What To Prepare Before Custom Plush Toy Sampling? A Complete Checklist for Buyers

Many brands, IP owners and cross-border sellers encounter delays, repeated revisions and unsatisfactory prototypes when ordering custom plush toys, simply because the design brief is incomplete. Missing details lead to inaccurate quotations, longer lead times and samples that do not match your vision.

As a professional plush toy manufacturer, we have prepared a practical checklist. With these details ready, we can quote accurately and start sampling efficiently.

1. Artwork & References

Front, side and back views are preferred. Vector AI files work best. A single front view only makes it hard for pattern makers to define depth, back shape and limbs, which often causes proportion issues. Mark facial details, embroidery or print areas, and provide Pantone color codes for consistent color matching. For licensed characters, please prepare IP authorization documents.

2. Product Specifications

• Final size: specify sitting height, standing height or total length

• Fabric preference: minky, crystal velvet, spandex, special fabrics, swatch reference if available

• Stuffing: standard PP cotton, firm filling, weighted beads, no filling

• Special functions: voice recorder, sound module, light, scent sachet, movable joints

3. Crafts & Accessories

Facial options: embroidered eyes, safety plastic eyes, printed eyes Add-ons: clothing, hats, bows, keychains, hang tags, woven labels Packaging: individual polybag, color box, gift box, export carton specs

4. Compliance & Market Requirements (critical for US & EU orders)

Target sales region: USA, Canada, EU etc. Relevant standards: ASTM F963, CPSIA, EN71, CE Age grade: items for children under 3 years old have strict rules on small removable parts Required tests & certificates: CPC, SGS, HQTS test reports

5. Order & Timeline

Estimated quantity, MOQ Sample types: prototype sample, pre-production sample, test sample Deadlines for launch, trade show or retail release

Common pitfalls to avoid

• Low-resolution single-angle pictures often create large gaps between expectation and finished sample

• Color names such as “red” or “blue” without Pantone codes will lead to color deviation

• Starting sampling too late before peak season leaves no buffer for revisions and testing

If you only have rough sketches or AI-generated images, you can still send them over. Our pattern team will review and advise what extra information is needed.

We offer OEM & ODM plush services: plush keychains, mascots, recordable plush, cushions and more. Normally prototype samples are ready within 5–7 working days once specs are confirmed.

Send your artwork to us today for evaluation, quotation and sampling arrangement.