December 15th, 2009
Attack of the Japanese Paper Robots
These crafty creatures will delight both kids and parents
How many times have you bought something for one of your kids because, secretly, it was you that really wanted it? Well, get ready to do it again.
While vinyl collectible toys (from the likes of Kid Robot) have been popular for a while, PIPEROIDs are the only Japanese robots made entirely of paper. Like everything else cool, these little robots were first unleashed in Japan back in 2006, but are now available worldwide.
Besides looking good, the real treat is that you get to build them. PIPEROIDs come in small packages that contain several tube-shaped pipes; just cut, fold, and connect the paper until your creation is complete. Even the least crafty Dads should be able to finish in 20 minutes or so—but give yourself 45 minutes if you’ve got a little one who wants to “help.”
Currently, there’s 14 different PIPEROIDs, each with their own name and story. Music fans will flock to the Guyzer & Bean model (pictured above): Guyzer is the leader of an imaginary metal band, and Bean is his biggest fan. Other PIPEROID characters include hard-working Muscle Joe, legendary Samurai warrior Kibatora, and Hammer Rose, a fortune-telling girl robot.
Any of these mighty bots are sure to look great in your kids’ rooms, but then again, maybe you should keep it on your desk… you know, just to be safe.
*** WANT ONE? Sign up for our newsletter, Tweet about this post, or become our fan on Facebook and post about PIPEROIDs on our wall by Friday, December 18th and you’ll be entered to win a little bot of your very own.