2020-05-27

Toymakers Shop - 3D Bird House Ornaments - Glue Up and Attaching Patterns

Glued Up Blocks for 3D Bird Houses Ready to Drill
Glued Up Blocks for 3D Bird Houses Ready to Drill


These are not precisely toys,  but they are an excellent way to use up the many small bits and pieces of wood I accumulate making toys. Once the pieces get too small to use for toys, they go into the kindling bucket to burn.

Here I have glued up many bits and pieces to make blocks for these Steve Good 3D Bird Houses. I got lots of practice with my plane and bench hook.

These are all wood reclaimed from discarded furniture. Poplar and mystery wood from Indonesia. I discovered than my smoother plane does a great job of removing paint.

I want to make some chess sets, and these seem like they would be great practice for making chess pieces.



2020-05-21

Toymaker's Shop - Harbor Freight Airbrushes and Compressors Are They Good Enough

Harbor Freight Airbrush Compressor
Harbor Freight Airbrush Compressor



I have a harbor freight compressor that works very well. There are two compressors available. If I were to buy one today, I would spend the $20 more for the larger one. Most of the time, I use my big air compressor. I previously set up to use it when I received the Harbor Freight compressor as a gift from a friend. The Harbor Freight Compressor is very handy when I want to spray outside the shop.

Harbor Freight Central Pneumatic 3/4 Oz Deluxe Airbrush Kit
Harbor Freight Central Pneumatic 3/4 Oz Deluxe Airbrush Kit
I have two issues with the harbor freight airbrush. First, The tip size is to small for many acrylic paints. The cheaper acrylic paints ($0.99) tend to have large pigments that clog the tip easily. I also spray acrylic house paint. I much prefer a larger tip (.5 - .7mm). I have found certain paints nearly impossible to spray through a .3mm tip.

My Harbor Freight Compressor With Airbrushes and Accessories
My Harbor Freight Compressor With Airbrushes and Accessories


My second issue is the availability of parts. They claim you can order a new needle & nozzle, but you can't buy them in the store. You are going to bend or break your needle sooner or later. It would be nice to be able to pick them up in the store. Needles & nozzle kits are $9.09 plus $6.99 equals $16.08 if they charge tax (they do for me) your looking at $17.20 to replace the needle, so the airbrush is disposable. If you have a local store and your airbrush has a problem, you throw it away and buy a new one. Throwing away an airbrush bothers me.

Unbranded Chines Airbrush Purchased Off Of eBay
Unbranded Chines Airbrush Purchased Off Of eBay


Harbor Freight is not alone. Other Chinese airbrushes have similar issues. I have several Chinese made airbrushes, and getting replacement needles for them is a pain. I've done it, but it took several months. I had to order them from Singapore.

A Harbor Freight airbrush and compressor are an excellent way to get started without breaking the bank.

My Etsy Shop: https://odinstoyfactory.etsy.com


2020-05-16

Toymakers Shop - Making Birdhouse Ornaments Form Salvaged Wood


Handmade Wooden Birdhouse Ornaments and Blocks For Bird House Ornaments From Salvaged Wood
Handmade Wooden Birdhouse Ornaments and Blocks For Bird House Ornaments From Salvaged Wood

On top of this pile of blocks are some of the birdhouse ornaments I cut from pine blocks I glued up from some cut-offs. Below the ornaments are blocks I glued up or cut from some table legs my grandson and I picked up on our walk around the neighborhood.


Gluing and Clamping Blocks For Bird House Ornaments From Salvaged Wood
Gluing and Clamping Blocks For Bird House Ornaments From Salvaged Wood

Clamps Clamps and more clamps, how many clamps do you need to make the birdhouse ornaments. Zero if can buy the ready-made stock the correct size. Here, I am using wood I salvaged from furniture and cut-offs that would otherwise go into the kindling bucket or trash. In a production run, you need many clamps. I have a lot of clamps, but not as many small ones to make a large batch.


Making stock (blocks) for bird ornaments. Blocks are 1-1/2 x 3 inches. I had more wood, but I was running out of places to put them. It's incredible how many clamps you need for such small pieces of wood.

I needed two clamps, in some cases three, to keep the pieces aligned and two clamps to hold the wood pieces tightly together.  PVA glues do not bond well unless the parts are under pressure.


Gluing and Clamping Blocks For Bird House Ornaments From Salvaged Wood
Gluing and Clamping Blocks For Bird House Ornaments From Salvaged Wood


How many clamps do you need? All you have room to store.

2020-05-12

Etsy Listing - Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Play Pal Laminated Hardwood Pickup Metallic Blue Polyurethane 496711514

Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series
Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series 


Monster trucks are great toys. I make them from laminated hardwoods and hand-finished each toy. The wheels and axles are hand-fitted with nylon spacer bearings to ensure they will roll smooth and fast without the wheels rubbing the body. They will roll well on carpets. This toy truck is finished with polyurethane, shellac, and acrylic paint all are non-toxic finishes.

Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series 496711514

https://www.etsy.com/listing/496711514/


Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series
Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series 

Monster trucks are great toys. I make them from laminated hardwoods and hand-finished each toy. The wheels and axles are hand-fitted with nylon spacer bearings to ensure they will roll smooth and fast without the wheels rubbing the body. They will roll well on carpets. This toy truck is finished with polyurethane, shellac, and acrylic paint all are non-toxic finishes.

Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series
Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series 


A handmade wooden toy monster truck for adults or kids. A unique gift for a monster truck lover. Use them to decorate a kids room, nursery, home, office space, birthday, or even a shower cake.

Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series
Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series 


A handmade wooden toy monster truck made from high-quality hardwoods. Sturdy, durable, and built to withstand play.

Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series
Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series 


My grandson has several these in various colors, finishes, and materials. Despite his rough play, they are still going strong, outlasting factory-made plastic toys. Like all my toys, they are grandson tested and approved.

Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series
Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series 


By pressing down with your finger over the rear axle and slowly applying pressure until the monster truck pops out from under your finger, the truck can do backflips. It takes a bit of practice to get the hang of it, but my grandson has been able to make them flip since he was three years old.

Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series
Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series 


Similar Toys in the series are available at the link below:

https://www.etsy.com/shop/OdinsToyFactory?search_query=play+pal

Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series
Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series 


This toy not intended for children under three or children who are still at that stage where they put everything in their mouths. It is not a teether.

Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series
Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series 


I combine shipping for multiple items and strive to give my customers the lowest rates possible. I refund excess shipping.

Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series
Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series 


Custom orders are welcome.

Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series
Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series 
Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series
Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series 
Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series
Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series 


Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series
Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series 

Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series
Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series 

Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series
Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series 

Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series
Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series 

Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series
Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series 

Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series
Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series 

Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series
Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series 

Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series
Handmade Wooden Toy Monster Truck Metallic Blue Trim Pickup Truck in the Play Pal Series 



2020-05-11

Etsy Listing - Handmade Wooden Toy 3 Piece Tray Puzzle Red Orange & Yellow Butterfly Easy Assembly 662846531



I made this simple tray puzzle handmade from solid wood with hardboard back finished it with non-toxic shellac and acrylic paint. The tray allows for easy storage and assembly. The butterfly is free standing and can be used as a free-standing stacking toy. This puzzle is one of a series of four simple puzzles, A Bunny rabbit, rooster, and kitten puzzles are also available. Custom orders are welcome.

Handmade Wooden Toy Tray Puzzle, Colorful Red, Orange, & Yellow Butterfly, Very Easy To Assemble, Finished Acrylic Paint and Amber Shellac
Handmade Wooden Toy Tray Puzzle, Colorful Red, Orange, & Yellow Butterfly, Very Easy To Assemble, Finished Acrylic Paint and Amber Shellac


A simple puzzle for small kids just getting into puzzles. The Butterfly has only three parts. It is more complicated than the White Rabbit sold separately but still quite simple. It is also a freestanding stacking toy. It is a bit tricky to do, but My four-year-old grandson can do it. 

Handmade Wooden Toy Tray Puzzle, Colorful Red, Orange, & Yellow Butterfly, Very Easy To Assemble, Finished Acrylic Paint and Amber Shellac
Handmade Wooden Toy Tray Puzzle, Colorful Red, Orange, & Yellow Butterfly, Very Easy To Assemble, Finished Acrylic Paint and Amber Shellac


These puzzles have been thoroughly grandson tested for playing fun and durability. 

Tray puzzles are much easier to assemble and store than your typical wooden problem. The pieces are painted only on one side to make it easier for kids to put together. 

Handmade Wooden Toy Tray Puzzle, Colorful Red, Orange, & Yellow Butterfly, Very Easy To Assemble, Finished Acrylic Paint and Amber Shellac
Handmade Wooden Toy Tray Puzzle, Colorful Red, Orange, & Yellow Butterfly, Very Easy To Assemble, Finished Acrylic Paint and Amber Shellac


Every part of the puzzle is non-toxic. I made the tray and puzzle parts from premium grade pine, not construction lumber. The bottom of the puzzle tray is hardboard. The tray is hand finished with three or more coats of amber shellac carefully sanding between coats. I painted the puzzle parts with non-toxic acrylic craft paint.

Handmade Wooden Toy Tray Puzzle, Colorful Red, Orange, & Yellow Butterfly, Very Easy To Assemble, Finished Acrylic Paint and Amber Shellac
Handmade Wooden Toy Tray Puzzle, Colorful Red, Orange, & Yellow Butterfly, Very Easy To Assemble, Finished Acrylic Paint and Amber Shellac


Approximate Size:
Height: 3.5 inches
Width: 3.5 inches
Thickness: 0.75 inch

Handmade Wooden Toy Tray Puzzle, Colorful Red, Orange, & Yellow Butterfly, Very Easy To Assemble, Finished Acrylic Paint and Amber Shellac
Handmade Wooden Toy Tray Puzzle, Colorful Red, Orange, & Yellow Butterfly, Very Easy To Assemble, Finished Acrylic Paint and Amber Shellac


You see my other puzzles click the link below.


