Replies

1. 
   ring | Aug 12, 2005 05:48pm | #1

   Katy,

   Sorry I don't have a source book to recommend.  But I have 7 grandchildren (and counting..) and have made quite a few things.  Just wanted to mention what seems like common sense:  make anything you like!  There's nothing wrong with the usual toys, but they don't match up to a very personal (perhaps curious and strange) toy that you made up.

   About safety - I like to keep the rules simple: for small children no pieces that they can conceivably swallow.  And the best finish is no finish at all.   So what if they chew the cherry blocks or the oak truck?  They get to know the woods intimately...

   DR

2. 
   WillGeorge | Aug 12, 2005 06:25pm | #2

   Just me... I have made hundreds of toys for children.. Mine and the folks around here..

   I for one just use pine or maple.. Just me.. but I think those woods are less apt to make a child sick.. I NEVER use any exotic woods..

   I break all the corners (as in no sharp edges) and NO hardware..
   Just glue (rabits/dowels etc. for extra glue surface and strength)and I use all wooden parts for everything.. Like wooden axles and stuff like that..

   I sort of look at it like this... If it looks small enough for a child to put in the mouth I make it bigger.. Period.. NO little parts.. Kids do not seem to mind if the toy is BIG... Well, bigger hurts more if they throw it... LOL

   I only use acrylic paints if it is finished (Those stated on the can that OK for childrens use).. But usually left unfinished... Painted I use for 'older' kids...

   OH... If I am cutting or 'whatever' a stick and it tends to 'sliver' or otherwise act funny.. I TOSS it away and make a new part...

   Just me..