As a custom creating business, we’re constantly developing new products and pushing the boundaries of our creativity. Each project we take on starts with an idea, and from there, we begin prototyping to bring that idea to life. Of course, not every prototype is perfect on the first try. Sometimes measurements are off, something we hadn’t considered doesn’t work out, or the design just needs a little tweaking. So we print, laser, cnc or paint iteration after iteration until we get it just right.

But what happens to those earlier prototypes—the ones that aren’t quite good enough to sell? For us, they’re a symbol of progress, and we don’t like the idea of throwing them away. Instead, we stash them away on a shelf in our studio, which we've lovingly dubbed “the Shelf of Misfit Prototypes.” Much like the toys in the Land of Misfit Toys, these pieces find new purpose and value through a little creativity. And every year, when DragonCon rolls around, we figure out how to give these misfit prototypes a second life.

That’s where DragonCon's SwagnSeek group comes in. SwagnSeek is all about spreading kindness and bringing unexpected moments of joy to fellow con-goers. We love the group’s mission of random acts of kindness, and each year we dig into the Shelf of Misfit Prototypes to create unique pieces to contribute to their efforts.

This year, we transformed our prototypes into a variety of fun accessories, including earrings, simple necklaces, Wonder Woman tiaras, and a few 3D-printed articulated unicorns. Each item was fashioned with care, even if they weren’t initially made for this purpose. For the earrings and necklaces, we laser-engraved custom designs onto kraft paper cards to package them, giving the pieces a polished, handcrafted look.

It’s a great way to promote creativity, sustainability, and community—values we hold dear. Rather than letting these prototypes go to waste, we find new ways to turn them into something that might brighten someone’s day. DragonCon is the perfect place to do just that. The passion, artistry, and creativity on display at the convention is inspiring, from the incredible cosplays to the hand-made swag that others share through SwagnSeek.

Participating in DragonCon through SwagnSeek brings us so much joy. It’s a celebration of creativity and kindness, and we’re honored to be a part of it. It reminds us that even things that don’t start out perfect can still be transformed into something beautiful and meaningful.

For us, it’s not just about making products—it’s about making connections and sharing joy with the community. Whether it’s through custom 3D printing or our participation in something like SwagnSeek, we’re always excited to be a part of something that brings people together and spreads happiness.