The New Manufacturer for the Inflatable Skunk...
7 years ago
Hi everyone!
I just want to apologize for the inactivity on this page and for not providing any news regarding the Inflatable Skunk project. I've been getting questions from many people asking about the project on when it's going to start, are they gonna be made by Jets, etc. and tried to answer as many questions without leaving too many people in the dark.
I was hoping that production would start by the end of last year but unfortunately, this new manufacturer can only take a limited number of runs at a time.
I didn't want to disclose the next manufacturer to the public in case I get any complaints because of it. Though I've decided that I am going to tell you right now who will be making the Skunks and why.
The new manufacturer of the Pouncing Skunk will be made by InflatableWorld(dot)de and for the following reasons:
1). Many of my customers (including myself) have been experiencing some problems with the JetCreations run. The problems are, black ink sheds off over time (especially folding causes streaks in the paint), leaving an ugly white streak. Problems with seams, various leaks (especially under the belly) which usually spring when riding. I needed to reinforce my Skunk just so I can ride him. And lastly, some seams have not been properly welded.
2). I can't do these runs by myself, it was very tiring for me to manage all those invoices, replying to enquiry's etc. and just to make sure that everybody got their Skunk safe and sound and in one piece. I don't want it to be managed by PuffyPaws of G&G as they only sell products by pre-orders and would rather have them always available (which is why I prefer Inflatable World's strategy).
and 3). IW toys are generally more reliable and are more robust than Jets toys. I know that Jets' vinyl tends to be a lot firmer than IW's toys, which probably explains why they are more prone to leaks. I've owned numerous IW toys and from my experience. I've NEVER encountered a problem with their toys. They're a lot more flexible and can take pressure and abuse a lot better than with the Jets toys.
It is also worth noting that IW is more of a ballpark for ride-on toys, whereas Jets are more meant to be decoration items rather than toys.
And for that reason alone, is why I much prefer IW to make the Skunks than any other company.
I know that the earlier IW toys (such as the 3M Whale when they first came out) had problems with leaking due to the pinched seams, but they've improved so much over the years that it isn't something that should concern you.
Either way, I hope you find this informative and hope to shed some light on the whole project, and hope that you will end up buying one of IW's Skunks once they're released to the public!
They plan to start working on the prototype for the Skunk for the first half of this year, so fingers crossed! And be patient.
Cheers!
Celebius (trainz10)
I just want to apologize for the inactivity on this page and for not providing any news regarding the Inflatable Skunk project. I've been getting questions from many people asking about the project on when it's going to start, are they gonna be made by Jets, etc. and tried to answer as many questions without leaving too many people in the dark.
I was hoping that production would start by the end of last year but unfortunately, this new manufacturer can only take a limited number of runs at a time.
I didn't want to disclose the next manufacturer to the public in case I get any complaints because of it. Though I've decided that I am going to tell you right now who will be making the Skunks and why.
The new manufacturer of the Pouncing Skunk will be made by InflatableWorld(dot)de and for the following reasons:
1). Many of my customers (including myself) have been experiencing some problems with the JetCreations run. The problems are, black ink sheds off over time (especially folding causes streaks in the paint), leaving an ugly white streak. Problems with seams, various leaks (especially under the belly) which usually spring when riding. I needed to reinforce my Skunk just so I can ride him. And lastly, some seams have not been properly welded.
2). I can't do these runs by myself, it was very tiring for me to manage all those invoices, replying to enquiry's etc. and just to make sure that everybody got their Skunk safe and sound and in one piece. I don't want it to be managed by PuffyPaws of G&G as they only sell products by pre-orders and would rather have them always available (which is why I prefer Inflatable World's strategy).
and 3). IW toys are generally more reliable and are more robust than Jets toys. I know that Jets' vinyl tends to be a lot firmer than IW's toys, which probably explains why they are more prone to leaks. I've owned numerous IW toys and from my experience. I've NEVER encountered a problem with their toys. They're a lot more flexible and can take pressure and abuse a lot better than with the Jets toys.
It is also worth noting that IW is more of a ballpark for ride-on toys, whereas Jets are more meant to be decoration items rather than toys.
And for that reason alone, is why I much prefer IW to make the Skunks than any other company.
I know that the earlier IW toys (such as the 3M Whale when they first came out) had problems with leaking due to the pinched seams, but they've improved so much over the years that it isn't something that should concern you.
Either way, I hope you find this informative and hope to shed some light on the whole project, and hope that you will end up buying one of IW's Skunks once they're released to the public!
They plan to start working on the prototype for the Skunk for the first half of this year, so fingers crossed! And be patient.
Cheers!
Celebius (trainz10)
FA+

http://www.furaffinity.net/view/26466830/
this sounds pretty cool actually!
I will also endeavor to to keep the design/shape as close to the original. There will certainly be differences with the softer vinyl and all, but I will be working hard with the IW team to make sure it doesn't like "re-traced" if you know what I mean.
It's best to see how the sales of the skunk pick up, and if they become popular, then we MIGHT consider having a shiny version as well.
I'll be excitedly waiting for more updates!
Wasn't there 1 pink variant out there? I'd kill for a pink run of these. But excited to be able to pick one up FINALLY :D
Hope the new IW design has alot of overlapping seams.