You say the phrase "designer toy" or "art toy" around here and people cringe. And rightly so - most of it is overpriced and under-articulated, at least for Japanese toy and action figure collectors. A lot of it is very pretentious and ego centric.

When I saw Shocker toys was getting into this game, I thought to myself - "A day late and a dollar short".

Not only has the designer toy culture burst, but the culture is so focused on name recognition. If KidRobot makes a vinyl, great - if Mattel makes one - corporate sellout.

So when I was approached to review this Mallow figure, I had expected the worst. Imagine my surprise. Something really wonderful happened.

First of all - Mallows are not vinyl at all, but hard ABS plastic. Secondly, they are articulated, with 9 points of articulation. And finally - they are CHEAP! At about 14.00 USD, you can purchase an army of them for the price of one designer figure. It's quite remarkable really.

The toy comes in a cardboard box, with the toy resting in a clear tray. The packaging is suprisingly sturdy.

A blank mallow is just that - totally undecorated. So far they come in black and white, as well as some pre-painted versions.

The joints on this thing are VERY tight. The plastic is high-quality, with no noticeable flaws or seam lines. It's perfect, and durable.

So I was sitting there, playing with it and posing it and I was struck with inspiration.

See, in my other life I fancy myself something of an artist. I've been drawing skulls since junior high, inspired by Pushead and other 80s heavy metal artists. I have drawn on paper all my life, but now...

Inspired by the toy, I ran right out to the craft store and bought some paint markers. I took that Mallow and did what I do best - drew a skull on it. I was giddy with excitement.

It came out great. Sure, i'm not a popular or famous artist, but I created something with the Mallow as a canvas that made me feel like I could be. And without the pretentiousness or risk or ruining an expensive vinyl piece. The Mallow has just the right amount of canvas and a great texture to work on.

If you have ever though of doing your own custom figure, this is a great low-cost way to get into it.

I really thought I wasn't going to like this, and it quickly became one of my favorite pieces. Mallows are available at Shocker Toys