Piece by Piece, an Ancient Chinese Craft Is Shaping Future Toys

Sunmao, an ancient woodworking technique that connects without nails or glue, is making a comeback in the world of toy manufacturing. This resurgence is part of a broader trend of adapting traditional crafts for modern markets, driven by demand from Gen Z.Editor’s note: This is the first in a two-part series exploring how guochao — or “China chic,” a movement blending traditional Chinese aesthetics in contemporary consumer products — continues to influence modern China, from traditional crafts and modern fashion to culture and digital media.Born into four generations of carpenters and trained as an architect, Hao Liyan seemed destined for a career in building or design. Yet, he found his true calling where the two disciplines intersect: running a business crafting toys that use traditional Chinese mortise-and-tenon joints.“I had seen all the hard work and injuries my forebears endured and decided against following in their footsteps,” the 42-year-old tells Sixth Tone. “ ………………………………