The colorful 1” mini frogs are stretchy, allowing for creative play. The frogs are available in four assorted styles. 1/2/2008 (Age: 3 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Somewhere City by STRANGECO
Each designer vinyl art toy character in Somewhere City is designed by Lelas. The complete Somewhere City line consists of six characters: Kay'o My Plus, Club Tarn, Luna Una Oy, Memo Wee, Oink Le Rouge and Tintonos Nos. Each figure stands 4” tall and features interchangeable parts, allowing collectors to create their own creatures. 12/11/2007 (Price: $9.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Helios™ by BOING! DESIGNS LLC
The Helios™ Pen balances the forces of gravity and resistance to literally "float" in space. The four-sided ballpoint is chrome over brass, with twist-top action, and writes in black. There are eight sleek, modern magnetic bases that will keep the pen in virtual flight forever. It’s the ultimate desk conversation piece. “Its modern, quality design and science ‘spin’ make it ideal for … markets looking for highly unique, fun products,” Shawna Elliott, in marketing for Boing! Designs told TDmonthly. Launch date: October 2007. 12/7/2007 (Price: $27.99; Age: 3 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Nintendo Super Mario Brothers Sound-Drop Key Chain by BANDAI CO. LTD.
These collectible key chains make Super Mario sounds, such as the 1Up sound or Start effect, when pressed. Each of the five has a different character/item and is in a different color. Eiko Koga, a representative at the Bandai Hobby Center in Shizuoka, Japan, thought they were adorable. “I am a big fan of Mario, as are many people. Children and adults collect these and hope to get them all. Plus, they hold your keys. I like them very much.” As of December 2007, TDmonthly’s Toy Sleuth said these were not yet available in the United States. 12/5/2007 (Price: $7.95; Age: 6 and up)

Super Mario Brothers Real Sound Blocks by STRAPYA NEXT CO. LTD.
These blocks put the sounds of the Mario Brothers video game at your fingertips, with each figure (roughly 3” tall) having one “signature” sound: Fire Mario shoots a fireball, Mario powers up, and Luigi gets an extra life. Press down on their heads and hear the power. Miss Tanaka of Strapya World finds them “...quite cute. I have Mario on my desk. He is very funny. I think they sell great. And a good price.”
— Super Mario Brothers figures rank as a best-selling item at Puzzle Zoo toy stores, Co-owner Jay Demircift told TDmonthly in early 2008. 12/5/2007 (Price: $2.95; Age: 5 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Mini Golfing Mario & Luigi Golf Set by THINKGEEK INC.
Mix an old-style Nintendo/Famicom controller with two plumbers, throw in a low handicap and the back nine and you have this mini golf set. Standing 3” high, Mario and Luigi take turns hitting golf balls into the included hole. “I thought they’d be cheap at first, but they’re largely sturdy. They are difficult, and can be quite challenging,” said Dane Raleigh, a toy collector in London. “Me and the mates took it to the pub and played nine holes, set up along the bar. Loser paid for the round. It was great fun.” The game requires two AAA batteries. ThinkGeek is a distributor for this game. 12/5/2007 (Price: $24.99; Age: 8 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Mario and Luigi Air Fresheners by DEALEXTREME
Available in blue and pink, these fresheners come two to a pack and feature a lemonish-pine scent. “They are selling well, and lots of adults who remember the older Nintendo games will order them,” said a sales representative at distributor DealExtreme. “I haven’t seen one yet, but I want one for my car.” 12/5/2007 (Price: $7.61; Age: 8 and up)

Constructive Eating Utensil Set by CONSTRUCTIVE EATING
This set, designed to “feed kids creatively,” includes one Fork-Lift Fork, one Front-Loader Spoon and one Bull-Dozer Pusher. ( Watch Video) 11/5/2007 (Price: $19.95) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Killer Stapler of Caerbannog by What on Earth
When is a stapler not a stapler? When it’s also the Killer Stapler of Caerbannog (based on the Killer Bunny of Caerbannog from the “Monty Python and the Holy Grail” movie). Staplers are dangerous enough, but now comes the most dangerous stapler of all. Made of plastic and armed with the usual-sized staples, this is a conversation piece whether brought to school or into the office. Matt Sanders, secretary of the Holiest of Grail Movie Watching Society has ordered the stapler and had this to say: “That's the most foul, cruel and bad-tempered rodent you ever set eyes on! He's got huge, sharp – eh – he can leap about — look at the bones!” 10/8/2007 (Price: $24.95; Age: 8 and up)

