Born in the mid 1980s in Brazil, and a lifelong fan of toys; Thiago Borne is a new force in the international designer toy scene. Releasing toys and other objects under his Resinagem brand.
In a few short years he has gained a loyal following internationally for his works. That are inspired by classic monsters, underground music, myth, and Japanese culture. Collaborating and forming friendships with a slew of fellow designers along the way. Such as John Black / Barely Human, Chris Faccone, Spec Toys, and Fábio Vermelho.
Sculpted by Alex Neto of SpecToys.
Thiago is also at the forefront of a new dawn in the soft vinyl designer toy scene that has seen a branching out in production from the usual hotbeds of China and Japan; to other countries – In Thiago’s case, Brazil! Allowing him to oversee each and every aspect of creation; as a DIY, toy creating powerhouse.
Wanting to learn more about Thiago and his wonderful toys, we sent him some questions to answer over email.
Check it out, below…
Getting Acquainted
Name and date of birth?
Thiago Borne
08/30/86
City, state, and country you currently call home?
Brasília, Brazil.
City, state, and country you are from?
Porto Alegre, Brazil.
Designed by Fábio Vermelho and sculpted by Gore Grail Toys.
To help us to get to know you – Please share a memory, or two, or even more if you wish; from the stages of your life noted below:
* Your childhood:
Toys have been a constant thread throughout my life, even from the very beginning.
One of my earliest memories is from when my sister was born. To help me adjust and avoid jealousy, my mother gave me a GI Joe figure as a “gift” from the newborn. It worked like magic – I was thrilled with the toy, and it’s stuck with me as a reminder of how toys have always brought me comfort and joy.
* Your teenage years:
During my teenage years, I kept collecting toys, but it wasn’t something I talked about much. I was already a bit of a nerd and didn’t want to give anyone more reasons to tease me.
Still, I secretly enjoyed expanding my collection and maintaining that connection to something I loved, even if I kept it under wraps.
* Your 20s:
My 20s were all about dedication and growth, especially academically. I pursued my BA, MA, and eventually my PhD, which required a lot of focus and hard work.
At the same time, I took my first steps into toy making, which would eventually become a significant part of my life.
Balancing these pursuits taught me a lot about commitment and creativity.
* Your 30s so far:
Now in my 30’s I’ve built on the foundation I started in my 20s, expanding my toy-making journey and exploring new creative opportunities.
It’s also been a time for reflection, figuring out what truly matters to me, and pursuing those things with more intention.
It feels like everything I’ve worked on so far – academically, creatively, and personally – has started to come together in meaningful ways.
Personal motto(s)?
I don’t really have a personal motto, but the phrase that comes to mind is, “Love is the law, love under will.”
It’s something that resonates with me on a deeper level, even if I don’t actively live by it as a motto.
To me, it speaks to the idea of balancing love and intention – letting love guide your actions, but doing so in a way that aligns with your own sense of purpose and authenticity. While I wouldn’t say I structure my life around it, it’s a phrase that has stuck with me over time.
What role did toys play in your childhood?
… and any favourites you remember?
Toys played a central role in my childhood, shaping so many of my memories and fuelling my imagination. They were more than just objects – they were companions, sources of joy, and even tools for understanding the world around me.
I’ve already mentioned the GI Joe figure my mom gave me when my sister was born, but there are so many other moments tied to toys.
One that stands out vividly is the Christmas I got my first Saint Seiya figure. I had wanted one for so long, but they were ridiculously expensive in Brazil. I remember going to a toy store when they were first released, just to see them in person, and watching a kid my age picking up a whole bunch at once. I was so jealous! Then I had to wait until Christmas to get one, but when I finally did, it felt magical.
Saint Seiya became one of my favorite lines, and the figures brought me endless joy.
Alongside Saint Seiya, other lines like Masters of the Universe (MOTU), Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT), and GI Joe were also staples of my childhood. These four were probably the ones that accompanied me the most.
Sculpted by Alex Neto of SpecToys, and designed by Gabriel Goes aka Billy Soco.
Creativity Questions
When and why did you first become interested in art, design, toys, and everything creative?
… and any pivotal moments or influences?
Art has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. My mother always encouraged me to explore and develop any artistic skills I was interested in.
