Hobbies And Interests
Choosing a Cast of Christmas Characters
While horses are a logical and historical choice for a merry-go-round, there are unlimited selections that portray a more unusual and festive touch. How about representations of Tchaikovsky̵7;s "The Nutcracker"? Characters could include the Sugar Plum Fairy, the toy soldier, the Mouse King and, of course, Clara. Alternatively, you could use a more traditional approach, such as Santa, his sleigh and team of eight reindeer. How about using a selection of toys to be the featured characters? A wonderful interpretation may be to use a toy drum, a stack of blocks, a bicycle or toy car or perhaps a rag doll, and somehow incorporate Santa̵7;s bag into the mix.
Images and Materials
Depending upon the desired size and application--i.e., for decorative purposes only or to be used by a child in play--there is a wide range of materials that can be used to make the merry-go-round and its characters. Thin balsa wood or ¼-inch pine is easy to work with and can be cut with a jigsaw or bandsaw; making a merry-go-round out of these materials will ensure a long-lasting result.
Paint is the best way to detail wood pieces. Cardboard or craftboard are durable as well, as is foam core; they are lighter and can be easily cut with a utility knife or razor blade. They will receive image transfers well, or can be designed and detailed with paint or markers.
Using three-dimensional items--for example, a stack of building blocks--is another option. Remember that if you choose to use something that is stacked or assembled, an application of fast-holding glue is suggested as a first step.
Finishing the Character Pieces
Once the materials or images are cut or assembled, the poles can be attached. In the case of wood for the featured characters, dowels are suggested for use as the poles, but branches could also be used for a rustic look. The hole is drilled through the center of the wood character; the dowel is then inserted and secured with a dollop of glue. If flat images are chosen as the featured characters, a straw, piece of bamboo, dowel or other stiff cylinder is best for the pole piece. Images can be adhered at varying heights to simulate the up-and-down motion of the merry-go-round.
Making the Base, Attaching the Characters, Adding a Top
The base of a merry-go-round is a basic lazy Susan design. Two circles are cut out of wood. One circle is about one-third the size of the other. A bearing plate is centered on the base and the smaller circle is then attached. This will allow the base to turn. By drilling a hole in the base, the dowels (and their characters) can slide into place, aided by an application of glue. If the character needs additional security, the under part of the character can be glued to the base as well. A top piece can be fashioned by making a cardboard or posterboard ̶0;cap̶1; and covering it with fabric. Once all of the pieces are secured in place, the base can be turned, showcasing all the characters.