The Vintage Foxworthy Collection by GIBBY NOVELTIES, LLC
For holiday 2007 we are pleased to offer the licensed line of Vintage Foxworthy novelty gifts designed by the original "redneck" Jeff Foxworthy himself!  The collection includes hilarious signs, plaques, garden stakes and door hangings.  Git yers today! Complimentary gift bag with all orders over $50.00! Consumers only. Not for retail. 10/5/2007 (Age: 18 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

LAVA® Brand Motion Lamp – Silver Base and Cap with Red Wax by LAVA WORLD INTERNATIONAL
This 10” silver lava brand motion lamp features an accent of red wax with clear liquid. It has a spun metal base and cap that are silver. “This is the original LAVA brand lamp. We have been producing motion lamps in our trademarked shape for more than 40 years, and no one can manufacture this item in this shape except for us,” Ronda Sanders of Lava World told TDmonthly. “It is a perfect size for any room or any gift, and the price point is great.” 9/7/2007 (Price: $14.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Flarp Noise-Making Goop by JA-RU
Available in assorted colors, JA-RU adds its Flarp brand to this fascinating "goop" that makes its own distinctive sound and has its own distinctive texture.
— "We sell a lot of those," said John Beutler, associate at Tinkerz Toy Shop in Coeur D' Alene, Idaho, about Flarp Noise-Making Goop.
— Beutler told TDmonthly in summer 2007 that his store sells about two dozen cans of the Flarp Goop on a monthly basis.
— "We've branded the 'Flarp' name so that the quality of our product can be distinguished from other versions out there," said Russel Selevan, vice president at JA-RU. 8/23/2007 (Price: $1.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Wishpaper by PARADOXY PRODUCTS
Offering a humane alternative to making decisions with a real wishbone, this 100-sheet notepad features an image of a wishbone on every page and utilizes the unpredictability of tearing paper to help decide your fate. Each sheet has a starting point for tearing, and the notepads are also available with a heart design (Lovepaper) or a triangle (Decisionpaper). Inventor Daniel Young described the appeal as the “thrill of submitting yourself to chance.” 8/22/2007 (Price: $5.95)

