Plastic’s fantastic when it comes to playing in the sand. But for toys strewn about the living room, we pledge ourselves to a higher standard.

Good thing Mark Giglio’s dolls, tops, and textiles caught our (design-minded) eye.

Handmade and precision-painted in a sunny, sophisticated palette and inspired by both traditional Japanese kokeshi and the folk modernism of Alexander Girard, the Oakland artist’s stunning scrap-wood figures jump-start imaginative play while doubling as works of art. (Or maybe it’s the other way around?)

Giglio’s textile designs, silk-screened onto organic cotton blankets and pillow covers, have the same graphic, playful attitude. He’s also just started taking custom orders.

With a little patience, you can have your toys and decorate the place with them, too.

Available online at penpencilstencil.com, $50-$325.

SEE
Movies on the Green: Charlotte’s Web
What: Enjoy Zuckerman’s famous pig and White’s beloved spider during a free outdoor screening of the 2006 live-action flick.
Why: Put a little laughter in their eyes.
When: Wed., 6-8 p.m.
Where: Marin Country Mart, 2257 Larkspur Landing Cir., at Lincoln Village Cir., Larkspur (415-461-5700).

INSPIRE
SFMOMA Family Sunday: What’s the Story? with Elisa Kleven
What: The local children’s author and illustrator guides little adventurers through her miniature worlds.
Why: Collage-making brings art down to size.
When: Sun., 11 a.m.-3 p.m.; family tour, 1 p.m.
Where: 151 3rd St., b/t Mission & Howard Sts. (415-357-4000). General admission is $18 for adults and free for children under 12.

GO
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Presents Fully Charged
What: The old-school circus comes to town with dancing elephants, cavorting clowns, and a human crossbow.
Why: Giggles and gulps.
When: Daly City, today-Sept. 5; Oakland, Sept. 8-11.
Where: Cow Palace, 2600 Geneva Ave., at Santos St., Daly City; Oracle Arena, 7000 Coliseum Way, nr. 66th Ave., Oakland. Adults and kids, $15-$100. Tickets online at ticketmaster.com.

Photo: Courtesy of Mark Giglio