Softgoods/Toy Design / 2023

Tomo

Overview

Tomo is short for Tomodachi, the Japanese word for friend. Which is exactly what they are! Your Tomo is a cuddly friend you can tell everything to, give warm hugs, and hide secrets in.

Scope

softgood/plush design; patterning; packaging design; branding; material and color research; competitive research;

Timeline

1 month

Final Product

Tomo is excellent for those with sensory needs! They are made of two different fabrics: fluffy faux fur and soft gingham, featuring tactile embroidery, magnetic hands and ears, and a slightly weighted body. Users can hide secret gifts or add warmth using the microwavable heart by accessing the secret zippered pouch in their back.

Brainstorm Sketches

Some quick ideation of sensory toys for children before landing on the idea of Tomo.

Branding

Each TOMO comes in a house that can be unfolded so the inside can be drawn on and decorated. TOMO also comes with an adoption certificate and a welcome letter of activities that the user and TOMO can do together to make TOMO feel more comfortable in their new home.

Branding

Rachel Chang 2024