FauxPets by FAUXPET
FauxPet is a family of life-size easel-backed full-color animal friends that can enliven any office or home with a touch of whimsy. There are currently five FauxPets: Buster the puppy, Daisy the kitten, Dash the turtle, Ruby the pig princess and The Goldbergs, the fish you’ll never overfeed. “So many people love animals, yet can’t have them at work, or in an apartment or in a college dorm,” Tracey Pimpare of FauxPet told TDmonthly. “FauxPet is a great gift idea for any occasion.” Launch date: May 15, 2007. 8/7/2007 (Price: $12.95; Age: All Ages) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Crawling Zombie by OTHERLAND TOYS LTD.
Zombies: yucky, smelly, leprous undead. Shoot ‘em, and they keep coming.  Chop off an arm, and they keep coming. In this case, take off their whole lower half ... they keep coming! This legless, lifeless battery operated denizen of the dead world says things such as “Hey, slow down, would ya?  I can only crawl so fast!” and “I can’t feel my legs!” A group of  8- to 10-year-old kids simply seeing the picture of this horror show all wanted one — “I’m gonna put it in my sister’s bed!” — and immediately began pretending they, too, were zombies. 8/2/2007 (Price: $38.90; Age: 8 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Distracter by KAKU LAB CORP.
Sometimes life is just too hectic and all that troubles seem to be pulling you apart. Distracter will take those troubles and will help remind you to slow down, think things through and that this messy life can be simple after all. Distracter is 100% handmade from highly durable cotton strings, 2.5" height and 1.5" wide. 8/1/2007 (Price: $9.95) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Twirling Spaghetti Fork by HOG WILD
This motorized fork automatically winds up pasta for a meal with less mess, more satisfying bites and 100 percent twirling fun. The fork requires two AAA batteries (not included) and the metal prong-end is dishwasher safe. Launch date: June 2003. 7/18/2007 (Price: $9.99; Age: 8 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Hanging Harry Light Pull by SUCK UK LTD.
Have a goth teen with an all-black room to accessorize? The Hanging Harry Light Pull puts a dark “click” to turning on the lights. With the limp, lifeless silicone rubber body of Harry just sagging and 6.5” of string/rope to pull, it’s an interesting focal point to any interior designer’s statement. Plus, it makes a great novelty gift. 7/3/2007 (Price: $15.00; Age: 10 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Grow-A-Head by SOURCING INTERNATIONAL LLC
This kit comes with everything you need to grow your very own head. Just add water and watch the hair grow. You can trim and style the hair or let it go wild. It comes in 32 assorted pieces in a 15" x 14" x 13 3/4" POP display. 7/2/2007 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Natural Gourd Bank by LUCUMA DESIGNS
Handmade and extremely durable, these natural gourd banks are eco-friendly and socially-responsible alternatives to traditional ceramic and plastic piggy banks. They are hand-carved by master Peruvian gourd carvers and colored with fire, using a tradition dating over 4,000 years. “We designed these cool new gourd piggy [banks] to help kids learn the value of money. Each bank comes with a fun dollar tag with ideas and tips on saving,” Liz McTeer, in client service and marketing at Lucuma Designs, told TDmonthly. Launch date: August 2006. 6/25/2007 (Price: $30.00; Age: 3 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Novelty Golf Sets by DRY GULCH
Made of natural Sassafras wood to give it added appeal. Humorous and customizable - State, region or local name are added to the novelty golf set label along with unique Cowboy, Hillbilly, Redneck and Amish graphical templates. The Novelty Golf Set is about 35" tall. 6/15/2007 (Price: $8.99)

Be the Ball Ornament/Figurine – Teena by BE THE BALL 4 U
This ornament/figurine has its own character and can be displayed year round on a desk, shelf or next to a trophy collection. It also makes a great tree ornament, a wonderful addition to any gift basket and an ideal tournament gift. The figurine is made of durable, soft PVC and comes with a detachable stand. Launch date: December 10, 2006. 6/13/2007 (Price: $9.99; Age: 4 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Vicious Paper Cut by RUDEWRAP
Who doesn't want to receive a present wrapped in bloody paper? It shows you thought enough to care ... maybe thought too much. And with too sharp a pair of scissors. RudeWrap's first line of outrageous wrapping papers (there's also Pitch Black, for ennui-filled depressives) is heading for uncouth gift-givers everywhere. Realistic with just a touch of nouveau splatter, it will definitely be saved long after the box and its contents are gone. Also, it makes a dandy background for your child's school diorama of the War of 1812. Local lowbrow artists have already taken it to heart. Dina Mo of Compton said, “I was the first one to find it; kudos to me. Now everyone’s buying it.” Sure beats making it from scratch; kids, don’t try this at home. 5/25/2007 (Price: $5.95; Age: 10 and up) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Nano Autos by SILVERLIT TOYS
These cute realistic cars are part of the Nano Racing System, which includes fun tracks and accessories and allows the cars to jump and stunt at high speeds. They have pull-back engines and can do pop-up wheelies. 5/25/2007 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

4" Blow Up Puffer Ball by NOVELTIES WHOLESALE
This ball, available in several colors, can blow up to 12” in diameter. 5/25/2007 [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Q-Man Pushpins by NUOP DESIGN
These pushpins come in a 12-count pack with six colors and are made of flexible plastic. Because of its human form, the Q-Man “immediately connects with everybody. You don’t need a special audience,” CEO Frank Frisari of NuOp Design told TDmonthly. Launch date: 2007. 5/25/2007 (Price: $6.99; Age: 6 and up)

Time Out Timer - Pirate by SARUT
These adorable timers let you know it’s time by moving their head and humming a samba tune. They’re perfect for letting a child know "time-out" is over, or for use in the kitchen. The timers are designed in France by Crea Crea and come in several styles. 5/25/2007 (Price: $30.00)

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