Ep. 228 Toys on Tap w/ Tolzar Toys: Ink & Vinyl: Michael Bogle’s Journey from Skin to Sofubi

On this episode of Toys on Tap, we dive deep with Michael Bogle, the tattoo artist-turned-toy designer behind Tolsar Toys. Based in New Orleans and inspired by dark fantasy and gothic aesthetics, Michael shares how 18 years in tattooing led him to create ambitious, large-scale kaiju figures that push the boundaries of indie toy design.

We explore:

• How New Orleans culture and ‘90s media shaped his spooky, metal-infused style
• The evolution of his original character Kraju and its growing universe
• His hands-on, detail-first approach to toy design and storytelling
• Balancing creative ambition with personal life
• What’s next: Aruk the Immortal, graphic novels, and limited-edition skateboard merch

Michael’s work is a blend of rebellion, lore, and artistic precision proving that creative risk is always worth it.

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