By the time I was 7 or 8, I had already started taking art classes, and around the same time, I began creating comics, which was my first experience with storytelling through art.
In my teenage years, I started experimenting with different mediums, including painting and printmaking.
Art has always been a consistent presence in my life, shaping how I view and express the world. I’ve also been a collector of toys, a passion that faded for a while but was reignited when I discovered the possibility of creating custom figures. That discovery was a turning point for me.
If you had to explain your creative endeavours to some recently crash-landed aliens…
What would you tell them?
I’d start by saying that everything I create reflects the world I see and experience.
My work is heavily influenced by movies and music, which I consider endless wells of inspiration. They help shape my ideas, spark new directions, and provide a kind of emotional and visual language that I try to translate into my own creations.
I’d also explain that, coming from a developing country, I’ve grown up with a DIY mindset – approaching creativity as a process of resourcefulness and problem-solving. Whether it’s through RESINAGEM™ or other projects, I believe in working with what’s available and finding innovative ways to create something meaningful.
It’s not about chasing perfection; it’s about expressing ideas, adapting to limitations, and learning from the process.
That said, I’d emphasize that the DIY approach doesn’t mean settling for less or avoiding growth. On the contrary, I believe that striving for improvement is essential.
Every project is an opportunity to refine skills, push boundaries, and evolve creatively, even if it starts with humble beginnings. It’s about staying curious, open to learning, and finding joy in the journey of making things.
Two items from the Resinagem apparel line.
Please share the process for producing your wonderful soft vinyl toys!
From design, to sculpt, production, packaging, and eventual release.
The process of producing soft vinyl toys is a collaborative effort involving many people with different skills.
I begin with sketches and work closely with collaborators to refine the concept. This involves discussions with sculptors, illustrators, and others to ensure the idea is both clear and practical.
Once the concept is finalized, the sculptor creates the prototype, either by hand or digitally, depending on the design.
After the prototype is ready, molds are created to prepare for production.
During production, the factory team carefully pulls the vinyl, ensuring each piece is made accurately and aligns with the original design. Their expertise is crucial to bringing the toy to life.
Packaging is another important part of the process, often featuring custom designs that complement the toy. Collaborators may contribute illustrations or design elements to enhance the presentation.
The final step is the release, where the toy is shared with collectors.
Each stage, from concept to production, requires collaboration and meticulous planning to bring the design to life. The entire process relies on teamwork and attention to detail.
How does the production for your resin toys differ compared with your soft vinyl?
The production of resin toys differs from soft vinyl in several ways, especially in how much more labour-intensive it can be. With resin, the entire process usually relies on me, from mold-making to finishing.
Mold-making is a critical step and can take quite a bit of time to get right.
Once the casting begins, each piece has to be poured individually, which requires attention and care to ensure consistency.
After the resin cures, there’s a lot of sanding and cleaning involved to remove imperfections and refine the shape. This part of the process can be time-consuming and messy, but it’s necessary to achieve a finished piece that matches the original design.
Unlike soft vinyl, which involves a larger team and specialized machinery, resin production is more hands-on and personal.
It’s a slower process, but it allows for a lot of control over the final product.
With the head being sculpted by Gore Grail Toys.
You have collaborated many times with fellow artist and toy maker John Black aka Barely Human…
* How did the two of you come to connect and form a friendship?
… and what impact has John had on your artistic, business, and personal life?
John and I first connected online when he was looking to have some pieces produced in Brazil. That initial collaboration quickly grew into a friendship, and we started working on joint releases.
Over time, John created some amazing sculpts that we released together, and last year, we finally had the chance to meet in person at Super Festival in Japan. It was an unforgettable experience – not just because it was our first face-to-face meeting, but also because we got to see how people reacted to our work.
Watching collectors engage with and appreciate what we created was incredibly rewarding.
John is not only an extremely talented artist but also one of the kindest and sweetest people I’ve met. Exploring Tokyo with him was a blast – whether we were geeking out over toys, discovering hidden shops, or just soaking in the city’s energy, it felt like we were on the same wavelength the whole time.
Sharing those moments made our connection even stronger.
* Anything new in the works from you and John?
Looking ahead, we’re excited about doing more events together. The energy of being at Super Festival and engaging with people in person was something we both loved, and we want to keep that momentum going.
