The journey of an Etikoppaka toy begins in the forests of the Eastern Ghats in Andhra Pradesh, where artisans sustainably forage their primary material: Ankudu wood (Wrightia tinctoria). This specific softwood is chosen because it is exceptionally lightweight, easy to carve, and handles the heat of the crafting process without splintering. Alongside the wood, the vibrant colors these toys are famous for are entirely derived from nature. Artisans collect raw lac—a clear, natural resin secreted by insects—and blend it with organic dyes extracted from local seeds, bark, roots, and leaves.