Hasta La Ideas

Win a new set of colorful magnetic wood blocks

Like the originals, Tegu makes their new line of colorful building blocks using sustainably harvested tropical hardwood, reflecting the Honduras-based toy company’s commitment to creating imaginative projects while giving back to the community. Tints also keep the original inspiration of high-quality European wood toys at the core of the design, and the candy-colored, magnetic blocks have kids of all ages eager to build their next dream house or helicopter.

With brothers and founders Chris and Will Haughey at the helm, since setting up shop in Tegucigalpas in 2006 the young brand has continued to work with local Honduran cooperatives who individually hand-pick each mature tree for use. Tegu also supports reforestation by partnering with local organizations and donating a portion of profits to replanting trees.

Demonstrating just how innovative their blocks really are, Tegu recently began live-streaming building sessions online. The Tegu Block Genius will build any request sent in, simply tweet (@tegu) your idea and watch it come to life on the Tegu website where it will then be archived as part of an online manual of Tegu creations.

We’re giving away two sets of Tegu Tints with their carrying case. To enter, simply follow us on Twitter and tweet what you would build with your Tints before 9am EST on 17 November 2010. Be sure to include @coolhunting and #tegutints so we can find your tweets. Otherwise, you can buy a set ($110) from
Tegu’s online store.

Derived from the natural inclination to flip and play with pens, BaliYo is simultaneously a toy and pen designed to maximize hand-eye coordination with its three-piece twirl-able construction.

The center piece, a functioning ballpoint pen connected to two parallel arms, means that the symmetrically-sized pieces swing and rotate, changing speed and exertion as you play. The cleverly designed BaliYo structure allows for a number of engaging tricks, including two-handed, aerials, spins and quick flips for hours of carefree fun.

The refillable pen enhances fine motor skills and will write upside down or at any angle, as well as underwater. BaliYo comes in an assortment of colorways and sells online for $35.