We’ve got several joint releases in the works – some are already in the pipeline, while others are still being developed.
If it’s up to me, our partnership will be a lasting one. Collaborating with John has been one of the highlights of my creative journey, and I can’t wait to see what else we can achieve together.
A collaborative release from John Black aka Barely Human and Thiago.
Who are some of your favourite artists, filmmakers, musicians, and toymakers?
…and what is it about their works that inspire and move you?
I admire many artists across different fields, and John is definitely one of them. Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to collaborate with several artists I look up to. Some are from Brazil, while others are from abroad, and they span a variety of creative disciplines – toy makers, comic artists, tattoo artists, and more.
I’ve worked with amazing creators like Billy Soco, Goregrail, Toy Soldier, Legion Toys, Nekosatsu, Spectoys, and many others. But honestly, I hesitate to name too many names because I’d hate to leave anyone out.
RESINAGEM has always been a collective effort, and I’m deeply grateful to everyone who has supported me in any way, whether through collaborations or encouragement.
Music also plays a huge role in what I do. I draw a lot of inspiration from heavy metal and punk, both for their raw energy and the DIY ethos they embody.
That spirit of rebellion, creativity, and making something meaningful with what you have is at the core of my work. Whether it’s through the visual aesthetics or the attitude behind it, music shapes how I approach my art and projects. It’s all interconnected for me – a fusion of influences that keeps me inspired and motivated.
If people wanted to check out your stuff, work with you, or buy some of your wares – Where should they visit and how should they get in touch?
The best way to check out my work, stay updated, or get in touch is through Instagram. On my profile, you’ll find a link to my store, updates on new releases, and everything else you might need to know. If you’re interested in collaborating or have any questions, feel free to send me a DM – I do my best to respond to everyone as quickly as I can.
It’s always great to connect with people who share an interest in what I do!
Any news, upcoming projects, or releases to share?
Yes, I do have some exciting news!
My next release will be my kappa (a mythical creature or yōkai from Japanese folklore) figure, which I’ve been working on for a while now. If you follow me on Instagram, you might have already seen some pictures. I’m still finalizing a few details, but I’m hoping to have it ready for release soon.
Beyond that, there are several other projects already in production. While I can’t share too many details just yet, I can say that some of these releases will be made in Brazil, while others are being produced elsewhere.
It’s shaping up to be a very productive year, and I’m really excited about what’s coming. Stay tuned!
A collaborative effort between Thiago, Alex of SpecToys, and Gabriel Goes aka Billy Soco.
Odds & Ends
If you could live in any place, during any historical era – When and where would that be?
… and why would you choose that time and place?
If I had the choice to live in any time and place, I would choose to stay in the present.
While it’s tempting to imagine life in the past or to fantasize about a distant future, the era we live in now is unparalleled in many ways. We have access to extraordinary knowledge, technology, and opportunities for global connection that were unimaginable in the past. This level of access and innovation offers countless ways to learn, create, and collaborate, making the present a uniquely rich time to be alive.
That said, the future feels uncertain due to the severity of issues like inequality, climate change, ongoing wars, political instability, and social polarization. Despite this, I’m deeply curious about the future – how we’ll adapt, what new challenges and innovations will emerge, and how humanity will respond to the crises of today.
I’d love to catch a glimpse of what’s to come, but only if we manage to navigate our current challenges wisely.
Ultimately, I believe the present is where we’re meant to be – engaging with the complexities of our time, striving to address injustices, and finding ways to contribute to a better world.
While the allure of the past or future is strong, I see the now as an opportunity to act, create, and connect in ways that could shape what’s ahead.
What are the top 3 items you own?
… and what is it about each of them that you so love?
This is such a hard question – it’s like picking a favorite child!
If I had to choose, I’d say the top items in my toy collection are those that have been painted or customized by other artists, such as John and Mr. Goto. There’s something incredible about seeing how others take a toy and use it as a canvas to create entirely new and unique renditions of the same character.
It’s a reminder of how versatile and inspiring toys can be as a medium for artistic expression.
I also treasure pieces that have been with me since I was a kid.