Handmade Wooden Toy Tray Puzzle, Colorful Red, Orange, & Yellow Butterfly, Very Easy To Assemble, Finished Acrylic Paint and Amber Shellac
Handmade Wooden Toy Tray Puzzle, Colorful Red, Orange, & Yellow Butterfly, Very Easy To Assemble, Finished Acrylic Paint and Amber Shellac


Not for use by children under three or children who like to chew on things.

These puzzles are handmade from real wood. Each piece, even from the same board, is different. The puzzle you receive may not look the same as the one in the listing photos. 

Handmade Wooden Toy Tray Puzzle, Colorful Red, Orange, & Yellow Butterfly, Very Easy To Assemble, Finished Acrylic Paint and Amber Shellac
Handmade Wooden Toy Tray Puzzle, Colorful Red, Orange, & Yellow Butterfly, Very Easy To Assemble, Finished Acrylic Paint and Amber Shellac


There are four puzzles in the set, a bunny rabbit, rooster, and kitten are also available. 

Custom orders are welcome. Please contact me for custom order pricing.


Handmade Wooden Toy Tray Puzzle, Colorful Red, Orange, & Yellow Butterfly, Very Easy To Assemble, Finished Acrylic Paint and Amber Shellac
Handmade Wooden Toy Tray Puzzle, Colorful Red, Orange, & Yellow Butterfly, Very Easy To Assemble, Finished Acrylic Paint and Amber Shellac

Handmade Wooden Toy Tray Puzzle, Colorful Red, Orange, & Yellow Butterfly, Very Easy To Assemble, Finished Acrylic Paint and Amber Shellac
Handmade Wooden Toy Tray Puzzle, Colorful Red, Orange, & Yellow Butterfly, Very Easy To Assemble, Finished Acrylic Paint and Amber Shellac

Handmade Wooden Toy Tray Puzzle, Colorful Red, Orange, & Yellow Butterfly, Very Easy To Assemble, Finished Acrylic Paint and Amber Shellac
Handmade Wooden Toy Tray Puzzle, Colorful Red, Orange, & Yellow Butterfly, Very Easy To Assemble, Finished Acrylic Paint and Amber Shellac

Handmade Wooden Toy Tray Puzzle, Colorful Red, Orange, & Yellow Butterfly, Very Easy To Assemble, Finished Acrylic Paint and Amber Shellac
Handmade Wooden Toy Tray Puzzle, Colorful Red, Orange, & Yellow Butterfly, Very Easy To Assemble, Finished Acrylic Paint and Amber Shellac

Handmade Wooden Toy Tray Puzzle, Colorful Red, Orange, & Yellow Butterfly, Very Easy To Assemble, Finished Acrylic Paint and Amber Shellac
Handmade Wooden Toy Tray Puzzle, Colorful Red, Orange, & Yellow Butterfly, Very Easy To Assemble, Finished Acrylic Paint and Amber Shellac

Handmade Wooden Toy Tray Puzzle, Colorful Red, Orange, & Yellow Butterfly, Very Easy To Assemble, Finished Acrylic Paint and Amber Shellac
Handmade Wooden Toy Tray Puzzle, Colorful Red, Orange, & Yellow Butterfly, Very Easy To Assemble, Finished Acrylic Paint and Amber Shellac

2020-05-09

Etsy Listing Handmade Wooden Toy Car Classic 1957 Bug Play Pal Amber and Metallic Blue Hubs 741638026

Here is a cute handcrafted toy made from 100% childsafe materials. I sand the car smooth and round over all of the edges. The finish on the car body is amber shellac. I paint the axle ends with metallic blue acrylic paint.

Handmade Wooden Toy Car Classic 1957 Bug Play Pal Amber and Metallic Blue Hubs
Handmade Wooden Toy Car Classic 1957 Bug Play Pal Amber and Metallic Blue Hubs

All of the parts are carefully hand-fitted and tested. My toys are made by me using conventional tools; they are not made with a computer, laser, or CNC machine of any sort.

Handmade Wooden Toy Car Classic 1957 Bug Play Pal Amber and Metallic Blue Hubs
Handmade Wooden Toy Car Classic 1957 Bug Play Pal Amber and Metallic Blue Hubs

Materials: Wood, Wood Glue, Shellac, Acrylic Paint

I like using shellac on my toys. Shellac is a childsafe finish and used in many foods. If you have eaten M&Ms, you have eaten shellac. Shellac is fast to apply and cures within minutes. I finished these toy cars with a coat of amber shellac and buffed it with steel wool and wax.

Handmade Wooden Toy Car Classic 1957 Bug Play Pal Amber and Metallic Blue Hubs
Handmade Wooden Toy Car Classic 1957 Bug Play Pal Amber and Metallic Blue Hubs

Approximate Size:
Length: 3.75 inches/95mm
Height: 1.25 inches/32mm
Width: 1.75 inches/44mm

Not suitable for children under three years old without adult supervision.


Handmade Wooden Toy Car Classic 1957 Bug Play Pal Amber and Metallic Blue Hubs
Handmade Wooden Toy Car Classic 1957 Bug Play Pal Amber and Metallic Blue Hubs

I can make these in many sizes, colors, and quantities. I welcome custom orders.