If you’re new to the world of collectibles, especially designer toys, you’ve probably come across a blind box at some point. They’re exciting, right? The thrill of not knowing exactly what you’re going to get adds an extra layer of mystery and fun. One brand that’s taken this concept to another level is Labubu, a character designed by artist Kasing Lung under the popular collectible toy brand POP MART. But with so many adorable and limited-edition designs, how do you know what’s inside a Labubu blind box? Let’s break it down.
1: What Is a Labubu Blind Box?
1: The Basics of Blind Boxes
A blind box is exactly what it sounds like – a box where the contents are unknown until you open it. Think of it like a surprise bag but filled with toys! Labubu blind boxes, in particular, feature unique figurines of the mischievous little creature Labubu, which is beloved for its quirky and whimsical designs.
You don’t know which specific design you’ll get in a blind box, and that’s where the fun (and frustration) comes in! Whether you get a common figure, a rare one, or even an ultra-rare edition, it’s all up to chance.
2: Who is Labubu?
Labubu is a character designed by Kasing Lung, a popular artist known for creating creatures that look like they’ve jumped out of a fairy tale book. With big eyes, pointy teeth, and playful expressions, Labubu has stolen the hearts of toy collectors all over the world. Each Labubu figure tells its own story, and some come dressed in themes ranging from mythical creatures to forest animals.
3: The Popularity of Labubu Blind Boxes
The Labubu blind box series is extremely popular among toy collectors and enthusiasts. Why? Because each series has a different theme, making them not only fun to collect but also highly addictive. Whether it’s a Halloween-themed Labubu, a space adventure series, or even a Labubu dressed as a sushi roll, there’s a series for every kind of collector.
2: How Blind Boxes Work: The Mystery Element
1: What’s the Deal with the Mystery?
The whole appeal of a blind box is the element of surprise. You don’t know what’s inside until you rip it open. This taps into the thrill of mystery – it’s like buying a lottery ticket but for toys. Will you get the one you’ve been eyeing, or end up with a double of the same character? The excitement of unboxing is where the magic lies.
2: Can You Predict What’s in the Labubu Blind Box?
Here’s the million-dollar question: Can you figure out what’s in your Labubu blind box before you open it? The short answer is no, not really. Blind boxes are designed to keep the mystery alive, which is part of the fun.
But (and here’s the fun part), there are a few sneaky tips and tricks some collectors use to “guess” what might be inside.
3: Tips and Tricks to Know What’s Inside Your Labubu Blind Box
1: Weight Method
Did you know that different figures can weigh slightly more or less depending on the design? Some collectors bring a small scale with them to weigh the blind boxes. If you’ve been collecting Labubu for a while, you might start to recognize which ones are heavier due to accessories or larger figures.
2: Packaging Sounds
Another (slightly sneaky) way is to shake the box gently. Some characters come with accessories that make noise when moved around. If you’re familiar with a specific series, you might be able to guess which figure has those rattling parts inside.
3: Online Communities
There are entire communities of Labubu enthusiasts who share their insights on which figures are most likely to be in a box based on its serial number or production batch. Although this method isn’t 100% accurate, it’s a fun way to connect with other collectors and exchange tips.
4: Factory Codes
Some collectors have figured out that certain factory codes printed on the packaging may correlate with specific figures inside the box. This isn’t an official method (because blind boxes are meant to be, well, blind), but you might find someone who swears by it.
5: Remember the Odds
Most blind box series follow a rarity pattern. There are always common figures that are more likely to show up, while rare and ultra-rare figures are, well, rare! You can usually find the odds printed on the box, so if you’ve opened a few and haven’t gotten a rare one yet, you might have better odds on your next try.
4: Common Types of Labubu Blind Box Figures
1: Regular Figures
Each Labubu blind box typically includes a set number of regular figures, which are easier to find. These are the ones that most collectors will get when they buy a few boxes from a series.
2: Rare and Chase Figures
The rare or chase figures are harder to come by, making them more desirable to collectors. Sometimes they have unique designs, different colors, or special accessories that set them apart from the regular figures. If you get one of these, consider yourself lucky!
3: Ultra-Rare and Limited Editions
Then there’s the holy grail of blind boxes: the ultra-rare or limited edition figures. These are often designed with extra care and detail, and they might be part of a special promotion or limited run. If you manage to pull one of these, you’ve hit the jackpot!
5: What If You Get Duplicates?
1: The Problem with Duplicates
The biggest fear for any blind box collector is opening the box only to find a figure you already have. Duplicates can feel like a bummer, especially when you’ve spent money hoping for something new.
2: Trading with Other Collectors
But don’t worry, you’re not stuck with duplicates forever. The toy community is huge, and there are plenty of places where you can trade your duplicates with others. There are even online platforms and groups dedicated to swapping figures.
3: Selling or Gifting
If trading isn’t your style, you can also sell your duplicate figures to other collectors or gift them to a friend who’s just starting their collection.
6: Why Do People Love Labubu Blind Boxes?
1: The Artistry and Design
One of the biggest reasons people love Labubu blind boxes is because of the incredible artwork and design that goes into each figure. Kasing Lung’s creations are filled with detail, and each one feels like a tiny piece of art.
2: The Element of Surprise
Another reason? The element of surprise! There’s something undeniably fun about opening a blind box and not knowing what you’re going to get. It’s like a mini adventure in every box.
3: Collecting as a Hobby
For many, collecting Labubu blind boxes is more than just a hobby; it’s a passion. Each new series brings new excitement, and completing a full set can be incredibly rewarding.
7: Where to Buy Labubu Blind Boxes
1: POP MART Stores
If you live in a big city, you might have a POP MART store nearby where you can pick up Labubu blind boxes in person. This way, you can feel the box, shake it, and try out some of the tips we mentioned earlier!
2: Online Retailers
For those who don’t have access to a physical store, online retailers are your best bet. Websites like Amazon, POP MART’s official site, and other specialty toy retailers usually have Labubu blind boxes in stock.
3: Beware of Fakes
Always be cautious when buying from unofficial sellers. Labubu figures are highly sought after, which means there’s always the risk of counterfeit items. Make sure you’re buying from a reputable source to avoid any disappointment.
Conclusion
So, there you have it – the world of Labubu blind boxes is filled with excitement, artistry, and a bit of mystery. While there’s no surefire way to predict exactly what’s inside, half the fun is in the surprise! Whether you’re using weight, shaking the box, or checking out online tips, remember that collecting is all about the experience. Even if you get a duplicate, there’s always someone out there willing to trade or share in your excitement.
Happy collecting!
FAQs
1: What’s the easiest way to avoid duplicates?
The best way is to trade with other collectors or buy from resellers who offer specific figures. This way, you don’t rely solely on luck.
2: Can I buy a full set of Labubu figures?
Yes, some retailers offer the option to purchase an entire set. This guarantees you get one of each figure from a series, but it usually costs more upfront.
3: Are there Labubu blind boxes for beginners?
Absolutely! Many Labubu series have common figures that are great for new collectors. You can start small and build your collection over time.
4: What makes a figure rare?
A rare figure typically has a different design, color variation, or special features that set it apart from the regular figures in a series.
5: How do I know if my Labubu figure is authentic?
Make sure to buy from official retailers or trusted sellers. Check for authentic POP MART packaging and certificates of authenticity where available.