Classic toys have always been the favorites of parents. We love the nostalgia of seeing our children play with the same things that we did. Simple toys, like the hula hoop, balls, and yo-yos have been consistently popular through many decades. These classics go through waves of popularity and always hold a special place in many people's hearts.
Lately, parents have been shying away from electronic toys. They feel like it's time to get back to the basics. Wooden toys are great for passing down to the next generation, or reselling when a child has outgrown them. Wooden trains, blocks and puzzles are among the most popular wooden toys. Wooden doll houses and doll furniture are also the favorites of many children.
If you would like to take it a step further, you can actually build and paint your own wooden toys. These keepsakes are sure to be treasured by you and your children. Woodworking is a hobby that many people would like to get into but do not know where to start. Building simple toys is a good way to get your feet wet and learn how to use some of the equipment used in woodworking.
Most people start with blocks because they are usually a quick and easy project. You can cut any size wood to make blocks. Just be sure that you do not use pressure treated wood or lead paint when you make your blocks. You can make blocks of all sizes and then make blocks with special shapes. Arches, columns and triangles are popular pieces. Use a thick dowel to make columns or cylindrical pieces. Dowels come in a variety of diameters, so you can pick which ones go best with the rest of your blocks.
You can use a lathe to turn pieces of dowel into intricate doll house porch columns or to make interesting blocks that can not be found anywhere else. You can paint them with interesting colors and patterns, or even personalize them with a child's name to turn them into a treasured heirloom.
When you're done with your blocks, trains, or whatever you make, consider making a container for them. A tool box style carrying case for blocks and trains is convenient for storage, travel, and is also great for protecting toys that you want to keep in good condition. A Dowel rod for makes a great handle. Paint and personalize the box that goes with the toys so that everything matches. Handmade wooden toys always make treasured gifts and are enjoyed by everyone!