There were a ton of really cool DIY items at Toy Fair along with a few companies that could knock out custom products for all sorts of occasions or organizations.No matter the age range, there was something for everyone at this year’s show that allowed for free expression of just about any creative urges. Here’s another “Best Of” look at a few more upcoming or already available items or services that really caught my eye…

As soon as I saw littleBits booth, I had to stop and poke around because seeing all those tiny electronic modules on display reminded me of taking apart assorted electronics as a kid. Of course, I was pretty lousy at putting them back together, but had they been made of littleBits, I’d have probably created something else out of that old AM radio. What’s so brilliant about the product line is the broad appeal to anyone (over age 3, that is) who wants to tinker with their own creativity.

There are currently thirteen different Bits including a motion trigger, light sensor, fan, assorted connectors and switches that click together magnetically to form the basis of anything from a simple light-up device to a more complex rolling machine. No soldering, welding or even basic programming skills are necessary, so parents won’t have to worry about Junior blowing up his bedroom at all. You can also find some cool project ideas online through the littleBits community or just play around with your own brain and come up with that better mousetrap you’ve been contemplating for a bit too long.

Even better, Bits are designed and constructed here in the U.S. of A., so you’re getting some very high quality workmanship that shows we haven’t lost our tech touch to cheaper manufacturing processes overseas. $89.99 gets you a 10-part Starter Kit, a 3-part Teaser Kit is $29.99, and individual Bits currently range from US$14 – $36. New Bits will be added over time, so this is one of those great products that will only get bigger and better over time (while, paradoxically, still remaining tiny and fun to use).  My tired brain is actually wondering if one could electrify a Loog with some of those Bits (which I think would be a killer one-two punch of a project combo)…

If you’re someone with an idea for a plush toy and are looking for someplace to get it made for you in bulk, look no further than Gann Memorials. Based out of Raleigh, NC, this family-owned company has been around since 1999, initially doing plush teddy bears and other stuffed toys for as fund-raisers for assorted charities. Gann still does this today for Mending Me and Anchor Animals, but they’ve also been very busy crafting custom plush toys for a wide range of corporate and other clients from Nintendo, Eddie Bauer, musician Martina McBride and even a few major Hollywood studios. If you remember that rather intense eye surgery scene from Final Destination 5, you’ll have also seen some of Gann’ custom plush work (from between your fingers, most likely). Additionally, the upcoming film, Silent Hill 2 will feature even more Gann creations (I’m thinking that creepy life-sized bunny will be what they’re working on for that one).

Gann also has a fun new line of Android-themed plush characters and accessories called Ganndroids that includes a few figures and a cool phone holder (shown to the left), all inspired by the innovative OS that’s taking on the Apple juggernaut and scoring some major victories as it becomes more widely accepted.  Dangle your device from one of these and show your loyalty to fellow Android fans wherever you go! I made a joke to Chris Gann (the company’s owner and President) that if Google gets into manufacturing actual Google-branded, Android powered TV’s, Gann ought to make a giant Ganndroid sleeve that doubles as a carrying case and wall mount.

The company also offers up organic plush options and has a showroom where you can check out their previous commission work. If you’ve ever wanted to fill your home with thousands of fuzzy likenesses of the family pet or a character your child has drawn and you’ve got the money, Gann can probably make you very happy indeed.

Back with more post-Toy Fair 2012 impressions shortly…