Budget-friendly DIY toy repair techniques
What's the story
Toys, the cherished companions of childhood, frequently endure the rough-and-tumble of playtime. Constantly replacing damaged toys can be costly and contribute to environmental waste. This article delves into easy, wallet-friendly DIY fixes for common toy damages, prolonging their lifespan and saving you some cash. Most of these methods require simple tools and materials, many of which you might already have at home or can be bought cheaply.
Plastic repair
Fixing broken plastic toys
Plastic toys break all the time, but you can fix them with super glue and baking soda. First, clean the broken edges with alcohol. Then, apply super glue on one edge and press them together for roughly thirty seconds. For added reinforcement, sprinkle baking soda over the seam. This quick fix costs under $5.
Fabric fix
Mending stuffed animals' tears
Beloved stuffed animals frequently get ripped from too much love. To mend, simply grab a needle and thread that matches the fabric. Sew the tear from the inside out for a discreet repair. For bigger holes, first, patch it up with similar fabric. This method typically costs less than $2 for thread if you don't already have it at home.
Paint refresh
Refreshing faded paint on toys
Faded or chipped painted toys can be easily refreshed with a new coat of non-toxic acrylic paints, available for approximately $10 per set. First, thoroughly clean the toy with soap and water to remove dirt and oils, which will improve paint adhesion. Use small brushes for detail work or sponges for larger areas, applying the paint in thin, even coats.
No-sew solution
Reattaching toy parts without sewing
For toys with removable parts that aren't broken—think doll arms or plush toy ears—you can use a hot glue gun to reattach them without sewing. Just make sure both surfaces are clean, apply a thin layer of hot glue, and press firmly until it fully sets (about a minute). If you don't have one, you can buy a hot glue gun and sticks for less than $15 total.
Joint tightening
Tightening loose joints in action figures
Wobbly joints in action figures can be repaired with clear nail polish. Just apply it to the pegs or sockets and let it dry for 20 minutes. Two coats should be enough to tighten them up, making playtime more enjoyable. The cost of this solution is approximately $3 if you need to buy the polish.