Ruffano (LE), Italy - Mauro Chiarillo, owner of “Le Idee di Archimede” (Archimedes’ Ideas) has had a passion for woodworking since he was a child. Growing up, he created objects out of pieces of scrap wood from the carpenters in his neighborhood. As his skills grew, Mauro made boxes and simple objects for relatives and friends. Later, while studying electronics, he used wood to give shape to his projects.

Mauro Chiarillo assembling his creations

Mauro enjoys giving these ideas a form. “Creating handcrafted toys is very interesting work and creates a positive outlet for children,” said Mauro. “Today, children are giving more and more of their attention to television and computers, which can make them passive observers rather than active participants in play.” Mauro believes that his colorful toys allow children to give their imaginations free rein, and assist in developing their natural creativity.

Typically, Mauro’s creations are inspired by his dreams. When he has a design idea, he first sketches it by hand, then works out the design elements on his computer. Once the virtual project is ready, he enters what he finds the most beautiful and interesting phase of the project: cutting the wood and assembling the first prototype.

The magic of fine craftsmanship

Roland’s EGX-600 gives Mauro the ability to create exactly what he dreams, and to share his imagination and creativity with children around the world. His story truly embodies the Roland philosophy: Transforming imagination into reality.

Mauro creates his works of art with a Roland EGX-600 benchtop engraver. Using this powerful tool, he gives shape to all the big and little parts that will be brightly painted and assembled into the finished toy. Mauro keeps all of his prototypes, making his shop into a sort of toy museum that fascinates adults and children of all ages.