Channapatna toys are a particular form of wooden toys and dolls that are manufactured in the town of Channapatna in the Ramanagara district of Karnataka state, India. This traditional craft is protected as a geographical indication (GI) under the World Trade Organization, administered by the Government of Karnataka. Channapatna toys are not only culturally unique but also eco-conscious in their making. The toys are made from ivory wood from managed forests and finished with eco-friendly, non-toxic dyes. Channapatna toys also include mathematical puzzles and games for children. The greater prominence of the Channapatna toys can be traced to patronage from Tipu Sultan, the historic ruler of Mysore, though these toys existed before this period historically given as gifts as part of Dusshera celebrations. The craft has diversified over time; in addition to the traditional ivory-wood, other woods — including rubber, sycamore, cedar, pine and teak — are now used as well. Manufacturing stages include procuring the wood, seasoning the wood, cutting the wood into the desired shapes, pruning and carving the toys, applying the colours and finally polishing the finished product. Vegetable dyes are used in the colouring process to ensure that the toys and dolls are safe for use by children. The Karnataka Handicrafts Development Corporation (KHDC) provides assistance with marketing efforts.

Department of Fashion Design, Faculty of Art and Design, RUAS is organized a visit to the ​“Chennapatna toy factory” on 24^th February 2024 to the Lacquerware Craft Complex, Channapatna. The unit is the production place for the Cauvery emporium which is under the State Govt. Of Karnataka. The contact person of the factory was Mr. Kalimulla Shariff, Manager of the unit. The students visited the factory that had 10 machines. The artisans were working on various stages of making the toys, such as polishing, making the holes, colouring etc. the students talked with the artisans directly and took their insights on the work. The students also asked them their doubts and were answered promptly and meticulously.