What is The Toy Shop?

The Toy Shop is a unique bit of software, a construction kit whose end result is an actual physical model, not just an image on a computer monitor The Toy Shop rs not for everyone, (it's not even for kids, exactly), but it s perfect for people who like to build model cars, planes or other toys.

The Toy Shop consists of three disks, a program disk and two very full data disks. The data disks contain extraordinarily detailed design files for 20 different toys, ranging from a simple spinning glider to a working steam engine. The simplest toys have only one page of densely packed graphics, while the most complex models require as many as five full pages.

The program screen displays a scrolling, "file card" database. Each file card shows a picture of the finished toy and carries a brief description. The toys begin with a complete design that includes paint patterns, decals and text. All of these items can be edited to customize the toy, although these changes are not reflected in the picture on the screen. You only see the results when you print the toy file.

When you have finished editing a toy, you print it out on any paper that your printer can use — standard pin feed, letter bond, colored stock or even foil. You then glue the printout to card stock, cut out the pieces and assemble the toy. The kit includes building materials — heavy card stock, rubber bands, dowels, balloons — enough for one of each of the models. Replacement materials are easily available, so there is virtually no limit to the number of toys that can be built.

The manual gives very clear and detailed instructions for every step in the process, but most of the toys are too complex for a child to build. The program is intended to be used either by an adult or an older child with considerable model building experience. The finished toys are great for all ages, though, and are very durable.

The toys all work. Turn a hand crank on the carousel for example and the horses actually go up and down as the carousel goes round and round. Some of the toys are balloon powered and others can be driven by the steam engine.

The Toy Shop would be a little easier to use if you could make changes directly to the toy itself, but it provides a wonderful workshop for do-it-yourselfers.

Wesley, Michael D. (November 1986). The Toy Shop. MacUser. (pg. 47).

Download The Toy Shop for Mac

Architecture

Motorola 68K

System Requirements

From Mac OS 1.0 up to Mac OS 6.0

Compatibility notes

Emulating this? It could probably run under: Mini vMac