Since 1990, we have been designing and manufacturing children’s furniture in Erba. Every project begins in our workshop, where we oversee the entire production process, from design to finishing.
Erba, Como
From the initial idea to the final design, everything happens here.
Our workshop is located in Erba, in the province of Como. Here, we design, prototype, and finish every product. We oversee the entire production cycle, from the selection of materials to delivery.
We can address every detail, make adjustments as work progresses, and tailor production to the project. For those who work with us, this means having a single point of contact who is responsible for the entire process.
Production
Uniqueness and reproducibility—the same standard.
Our production process has evolved over time: from our artisanal beginnings to the integration of the most advanced woodworking technologies. We strive to combine uniqueness with high reproducibility.
We manufacture each item from birch plywood, finished with non-toxic coatings and inspected piece by piece. We comply with the strictest standards set by certification bodies such asthe National Toy Institute and TÜV.
The combination of digital precision and hand finishing allows us to produce both production runs for distributors and one-of-a-kind pieces for custom projects.
Production
Uniqueness and reproducibility—the same standard.
Our production process has evolved over time: from our artisanal beginnings to the integration of the most advanced woodworking technologies. We strive to combine uniqueness with high reproducibility.
We manufacture each item from birch plywood, finished with non-toxic coatings and inspected piece by piece. We comply with the strictest standards set by certification bodies such asthe National Toy Institute and TÜV.
The combination of digital precision and hand finishing allows us to produce both production runs for distributors and one-of-a-kind pieces for custom projects.
Design Process
From context to product.
We apply the principles of user-centered design to children’s design. Every project starts with a real need. We observe the context, listen to those who work there every day, and use that as the starting point for our design.
We test, correct, and improve. Every product goes through this continuous cycle before going into production.
The goal is not to design for consumption, but to make functionality and durability both sustainable and appealing, so that they become the reason people choose the product.
Our Team
Our team combines a range of skills: knowledge of educational environments and approaches, coupled with the passion of those who have been working with wood for thirty years.
Our History
The Magic of Wood, Since 1994
Merlino was born from an idea by Enzo Rigamonti and Mirella Isella. In the early 1990s, they launched a small artisanal production of children’s toys, driven by a simple idea: to design with a focus on environmental sustainability and high-quality craftsmanship.
Starting with its first local projects, the workshop has grown by expanding its production and logistics capabilities while remaining true to the principles that guided its early days.
With its second generation, Merlino is focusing on the design of educational environments. It’s not just about producing objects, but about becoming part of the process of creating the educational environment.
Today, Merlino operates in Italy and throughout Europe, offering a wide range of custom products. Its mission remains rooted in its three founding principles: quality craftsmanship, sustainability, and design awareness.
Materials and Certifications
What we use and why.
The primary material is birch plywood from FSC-certified forests. We choose it for its strength, stability, and aesthetic appeal. The paints are non-toxic and comply with European regulations for children’s environments. All products meet EN and UNI standards. Our CAM certifications qualify us to supply products to public entities.
MATERIALS AND CERTIFICATIONS
What we use and why.
The primary material is birch plywood from FSC-certified forests. We choose it for its strength, stability, and aesthetic appeal. The paints are non-toxic and comply with European regulations for children’s environments. All products meet EN and UNI standards. Our CAM certifications qualify us to supply products to public entities.


