Etsy Listing - 482847326 - Handcrafted Wooden Toy Tow Truck From The Quick N Easy 5 Truck Fleet

April 30, 2019

Handmade Wooden Toy Tow Truck From the Quick N' Easy 5 Truck Fleet

This version of the toy tow truck is made from a solid pine wood block. While it appears relatively simple. However, some of the parts are a bit tricky to pull off.
Making the opening for the hook must be done before cutting the body from the wood. Care must be used to get it all aligned properly, or the hook will be off centered or crooked.

Getting the window shape correct is essential. I could just drill a round hole, but that would change the entire look of the toy. I like to avoid round holes when possible.

This version uses axle pins. I like the look of them on toy trucks. However, it is critical that the axle holes be drill parallel to the bottom edge of the body so all the wheels will sit level on the surface. If you are using a handheld drill, you should use dowels for axels. When using dowels, there is a bit of wiggle room so if the holes are off just a tiny bit the wheels will still sit flat on the surface.

The hook needs to be made from something substantial. I used plywood. Baltic birch would work well for this if you have it. I have also used solid hardwoods. For these easily breakable parts, I have have been experimenting with making my own plywood. Three layers of oak will make a surprisingly strong part. Much stronger than solid wood or any plywood that I have access to.

I made the truck body from a pine 2x4. I had to shrink the pattern about 1/4 inch to get it to fit without the rounded corners. A 2x6 would work better for this.

MDF would work well for the truck body, but it would add additional weight and need to be glued up from 3/4 stock.

You could use plywood for the body. However, I would not do this. Even the best plywood I can get hold of splinters to easy and the edges are hard to sand due to the glue between the layers.

The finish is hand brushed amber shellac with a little red acrylic paint on the hubs.

The approximate dimensions are:

Length: 8 inches
Height: 3.5 inches
Total Width: 3 inches
Body Thickness: 1.5 inches