What You Dont Know : Jakarta Toys Fair 2024

Jakarta Toys Fair: The Start of My Journey in Designer Toys

For toy enthusiasts, the Jakarta Toys Fair is an unmissable paradise. As one of the largest toys fairs in the capital, this event always brings something special to the community. But if you’ve never heard of it, let me share my story. Organized by @jakartatoysfair, this fair is more than just a toy market—it’s a celebration of creativity, nostalgia, and camaraderie. With massive crowds, stunning cosplayers, and thousands of toys, the event offers everything from vintage collectibles to dazzling new creations. For me, it wasn’t just another event; it was a turning point in my journey.

A Small Step That Opened Big Doors

A year ago, my journey as a designer toy creator began at a small meetup event called Kuman (Kumpul Mainan). At the time, I didn’t know what to expect. But when I arrived and saw other creators showcasing their work, I felt like I belonged. I brought my very first creations—simple compared to the others. Even so, the experience was eye-opening.

From there, I started building connections, one of which led me to the Jakarta Toys Fair—a massive event that felt overwhelming at the time. Alongside three friends, we rented a small 2×2 meter booth. Despite its modest size, we were filled with excitement. I brought several pieces I had made, including a “Barong” that looked more like an art sculpture than a toy. I also tried selling artisan keycaps and opened pre-orders for Rangda.

Lessons Learned from My First Event

Unfortunately, my sales didn’t meet expectations. I barely broke even with the booth rental cost. However, what I gained was far greater than money. I learned about understanding the market, having sufficient stock, and how to attract visitors at a major event like this.

Beyond that, I found something much more valuable: community. At Jakarta Toys Fair, I met many like-minded individuals who shared a passion for toys, including members of the Indonesia Designer Toys Society. They introduced me to a larger world, opening opportunities to participate in the Indonesia Designer Toys Expo just a few months later.

Reigniting My Passion

When I left Jakarta Toys Fair, I carried more than unsold items. I brought with me experiences, connections, and a renewed passion to keep creating. This event marked the beginning of a much larger journey in the world of designer toys—one that I continue to pursue with excitement and dedication.

Closing Thoughts

Jakarta Toys Fair wasn’t just an event for me. It was a milestone that shaped me into the toy artist I am today. If you’re a creator or a toy enthusiast, don’t miss the chance to dive into this world. You might find something far more valuable than just transactions—just like I did.