The Woonkis: Redefining Play with Wooden Magnetic Toys

Designers Pablo Saracho and Mayte Ruiz de Velasco Create Eco-friendly Action Figures

The Woonkis are a unique creation, inspired by the question, "What if wood attracts itself to build action and toy figures?" The designers aimed to create a new concept of action figures, combining minimal designs and mechanics, while maintaining a 100% natural composition.

These toys are more than just wooden figures. They are designed with kneecaps and magnets, allowing them to move like humans. They can even breakdance! With different accessories, the Woonkis can transform from surfers to Viking warriors, providing endless possibilities for imaginative play.

The Woonkis are crafted from beech wood using a CNC machine. The design process begins on paper, then transitions to 3D software to verify measures, mechanisms, balances, and resistances. The magnets are inserted into the wood by pressure, and kneecaps are screwed in. Some accessories are painted with eco-friendly paint, maintaining the commitment to natural materials.

The Woonkis project started in September 2015 in Segovia, Spain, and was completed in January 2017. The toys were exhibited at the Maison and Objet in Paris and Spielwarenmesse in Nuremberg in early 2017. The project faced several challenges, including design versatility, production costs, and market pricing. Despite these hurdles, the team succeeded in creating a high-quality, eco-friendly product that fits into market prices.

The Woonkis are not just toys; they are a testament to innovative design and sustainable practices. They have been recognized for their creativity and professional excellence, winning the Silver A' Toys, Games and Hobby Products Design Award in 2017. This award is given to top-of-the-line designs that exhibit outstanding expertise and innovation, introducing positive feelings, amazement, and wonder.

With the Woonkis, Pablo Saracho and Mayte Ruiz de Velasco have created a product that is not only fun and engaging but also environmentally friendly. They have truly redefined the concept of play, proving that design, innovation, and sustainability can go hand in hand.