How to Build Realistic Wood Toys

Tips For Building Realistic Wooden Toys

• 1

  Gather the basic woodworking tools, including a small workbench, a wood vise, clamps to hold the piece you are working on, power saws and drills. The size of the saw depends on the size of your project. For example, a large cradle or dollhouse might require a table saw. You may be able to cut smaller toys, such as figurines, trains or cars, with a handheld jigsaw. If you are new to woodworking, practice and attain precision by using the tools on scrap wood.

• 2

  Choose wood that suits the toy. Among woodworkers, oak and pine represent common choices. Many prefer the firmer oak for action toys, whereas pine is more appropriate for board games or cradles and other toy furnishings. If you plan to add detailed carving to your toy, pine is easier to work with. Both woods are sturdy, but oak may last for generations.

• 3

  Follow the directions on your pattern to cut out the pieces of the toy. Sand each piece to remove splinters and smooth the wood before assembling. Draw a picture as a model of the object you intend to make or consult an image of the real thing. As you cut and assemble the wood, closely follow the direction and contours of the original item. For example, if the cradle you're using as a model has rounded edges, cut the wood in a curve and sand any edges into rounded shapes.

• 4

  Create details on your toy. For example, if your toy is an animal, paint it the same colors as the life model. Living animals and "adult" vehicles come with lines, indents, and shapes. Use your wood carving tools to thin your wood and hollow different areas to create depth. Remove a small amount of wood at a time. Remember, it's easy to remove the wood, but you can't add any back if you subtract too much.

• 5

  Humanize the toy if you're creating the object for a youngster. For example, paint a smiling face on the front of a toy train engine and paint it in bright colors. Opt for realism for older children by replicating the lines, colors and nuances of an actual train engine.