How to Carve Wood Toys

Find a pattern for your toy. Thousands of patterns exist. Visit your library to check out wooden toy pattern books or to look for patterns in woodworking magazines. Many free patterns are available on the Internet. In a pinch, you could even trace the shape of a cookie cutter. Start with a simple design for your first project.

Trace the pattern onto the wood. Most children's toys use thick wood that will stand up to being dropped on the floor or chewed on. Look for wood that is 1-1/2-inch thick or thicker. Once you have the pattern on the wood, cut the outline of the toy on a bandsaw or scroll saw.

Carve any detail spots. You may want to make some toys more than just flat. Pull out your hand tools to finish the design. Use a gouge to outline the eye of an animal, for example, to make it stand out. You can also chisel or cut sections that are too narrow for a saw, such as a line for a mouth or the space between two smoke stacks on a train.

Add embellishments, such as wheels or strings. Many craft stores or online shops offer wooden wheels and dowels that can be attached to toys, or you can make your own on a lathe. Wheeled toys for young children often feature a string with which to pull the toy. Add some knots or a bead to the top of the string to make it easier for small hands to grab.

Smooth any rough spots on the toy. Use a rasp for particularly rough spots or sharp corners, then follow up with medium-grit sandpaper. Finish with fine-grit sandpaper. Children can help with this step.

Paint the toy or ask children to paint the toy. Add bright colors to make it stand out in a toy box. Or use lacquer or varnish for a natural wood look.