
Photo: © Tonies
My First Tonies
Product Design and Design Language
Defining a new design language for Tonies' youngest audience. Crafted specifically for toddlers, the line introduces softer forms and ultra-simple interactions.
Where to next?
Case study: Talanja Doan's work as Product Designer at Tonies GmbH from 2022 to present, including the My First Tonies, Pocket Tonies and Book Tonies product lines and more than thirty figurines sculpted by hand in collaboration with Disney, Paramount and Warner Bros.
2022 — present
An insight into areas I worked on during my employment as a Product Designer at Tonies.
Role · Product Designer
Lead, Global Own Content
At Tonies, my role is all about shaping the visual identity and defining the design language for Tonies Originals. I guide the overarching conceptual direction by turning abstract story ideas into characters and worlds that resonate with children to ensure every original product feels intentional and truly tonies.
In the past my work focused heavily on hands-on design and expanding what a Tonie can be. I have sculpted over 30 physical figurines, collaborating closely with global licensors like Disney, Paramount and Warner Bros. to bring beloved characters off the screen and into children's hands. Partnering with these major studios gave me a sharp instinct for navigating complex IP frameworks, learning how to innovate while respecting strict guidelines. I carried this strategic approach into developing new formats like My First Tonies, Pocket and Book Tonies, successfully taking these new categories from early sketches to global market readiness to support families at every stage of childhood.

Photo: © Tonies
Product Design and Design Language
Defining a new design language for Tonies' youngest audience. Crafted specifically for toddlers, the line introduces softer forms and ultra-simple interactions.

Photo: © Tonies
Product Design and Design Management
Designed a product line extension based on Pocket Tonies' success introducing longer stories. Responsible for variation design management.

Photo: © Tonies
Product Design and Design Management
Designed a new portable product that answer big questions and foster curiosity. Responsible for variation design management.

Photo: © Tonies
Designed a variety of games, bags and accessories with licensing partners.
A selection of my favorite figurines I sculpted in the past.









Photo: © Tonies

My First Tonies won the Baby & Infant category at the Spielwarenmesse 2026 ToyAward in Nuremberg for its soft, easy-to-grasp audio figures that introduce toddlers to age-appropriate storytelling and sensory play.
And that's just a glimpse