These hold a special sentimental value, representing a connection to my past and the memories tied to them. I could probably pick at least one from each of the lines I mentioned before. But I will say that my first He-Man, which I got for my second or third birthday, is especially special.
It reminds me of the excitement and imagination that toys sparked in me growing up – the same excitement that continues to fuel my work today.
In a fight between the following iconic furry 1980s monsters: My Pet Monster (the toy) Vs. A gang of rowdy Ewoks (from Star Wars) – Who would win?
…and why?
Haha, this is a fun one!
Since I never had a My Pet Monster, I’ve got to side with the Ewoks. They’d definitely have the upper hand (or paw?) by sheer numbers and their knack for teamwork.
While My Pet Monster might have brute strength on its side, the Ewoks are masters of guerrilla tactics, traps, and working together to take down much bigger foes (just ask the Empire).
Quantity, strategy, and a touch of chaos from a gang of rowdy Ewoks would likely tip the scales in their favour. Plus, they’re scrappy and resourceful – who can argue with an army that can turn logs and ropes into deadly weapons?
Sorry, My Pet Monster, but the Ewoks would probably come out on top!
If you had to sum up your home-country, Brazil, in one object – What would it be?
Why did you choose it?
… and how does it represent Brazil to you?
Brazil is such a vast and diverse country that choosing a single object to represent it feels almost impossible. Instead, I’d choose something intangible: resilience.
To me, this word captures the spirit of Brazil and its people.
Our history is one of incredible challenges – centuries of colonial rule, enslavement, political oppression, and deep social inequalities. And yet, in the face of these struggles, there’s a remarkable capacity to adapt, endure, and find ways to move forward. It’s not about romanticizing poverty or hardship, but rather recognizing the creativity, strength, and determination that emerge in the most difficult circumstances.
Whether it’s through art, music, or daily life, Brazilians have an incredible ability to make something out of nothing, to find joy even in adversity, and to keep pushing forward. Resilience isn’t just a trait – it’s a way of life that reflects the complexity and beauty of Brazil’s story.
It’s what makes the country so unique and inspiring to me.
Please describe your last dream in detail…
I usually don’t remember my dreams, so can I share some daydreams instead? Haha!
Lately, I’ve been dreaming about my upcoming releases – hoping they’ll be well-received and connect with people the way I imagine. It’s always exciting to think about how others might interpret and enjoy the work I’ve put so much into.
I’ve also been daydreaming about attending events abroad. There’s something special about being in those spaces, surrounded by like-minded people who share the same passion. It’s not just about showcasing work; it’s about meeting old friends, making new ones, and sharing ideas and inspiration.
The thought of traveling, connecting, and being part of those experiences keeps me motivated and excited about what’s ahead!
Head sculpt by John aka Barely Human.
What does God mean to you?
I have an ambiguous relationship with God, religion, and spirituality.
I wouldn’t describe myself as a believer, but these topics fascinate me on many levels. I think I fall into the category of an agnostic – someone who “wants to believe” but often struggles to do so.
My rational side tends to get in the way of fully embracing the idea of supernatural or divine powers. I find it hard to reconcile belief in something beyond what we can observe or understand logically.
At the same time, I’m drawn to the questions and ideas that religion and spirituality explore: the nature of existence, purpose, morality, and the search for meaning.
So while I might not believe in a conventional sense, I have a deep respect for the ways these concepts shape people’s lives and cultures. For me, it’s less about faith and more about curiosity – wanting to understand the stories, ideas, and traditions that have shaped human thought for so long.
Of everything you have done so far, what would you most like to be remembered for?
If I could choose, I’d like to be remembered as someone who was kind and gentle – someone who could help others, build connections, and be trusted.
To me, those personal qualities matter more than anything else. At the end of the day, it’s about the impact we have on people’s lives, even in small ways.
That said, I’d also love for RESINAGEM™ to be remembered as a pioneer of independent toy-making in Brazil.
That’s probably my vanity speaking, but it would mean a lot to know that my work inspired others or contributed in some way to this creative field.
Ultimately, though, what matters most is leaving behind a legacy of kindness and connection, because that’s what truly lasts.
Links
- Resinagem – Instagram
- Resinagem – Online Store
- Thiago Borne – Instagram
- Thiago Borne – LinkedIn
All images supplied by Thiago, or sourced online.
